New Perspectives on Patient Education
The Patient Education and Experience Committee enhances the patient and caregiver experience through a unique perspective.
Putting patients at the center of care
Patient education has always been a priority at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospitals. We have taken that dedication a step further through the recently launched Patient Education and Experience Committee (PEEC).
Comprising 30 former heart patients, their significant others and a multidisciplinary clinical team, the PEEC collaborates on educational materials that capitalize on the insights and expertise of patients and caregivers who have experienced cardiovascular treatments firsthand.
Education through shared experiences
Since its inception, the committee has revamped 30 patient education pieces and spearheaded the following initiatives.
- A comprehensive Inpatient Heart Surgery Timeline guide offers advice on what happens daily during an inpatient stay for cardiac surgery. Patient volunteers crafted the wording and suggested details relevant to patients and caregivers, and the committee’s clinical members substantiated their guidance. The guide features patient-friendly language and includes valuable patient-focused information often omitted from clinical materials.
- A one-page educational resource about Code STEMI helps alleviate stress in the emergency department (ED). Initiated by patient volunteer George Lynch, the document explains what Code STEMI means in layman’s terms so caregivers waiting for information about loved ones understand how the code impacts their loved one’s care. The resource helps caregivers understand why there may be delays in information about their loved ones and enables ED staff to focus on emergent concerns.
- Patient Bruce Johnson initiated the development of an art map that shows patients and caregivers where the hospital has displayed artwork throughout the hospital. The map and the experience of enjoying the art give patients and caregivers a calming way to pass the time or during stressful visits.
“I had such a wonderful stay, you were amazing, to be here and see the team making things even better is special.”
Gary Nelson
Patient and PEEC member
Future initiatives
The PEEC continues to find new ways to improve patient-provider communication.
A recently launched pilot program, the Heart Surgery Care Companion, focuses on patients having isolated coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and their caregivers. Similar to the Inpatient Heart Surgery Timeline, this guide offers guidance and education for days one to 30 of recovery from isolated CABG. A follow-up survey for patients and caregivers will allow the committee to gauge its success.
As a valuable component of our patient-centered care philosophy, we will continue to support the PEEC. Through our volunteers’ invaluable insights, perseverance and willingness to give back, the PEEC provides essential information that empowers patients to advocate for themselves and gives caregivers the support they need.
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