FAQ
What is the role of the patient advocate?
The role of the patient advocate is to listen to the client, determine the healthcare goals and help make sure those goals are being met. The healthcare environment can be overwhelming so that is where the Perfect Advocate can assist and work hand in hand with the client to be sure that healthcare providers and key family members are staying informed; it is a team approach.
My mom has mild confusion since her stroke and it seems that each time she goes to the emergency room her confusion increases. I live out of state and cannot be there for her. Can you meet her at the emergency room even if it is after business hours?
It is not uncommon for someone who suffers from mild confusion to become more confused when taken out of their familiar environment. What would help is for us to get to know each other prior to an emergent event and then yes, we would meet her at the emergency room to make sure her wishes are being followed and be a calming presence for her. She would see a familiar face and you would be called. Sometimes just saying “I spoke with your son/daughter and they send their love” is all they need to hear. Or just having someone be with them; so yes, it’s all about making our clients feel at ease.
I am able to take myself to the doctor but then I get home and my son starts asking me questions about what the doctor said, and I have a hard time remembering everything he said. I also forget to tell the doctor some of the things I meant to tell him, he is in and out of my room so fast. Is that something your company does or do I have to be sicker for you to take on a case?
That is a great question, that is exactly what we do. Doctors can be so fast that it often feels like on the drive home is when you remember what you wanted to discuss. Prior to your appointment we can discuss your concerns/goals and after the examination a comprehensive discussion can take place. That way nothing is missed. Important information can be relayed to family members or anyone of your choosing if you wish.
My elderly parent lives in a facility and sees numerous doctors. I am out of town and don’t understand how his various doctors work together for my father’s care. How are you able to provide a sense of coordination amongst his specialists?
Your question is “on point” with what we do. By joining clients at their appointments, we can offer an explanation of what the doctor told your parent. Additionally, we make certain that communication amongst the various providers takes place, so everyone is on the same page to provide continuity of care.
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Testimonial
“Carrie Rubin has been in the healthcare field since 2002 and has acquired a vast knowledge about our rapidly changing healthcare resources; most importantly, its strengths and limitations, coupled with an excellent understanding of Medicare, and private insurance. She is a strong supporter of the patient’s needs, yet she is guided by a strong sense of professional and clinical ethics and morality.
For the past 9 years, I had the distinct pleasure of working with Carrie at Hospice of Palm Beach County where she served as a passionate Admission Liaison. Her principal role was to assist patients and families navigate their needs, options, and choices as they faced a serious life-limiting illness. She can “think outside of the box” in her quest to help patients and families during their true time of need. Carrie has a unique understanding that the term “patient” is not limited to the individual whose name is on the chart, but instead, the entire family. This, I believe is the epitome of patient advocacy. Carrie invests the time to learn what the patient’s and family’s wishes are, and with this comprehensive knowledge, she successfully helps achieve their goals. She strongly supports patients and their loved ones with skill and empathy; quickly becoming someone they trust and on whom they can rely.
I look forward to watching and supporting this dynamic woman as she brings this desperately needed service to our community with enthusiasm that only she can provide.”
With gratitude for her talents,
Gail Austin Cooney, MD, HMDC, FAAHPM
Retired Medical Director, Hospice of Palm Beach County
Past-President, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine