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mercredi 6 août 2014

What To Know About A Patient Advocate

By Paulette Mason


When people get ill they are more vulnerable and often unable to fend for themselves. It can also be a stressful thing to be in the hospital for both patients and their families. Plans may not go as they were expected, judgment can be impaired and often people do not feel up to par when they are sick. It can be of much relief to have a strong support system in these times. A patient advocate can be among that group of people ensuring that a patient gets all that they want and need during such difficult times.

Basically, these persons will take on the role of supporters, campaigners, sponsors, promoters, backers, believers and spokespersons. It is essential that patients from a person they trust to do the job. To be effective in this role, one has to be willing to act on behalf of the patient or client. These persons also have to work well with the other members of the patient's health care team, such as doctors or nurses.

Usually advocates are loved ones of the patient. This might be a close friend, child, spouse or other member of the family that is willing to offer the continued support. There are also professional advocates available. These individuals are often employed and staffed by hospitals, and might be referred to as representatives. Social workers, chaplains and nurses have been known to fulfill this role as well.

As a whole, advocates are meant to cut through the red tape. Patients should always check to see what is accessible in terms of professional advocacy. They may find that health care facilities and hospitals have the necessities to give them the aid they require.

It is helpful to first find a person who is capable and willing to take on this important role. Find someone who you believe is assertive, great with communication and trustworthy. The next step in the process is figuring out what aid is necessary. Patients might need help for a variety of things, including asking questions, gathering more information and making note of important information, making sure their desires are met, clarifying the care that is accessible to them and more.

These individuals might be permitted to accompany the patient to treatments, procedures, appointments and tests. Always check with the caregivers or doctors to make sure it is allowed. It is important that patients are straightforward with their advocate, letting them know exactly what role they want them to fulfill and in what ways they need aid.

Be sure that family and friends are aware that the advocate will act as your spokesperson. It is also important that physicians and others who are giving you care know who your advocate is, as well as how to contact him or her. These individuals can be extremely helpful to ill patients during a serious time of need.

Professionals and close friends or family can be equally successful in this role. The key is being vocal with them about your needs and desires. Overall, their objective is to help support you in as many ways as possible.




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