The Important Role Of A Patient Advocate

By Paulette Mason


When people are ill, they are often left more vulnerable. When someone lands in the hospital because they are unwell, it can be stressful for patients and their families. Many times the plans do not go accordingly, judgment may be impaired, and people are not at their best when they do not feel well. It can be a great relief to have people who are on your side and willing to help during such times. Patients can benefit from someone who will offer support them and look out for their best interests, especially when it comes to getting the right care. A patient advocate is a person who offers this aid to patients in need.

The advocate is also the campaigner, supporter, promoter, backer, spokesperson, sponsor and believer. It is important that patients assign this job to a person whom they trust to do the job well. In order to be effective in this position, one must be willing to act on the behalf of the client or patient. These persons must also be able to work well with the other members of the patient's care team, including nurses and doctors.

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.

The initial step is finding someone to do this work. Select an individual who you feel comfortable communicating with and have complete trust in. It is essential to find someone that is a good communicator and assertive. They should also be willing and capable of being an advocate for your specific needs. Then, decide on what you need help with that you cannot do on your own. Patients may need help when it comes to clarifying available care, asking questions, getting information, making note of important information, and assuring desires are carried out.

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.

Friends, professionals and family members all have the potential to be successful in this role. It is the duty of the sick person to share what all they need and desire from this aid. Overall, the goal with this advocacy is to guarantee that patients receives as much support as they can in many different respects.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment