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The Important Role Of A Patient Advocate

By Paulette Mason


People get sick. This is a truth that every person will experience at some point in their life. When ill, people are more vulnerable and often stressed when their illness lands them in the hospital. Usually he plans do not go as they were supposed to, judgment is not as sound as it normally is and people do not feel as motivated or able to take care of business when they do not feel well. This is why it is so important to have a support system, as well as a patient advocate. These persons can ensure that patients' needs and desires are taken care of entirely.

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.

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.

Ultimately, advocates will be involved with cutting through the red tape. It is recommended that individuals inquire about the professional advocates. Many of these are made available through health care facilities and hospitals.

An important first step in advocacy is finding a person to take on the role. Select a person who is trustworthy, good at communicating and assertive. These individuals should be capable and willing to take on all that is needed to play this part. The next step should be figuring out what all you require aid with. Patients might seek help when it comes to asking questions, getting more information, assuring their desires are met, clarifying the care that is available to them and noting important information, among other things.

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.

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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