Patient Leadership Council: Frequently Asked Questions

The Patient Leadership Council (PLC) is a select group of Health Union Health Leaders and Social Health Award winners who give feedback on Health Union projects.

The PLC launched in early 2020. The PLC gives both written and oral feedback (during meetings) on various Health Union initiatives. The PLC is intended to include and represent diverse voices across our communities. Our goal is to ensure that our efforts remain community-centered, inclusive, useful, and accessible.

Applications for the PLC will be closed for the foreseeable future. PLC membership will be limited to those who have won Social Health Awards.

How can I join the PLC?

Unfortunately, PLC applications will be closed for the foreseeable future.

How many people are on the council?

We have previously accepted between 10 and 20 PLC members.

What is the time commitment for PLC members?

Members meet several times a year on an as-needed basis.

If I’m selected, will I be paid for my time and effort?

Yes, members are paid for the time and effort spent preparing for and attending online meetings.

Can I still contribute and/or moderate on my community if I’m chosen?

Yes, definitely!

I just started working with Health Union. Can I still apply?

We recommend around a 1-year tenure on your Health Union community so you have a feel for the way we do things. However, we will consider all applicants no matter their tenure.

Will Health Union definitely use the suggestions from the PLC?

We appreciate and take your feedback to heart, but we can’t promise that we will implement every suggestion that our PLC members make.

How do I apply to be a member?

Unfortunately, PLC applications will be closed for the foreseeable future.

How do you select PLC members?

The ideal applicant shows a high level of interest in the PLC and willingness to collaborate. Other qualities include experience providing and receiving feedback, the ability to collaborate diplomatically, and is knowledgeable about Health Union and our communities. Health Union seeks a diverse council with varying experiences (patient, caregiver), roles (contributors, moderators), and a variety of major condition categories (e.g., autoimmune, neurological, oncology).

Beginning in 2025, PLC members will be limited to those who have won Social Health Awards.

Questions?

Please email contact@socialhealthnetwork.com with any questions.