When might I need a Patient Advocate? You may have just received a new serious diagnosis that requires you to see multiple specialists, and you are having difficulty understanding your treatment options. You have family that are trying to help manage your care from a distance. You’ve received a medical bill and don’t understand why your insurance didn’t cover the cost. Navigating your health care journey can be difficult, but you do not need to go it alone. A patient advocate can help you understand your options, communicate with your healthcare team, and navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system.
Some of the ways a Patient Advocate can help:
- Coordinate your care and communicate with your healthcare team.
- Understand instructions and arrange needed follow-up care.
- Review and clarify information discussed during the appointment.
- Review and clarify what was said during the appointment.
- Communicate with your family and loved ones about your care, with your permission.
- Review medical bills and insurance claims and help address questions about coverage.
- Identify financial, legal, social, and community resources.
- Help ensure that your needs, wishes, and rights are respected and followed.
Patient Advocates work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, insurance companies, non-profit organizations, and independent practice. Their backgrounds, services and credentials may vary, so it is important to ask about their education, experience, certification, services, and fees before deciding whether they are the right person for you.
Board certified patient advocates can be found through the Patient Advocate Certification Board at www.pacboard.org
Arizona residents can also find advocates through the Arizona Association of Patient Advocates at https://www.arizonaapa.org/
Whether you are facing a new diagnosis, coordinating care among several providers, dealing with insurance questions, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the healthcare system, you do not need to do it alone. A patient advocate can provide another set of eyes and ears. They can help you become a more informed and confident participant in your care.
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