Saturday, August 2, 2014

General Information On 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.

These advocates are essentially available as the spokespersons, backers, promoters, sponsors, believers, supporters and campaigners for their clients. It is important that individuals find someone they trust to get the job done for himself or herself or loved ones. The most effective advocates are those who are willing to act on your behalf. These individuals must work well with other parties in the health care team, such as nurses and doctors.

In many cases, these people are loved ones. They might be a child, spouse, close friend or other family member. There are also professional advocates. Hospitals are known for having staff that does this work. Usually these persons are known as patient representatives or advocates. Chaplains, nurses and social workers have also been known to play this part.

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 persons may be allowed to go to treatments, tests, appointments and procedures with the patients. It is important to check to make sure this is ok with the doctors or caregivers. The sick should be straightforward about what all they expect and need from their advocate so that they can receive all the potential benefits of advocacy.

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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