Health Advocate Services
PATIENT ADVOCACY
Patient/Medical advocates are vital links that coordinate communication between patients, family members, medical professionals, administrative staff, and insurance companies to ensure that patients receive the best possible healthcare services. On a typical day, patient advocates will be responsible for interviewing patients, identifying care problems, making referrals to appropriate healthcare services, directing patient inquiries or complaints, facilitating satisfactory resolutions, and explaining policies to patients. Advocates will assist patients with choosing doctors, discuss treatment options, keep track of prescriptions, and may even accompany patients to doctor appointments.
My interest in Medical Advocacy was sparked in 2012 when I agreed to help one of my aging friends navigate the medical process of Hiatal hernia surgery. She was confused and intimidated by the doctor’s language and asked me to help her. I accepted the challenge and ended up helping her for about six years navigating medical procedures, health insurance, and medications.
Since that first experience, I have helped patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) traverse the Psychiatric field, the Social Security Administration, and prescription drug issues. I have worked with the Hospice program during the passing of both of my parents. During my husband’s battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma we navigated the many facets of the Veterans Administration Hospitals and Clinics from Arizona to California.
Following is a list of areas I can be of help to my clients:
- Assist in researching and managing your chronic diseases, especially for those who live alone or do not have family nearby.
- Help to explore treatment options.
- Make home and hospital visits to ill or elderly loved ones.
- Help coordinate discharge planning needs.
- Provide valuable information to patients and families who have a family member moving into assisted living.
- Assist with obtaining second opinions.
- Advocate on your behalf with physicians and hospital staff.
- Navigate the Social Security Administration and/or Veterans Administration Hospitals and Clinics.
Medical Coordinator Jan Hagel Has The Ability To Help You Find Medical Assistance In Your Local Area
Finding A Doctor Is Easy, But Finding A Physician Prepared To Listen
To you about your urgent and individual health concerns and apply treatment options with your direct input isn’t as easy. As a medical coordinator, she’s prepared to support and assist you to improve the quality of your health. She can handle administration tasks or schedule appointments that include communication with medical professionals. You’ll have a clear understanding of what your options are to make an informed decision about your well being.
