What Is a Patient Advocate?

Navigating the healthcare system is extraordinarily complex — understanding insurance coverage, coordinating care between multiple providers, deciphering medical bills, communicating effectively with physicians, and understanding your rights as a patient. A patient advocate is someone who helps people navigate this complexity on their behalf. Patient advocacy takes multiple forms, from formal professional services to informal support from family and friends, and understanding the different types of advocates and when to seek their help can make a meaningful difference in your care.

What Patient Advocates Do

Patient advocates assist patients and families in a variety of ways depending on their training and role:

Healthcare communication: Helping patients understand diagnoses, treatment options, medical terminology, and clinical recommendations; preparing patients for appointments and helping them formulate questions; attending appointments and taking notes.