How Patient Advocates Integrate Care among Specialty Providers (Physicians), and Family Members

When an individual has complex healthcare needs as a result of a chronic condition, it cannot be left solely to the physicians to provide adequate care. Managing a serious illness such as cancer or dementia requires around-the-clock attention to minimize the effect it has on the patient’s quality of life. If the specialty provider is under performing or the care at home is lacking, the symptoms and effects will be magnified.

So, it’s crucial that specialty providers and family members work hand-in-hand to ensure the patient has the best chance of living happily and independently. But, it can often be difficult to forge relationships between so many people, and family members are frequently provided with below-par information.

That’s why the healthcare system has come under such scrutiny in recent years; because the system is not optimal for those living with a severe illness. So, if the family members, patient and physicians aren’t communicating productively, how can you expect the level of care to be at a high enough standard?

Subsequently, that’s where patient advocates can play a substantial role. They’re trained to be able to deal with these types of situations, but their specialist knowledge and experience can help the patient navigate the health care system effectively. Of course, a patient advocate’s main duties include supporting the patient, minimizing risk, picking the best treatment plan and pushing for positive changes.

But, they can also talk regularly with physicians and family members. By communicating with physicians on the patient’s behalf, they can use their knowledge to thoroughly understand the diagnosis, digest the complicated terminology and comprehend the various treatment options. Plus, they can conjure up a great home care plan alongside the doctor which will complement the treatment.

On the contrary, they have a wonderful ability to translate all of the jargon into terms that patients and family members can easily understand. As a result, they become the perfect “middle man” between physician and family members, as well as the robust support system that the patient requires.

With that being said, the process of integrating care both with specialty providers and at home becomes simple, and free of all the obstacles that a patient would face alone. But, the fantastic aspect of seeking a patient advocate is that you won’t just have to settle with just ordinary care. They’ll fight your corner to guarantee that you have the best possible treatment both in hospital and back home.

Thanks to their industry connections, they can find you the best doctor to handle your complex needs so that your life returns to normality in the shortest space of time. Ultimately, a patient advocate will push for the best care among specialty providers and family members, because their priorities lie with making a difference for their patient.

So, if you ever require assistance with understanding the healthcare system or coping with treatment plans, why not call on an expert patient advocate?