Owensboro Health’s Pediatric PFAC Launches IMAP Project

When your child is sick, every second matters. Parents of medically complex children know this better than anyone. They’ve spent nights in emergency rooms, navigated long lists of specialists, and often carried binders of notes, forms and test results from one hospital to another. Owensboro Health understands that journey — and that’s why the health system launched a new way for 
parents to help shape care.

Parents at the Table

In 2024, Owensboro Health created two Patient Family Advisory Councils (PFACs), one for pediatric patients and one for geriatric patients. These groups bring parents and caregivers into direct conversation with providers and leaders.

“They’ve already made a difference,” says Director of Patient Experience, Shannon Parham. “These councils make sure parents’ voices are heard so that we can improve care together.”

For pediatric families, the need is urgent. Many parents of chronically ill children have faced gaps in care, whether in medical supplies, skilled team members or communication between hospitals. Owensboro Health wanted to change that.

“One of our parents has a child who needs a very specific medical supply,” Shannon shares. “Our team wants to make sure we have that supply available when the need arises. That’s the kind of direct feedback that changes care.”

A Plan for Emergencies

One of the first projects from the Pediatric PFAC is the Illness Management Action Plan (IMAP). 

An IMAP is a written action plan that outlines the best way to care for a child with complex medical needs during an emergency. It’s created by the child’s specialist and shared with the family and emergency care teams.

Think of it as a roadmap for treatment:

• It lists the child’s diagnosis and unique medical needs.
• It explains what treatments or medicines work best for that child.
• It flags what doesn’t work or could be harmful.
• It gives clear steps for emergency doctors to follow, even if they’ve never met the child before.

For parents, the IMAP provides reassurance. Instead of having to explain a complicated medical history in the middle of a crisis, they can hand over the plan. For providers, it’s a trusted guide that helps avoid delays and ensures care is safe, specific and fast.

“It helps the team know what works for that child right away,” explains Brittany James, RN, Director of Maternity Services. “Every child is different. An IMAP can help provide treatment right away in the middle of a crisis and give parents peace of mind that their child’s current treatment plan is being reviewed.” 

Meeting Parents Where They Are

The council is working on practical ways to spread the word. Flyers with clear instructions are being developed for pediatric offices and the Emergency Department. The flyers will explain what the IMAP is, how to fill it out, and where to return it.

Why It Matters

Owensboro Health treats nearly 20,000 children in the Emergency Department each year. Children with complex needs often arrive during urgent situations. The IMAP gives ED providers treatment suggestions that are specifically recommended for this patient by their specialist. 

“Parents know their child better than anyone,” Brittany says. “The IMAP honors that knowledge and shares it with the care team. It’s about partnership — parents, providers and specialists working together to keep kids safe.”

A Stronger Future for Families

The PFACs are still new, but they are already shaping the way Owensboro Health cares for its most vulnerable patients. From securing supplies to building better communication, the councils are giving families a voice in how care is delivered.

“This is just the beginning,” Brittany says. “Parents asked for better tools, and together we’re building them. The IMAP is one step toward making emergency care less overwhelming and more reassuring. When a child comes in, we want parents to know — we’re ready.”

Need an IMAP for your child? Ask their primary care provider at your next visit or visit OwensboroHealth.org/IMAP.