Integrating Recreational Art Activities into the Patient Experience
Published April 10, 2023
This research study explores the impact of recreational art activities on the human experience of hospitalized patients. With funds awarded through The Beryl Institute’s Grant Program, University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center launched Heart Cart, a painting program for inpatients. Reaction to the initial pilot from cardiac surgery patients was so positive, the art program expanded to other units in their hospital.
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Environment & Hospitality
Prioritizing Patient Rest: Our Response to the New HCAHPS Restfulness Questions
Published June 24, 2025

By Melvin Carrillo, MBA, BSN, RN, CPXP Manager, Patient Experience The Queen’s Medical Center On January 1, 2025, CMS updated its HCAHPS survey—including three questions focused on restfulness during a hospital stay. With these updates, we saw a timely opportunity to reexamine how we support healing environments across our system in Honolulu, HI. At The
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Patient Family & Community Engagement
Communicating Effectively when Engaging People with Lived Experience in Mental Health and Substance use Health Research: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Published November 12, 2025
Background. People with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges and families (PWLE/F) are increasingly engaged in research, providing positive impacts. However, effective engagement can be challenging, including ensuring effective communication. This qualitative study sought to understand the communication preferences of PWLE/F who are engaged in mental health and substance use health research.
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Infrastructure & Governance | Patient Family & Community Engagement
PFAC Restructure: Expanding Councils, Enhancing Quality, Securing Leader Buy-In
Published October 16, 2025
Join us for an in-depth session on innovative strategies for restructuring Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs) to align with organizational goals and improve patient-centered care. Discover how to expand PFACs to better meet evolving needs, enhance the quality of patient engagement, and secure vital leadership support. Learn about the PFAC Lunch and Learn series,
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