PATIENT ADVOCACY
Patient Advocacy in Canada by Cheryl Petruk
Disruption Culture and the Evolution of Patient Advocacy in Canada: Where Are We Now? The transformation of patient advocacy in Canada has been a persistent and progressive journey, moving from a traditional model of passively receiving healthcare services towards an active participant-driven culture. The disruption culture, known for its innovative and groundbreaking changes, has been the driving force behind the modern evolution of patient advocacy in Canada. This shift can be attributed to the various elements of society working in unison – technology, legislation, public awareness, and patient empowerment. But, where exactly is the patient advocacy movement in Canada today? This article explores the landscape of the evolving patient advocacy movement, its triumphs, its challenges, and what the future might hold
The Rise of Disruption Culture in Patient Advocacy In the recent past, healthcare in Canada was a one-way street. Medical professionals made decisions, and patients followed suit without much say. However, the shift towards patient-centered care has given rise to the disruption culture, promoting better, more personalized healthcare. The disruption culture in patient advocacy stems from the need for change in the traditional hierarchy of healthcare, empowering patients to voice their needs, concerns, and rights. The 21st century has seen a seismic shift in patient advocacy. One of the catalysts has been the digital revolution. With unprecedented access to health information, Canadian citizens can now research their conditions, treatments, and medicines independently. This online freedom has ignited a desire for patient autonomy and informed decision-making, fostering a stronger demand for patient advocacy.
Definition of Patient Advocacy Groups: Patient advocacy groups, also known as patient support groups or patient organizations, are non-profit groups that aim to represent the interests of patients with specific diseases or conditions. These groups work on many different levels, including: Awareness and Education Policy Advocacy Research Advocacy Support and Community
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