In recognition of patients' roles using, and contributing to, a publicly funded health system, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) created a Patient and Community Advisory Committee. Twelve members bring lived experiences of chronic illness, progressive illness, mental illness, trauma, traveling long distances for treatment, and caregiving to an ill child, parent, or spouse. Members contribute their own insights and ideas but do not represent specific organizations or viewpoints. This paper explores how CADTH determined the committee's role, whether to have individuals or organizations as members, and how to recruit for diversity. The creation of this committee is changing how CADTH engages with patients.
Keywords: Community participation; Patient participation; Technology assessment.