AHA

SHCA Listserv - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can join the SHCA listserv?
The SHCA Listserv is open to all members of the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy and is intended for the discussion of issues related to patient advocacy, the patient experience, risk management, service excellence, patient and family engagement, and the healthcare profession.

What is a listserv?
A listserv is a discussion forum that uses e-mail as a medium.  When a subscriber sends a message to the list (or replies to a message from the list), all other subscribers get a copy of that e-mail.  Subscribers may use the listserv to ask and respond to industry-related questions.

How can I subscribe/unsubscribe to the list?
Go to the SHCA Listserv signup page to subscribe, unsubscribe, or update your delivery preferences.

What types of messages are posted to the list?
Listserv messages are questions, comments, or requests of the membership that are similar in nature to those posted in the Learning Network.  Typical messages can include:

  • Request for policy or procedure to be shared
  • Open-ended inquiry about a patient advocacy challenge or situation
  • Referrals to resources and additional information
  • Comment on previous messages or discussions
  • Advice and sharing of experiences

See additional editorial guidelines below.

How do I send a message to the list?
Send an e-mail to SHCA-LEARNING-NETWORK@ahals.aha.org. Make the subject line of the e-mail clear and concise, so other subscribers can discern the relevance of the message.  Include your name and e-mail address for follow-up.

Messages or replies intended for individual recipients should be sent directly to that individual and will not be approved for posting to the list.

How do I reply to a message?
To reply to a message, hit "reply to" -- the e-mail address for the list (SHCA-LEARNING-NETWORK@ahals.aha.org ) should appear in the "to" line of your e-mail.  Write your message in the body and hit send.  Replies to an individual should be sent directly to the individual's e-mail address and not to the list.

Will my message go through immediately?
The SHCA Listserv is moderated.  You will only receive a copy of your own message if you indicated that preference when you signed up for the listserv.

Can I send an attachment to the list?
The SHCA Listserv accepts attachments of interest to the SHCA community, such as policies or procedures.  By sending an attachment to the list, you are giving SHCA permission to share that document with its members.  Please note that network security filters on a subscriber's end may filter out attachments.  If you are not receiving attachments, check your spam filters or ask your IT department for assistance.

If I subscribe to the list, will I receive spam?
No.   You will not receive spam as a result of signing up for the SHCA Listserv.

How do I access the Listserv Archives? Click here for an easy step by step guide to see the past conversations and helpful templates from your peers. (Note: you must create an account first to access archives.)

How do I change my listserv delivery settings? (Access online archives of postings)
Go to the SHCA Listserv home page and log in to your account (if you do not have an account, follow these instructions ).  Click on the link for "Subscribers Corner" at the top of the page.  Click on "My Settings," then on the "[Settings]" link next to the SHCA list name.  For a detailed explanation of each setting, click on the question mark icons.

What are the editorial guidelines for posting messages to the list?
Use a concise and descriptive title in the subject line of the message.  Always include your name, title, and e-mail address in your message or inquiry.  Do not expect confidentiality.  Listserv messages may be forwarded to others outside the list, and all messages are saved in the archives.  Messages or replies intended for individual recipients should be sent directly to that individual and will not be approved for posting to the list.  Do not request a return receipt when posting to the list.

Can I promote my company or services on the list?
No.  Use of the SHCA List by any member or vendor to sell, advertise, solicit, or market any products or services is prohibited.  All information posted or accessed must be used for informational, educational, and professional purposes.  If you can offer expertise, guidance, or information on given subjects, please do so, but do not offer this advice as an attempt to promote your own product or service.  Any attempt to solicit customers may result in removal from the SHCA Listserv.

What is the usage policy for the list?
Please review the SHCA Guidelines for Participation.

Whom do I contact for help?
If you have any questions, please contact SHCA at (312) 422-3700 or shca@aha.org.