Barriers and Facilitators to the Recruitment and Engagement of Diverse Populations Into Patient and Family Advisory Councils: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Patient and family advisory councils (PFACs) serve as structured collaborative groups where patients and caregivers partner with healthcare professionals to shape policies, service delivery, and research. Despite guidelines emphasizing the need for diverse representation, PFACs often remain socio-demographically homogenous, excluding vulnerable populations from critical discussions that shape healthcare outcomes. This scoping review examines barriers and facilitators influencing the recruitment and engagement of diverse populations in PFACs. A systematic search identified studies focusing on recruitment and engagement barriers and facilitators targeting under-represented groups. Forty-three studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in the review. Findings reveal that while race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and age are commonly considered diversity factors, other key populations such as individuals with disabilities, migrants, and those with lived experiences of homelessness, are often overlooked. Facilitators that can improve reach to these vulnerable populations include culturally tailored outreach, relationship-building with community leaders, and reducing logistical barriers. This review provides actionable recommendations for improving diversity in PFACs, ensuring equitable patient engagement that reflects the full spectrum of healthcare experiences.