Patient Advocacy

Patient Advocates
Patient Advocates assist caregivers and patients in providing appropriate care and support. The Patient Advocate speaks on behalf of patients and clients who seek information and services, often beyond what are available at the Clinic. It is the job of the Patient Advocate to promote, advocate for and protect the health, safety and rights of the patient. Patient Advocates must familiarize themselves with the Clinic referral and resource network and procedures and represent both the patient and Clinic in seeking appropriate and necessary referrals within the community.

The Patient Advocate works closely with health care providers and under their direction clarifying patient needs, investigating potential services, determining eligibility and making appropriate referrals. The Patient Advocate documents and tracks patient referrals and outcomes, providing case management other support as appropriate.

What does a Patient Advocate do?

• Conducts careful and thorough patient interviews to obtain the information necessary to advocate effectively.
  
• Investigates resource options.
  
• Creates patient referral packets in collaboration with care providers.
  
• Makes initial contacts and schedules appointments at appropriate medical, mental health, surgical and specialty facilities on behalf of patients.
  
• Facilitates patient understanding of their treatment plan so they are prepared and know what to expect.
  
• Explains and educates patients about their situation to improve their ability to make informed decisions about their care.
  
• Provides oversight for scheduled clinics. This person is available to answer questions, solve problems and assure appropriate oversight for Clinic operations.
  
• Develops and maintains Clinic resource and referral network.

The Patient Advocate works closely with health care providers and under their direction clarifying patient needs, investigating potential services, determining eligibility and making appropriate referrals. The Patient Advocate documents and tracks patient referrals and outcomes, providing case management other support as appropriate.