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Categories: News & Events, Patient Voice Mail
We’re thrilled to introduce you to someone new who will be supporting patient engagement across BC. We sat down with her to ask about what drew them to work in patient engagement, and their hopes for the health care system.
Justine Basilan is the Program Assistant on the BC Patient Safety & Quality Council’s Patient & Public Engagement team and will be supporting PVN’s work closely. Justine supports the administration of PVN so that patient partners and health care teams can work together to improve care.
What drew you to this role?
After volunteering for a few years at a long-term care home, I wanted to get more involved in health care. Hearing about the different experiences of the staff and residents, I wanted to be involved in opportunities that make lasting change in the system and ensure that those who use and work in health care services get the best care and more.
What interests you in patient engagement?
I’ve always believed that engagement should be authentic and not just a “tick box” for systems and services to take advantage of. I’m grateful that I can support the work of the team to ensure that patient partners are heard and listened to and that health care partners are supported in creating solutions alongside patient partners.
What are your hopes for patients, families and caregivers’ involvement in improving health care in BC?
I hope that their involvement doesn’t just become standard practices across all health care systems but becomes more accessible, diverse and inclusive.
Tell us one thing about yourself that you’re passionate about, outside of your role with us?
After moving provinces, I would really love to start hiking with my partner here in British Columbia. As well, having been away from the shores of Philippines for more than a decade, I may spend more time in the beaches here in Vancouver. When I’m not outdoors, I enjoy playing video games and listening to true crime podcasts.
