How can you show your impact as a patient advocate?

1 Define your goals

Before you can show your impact, you need to define what you want to achieve as a patient advocate. What are your specific and measurable objectives? How do they align with the needs and expectations of your patients and their families? How do they contribute to the broader goals of your organization or profession? By clarifying your goals, you can focus your efforts and resources on the most relevant and meaningful activities and outcomes.

2 Collect data and feedback

To show your impact, you need to collect data and feedback that can demonstrate your progress and results. Depending on your goals, you may use different methods and sources of information, such as surveys, interviews, testimonials, case studies, reports, or records. You may also use quantitative or qualitative indicators, such as numbers, percentages, ratings, stories, or quotes. The key is to choose data and feedback that are relevant, reliable, and valid for your purposes.

3 Analyze and interpret

Once you have collected data and feedback, you need to analyze and interpret them to identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You may use various tools and techniques, such as charts, graphs, tables, or dashboards, to visualize and summarize your data. You may also use statistical or thematic analysis to identify patterns, trends, or themes in your data. The key is to make sense of your data and feedback and draw meaningful conclusions and insights.

4 Report and communicate

After you have analyzed and interpreted your data and feedback, you need to report and communicate them to your stakeholders in a clear and compelling way. You may use different formats and channels, such as reports, presentations, newsletters, blogs, or social media, to share your findings and recommendations. You may also use different strategies and styles, such as storytelling, infographics, or testimonials, to engage and persuade your audience. The key is to tailor your message and medium to your purpose and audience.

5 Evaluate and improve

Finally, you need to evaluate and improve your impact as a patient advocate based on your data and feedback. You may use different frameworks and models, such as the SMART or the PDCA cycle, to set and review your goals and actions. You may also use different methods and tools, such as self-assessment, peer review, or coaching, to reflect and learn from your experiences. The key is to use your data and feedback as a source of feedback and learning, not as a judgment or criticism.

6 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?