The Important Role Of 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.

An important first step in advocacy is finding a person to take on the role. Select a person who is trustworthy, good at communicating and assertive. These individuals should be capable and willing to take on all that is needed to play this part. The next step should be figuring out what all you require aid with. Patients might seek help when it comes to asking questions, getting more information, assuring their desires are met, clarifying the care that is available to them and noting important information, among other things.

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.

Family and friends should know that the advocate will also be the spokesperson for the patient. Physicians and other professionals who may administer care services need to know who the patient's advocate is, as well as the best way to get in contact with him or her. Overall, advocates have the potential to be extremely beneficial to patients.

Family members, close friends and professionals can all be successful in this job. It is the responsibility of the sick individual to be as vocal as possible about what is needed and desires. Ultimately, the role of the advocate is to offer as much support in as many ways as possible.




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