Neonatal Network Family Advisory Council

The purpose of the Neonatal Network Family Advisory Council (NNFAC), a volunteer group of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) parents and staff, is to foster vital connections between staff and families in order to help strengthen the family unit through advocacy, and empowering families to nurture and support their child’s development. NNFAC is a hospital committee that was initiated in 2013. The council is a key component of Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s institution-wide effort to provide family centered care and improve customer service for neonatal patients and their families.

Responsibilities

The NNFAC will achieve their mission by following these objectives:

• Create adequate channels of communication between families and medical professionals; help educate and encourage family participation in decision making and other crucial areas.
• Provide a vital link between Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the community.
• Provide input and feedback on delivery of services and resources that will facilitate successful information sharing between staff and families while bringing hope during a challenging time.
• Review issues and concerns referred to the NNFAC and provide recommendations to the hospital.
• Assist in program development, quality initiatives and planning of new facilities and services requested by Nationwide Children’s Hospital administration.
• Promote understanding of the services and policies of Nationwide Children’s Hospital among parent groups and parents or guardians of patients.
• Advocate in the community for policies and programs to promote children’s health.
• Provide peer support to parents through family activities/events throughout the year.
• Educate families in health care systems and staff on family care issues.

Membership

Council members include family members who have had experiences with any of the NCH neonatal networks or programs. Members may be parents, grandparents, or guardians of a child who has used these services. Family members with varied backgrounds and health care experiences are involved. The Council also includes hospital administrators as well as selected staff members. Council members must have the ability to serve, which includes the ability to attend regular meetings (typically scheduled in January, March, May, September and November), serve on committees, participate in events and/or occasional special projects. There is no term limit.

Please contact NICUFamilyAdvisoryCouncil@NationwideChildrens.org with any questions or comments.