What can a Patient Advocate do for me?

While this may seem like an easy question, it can be hard to answer as Independent Patient Advocates can do many different things for different people - it is based on the individual person and their particular needs. To help you better understand, here is a list of 50 things a Patient Advocate can do for you!

1. Explain medical jargon and terminology in simple language.

2. Assist in understanding your diagnosis and treatment options.

3. Research and provide information about various treatment alternatives.

4. Help you locate and choose the right healthcare providers.

5. Assist with appointment scheduling and coordination.

6. Attend medical appointments with you to ensure your questions are answered.

7. Help you prepare for medical appointments by organizing your medical history and relevant documents.

8. Ensure effective communication between you and your healthcare team.

9. Review medical bills and insurance claims for accuracy.

10. Assist with insurance-related matters, including claims and appeals.

11. Explain your insurance coverage and benefits.

12. Investigate potential healthcare fraud or billing errors.

13. Provide emotional support and act as a sounding board for your concerns.

14. Assist with end-of-life planning and advance care directives.

15. Facilitate communication between family members and healthcare providers.

16. Help you understand the risks and benefits of medical procedures.

17. Research and provide information on clinical trials and experimental treatments.

18. Coordinate second opinions from specialists.

19. Assist with medication management and ensure proper adherence.

20. Educate you on available support services and community resources.

21. Advocate for your rights and ensure your voice is heard.

22. Assist with medical record organization and keeping track of test results.

23. Provide guidance on managing chronic conditions.

24. Help you navigate the complexities of health insurance enrollment.

25. Facilitate communication with healthcare providers to ensure care continuity.

26. Assist in coordinating home care or hospice services.

27. Research and recommendations for appropriate rehabilitation or therapy options.

28. Assist with medical equipment selection and procurement.

29. Help you understand your rights regarding privacy and confidentiality.

30. Explain the risks and benefits of elective procedures.

31. Provide information and support for mental health issues related to medical conditions.

32. Assist with the resolution of medical billing disputes.

33. Research and facilitate access to specialty healthcare services.

34. Offer guidance on managing and minimizing medication side effects.

35. Provide education on preventive health measures and wellness practices.

36. Advocate for culturally competent care.

37. Assist with healthcare decision-making in complex or difficult situations.

38. Explore alternative or complementary therapies and treatments.

39. Offer support and resources for managing chronic pain.

40. Assist in coordinating transportation to medical appointments.

41. Research and recommend reputable healthcare facilities and institutions.

42. Help you prepare for surgery or hospitalization.

43. Provide guidance on navigating health insurance networks.

44. Assist in managing and organizing medical paperwork.

45. Offer guidance on managing long-term care options.

46. Facilitate communication between different healthcare providers.

47. Assist in understanding and managing healthcare costs.

48. Research and provide information on available clinical guidelines and best practices.

49. Advocate for appropriate follow-up care and monitoring.

50. Provide guidance on self-advocacy skills to empower you in your healthcare journey.

What is a Patient Advocate?

A patient advocate is a person who helps guide a patient through the healthcare system. This includes help going through the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of a medical condition, such as cancer or dementia. A patient advocate helps patients communicate with their healthcare providers so they get the information they need to make decisions about their health care. Patient advocates may also help patients set up appointments for doctor visits and medical tests and get financial, legal, and social support. They may also work with insurance companies, employers, case managers, lawyers, and others who may have an effect on a patient’s healthcare needs. Also called patient navigator. Some patient advocates specialize in billing or insurance issues. At CHAT, we focus more on medical advocacy. Jolie Sanchez has worked as an Advanced Practice Nurse since 2007 and has been a Board Certified Patient Advocate since 2021.

Does insurance cover private Patient Advocates?

Unfortunately at this time, insurance does not cover private patient advocate fees.

Can you help with insurance or billing questions?

Our focus is more on clinical advocacy and navigation, but other independent patient advocates specialize in these areas. We have a long list of trusted, experienced advocates that we refer to for these issues.