Dr. Jennifer Lee, Chief Medical Officer at ACHP, noted that the council serves as a formal mechanism to integrate patient perspectives into the research cycle. By involving participants in every phase—from defining initial research questions to interpreting complex findings—the organization hopes to bridge the gap between academic study and the reality of daily care. During the council’s inaugural meeting, members pushed for a broader understanding of patient health, highlighting that effective research must account for financial pressures, cultural barriers, and mental health.

This project is supported by a Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award. Through this partnership, ACHP seeks to increase the relevance of its research across its member health plans, which currently serve millions of Americans in 46 states and the District of Columbia. By prioritizing direct feedback, the council intends to foster greater trust and develop solutions that address the specific challenges faced by those managing chronic conditions.