I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I could do is be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me. ~Maya Angelou
What Is A Medical Advocacy Consultant?
In our organization, the role of a Medical Advocacy Consultant is dedicated to providing guidance and support to clients and their caregivers. This role is essential for those seeking to develop self-advocacy skills, identify appropriate resources or providers tailored to their particular needs, and obtain assistance in accessing relevant information. The Consultant’s primary objective is to discover innovative solutions to barriers faced by patients, facilitate open communication, and provide virtual support through creative problem-solving, empowering clients to make informed choices. Ultimately, the responsibility for these decisions rests with either the Client or the Client Caregiver.
A Medical Advocacy Consultant engages in the collection and analysis of information, conducting research to support the client’s needs. They formulate conclusions and present findings in the form of recommendations while educating clients regarding their rights within the healthcare system, though this should not be misconstrued as legal advice. Strong listening skills are integral to this role, enabling the Consultant to identify potential solutions to client concerns and assist caregivers in preparing for effective communication with healthcare providers.
To ensure successful appointments, the Consultant may develop a comprehensive plan that includes:
- Formulating pertinent questions and documentation to direct the focus of the appointment.
- Assisting clients in accessing resources both locally and online.
- Empowering clients to make informed decisions that will lead to improved health outcomes
- Identifying the client’s values and belief systems to facilitate self-advocacy
- Promoting effective communication with healthcare providers to achieve optimal results.
Is My Consultant A Clinical Provider?
No, a Medical Advocacy Consultant is NOT a clinical provider. Though the common goal for both the Consultant and a clinical provider is the well-being of the patient – the Medical Advocacy Consultant does not treat, diagnose, prescribe, conduct surgeries, offer medical advice, or legal advice.
Provider Roles of Clinical Providers (not available here)
A Medical Doctor is someone who is experienced and certified to practice medicine to help maintain or restore physical and mental health. A Doctor is specially trained to diagnose, treat, and care for a patient’s well-being. Doctors meet and talk with patients and caregivers to diagnose, manage and treat illnesses and injuries. A Doctor is also qualified to prescribe medications and perform minor medical procedures and minor surgeries, and give specific medical advice. Essentially, Doctors care for the general health of their patients.
A Medical Case Manager is involved in working with healthcare professionals and others in the community to assess patients’ health and oversee plans to manage their conditions and progress. Duties can include planning how to successfully place or discharge patients, along with performing frequent reviews of their cases. Registered nurses and licensed medical social workers often fill the role and may work in a variety of clinical and community settings. They can also help determine how long a patient must stay as an inpatient before moving to an outpatient or home health care basis.
The Medical Advocacy Consultant does not manage the health of patients, nor do they have patients. Medical Advocacy Consultants are not necessarily licensed healthcare providers (though some may have prior medical experience that assist them in locating additional resources). They provide tools and strategies for the client or caregiver to complement their relationship with their Providers; strategies to self-advocate for their own general health, or that of the client being cared for; and support the client’s goals for self-advocacy while respecting their human dignity and confidentiality.
Healthy is an outfit that looks differently on everybody. ~ Anonymous
Pricing For Consultant Services
Pricing varies based on the type of service needed and the complexity of the need. Each service will cost something different to accomplish, mostly as a function of the time it takes to accomplish it. We are always happy to discuss your specific requests with you.
If you’re interested in hiring us as a Medical Advocacy Consultant, please EMAIL US to evaluate your request.
“Empowering Health. Inspiring Growth. Transforming Lives.” 