How can you support peer networks among patients?

1 Identify peer network needs

Before you start connecting patients with peer networks, you need to understand their needs, preferences, and expectations. You can do this by conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or observation. Additionally, existing data sources, such as patient records, social media, or online forums can be used to identify common themes and gaps. When asking questions of patients, consider what their main challenges or concerns are; what kind of support or information they seek or offer; how they prefer to communicate and interact with peers; the benefits and barriers of joining or creating a peer network; and how they measure the impact or value of peer networks.

2 Connect patients with peer networks

Once you have a clear understanding of the peer network needs, you can match patients with existing or potential peer networks that fit their goals and preferences. To do this, you can refer them to local or online peer support groups, organizations, or programs that offer the necessary services or resources. Additionally, you can introduce them to individual peers who have similar experiences or interests and are willing to mentor, coach, or befriend them. Moreover, you can create or host your own peer network events such as workshops, webinars, or social gatherings where patients can meet and interact with each other. Lastly, you can encourage them to join or start their own peer network initiatives like blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or campaigns where they can share their stories and insights.

3 Support peer network activities

As a patient advocate, you can provide ongoing support and guidance to peer networks to maintain and enhance their quality and effectiveness. This could involve offering training, coaching, or mentoring to develop skills and confidence in leading or participating in peer networks. Additionally, you can provide feedback, evaluation, or recognition to peer network activities to measure their outcomes and achievements. Furthermore, you should share best practices, resources, or opportunities with peer networks to improve their knowledge and performance. Lastly, you should advocate for peer network interests, needs, or rights to help them overcome challenges or barriers and influence policies or decisions that affect them.

4 Promote peer network culture

As a patient advocate, you can promote a positive and supportive culture among peer networks, to help them foster trust, respect, and collaboration. This can be done by modeling and encouraging core values such as empathy, honesty, empowerment, and mutual aid, and by celebrating the diversity of peer networks and recognizing their contributions. You can also facilitate communication and interaction among peer networks, build relationships, and create opportunities for networking and learning. These activities can be a valuable source of support for patients in difficult times, helping them enhance their well-being, self-management skills, health outcomes, and quality of life.

5 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?