Patient Advisory Committee (PAC) at AIDS Community Health Center

If you wish to have a say - with a good strong voice - in the quality of care and services you receive at AIDS Community Health Center, consider joining the PAC. After all, we provide a safe and comfortable environment where patients and their caregivers not only learn first hand what's happening at the agency but also are encouraged to share input on the quality of care they receive at AIDS Community Health Center.

Each month the PAC meetings focus on important issues such as recent enhancements in services, staff news, patient policies and procedures, and the strategic direction of the organization.

The PAC also provides a forum through which you may share your comments and suggestions directly with AIDS Community Health Center leadership and the Board of Directors.

The PAC hosts guest speakers each month either from within the agency, or, more often, from one of the 28 community-based organizations with which AIDS Community Health Center collaborates. Featured topics have covered how to rejoin the workforce, legal issues and permanency planning for persons living with HIV and AIDS, insurance-related matters, topics specific to women and people of color, and HIV vaccine trials updates.

The PAC is also called upon to review results of AIDS Community Health Center's periodic Patient Satisfaction Survey. In addition, the PAC has served as a sounding board on issues ranging from the 2003 relocation and AIDS Community Health Center name change to the creation of Pleasant Street Apothecary, AIDS Community Health Center's full-service pharmacy.

All work and no play? Absolutely not. Each year, the PAC hosts a popular social event for patients and their supporting caregivers, family members, and friends. The 2003 Holiday Party was a huge success that included plenty of food and drink, generous give-aways, and warmth and fellowship for kids and adults alike. The 2004 Winter Solstice Celebration was an even greater success, with more than 100 attendees.

Upcoming meeting times, topics, and other events are posted on the PAC bulletin board in the AIDS Community Health Center lobby. Food and refreshments are provided at every meeting. For more information or to join the PAC, please talk with your AIDS Community Health Center Case Manager or contact a member of PAC.