Health Champion Blog

Going it alone is NEVER the best choice when it comes to health care. Especially if you have time-sensitive treatments, a complicated diagnosis, or insurance issues to consider. When you need someone on your side — supporting your well-being, getting medical appointments, managing treatments plans or fighting for your benefit rights — you need a health advocate.

A relatively new response to today’s complicated health care system, health advocacy is considered a critical service by CNN and other news sources. Knowing when to hire an advocate, and how to choose one that’s right for you, is key to a successful outcome.

What’s the Problem?

Define your needs before looking for someone to help resolve issues. For example:

• Do you need someone to oversee care being provided to yourself or a loved one?
• Are your needs related to developing a plan of care for a particular diagnosis?
• Is it an insurance issue? Are your benefits being denied?
• Do you need help researching the latest technologies and treatments for a disease?
• Are you worried about mom and dad living alone?
• Will you need the advocate to be onsite at a hospital or facility?

Locating a Private Advocate

An internet search, using the key words “health care advocate” will direct you to   advocate websites. Review their areas of expertise; narrow your choices and examine how their services meet your defined needs. Ask for referrals from friends, family members and physicians (use the terminology “case manager”).

Consider the  Fit

Like physicians and health problems, advocates come in all shapes and sizes. Some have a “take charge” style” others are more laid back. Finding the right fit is critical. Things to consider:

• Have they helped clients with similar issues?
• If so, what do they consider a successful outcome?
• How many client cases do they work on at the same time?
• Do they have a resource network?
• How easily can you reach them during the week? Off hours?  Holidays?
• How do they keep clients apprised of progress?
• How does the advocate charge for services: hourly or set rate?

Health advocacy is typically private pay, with fees ranging from $100 – $200/hour. The right advocate will guide you through the health care maze and so that you get the benefits and treatments you need when you need them. And that’s priceless.