Why Should I Hire a Physician as an Independent Patient Advocate?
8 Reasons You Need Experience and Expertise for Help with Your Healthcare Journey

8 Reasons to Choose a Physician as Your Independent Patient Advocate

1. Medical Knowledge That Makes a Difference

We understand the science behind your diagnoses and treatments, not just the basics. This means we can provide informed medical decision-making support based on actual clinical experience. When reviewing your care plan or seeking a second medical opinion, we know which questions to ask and how to help you seek alternative options if you desire. This medical knowledge helps prevent errors and ensures you’re getting care that aligns with your values.

2. Insider Understanding of Healthcare Systems

Having worked within hospital systems, we know how to effectively navigate the healthcare system. We understand departmental relationships, standard protocols, and where flexibility exists. This insight is invaluable for complex medical care coordination and can significantly impact your care quality. We can recognize when you’re getting the runaround and can help you make the system work for you. We can also identify additional people to add to your care team so you’re getting the most comprehensive support.

3. Speaking the Language of Medicine

Medicine seems to have it’s own language. This expertise is our superpower and we’ll use it to help you improve your health literacy so you can make truly informed decisions about your care. We can explain complex medical concepts in language you can understand while ensuring important clinical details aren’t overlooked.

4. Documentation Expertise

Understanding medical records from a physician’s perspective means we can help you maintain more effective medical records of our own. We can read through the “note bloat” of excessive documentation and pick out the details that matter most to you. Keeping a concise record of the most pertinent information can serve you, your family, and your care team, particularly in emergencies.

5. Assistance with Advance Care Planning

Making decisions about future medical care can be difficult. A physician advocate can help facilitate conversations with you and your loved ones and guide you through the process of advance care planning, including creating a living will, naming a healthcare proxy, and ensuring your wishes are documented and respected.

6. Support for Chronic Illness and Complex Diagnoses

Managing chronic conditions can sometimes feel like a full-time job. It requires ongoing care coordination, managing your symptoms, taking your medications, and so much more. Physician advocates help you understand your condition, make sure you’re getting the most out of your treatment plan, and help you connect with the right specialists.

7. Being Proactive to Reduce Medical Errors

Medical mistakes happen, but having a physician advocate reduces the risk. They can review medical records, double-check prescriptions, and ensure you understand your treatment plan and follow it according to your doctor’s recommendations.

8. Peace of Mind for You and Your Family

Having an expert in your corner, like “a doctor in the family,” allows you and your loved ones to focus on healing rather than navigating the healthcare maze. A physician advocate provides reassurance, ensuring that your medical care aligns with your needs and preferences. You never have to feel alone when managing your healthcare needs.

Take Control of Your Healthcare Journey

Okay, I can do this but I don’t want to do this alone. Whether you’re facing a major diagnosis, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to be more prepared, having a physician advocate can make all the difference. With medical expertise, communication skills, and a deep understanding of the system, we can help you feel empowered in your healthcare decisions.

Ready to Get the Support You Deserve?

If you want a trusted expert to help you navigate your medical care with confidence, consider working with me as your Independent Patient Advocate. Although I am a doctor, I will not be your doctor and I will not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. What I do offer is a wealth of other services. From medical records management to appointment preparation and conversation facilitation, I can provide the experience and expertise you need for peace of mind. Let’s work together to create a comprehensive care strategy that addresses your unique health needs and goals. Your health journey deserves the highest level of expertise and support.