As hospitals are discharging patients “quicker and sicker”, patients and their caregivers are faced with situations in which they feel generally uneducated and ill-prepared to handle. Hospital discharge planners and social workers are designed to assist with planning what healthcare needs and services are available post discharge, but unfortunately they are often understaffed, overworked and unable to provide the amount of support most patients and families need. Instead, these hospital employees provide a list of options to the patient and family directing them to make a decision on what happens next. Many times expecting them to have a decision made within 24 hours. It is not uncommon for this to be the extent of education regarding the healthcare continuum of care.

Not surprisingly, patients and caregivers become overwhelmed as they are thrust into this unknown world of healthcare. This is an industry which has not historically done a stellar job of educating it’s consumers. Not because they don’t want to, but because as soon as they learn it themselves, it changes. The pace of change within the healthcare industry does not allow for consumer education. There are simply too many moving parts evolving at the same time. It is a full-time job just keeping up with what is happening with government rules and regulations, insurance billing policies, and governing bodies. Not to mention the clinical aspects of treatment options and protocols.

Enter private health advocates. This is a skilled professional who is committed to staying abreast of the most current state of the healthcare system so you can focus on your health and not the bureaucracy. This service provider is ready to assist you with a host of services depending on your needs.

Are you out of town and needing someone to attend medical appointments with a loved one to interpret updates? Hire a private advocate to go. Are you confused about your diagnosis and/or treatment options? Hire a private advocate to research and discuss what options are available. Are you overwhelmed with your medical bills and insurance paperwork? Hire a private advocate to review and explain. Your private health advocate might even be able to negotiate and reduce your medical costs.

A private health advocate is a person you invite to join your healthcare team. This additional team member is designed to utilize their knowledge, skills, research, and experience within the healthcare system to ensure that your healthcare service and experience is the absolute best possible for you and your family.

Click below to schedule your free telephone consultation and see how a private health advocate can help you.