Q: How do I know if I need a patient advocate?

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A: Are you confused, nervous or overwhelmed when it comes to yours or your loved one’s health?

• Limited on time to dedicate to and unsure how to handle your health details? 

• Would you like to work with a compassionate and dependable professional to walk this healthcare journey with?

• Are you looking for someone who is good at communication and education who can help to ensure you make the most informed decisions and ensure everyone is on the same page? 

 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could benefit from working with me and be on your way to obtaining solutions to your worries that you never thought were possible! 

*Please see “How I am different…” down to below to see how I compare and contrast to other nursing roles 

 

Q: How much does the service cost? 

 

A: I will be glad to jump on a free 30 min consultation call with you to discuss your needs. From there we will discuss services and the associated fees. 

 

Q: Does Medicare or Insurance cover this service?

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A: I am private pay. There may be some policies that reimburse for some services. Please reach out to your insurance company and ask about policies that may pertain to patient advocate support. 

 

Q: Is there a minimum amount of service required?

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A: You can work with me on an as needed basis. We will work together to determine your needs. If possible, I do ask that if you hire me, that you work with me for at least 2 consecutive hours.

 

Q: How am I different from.... 

 

Bedside Nurse

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A: The bedside nurse is assigned to you during your hospital stay for their scheduled shift of work. They work to maintain and improve your current medical condition and improve symptoms that you are experiencing. They assess and identify the basic needs of their patient so that the patient can properly recover. They assess vital signs, and pain, prepare you for procedures/imaging, assist in those tasks, and monitor you afterwards. They also tend to your emotional and spiritual needs to further assist you in care and comfort during your hospital stay. 

-      As your patient advocate, I am not there tending to your immediate physical status while you are in the hospital. I work to assist you so that you can understand why you are there, the treatments and medications that are being discussed, and the plans for you upon discharge. 

 

Home Health Nurse

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A: This role is similar to the bedside nurse described above. However, the nurse comes to your home and tends to your physical needs. They can administer you your medication, assist with daily activities such as bathing, feeding, and dressing, monitor your progress towards your medical goals, assess and treat wounds, and assess vital signs. They can also set up and educate you and your family about new medical equipment/devices needed for your care. The level of care needed is based on the severity of illness and/or injury.

-      As your patient advocate, I am not there tending to your physical needs and medical treatments. I work to assist you in understanding your current treatment regimen, and answer and relay any questions or concerns you may have. 

 

RN Case Manager

 

A: RN’s who have clinical experience and who have gained additional education to become a certified case manager. The key role of the case manager is assessing you and your needs when admitted to the hospital and ensuring proper coordination of care. They coordinate different elements involved in your care and ensure the resources and services involved are financially appropriate for you. They contribute to your care plan and coordinate with your physicians, insurance companies and even pharmaceuticals. They work to assist that your care plan needs are met while you are in the hospital and are in place for discharge. 

-       As your patient advocate, I work one-on-one, for you. I am not assigned to your case from a hospital or other institution. I can spend as much time with you as we deem to be necessary. Case managers are crucial for coordination of care. However, as a patient advocate, I am there to answer your questions even after you’re discharged from the hospital or your care plan is complete. I keep track of your unique wants, questions and concerns to ensure you are properly informed and organized throughout your entire medical journey. 

 

Nurse Navigator 

 

A: Generally these nurses work in a hospital setting with patients who have an oncology diagnosis. This is not always the case; however, oncology diagnoses are often very complex, and hospitals see a large need for assistance in this patient population. Nurse navigators offer resources and education regarding their treatment plan and they facilitate communication between the patient and the members of the care team. They are a single point of contact that help to guide you once you are diagnosed.

-       As your patient advocate, I work specifically for you and your current condition or medical journey. I am not tied to a hospital system or specific disease. Nurse Navigators are provided by the hospital and may be restricted on the time that they have with you. They can be beneficial because they know very well how their treatment center runs. However, I am working for you from the beginning. I do my best to help you understand treatment options hopefully before they are decided on, ensure your questions are answered and your wants are addressed with the care team throughout your journey. I have the time to explain and educate you and your respective support team. I am “on the scene” and I immerse myself into organizing your care.