How Can Patient Advocates Help on Your Health Care Journey?          

Q. I recently came across a Next Avenue article where a 72-year-old woman was told she had a benign brain tumor and needed surgery. The surgery was supposed to be simple, and the family was told she’d recover quickly, but things did not go as expected. Once a healthy, active woman, the patient suffered from memory loss, confusion, and headaches, among other things. Her mobility was fine before, but post-surgery, she required a walker to remain steady. Upon release from rehab, the occupational therapist said she could never live on her own again. 

The family was convinced something wasn’t right but didn’t feel comfortable or knowledgeable enough to confront doctors or hospital staff. This is why they hired a patient advocate, who had been a nurse for many years prior. She led the way to a new, more accurate diagnosis, and suggested a suitable treatment. Not long after the advocate’s suggestions were followed, the patient was back to normal, and defied her original prognosis. The family felt they couldn’t have done it without the help of the patient advocate. 

I found this to be particular interesting, because it sounds somewhat similar to my situation. My mother is often in-and-out of the hospital. I have trouble understanding the medical jargon that is often presented to me by doctors and medical staff, and as a typically subdued introvert, I don’t feel like I’m much of an advocate for her. What are all of the things that patient advocates normally do to help patients receive appropriate care? How can I find the best advocate when I read somewhere that no licensing is required? What role does the elder care attorney play? Thanks so much for your help!  

Critter Corner: How Do You Effectively Advocate for Yourself in the Hospital?  

Dear Hayek, 

My father is undergoing treatments in the hospital. He depends on me when I am there, but I can’t be around as often as I would like to be because of my job. My father still has his wits about him, but he is widowed, so he is often alone at appointments, unless I am there. I suggested to him that he hire a patient advocate or advocate for himself at the hospital. He would like to try self-advocacy first, but he doesn’t know where to begin. Do you have any tips for self-advocating in a healthcare setting? 

Thanks for your help! 

Ed Vakating