Meaning:
A Health Advocate is an individual who provides direct and personalized services to a patient and/or their family as they navigate the healthcare system. Health advocates also engage in activities that promote health and access to health care in communities and the larger public.
What does it involve?
Healthcare advocates give patients and their families direct, customized assistance in navigating the healthcare system. A healthcare advocate's role entails: Helping patients access health care. ... Guiding patients through their medical care, insurance questions, and administrative and legal tasks.
Why is it important?
Health advocates can play a critical role in explaining health information to patients, helping them make informed decisions about their health. By working to minimize the communication gap between healthcare professionals and patients, health advocates are key to improving health outcomes.
