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mercredi 10 juin 2015

The Benefits Of Having 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.

Ill or well, health management can be overwhelming. When something goes wrong it might be difficult for one to have his or her voice heard by doctors and other health care professionals. Providers and administrators may not intend to make things more complicated and difficult for their patients, but sometimes this happens in this field. The complexities of the health care industry do not always lend to time for understanding and compassion.

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.

These professional advocates are available through hospitals, as well as for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. There are even some that work independently. It is important that people do research to find professionals available in their area. These advocates work all around the world, including in Sydney, AU. When possible, patients should look into their ratings and available services.

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.

These professionals offer many services to clients. Many of them focus on confidentiality, privacy matters, patient rights, support and education of patients, informed consent, building awareness, patient representation, and survivors and their caretakers. Basically, it is their goal to give a voice to caretakers, patients and survivors. They can serve as allies when it comes to handling business in 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.

Although advocates can help in these situations, they are also there to aid patients. This may involve attending doctor visits with them, clarify details about their condition or various procedures, help with important paperwork or processes, consult with the doctor to voice patient concerns or questions, and much more. These professionals may work in different areas or have a specialty or focus in this line of work. Patients should make sure to hire one who offers the services they need.




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