Patients and their loved ones are always at a disadvantage when it comes to making decisions about medical care. A complicated diagnosis, unexpected decline in health, or traumatic injury can make it nearly impossible for patients and families to advocate for themselves. There are barriers and obstacles around every corner. Sometimes, it’s hard getting answers to the most basic questions. Advocating for yourself as a patient is often problematic for several reasons. First, our healthcare system is complex and intimidating. It can be extremely challenging for patients and their loved ones to make informed decisions, especially during periods of uncertainty like when it’s time to be discharged or when it’s unclear whether a test or procedure will be approved. Furthermore, patients don’t always have access to everything they need in order to make informed decisions, such as their complete medical records, information about treatment options, and the availability of clinical trials. ​ These factors can make it extremely difficult for patients and their families to effectively advocate for themselves. The right Independent Patient Advocate, however, can step in, take charge, and help patients and loved ones speak up when friends and family can't. An RN Patient Advocate "speaks the language", and knows how to tactfully disagree, suggest an alternative or "push back" when your needs aren't being met.

Everyone employed by a health care company is limited to what they can accomplish for patients and families. Hospital-employed patient advocates, navigators, social workers, and discharge planners are no different. They have long lists of patients to see, work long hours , are limited by hospital policy and may fear job retribution for advocating too strongly for a patient's wishes. Independent Patient Advocates, however, work one on one with patients and loved ones to explore options, improve communication, and coordinate with overworked hospital staff. In fact, many Independent Patient Advocates (including myself) used to work for hospitals and healthcare companies before they decided to work directly for patients. ​ Another important aspect is "continuity of care". The next time you have an issue, maybe the ambulance brings you to a different hospital, and you start all over with that advocate and set of medical providers who don't know you, and you are left to explain all over again. And when you leave the hospital, that relationship terminates and that advocate is no longer available to you. ​ The word "advocate" is also becoming muddled in the healthcare field, especially in insurance. Insurance companies will provide "advocates" that are really more like health coaches (a worthy role, but serves a different purpose) or insurance representatives that guide you on a path that meets your insurance company's goals instead of yours.

There is nothing more important to our quality of life than our health and safety. Often, advocates save money by finding creative ways to ease financial burdens and are aware of additional resources that you may qualify for. Medical costs may decrease with decreased length of hospital stays, repeat tests or duplicate medications. Medicare MAY reimburse, but this is still in the works. You are always free to submit your invoice to insurance to see what reimbursement may be available to you. Most health insurance companies are unwilling to pay Independent Patient Advocates to fight against their own policies and decisions. It is simply not in the best interests of health insurance companies to pay for Independent Patient Advocates.

No. We offer a 30 minute free consultation, after which you will pay a reasonable start-up fee to get the information needed for a productive relationship. This typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours and includes a medical profile, a needs assessment and a plan of care. Our mission is always to be a relief and an asset to you, NEVER an additional stressor. After this, you may choose to work off of a retainer (~ 6 hours worth of work, and any unused hours are refundable) or hour by hour with payment on file. You can settle your payment and pause (or terminate) the relationship at any time and for any reason. We will always be ready to help you again when you're ready.