The process of navigating the American healthcare system can be daunting and overwhelming, and that is probably putting it lightly. Patients facing severe injuries, life-threatening diagnosis, or the process of losing their independence may not know where to begin in terms of getting the help and resources they need. That is where patient advocacy in healthcare comes into play. A healthcare patient advocate is a professional who can assist patients as they maneuver through the healthcare system and ensure that their needs are being prioritized every step of the way. We will first answer the question “What is patient advocacy?” and explore further from there.
Importance of Patient Advocacy in Healthcare
Within the broad scope of the healthcare system, there are a wide range of services and resources available to all types of patients. Finding those resources and accessing them, however, is not always that simple. Patient advocacy in healthcare is a strategic process designed to ensure that all patients receive the assistance and support that they need as they navigate the healthcare system.
Defining Patient Advocacy and Its Scope
But what is patient advocacy, exactly? According to The Joint Commission, patient advocates are healthcare professionals who work to provide both patients and caregivers with factual information and educational resources about the treatment they are receiving. They also help patients and caregivers connect with the resources required to ensure that they have successful, positive outcomes.
The scope of patient advocacy in healthcare is quite broad, and the role of a healthcare patient advocate varies significantly based on the type of patient they are working with. Patient advocates may help caregivers connect with outside resources who can help improve the quality of life of a patient, or they may work directly with a patient to ensure that they have financial assistance for the medication that they need. For a patient advocate, no two days are alike, which can make this position particularly rewarding.
The Evolution of Patient Advocacy in Modern Healthcare
Over the years, patient advocacy efforts have evolved significantly. In an era focused on health equity, where providers now address patients’ social, emotional, and physical needs, patient advocacy has expanded to include a wide range of resources and services.
Role of Patient Advocates
Patient advocates may take on a variety of roles within the healthcare system, depending on the facility they work in and the patients that they serve.
These are some of the primary roles and responsibilities of healthcare patient advocates:
Navigating the Healthcare System for Patients
One of the primary responsibilities of a healthcare patient advocate is to help their patients navigate the healthcare system. For patients, the process of finding the right providers and selecting the most effective treatment options can be particularly overwhelming. A patient advocate can attend appointments with them, manage administrative tasks related to their care, and provide them with additional information about the treatment options available to them.
Advocating for Patient Rights and Access to Care
In addition to helping patients understand their options and determine the best treatment option for their personal circumstances, patient advocates also will ensure that their patients are receiving access to the care that they deserve. They may serve as a liaison between the patient and the providers, often going above and beyond to ensure that patients are being treated fairly and respectfully throughout the entire process.
Supporting Patients in Decision-Making Processes
Patients are often facing difficult decisions, and many times, there is not a clear path forward. Patient advocates can serve as a support person during this time, often listening to the concerns of patients and providing them with fact-based feedback that can help ease the burden of the decision. Patient advocates also may take the extra step of contacting the insurance company or providers to ensure that the patient has access to the information they need to make a sound decision about the next best steps to take.
Challenges Addressed by Patient Advocacy
Patient advocacy efforts are expanding significantly throughout the healthcare system, as providers and insurance companies begin to see the impact that healthcare patient advocates can have.
Overcoming Healthcare System Complexities
Perhaps one of the most important challenges addressed by patient advocacy efforts is overcoming the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient advocates can help right-size the healthcare system for their patients, allowing them to clearly see the path forward and identify which steps they need to take to get the treatment or services that they need at this time.
Addressing Issues of Inequality in Healthcare Access
Often, underrepresented communities are not able to access the care that they need. Patient advocates can help reduce the health equity gap by providing patients in need with additional services and information and helping them secure appointments with qualified providers that will provide them with the most positive outcomes.
Enhancing Patient Safety and Quality of Care
Patient advocates also play a pivotal role in improving patient safety and quality of care. By relying on their professional healthcare background and the personal relationship that they have built with their individual patients, advocates can work to ensure that their patients are receiving the safe and effective care that they both need and deserve.
