This is My Child: A Hospital-Based Tool for Children with Autism
Published July 17, 2018
Children with autism face many co-occurring medical challenges that result in frequent hospital visits. While it is important for staff to be aware of how best to care for these children, effective communication with parents does not always occur. This small-scale qualitative pilot project explored the utility, efficacy, and impact of a hospital-based tool, entitled This is My Child. Future directions involve broadening the use of the tool in other clinical areas and directly exploring parents’ experiences with it.
Related content
-
Patient Family & Community Engagement
Taking time and making space for patient and caregiver partners
Published August 8, 2025
Patient and caregiver engagement is a paramount element to ensure the voice of lived experience is integrated and prioritized in research. However, what it looks like to actually participate in authentic patient and caregiver engagement can be challenging without understanding the experience of our patient and caregiver partners. I had the honour of interviewing a
Learn more -
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.
Learn more -
Culture & Leadership | Patient Family & Community Engagement
Inclusive Perspectives: Diversifying Patient and Family Advisory Councils
Published December 4, 2025
Understanding that diversity and inclusivity within Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs) are crucial for addressing the evolving needs of the community, Inova redesigned its advisor recruitment and engagement strategy. Initially met with resistance from some long-term PFAC advisors, Inova’s new approaches—including the introduction of term limits, revamped recruitment efforts, enhanced cross-generational digital presence, and
Learn more