You're advocating for a patient's rights. How do you handle pushback from healthcare providers?

Before becoming a patient advocate, I was a law student aspiring to be a civil rights attorney. My journey into patient advocacy began with an appeal to the state of California to overturn an insurance company's denial of a portable oxygen concentrator.This was memorable, as I was genuinely concerned how one can advocate for their needs without knowing or understanding their legal and ethical rights. I use my near completed law degree & communication skills to empower others to navigate the healthcare system confidently, ensuring their rights are respected by healthcare providers. This often begins by helping the patient/caregiver learn about their rights & develop the confidence to clearly communicate their needs as well as their rights.

Thoroughly research and understand the patient's rights, as well as the healthcare provider's obligations. Familiarize yourself with relevant laws, regulations, and institutional policies. This knowledge will help you make a strong case for the patient's rights and hold providers accountable.

Successfully navigating pushback from a provider is one of the most challenging aspects of advocacy. Maintaining a respectful and inquisitive demeanor in a situation that may be emotionally charged makes a major impact. My best advice is to practice empathy for the provider, that is also a human being, and may be having a difficult time. Reminding yourself of this, and greeting them with kindess appeals to their humanity. Healthcare providers are allies in care, and should not be seen as gatekeepers. It is never worth being aggressive with a healthcare provider, simply ask them to note your concerns in your chart, offer to dictate them directly, and assure them that you are not trying ot be difficult.

When advocating for a patient's rights and facing rejection from healthcare providers, handle the situation by focusing on building relationships. Approach providers with empathy and understanding, seeking to understand their concerns and constraints. Foster open and respectful communication, emphasizing shared goals of improving patient care. Provide evidence-based arguments and collaborate on finding mutually beneficial solutions. Establish trust by demonstrating reliability and a genuine commitment to patient welfare. By building strong, cooperative relationships with healthcare providers, you can effectively advocate for your patient while fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties involved.

Document all interactions with healthcare providers, including dates, times, participants, and key points of discussion. This documentation can be valuable if disputes escalate or legal action becomes necessary. Collaborate with other patient advocates and organizations to share resources, strategies, and support. Collective action can be more effective than individual efforts. Recognize that some healthcare providers may be resistant to change or perceive patient advocates as threats to their authority. Approach these situations with empathy and seek to understand their concerns before asserting the patient's rights. Be prepared to compromise or accept partial victories when necessary.