At the Stanford Cancer Centre South Bay in San Jose patients shape the culture and practice of the institution in which they are treated. Since the centre opened in June of 2015, 100% of the staff hired has been interviewed by a patient, family member and member of non-leadership staff.
Within six months, 250 staff members were brought on board through this process, with the exception of doctors. When first proposed this approach was met with apprehension, however in time patient feedback and insights became invaluable to managers – particularly when faced with two strong candidates.
In addition to staff recruitment, a Patient and Family Advisory Council forwarded their recommendations long before the centre opened. The council shared their insights to inform how the building’s design and service delivery could address their needs more effectively.
