Posted • Last updated
Deadline: Apply by
Commitment: One-time
Connection method: Virtual
Open to Northern Region
Last updated
Because Your Voice Matters
Help Shape the Future of Inclusive Health Care in the North – An Invitation to Patient Partners and Family Members Across Northern Health
Northern Health is developing a new Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Strategy and Accessibility Plan – and we need your voice to help co-design it.
Health care should feel welcoming for everyone. It should see you, understand you, and respond to your unique needs. But we know that isn’t always the experience for patients and families across our region.
That’s why we’re partnering with the Patient Voices Network to invite patients, family members, and caregivers from all backgrounds and all corners of Northern British Columbia to join us in an authentic conversation about what inclusive, accessible, person- and family-centred care looks like – and how we can do better together.
Why Your Voice Matters
You are the experts in your own care experience. Your lived and living experience – what it feels like to walk through our doors, to navigate our services, and to seek care in your community – is essential to building a health care system that truly serves everyone.
We believe that inclusion is compassion in action. When we get this right, health care becomes more human, more responsive and more effective for all.
When patient partners and health care partners collaborate, the results are improved patient safety, better health outcomes and better decision-making. Together, we know best how to improve health care.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking patient partners and family members who:
• Have received care at any Northern Health facility or service
• Represent the diverse voices of our region – including people of different ages, abilities, cultural backgrounds, Indigenous identities, gender identities, sexual orientations and life experiences
• Are willing to share their perspectives openly and respectfully
• Want to help shape person- and family-centred healthcare for future generations
You don’t need any special expertise – just your lived experience and your voice.
What to Expect
Patient partners will be invited to join a virtual focus group session lasting approximately two hours. During these sessions, we will explore questions together in a safe, supportive environment. A trained facilitator will guide the conversation, and all perspectives will be welcomed and respected.
Honorariums will be provided to recognize your time and contribution to this important work.
Focus Group Sessions
Two virtual sessions are scheduled:
Session 1
• Monday, February 23, 2026
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Session 2
• Wednesday, March 11, 2026
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
You are welcome to attend one or both sessions. Sessions will be held via Zoom.
Level of Engagement
This opportunity is at the level of Collaborate on the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation.Eligibility
- Willing & comfortable to share health care experiences in a group setting
- Comfort with public speaking
- Have access to technology and the internet to participate in the engagement opportunity
- Comfortable using technology to attend online/virtual meetings
- An interest in improving health care services
- The time to participate in the engagement opportunity
Health Care Partner Contact Information
Sarah Wagner Project manager, Quality and Innovation | Northern Health (250) 251-5389 Sarah.Wagner@northernhealth.caInterested?
Apply by .
