The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) announced Monday that volunteer Patient Experience Advisor Crystal Doherty has accepted the position of co-chair of the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC).
The announcement was made on behalf of PFAC. Doherty’s appointment takes effect Sept. 1, 2026, and she will work closely with the Patient Relations Specialist and the Director of Patient Experience and Communications to lead Patient and Family Centred Care at CKHA.
Doherty is a mother of two and a university student pursuing a degree in Indigenous social work. Outside of her studies, she enjoys cooking, baking and creating art with her children.
She joined CKHA’s PFAC in September 2024, motivated by her own journey with autoimmune and chronic health conditions, to help ensure patient and family needs remain a central focus in care delivery.
She values clear communication, personalized care and supporting individuals throughout their wellness journeys.
Doherty brings leadership experience from business ownership and more than 20 years in management and supervisory roles, including recruitment, mentorship, staff training and fostering inclusive, respectful environments.
As an Indigenous social work student, she is guided by principles of advocacy, cultural humility and relational practice, which CKHA says align closely with the organization’s values statement.
She has also shown community engagement through her academic work, including securing funding and partnerships to establish a youth drop-in program in Ridgetown.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Crystal Doherty as our new Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) Co-Chair,” said Fannie Vavoulis, Director of Patient Experience and Communications.
“Crystal brings a fresh perspective to the role, backed by an impressive combination of leadership excellence, personal experience, and a strong educational background. I am excited to work alongside her as we continue to listen to our community and pursue the best patient experience possible.”
CKHA says Doherty’s collaborative leadership style, passion for advocacy and dedication to amplifying patient and family voices make her a strong fit for the role, and that she is committed to ensuring patient and family perspectives continue to inform health care planning and decision-making.
