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What To Know About A Patient Advocate

By Elaine Guthrie


The health care system is complicated and difficult to navigate. There is so much information to know and processes to carry out. Patients who receive care and also caretakers of patients might feel confused or overwhelmed by it all. These people should seek the support and services offered by a patient advocate. This refers to a professional who work with patients as their representative. They offer a wide variety of services.

Whether a person is well or ill, managing their health could be overwhelming. If something goes wrong, it might be difficult for them to get what they need or feel that they are being heard by their health care providers. These professionals might not intend to make it difficult and complication for patients, but this is a frequent problem in the complex health care system. The industry and people who work in it do not always have compassion and understanding for patients, survivors or caretakers.

Advocates can be of aid. They are available to guide clients through the processes while being sensitive and caring to their needs and desires. He or she will focus on patient needs and help with resolving concerns about care needed and quality of care. They can also help ensure that patients are heard by the doctors and have a part in making important decisions.

Professional advocates often work at hospitals, or for non-profit or for-profit organizations. Some even have independent businesses. It is essential that patients do their research to find the best available in this area. Advocates work in all parts of the world, including Sydney, AU. If possible, patients should check ratings and reviews, as well as available services offered by advocates.

Most insurance providers are not willing to offer coverage to pay for advocacy services. Therefore, people are expected to pay out of pocket. Fees vary and are often relative to factors such as location, expertise of profession and services that are administered. Consider the costs when doing research on what is available in the area.

There are a lot of services that these professionals can provide to their clients. It is common for advocates to focus on privacy matters, patient rights, informed consent or confidentiality, awareness building, education and support of patients, survivors and the people who care for them, and patient representation. Essentially, the work of these professionals is to give a voice to survivors, patients and caretakers. They can be allies in navigating the health care system.

Patients should stand up for what is right, especially when it involves their health and well-being. It is essential that caretakers or patients, and patients themselves, speak up if something is wrong or does not feel right. People often voice concerns or file complaints when they receive poor service at a store or restaurant and should do the same when it happens with their medical care.

While advocates can be support in these cases, they can otherwise help patients. They might go to the doctor with them, offer clarification on procedures or diagnoses, help fill out or manage paperwork, consult with a physician about patient questions or concerns, and more. These advocates may have different areas they work in or specialties. Patients need to find one that offers the support and services they want and need.




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