What are the best ways to advocate for cancer patients as a case manager?

1 Understand their needs and preferences

The first step to advocate for cancer patients is to understand their needs and preferences. You can do this by conducting a comprehensive assessment that covers their medical history, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment plan, goals, values, beliefs, and concerns. You can also use validated tools, such as the Distress Thermometer or the Patient Activation Measure, to measure their level of distress and engagement in their care. By understanding their needs and preferences, you can tailor your interventions and referrals to meet their individual situation and expectations.

2 Communicate clearly and respectfully

Another key skill for advocacy is communication. You need to communicate clearly and respectfully with cancer patients, their families, and their health care providers. You can use active listening, open-ended questions, empathy, and feedback to establish rapport and trust. You can also use plain language, jargon-free explanations, and visual aids to convey complex information and avoid confusion. Moreover, you can respect their cultural and linguistic diversity by using interpreters, translators, or cultural brokers when needed. By communicating clearly and respectfully, you can ensure that cancer patients understand their options and have a voice in their care.

3 Collaborate with the care team

As a case manager, you are part of a multidisciplinary care team that includes oncologists, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, nutritionists, and other professionals. You can collaborate with the care team by sharing relevant information, coordinating services, and facilitating transitions. You can also act as a liaison between cancer patients and their providers, advocating for their needs and preferences, resolving conflicts, and promoting shared decision-making. By collaborating with the care team, you can improve the quality and continuity of care for cancer patients.

4 Educate and empower them

One of the main goals of advocacy is to educate and empower cancer patients to be active participants in their care. You can educate them by providing reliable and up-to-date information and resources about their diagnosis, treatment, side effects, coping strategies, and support services. You can also empower them by encouraging them to ask questions, express their concerns, seek second opinions, and make informed choices. Furthermore, you can help them develop self-management skills, such as symptom monitoring, medication adherence, and stress management. By educating and empowering them, you can enhance their confidence and autonomy.

5 Connect them with support networks

Another way to advocate for cancer patients is to connect them with support networks that can provide emotional, practical, and financial assistance. You can do this by assessing their social support system and identifying any gaps or needs. You can also refer them to appropriate community-based or online resources, such as support groups, peer mentors, counselors, legal services, financial aid, or transportation services. Additionally, you can follow up with them regularly and monitor their satisfaction and outcomes. By connecting them with support networks, you can reduce their isolation and burden.

6 Advocate for system-level changes

Finally, you can advocate for cancer patients by influencing system-level changes that can improve their access and outcomes. You can do this by identifying and addressing any gaps, barriers, or disparities in the health care system that affect cancer patients. You can also participate in policy development, quality improvement, research, or advocacy initiatives that aim to enhance cancer care and prevention. Moreover, you can raise awareness and educate the public and stakeholders about the needs and challenges of cancer patients. By advocating for system-level changes, you can contribute to positive social change and health equity.