Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council (PPFAC)
Since our inception in 1999, the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council (PPFAC) has served as a national model for healthcare institutions. By partnering with staff members of Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, we help improve the patient experience and ensure patient- and family-centered care.
What We Do
- Advocate for expanded support services, including our Transitioning Off Treatment program, which guides families whose child is nearing the end of his or her treatment
- Partner with hospital administration for more flexibility, including the Home Hydration Program, which allows patients to hydrate at home instead of overnight at the hospital
- Improve infrastructure and physical spaces, including the renovations to the Jimmy Fund Clinic and Boston Children's Oncology Unit
- Implement more family-friendly initiatives, including the Weekend Initiative, a monthly coffee hour during which patients and families can drop in to share their thoughts and ask pediatric council members questions
Get Involved
Do you want to share your voice and experience, guide the development of projects, and shape key decisions that affect the patient care and family experience at Dana-Farber? Learn more and contact us today.
- Read our brochure about the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council, including how you can become a member.
- Call 857-215-1417 or email pfac@dfci.harvard.edu to speak with someone on the team.
- Apply to join the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council.
Co-Chairs, Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council (PPFAC)
Katherine's son was treated at the Jimmy Fund Clinic as a toddler. Katherine joined the Pediatric PFAC as a way to say thank you to the families and staff that have helped her family, and to advocate for the families coming next. Katherine is particularly passionate about patient and family communication and advocating for a strong social support network.
Meghan walked alongside her brother Matt through a decade of treatment at the Jimmy Fund. Meghan joined the Pediatric PFAC to contribute to the ongoing work of supporting and advocating for patients and families as they experience childhood and adolescent cancer. Meghan is interested in equitable care and outcomes for all patients, and in helping patients and families to tell the stories of their cancer journey.
Learn about the Adult Patient and Family Advisory Council (APFAC)