What are the essential resources for patient advocacy?

1 Skills and training

One of the most important resources for patient advocacy is the ability to communicate effectively with health care providers, insurance companies, and other stakeholders. You need to be able to ask the right questions, understand medical terminology, negotiate for the best options, and advocate for your needs and preferences. You also need to be able to listen, empathize, and support the patient emotionally and practically. To develop these skills, you can take courses, workshops, or certifications in patient advocacy, or join a professional association or network of patient advocates.

2 Information and research

Another essential resource for patient advocacy is access to reliable and relevant information and research. You need to be able to find and evaluate the sources of information about the patient's condition, treatment options, outcomes, and risks. You also need to be able to compare and contrast different providers, facilities, and services, and check their quality, reputation, and accreditation. You can use online databases, libraries, journals, websites, or organizations that provide trustworthy and evidence-based information and research.

3 Tools and technology

A third essential resource for patient advocacy is the use of tools and technology that can help you organize, manage, and share information and documents related to the patient's care. You need to be able to keep track of the patient's medical history, records, appointments, prescriptions, bills, and insurance claims. You also need to be able to communicate and collaborate with the patient, their family, and their health care team. You can use tools and technology such as apps, software, platforms, or devices that can help you store, access, update, and transmit information and documents securely and conveniently.

4 Support and network

A fourth essential resource for patient advocacy is the availability of support and network that can provide you with guidance, advice, and assistance. You need to be able to reach out to other patient advocates, experts, mentors, or peers who can share their experiences, insights, and resources with you. You also need to be able to connect with other patients, caregivers, or groups who can offer you emotional, social, and practical support. You can use support and network such as forums, blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or communities that can help you learn, grow, and cope as a patient advocate.

5 Ethics and laws

A fifth essential resource for patient advocacy is the knowledge and awareness of the ethics and laws that govern the health care system and the patient's rights. You need to be able to understand and respect the principles of confidentiality, consent, autonomy, and justice that apply to the patient's care. You also need to be able to recognize and report any violations, abuses, or malpractices that may harm the patient or compromise their care. You can use ethics and laws such as codes, standards, policies, or regulations that can help you act ethically and legally as a patient advocate.

6 Self-care and wellness

A sixth and final essential resource for patient advocacy is the practice of self-care and wellness that can help you maintain your physical, mental, and emotional health. You need to be able to balance your personal and professional life, set boundaries, and prioritize your needs and goals. You also need to be able to cope with stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma that may affect your well-being and performance. You can use self-care and wellness such as strategies, techniques, or activities that can help you relax, recharge, and rejuvenate as a patient advocate.

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?