Patient Advocate: Definition, Roles & How They Help

Patients navigating the health care system are disadvantaged by a lack of medical and insurance knowledge. With the help of an advocate, a patient can be sure that his interests are being considered throughout the process.

Description

• Advocates provide patient support in various capacities: communicating with physicians and insurance providers, identifying the best treatment options, clarifying doctors' instructions, and ensuring that a patient's rights aren't overlooked.

Types

• Many advocates assist patients at home, monitoring the treatment process and educating patients on the proper uses of medications. Legal advocates help patients obtain reimbursement from hospitals and employers when necessary, while insurance advocates focus on getting sufficient coverage.

Specialties

• Organizations such as the Patient Advocate Foundation offer assistance to individuals with specific medical conditions, such as cancer, mental illness and geriatric care.

Qualifications

• Patient advocates do not currently have a required training program. While the most experienced advocates have a background in medicine, insurance, law or the nonprofit sector, family members of patients often become advocates out of necessity. It is important for advocates to be knowledgeable, communicative and compassionate towards patients, according to NursingLink.com.

Training

• Certification programs for patient advocacy are not widely offered. Institutions such as Cleveland State University, Stanford University, National University and Sarah Lawrence College provide training to undergraduate degree holders. The Center for Patient Partnerships has also established a certification program.

Initiatives

• A major issue endorsed by the National Patient Advocate Foundation was the Preexisting Condition Initiative, which supported the discontinuation of health insurance exclusion periods.