The Connectivity Between Value-Based Healthcare and Patient Advocacy

The Role of Patient Advocacy in Healthcare

Patient advocacy is essential to ensure that healthcare systems are truly patient-centred. Advocates ensure that patients receive the best care possible, have access to accurate information, and are treated with respect and dignity. In practical terms, patient advocates act as liaisons between patients and healthcare providers, helping patients navigate complex medical decisions, understand their rights, and receive timely and appropriate care. Some of the primary goals of patient advocacy include:

Empowering Patients: Patient advocates help patients understand their diagnoses, treatment options, and potential outcomes. By providing clear and accessible information, advocates enable patients to make informed decisions about their care and participate actively in the treatment process.

Ensuring Quality and Safety: Advocates work to ensure that patients receive high-quality care, free from harm, and aligned with their values and preferences. They help ensure that patients are not subjected to unnecessary treatments, procedures, or delays, which can compromise patient safety.

Advocating for Access to Care: Patient advocates work to ensure that patients have access to the care they need when needed. This can involve addressing barriers to care, such as financial constraints, insurance issues, or geographic limitations, and helping patients navigate the complexities of healthcare systems.

Protecting Patients’ Rights: Patient advocates work to safeguard patients' rights, ensuring that they are treated with dignity and respect. They also help ensure that patients are aware of their rights to privacy, informed consent, and shared decision-making.