Patient advocacy

Patient Advocacy

Patient advocacy (/ˈpeɪʃənt ˈædvəkəsi/) is a specialized area of healthcare concerned with advocating for patients, survivors, and caregivers. The term originates from the mid-20th century, combining "patient" (from Latin patiens, "suffering") and "advocacy" (from Latin advocatus, "called to one's aid").

Overview

Patient advocacy involves various activities which aim to help patients navigate the complex healthcare system and secure the care they need. This can include educating patients about their rights, helping them make informed decisions, and ensuring they have access to resources and services. Patient advocates may be professionals who work in hospitals, other healthcare settings, or for non-profit organizations, or they may be friends or family members who take on the role informally.

Roles and Responsibilities

The roles and responsibilities of a patient advocate can vary widely, but often include:

Educating patients about their rights and responsibilities
Assisting patients with healthcare navigation, including understanding medical terminology and procedures, and making informed decisions about care
Liaising with healthcare providers and insurance companies on behalf of the patient
Providing emotional support and counseling
Assisting with paperwork, billing issues, and insurance claims
Advocating for patient rights at the policy level, including lobbying for changes to healthcare laws and regulations

Related Terms

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Patient advocacy