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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.

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.

Many times, the advocates are the loved ones. This might be a child, close friends, spouse or other member of the family willing to stand up for the patient. There are also professionals. Hospitals usually have these professionals on staff for clients in need. Persons in this profession might be called representatives. Nurses, social workers and chaplains might also take on this role.

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.

Make sure friends and family are aware that the advocate will serve as the spokesperson. Physicians and others administering care should be aware of who this person is and how he or she should be contacted. The advocates can be of great aid to patients while they are in 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.




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