Patient Advocate

Written By Alison Temple

Duties and responsibilities of a patient advocate

A patient advocate's duties and responsibilities are plentiful. A patient advocate may take care of a patient from their diagnosis through their treatment, recovery, and follow-up visits. Patient advocates may work with anyone who requires health care, but they more commonly assist those with chronic illnesses, multiple illnesses, or life-threatening conditions.  

  • Setting up medical appointments and finding second opinions 

  • Helping a patient find financial and legal resources

  • Assisting a patient find support groups and other social support

  • Negotiating medical bills

  • Reviewing medical bills to ensure they're accurate

  • Resolving disputes between patients and their insurance companies

  • Resolving conflicts between patients and their health care providers

  • Gathering information on specific conditions and illnesses 

  • Communicating with doctors, nurses, therapists, and other providers on a patient's behalf 

  • Communication with an insurance company on a patient's  behalf 

  • Explaining things to patients, ranging from medical bills to information on a diagnosis 

  • Helping patients navigate their treatment and care options 

  • Keeping notes of what happens during medical visits

  • Ensuring a patient's needs and wishes are met when they can't speak for themselves 

  • Helping patients fill out forms and applications 

  • Identifying areas where more or better care is needed

  • Supporting patients' rights 

  • Reading medical charts, bills, and documents 

Alison Temple