Frequently Asked Questions

Patient Family Advisors (PFAs) are patients, their family members and/or caregivers who volunteer as active members of Nova Scotia Health teams. They provide feedback that helps teams as they set priorities and make decisions that can impact the health care system and the community. 

If you have recent personal, family or caregiver experience with any Nova Scotia Health healthcare service, you can apply to become a Patient Family Advisor! You don't need any medical training, or any experience working in health care, you don't even need a resume.

PLEASE NOTE: You cannot apply to become a PFA if you are a current Nova Scotia Health staff member, Foundation or auxiliary member or an elected official.

All PFAs are registered as official volunteers with Nova Scotia Health. There are different types of volunteer opportunities within Nova Scotia Health, the Patient Family Advisor role is one of these opportunities. PFAs receive training and orientation specific to the PFA role to help prepare and answer any questions they may have, before they start with the team or project they will be joining. 

The onboarding process involves attending an orientation session, obtaining a criminal background check, and signing a confidentiality agreement. 

Once you complete this process, the time involved in the PFA role depends on the team or project you have joined. Many PFAs spend 1 - 2 hours per month in meetings, plus some time to review meeting materials before their next meeting. Some teams meet once per month, while some teams meet every 2-3 months. 

There are also additional PFA opportunities you can sign up for if you had the time and interest to join. We are happy to connect you with the opportunities you are interested in to fit your schedule.  

Costs and expenses to attend meetings with your team will be reimbursed (paid back to you) under the Nova Scotia Health Travel Policy. This includes things like gas/mileage, parking, bus/taxi, meals, and overnight accommodations if needed.