The Vital Role of Patient Advocacy: Being One or Hiring One

As a nurse with years of experience in the healthcare field, this is a topic I feel very strongly about.

Between doctor’s appointments, medical specialists, diagnostic testing, and hospital admissions. The healthcare system can be so overwhelming, and it can quickly become an incredible cluster f***.

Let’s discuss why having a patient advocate for your aging parents is a big deal.

Be the One or Hire the One

If you have the ability to be your parent’s advocate, attend the appointments, and be at the bedside when necessary, then please be that support system for them. But this is obviously not always realistic as we have additional life responsibilities. However, if you can’t be there, ensure someone else can be. Another family member, a trusted friend or there are private nursing companies and patient advocate services available to assist. A simple Google search can give you several options.

Be sure to interview candidates with your parents and make sure personalities mesh, and trust can be built. Remember, even if you can be with your parents during these times, you may want an advocate so you can concentrate on being the caring and devoted child and not the healthcare advocate.

A patient advocate is not just a supporter; they become the voice, the guide, and the guardian in the healthcare journey. Make sure it is the right one.

The Role of a Patient Advocate

Whether it is you or a professional, the patient advocate is essentially the liaison between the healthcare system and the patient, in this case, our aging parents. This role involves being well-informed, proactive, and dedicated to ensuring the best possible care. Here are some key aspects of the advocate’s role…

Navigating Medical Terminology

Amid complex medical language, the advocate assumes the role of a translator, breaking down intricate information into understandable and clear terms for your parents. This empowers your parents to ask questions and make informed decisions.

Being Another Set of Eyes and Ears

An advocate becomes an additional set of eyes and ears. This role ensures that important information doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. They provide a stable presence, aiding in comprehension and reducing anxiety. 

Note-Taking for Recall

One of the unsung heroes of the advocate is their role as a meticulous note-taker. Documenting important details during appointments or hospital stays is crucial for later discussion and recall. This ensures that decisions are well-informed and everyone involved is on the same page.

Logistical Management

Managing doctor’s appointments, transportation logistics, and paperwork can be like an intense game of Jenga. The advocate, whether a professional or a dedicated family member, takes charge, alleviating stress for everyone involved.

Hospital Experiences

Between 15,000 people coming into your parent’s hospital room with loads of information, tons of test results, and the inevitable wait for the doctors to round (usually while you are in the bathroom or grabbing coffee), having a patient advocate is essential in the hospital. The advocate provides essential medical history, ensures accurate medication management, and advocates for the patient’s needs. The advocate asks all the pertinent questions of the experts to gain a complete picture of the situation. Your parents are sick and exhausted in the hospital. The advocate keeps all of the information organized and translates it to your parents in a clear and understandable way so they can rest and heal.

Decision-Making & Emotional Support

Tough decisions often arise in healthcare, and a patient advocate provides emotional support, helping the family and the patient navigate choices that align with their values and preferences.

The Importance of Advocacy

Having a patient advocate, whether a professional or taking it on yourself, is not a sign of weakness or your parents’ admission of inability to handle medical situations. On the contrary, it is a proactive and empowering choice. The healthcare system can be complex, and having someone dedicated to ensuring that our aging parents receive the best care possible is a strategic approach to healthcare.

Being or having a patient advocate for our aging parents is not just a choice; it’s a responsibility that comes with love and compassion. As a nurse, I encourage everyone to embrace the role of an advocate, ensuring that our loved ones receive the care and attention they deserve.

Let’s navigate the healthcare journey together, providing comfort and support every step of the way.

Together...