|  | Healthcare Industry | Healthcare Management

Patient Advocate Requirements

Patient advocates in hospitals, sometimes known as ombudsmen, ought to demonstrate a commitment to those in their care and their families. Since the advocate will be addressing the patient's concerns or issues with the facility, he must be well informed on hospital policies and procedures. Patients should be able to rely on the advocate as their resource provider. An advocate must have the ability to solve problems and ease the patient's mind during her stay.

  1. Service Commitments

    • Patients and their families must be able to reach the advocate by phone, email, or letter. The advocate should respond quickly to the patient's room or provide a private area, such as his office, for discussions. An advocate must be an ear for the patient's issues as well as a voice that can accurately convey those issues through the proper channels. When there is no action to be done, the advocate must demonstrate support and encouragement.

    Trustworthiness

    • Sensitivity and respect for the patient's privacy are needed before teh advocate can gain trust from patients. An advocate is more efficient once she has seucred the trust of the patient and their families. Advocates should be able to explain the state and federal informed-consent process and reporting requirements.

    Informed

    • An advocate must be familiar with government regulations such as those in the 1996 Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), or rules by the federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). An advocate is required to be up to date on available resources for the patient. Time is often crucial for the patient, so it is vital for advocates to research latest developments in patients' rights, institutional policies, and policies of outside medical and social-service providers.

    Articulate Communications

    • An advocate needs to be able to clearly communicate patient concerns, strongly stand up for patient rights, and compassionately express respect for the patient. He must be able to explain complex information in a language that is easiliy understood. At times an advocate may be required to work with a language interpreter.

    Paperwork Assistance

    • An advocate needs to be able to provide assistance to patients with paperwork. Billing and insurance issues can be complex. Patients can benefit from the assistance of an advocate who can complete paperwork, explain coverage, negotiate denials, and choose the best plans. Advocates must be able to assist with home health care, nursing home, or in-home care arrangements.

Healthcare Management - Related Articles