The Impact of Effective Patient Advocacy
The bottom line is effective patient advocacy can significantly improve patient outcomes. In some cases, patient advocacy efforts could even save a life.
Case Studies of Successful Patient Advocacy
Some examples of successful patient advocacy efforts include:
- A healthcare patient advocate providing a 64-year-old patient with information and resources about Medicare, allowing the patient to make a sound decision for the next stage of life.
- A healthcare patient advocate working with the caregiver of an elderly patient, helping them better understand the symptoms of the patient and connecting them with a specialist who could develop an effective treatment plan.
Measuring the Success of Patient Advocacy Efforts
It can be difficult to truly quantify the impact of patient advocacy efforts, as the results are often far-reaching. However, some ways to monitor the success of these efforts include:
- Conducting patient surveys.
- Evaluating the results of specific patient cases.
- Identifying indicators that could be used to measure the success of patient advocacy efforts.
Becoming a Patient Advocate
If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding and impactful career in healthcare, then you may want to become a patient advocate. Taking actionable steps can help you become qualified for these types of positions.
Essential Qualities and Skills for Advocates
Some of the most pivotal qualities and skills for advocates include:
- Expert medical terminology skills, as you will be required to translate information for your patients.
- Detailed understanding of medical billing and insurance coverage, as you will often be working to help patients better understand their own coverage or the cost of treatment.
- Superior interpersonal skills, as you will be developing lasting relationships with your patients.
- Advanced communication skills, as you will often be serving as a liaison between the patient and the provider.
Educational Pathways and Professional Development
The educational requirements for patient advocacy positions may vary based on the position you are pursuing. Generally, a high school diploma or GED is required, though many professionals find that a degree or diploma in the healthcare field provides them with the foundational knowledge required to be successful in this position. While not required, some patient advocates increase their qualifications through certification programs.
The Future of Patient Advocacy in Healthcare
Demand for patient advocates is on the rise, particularly as professionals in all areas of healthcare work to bridge the health equity gap that continues to exist to this day.
Emerging Trends and Challenges
Some of the emerging trends and challenges shaping patient advocacy efforts include:
- The impact of the digital transformation in healthcare, and how it is impacting patients.
- The need to become more diverse and inclusive within the healthcare field, and the importance of minimizing the health equity gap.
- The importance of self-care among patient advocates, who can easily become burnt out in their positions.
Role of Technology in Enhancing Advocacy
As technology continues to play a more pivotal role in the healthcare field, patient advocates can leverage technology to improve outcomes for their patients. Digital healthcare communication tools can make it easier for advocates to connect to other providers and collect the information their patients need. Telehealth services can provide improved access, particularly for patients who may have mobility issues or limited access to transportation. Overall, patient advocates can expect to rely on advanced technology to provide their patients with the best possible service.
Explore Healthcare Career Options at Florida Technical College
At Florida Technical College, we offer several skills-based programs that allow you to develop the core competencies required for various healthcare careers. To note, we offer a Bachelor’s Degree in Allied Health Management as well as a Medical Assistant Technician Diploma Program, both of which allow our students to explore healthcare careers that align with their interests and passions.
Request more information about our online, skills-based programs today.
These examples are intended to serve only as a general guide of possible employment opportunities. There are many factors that determine the job an individual may obtain and Florida Technical College cannot guarantee its graduates any particular job. Some positions may require license or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular position you desire.
Sources
https://www.ftccollege.edu/program/bachelors-degree/bachelors-degree-in-allied-health-management/
https://www.ftccollege.edu/program/diploma/medical-assistant-technician-diploma/
https://www.patientadvocate.org/
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-power-of-a-health-care-advocate
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-patient-advocate-do
https://www.patient-advocate.com/case-examples/
https://www.linkedin.com/advice/0/what-steps-measure-patient-advocacy-outcomes
https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/how-can-you-prepare-future-patient-advocacy-trends
