Michela Bethune, a dedicated mother of four from Charlotte, North Carolina, has always been deeply involved in her children’s healthcare journeys. With a nine-year-old daughter and four-year-old twin boys, along with an 18-year-old son who has faced mental health challenges, Michela knows firsthand the importance of parental advocacy in medical settings. Her experiences navigating premature births, pediatric concerns, and mental health issues inspired her to seek ways to make a greater impact - not just for her family, but for others in her community.
From Study Participant to Patient and Family Advisory Council Member
Insight and commitment are exemplified when a parent like Michaela thoughtfully reflects their experiences navigating pediatric and mental health care, recognizing gaps and offering constructive solutions based on real-life challenges. By actively engaging with the Patient and Family Advisory Council—attending meetings, sharing ideas, and collaborating with others—Michaela demonstrates dedication to shaping the healthcare system for all families. Her input not only identifies areas for improvement, such as communication and follow-up care, but also inspires tangible changes, encouraging others to get involved. Through practical insight and unwavering commitment, she embodies the qualities that drive meaningful progress in patient-centered care.
PFACs at Advocate Health review safety and experience data, advise on communication during adverse events, collaborate on digital health solutions, and contribute to research and system improvement. This model demonstrates strong patient partnership, shaping strategy, and execution across the organization. Michaela has served as a council member for nearly a year, joining bi-monthly virtual meetings and working with other parents to advance pediatric care quality.
Fostering Change Through Advocacy
Michela describes her PFAC experience as “behind the scenes,” a role that is both influential and rewarding. One of the most significant changes she has observed is the increased follow-up and communication from healthcare providers after her children’s appointments. After expressing concern, PFAC leaders worked with providers and patients (including her) now receive text messages and emails checking in on her children’s well-being and asking for feedback about the service they received. Michela is proud to know that her input—and that of her fellow council members—helped spur these improvements.
“I feel influential in that regard,” Michaela shares. “Here’s the idea, here’s where we feel there are gaps, and now to see it implemented—it makes you feel like you’re being heard, and that goes a long way.”
Bridging the Gap Between Families and Providers
One discussion that resonated deeply with Michela was about the evolving use of antibiotics in pediatric care. She recalls a time when antibiotics were prescribed for nearly every illness but now sees providers taking a more data-driven approach. Through PFAC conversations, she gained a clearer understanding of why antibiotics aren’t always the answer and how this shift protects children’s health in the long run. She values that these insights are now shared with families during doctor visits, helping parents understand the reasoning behind medical decisions.
Michaela appreciates how the council accommodates the busy lives of parents. Meetings are scheduled with flexibility, often held virtually in the evenings to fit around family routines. The council fosters open communication and inclusivity, ensuring all voices are heard. For Michela, the commitment is meaningful rather than a burden: “You’re going to make time for something that you’re interested in, especially when you see the positive impact it can have beyond your own household.”
Encouraging Others to Get Involved
Reflecting on her journey, Michela recommends PFAC participation to other parents and family members. She believes that a screening process helps ensure members are truly committed, but the rewards are significant. “It’s important,” she emphasizes. “There are so many unknowns in healthcare, but it helps to know there are people behind the scenes advocating to fill those gaps for families. If the PFAC is not suitable for your needs, Michalea recommends considering participation in other research studies that require less commitment, such as completing surveys or providing medical record information. For further information about opportunities to participate in research studies, please refer to this website.
Michela’s experience highlights the impact of advocacy and involvement. By lending her voice, sharing experiences, and collaborating with healthcare providers, she has contributed to tangible changes in communication, education, and care. Her journey demonstrates that when families are invited to the table, healthcare systems become more responsive, empathetic, and effective for everyone.
Atrium Health welcomes you to contribute to your experiences, perspectives, and expertise as a Patient and Family Advisor or as a member of our healthcare system. Your involvement can positively impact the care journey for patients, families, and the broader community. We encourage you to join us in fostering meaningful healthcare experiences for all. Please reach out via email for more information.