Judith John was a seasoned professional working in the hospital and health care sector when she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Her experience transformed her perspective and opened her eyes to the challenges that patients often face with the health care system. She quickly became a passionate advocate to improve the patient experience and emphasize patient-centred care.
She says that although the pieces are all in place – excellent medical practitioners, clinicians and caregivers – the “mortar” between those pieces is what leads to better experiences and outcomes for patients.
“Treat me like a person who has a life before, after and during being a patient,” she says.
In June 2016, Judith was the keynote speaker at The Michener Institute’s Convocation, where she spoke about her journey, the patient experience and what Michener’s graduates can do to enhance the experience for everyone who interacts with the health care system. Last week, she appeared on TVO’s The Agenda with Steve Paikin to talk about her own advocacy work and the patient experience.
