How can you advocate for different patient groups?

1 Identify the patient group

As a patient advocate, the first step is to identify who the different patient groups are and what their needs are. These patient groups may include those with disabilities, chronic conditions, or complex care needs; those from various cultural, linguistic, or religious backgrounds; those with low health literacy, education, or income; those with mental health issues, substance use disorders, or trauma histories; and those who face discrimination, stigma, or marginalization. Each of these groups may have unique barriers, concerns, or preferences that affect their health care experiences and outcomes. It is essential to learn about these factors and how they can influence the patient's goals, values, and choices.

2 Communicate effectively

The second step to advocate for different patient groups is to communicate effectively with them and their health care providers. This involves actively and empathetically listening to the patient's story, feelings, and needs, as well as asking open-ended questions and clarifying any misunderstandings or assumptions. Plain language should be used, avoiding jargon or acronyms, while providing relevant and accurate information and resources. Respect for the patient's privacy and confidentiality should be shown, along with appropriate and respectful language, tone, and body language. Adapting to the patient's communication style, preferences, and abilities is also important, as is seeking feedback and confirming understanding. By doing this, you can build trust, rapport, and collaboration with the patient and their health care team. It can also help you identify and address any gaps, challenges, or conflicts that may arise in the health care process.

3 Empower the patient

The third step to advocate for different patient groups is to empower the patient to be an active participant in their health care. This involves encouraging them to express their opinions, concerns, and questions, as well as supporting them to make informed and autonomous decisions. It also entails respecting the patient's rights and preferences, advocating for their best interests and needs, facilitating their access to quality and equitable care, promoting their self-care and self-management skills, and recognizing their strengths and achievements. Doing so can help foster a sense of agency, confidence, and dignity in the patient, while also enhancing their health outcomes and satisfaction.

4 Collaborate with others

The fourth step to advocate for different patient groups is to collaborate with others who are involved in the patient's health care. This includes establishing clear roles and responsibilities between the patient, the health care providers, and yourself; coordinating and sharing information and resources among all parties; resolving any conflicts or disputes that may arise; seeking support and guidance from other patient advocates, peer groups, or organizations; and evaluating and improving your advocacy skills and practices. Collaborating with others can help create a supportive and respectful environment for the patient, as well as leverage the expertise, experience, and perspectives of others to improve the patient's health care quality and safety.

5 Respect diversity

Respecting diversity is an important fifth step to advocate for different patient groups. This involves acknowledging and appreciating the differences and similarities between people, while avoiding stereotypes or judgments based on identity or background. It requires being open-minded and curious about other cultures, beliefs, and values, as well as being aware of your own culture and how it influences your advocacy. Additionally, you should be willing to learn from different contexts, respectful of the patient's culture and values, and sensitive to their needs and preferences related to their culture. Respecting diversity can help you establish a positive and trusting relationship with the patient, while providing culturally competent and responsive care that meets their unique needs.

6 Advocate for change

The sixth step to advocate for different patient groups is to advocate for change at the systemic level. This involves recognizing and addressing the social determinants of health that affect patients, raising awareness and educating others about the issues and challenges that different patient groups face, challenging and eliminating structural and institutional barriers and inequities, participating in and supporting advocacy initiatives, campaigns, or movements, and collaborating and networking with other patient advocates, groups, or organizations. By advocating for change, you can create a lasting and positive impact on the health and well-being of different patient groups as well as contribute to a more inclusive, fair, and respectful health care system and society.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?