The Important Role of the Patient Advocate
by Lisa Stockdale
The health care system continues to
grow more complex and difficult to navigate. As complexity swells, consumers are
increasingly reaching out to private, independent patient advocates to get the
help they need. Patient advocates offer a wide array
of services ranging from accompanying clients to their doctors’ appointments, being
present during a hospital stay, providing information to help make decisions
about treatment options, reviewing and negotiating medical bills – and
everything in between.
Who Can Be a Patient Advocate?
A family member, a close friend or
relative, or even a trusted co-worker can act as a patient advocate. If you
find yourself in need of someone with a working knowledge of the healthcare
system or perhaps more of a clinical background, it might make sense to look at
professional advocacy services. Consider
the following local (central Ohio) providers:
· IKOR is a Dublin-based company offering healthcare and
financial advocacy plus life management services. IKOR is operated by Dublin resident Melanie
Hankinson who has a degree in Physical Therapy, is a Certified Senior Advisor
and an Aging Life Care Professional™ with support from Sandy Miller, BSN, RN,
graduate of the Ohio State University College of Nursing with 40 plus years
serving central Ohio patients.
· Guided Patient Services (GPS) is a Westerville-based company
specializing in patient advocacy and navigation to clients of all ages facing new
or challenging healthcare issues. GPS
was founded and is operated by Annette Ticoras, MD, graduate of Wright State
University Boonshoft School of Medicine.
GPS is a member of The Alliance of Professional Health Advocates.
Who
pays for the advocates’ services?
Professional patient advocates are usually paid
directly by the client. A few employers have begun providing patient advocacy
support to their employees, but private health insurance companies do not pay
for these services.
Not everyone can afford to hire an advocate, but
many can and do. Many of us would not attempt to purchase a home without the
advice and guidance of a realtor. Fewer would consider walking into a courtroom
without the expertise of a lawyer, and many Americans have come to rely on a
financial planner to help them manage their wealth and safeguard their
financial well-being. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, patient
advocates will become more common. Research is already starting to demonstrate
the valuable role a patient advocate can play in improving patient outcomes and
experience.
