Last updated on Jul 10, 2024

Here's how you can navigate changes in the patient advocacy field.

Patient advocacy is an evolving field that requires you to stay informed and adaptable to effectively support the needs of patients. With healthcare systems undergoing constant change, it's crucial for advocates to navigate new policies, technologies, and patient expectations. By understanding the latest trends and developing new skills, you can ensure that your advocacy efforts remain impactful and relevant. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, embracing change is key to advocating successfully for patient rights and access to care.

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1 Embrace Tech

Embracing technology is essential in modern patient advocacy. Telehealth, electronic health records (EHRs), and mobile health apps are becoming increasingly prevalent, offering new ways to support patients. Familiarize yourself with these platforms and understand how they can benefit those you advocate for. By doing so, you can bridge the gap between patients and the digital tools that can enhance their healthcare experience.

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AbdulRahman Ashraf

Patient Care Coach IQVIA | General Dentist
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Digital is the new lingua franca. It is the equivalent of speaking English in a world that embraces English as a seemingly first language. Missing out on digital literacy is fatal in an evolving world. Embrace tech with all its arms and strengths.

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2 Policy Updates

Stay abreast of policy changes to be an effective patient advocate. Healthcare laws and regulations are frequently updated, impacting patients' access to care and their rights. By keeping informed about these changes, you can better guide patients through the healthcare system and fight for policies that serve their best interests. Understanding complex legislation can be challenging, but it's a crucial aspect of empowering patients.

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3 Skill Growth

Continuous learning is vital in the field of patient advocacy. As healthcare evolves, so too must your skills and knowledge. Pursue ongoing education through workshops, courses, or certifications that focus on emerging healthcare topics. This commitment to professional growth will not only enhance your advocacy but also position you as a knowledgeable resource for those you serve.

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4 Network Strongly

Networking is a powerful tool for patient advocates. Connect with other professionals in the field to share experiences, strategies, and insights. Joining advocacy groups or attending conferences can provide valuable opportunities to learn from others and stay informed about industry changes. These connections can also offer support and collaboration opportunities that can amplify your advocacy efforts.

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5 Patient Needs

Understanding changing patient needs is at the heart of patient advocacy. As medical treatments and healthcare options evolve, so do the expectations and concerns of patients. Engage with patients to learn about their experiences and what matters most to them. This direct feedback will help you tailor your advocacy efforts to the real and current needs of those you represent.

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6 Legal Acumen

Developing legal acumen is increasingly important in patient advocacy. Advocates often need to navigate complex healthcare laws and patient rights issues. Enhancing your understanding of medical law will equip you to provide better guidance and support to patients facing legal challenges related to their care. While not all advocates need to be legal experts, a solid grasp of relevant legal principles is invaluable.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Rose Jordan, MSW

Advocating for change in standard of care for dementia patients, and additional resources for dementia caregivers.
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Personal Experience Share your personal experience. By walking the walk, you gain the knowledge and experience necessary to advocate for those experiencing what you have. Walking beside my husband in a ten-year dementia journey gave me invaluable insights into family abandonment, anticipatory grief, dementia insensitivity among medical professionals, lack of financial and supportive resources for patient and caregiver, and facility care. I am hoping by educating it will build awareness for the unheard voices of dementia caregivers. There are 6 million of them with a projected 15 million by 2050. It's hard to believe that the ones that provide $470 billion dollars of care are alone in their struggles.

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Here's how you can navigate changes in the patient advocacy field.

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Embrace Tech

2 Policy Updates

3 Skill Growth

4 Network Strongly

5 Patient Needs

6 Legal Acumen

7 Here’s what else to consider

Patient Advocacy

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Here's how you can navigate changes in the patient advocacy field.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Embrace Tech

2 Policy Updates

3 Skill Growth

4 Network Strongly

5 Patient Needs

6 Legal Acumen

7 Here’s what else to consider

Patient Advocacy

Rate this article

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