The independent Patient Advocate is a vital instrument for both patient and health care providers in the optimal delivery of health care.

In its simplest terms, patient advocacy regards any activity which ultimately benefits a patient.

Your Health Care Liaison

We are constantly faced with problems getting the health care we deserve. You may be misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. You or a loved one may have been harmed by the system through a medical error or other patient safety violation. Patients' rights or privacy problems plague many. And we all know our health care is far too expensive. Awareness of these problems and possible solutions to them helps improve our chances for better care.

Patient Empowerment

Misdiagnosis, Lack of Diagnosis or Ineffective Treatment

Some statistics say that as many as 20% of all diagnoses are incorrect. Some patients may spend weeks or months undiagnosed, with no answer to what is causing their symptoms. Understanding the roots of misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose can help patients work with their physicians to arrive at the right answers.

Communication Problems with Doctors and Other Providers

No matter how good a practitioner your doctor may be, if you don't understand what he tells you (or if he doesn't listen or clearly answer your questions), your care will not be the best it can be. Understanding potential problems with communication, and knowing how to improve your rapport with your doctor or other provider, will help improve the care you receive.

Finding Help to Prevent Medical Mistakes & Problems with Medical Care

Sometimes the problems of access, getting the right diagnosis or even keeping track of costs or paying for your care can be positively overwhelming. It's time to ask for help. Patient Advocates are available to help you overcome your challenges with the healthcare system.