Throughout my career, I have prided myself on being able to support patients through their medication treatment journey. It is fulfilling each time to know that you are helping people overcome barriers to necessary treatment. My position at UBC has also afforded me the opportunity to gain knowledge of the different avenues of patient advocacy.
What is patient advocacy? Patient advocacy is defined as “a person who helps guide a patient through the healthcare system.” Patient advocacy can play out in various ways. Critically, there are many times when there may be a lack of understanding of the different resources that are available to assist patients through their treatment journey. Patient advocacy is not limited to advocating for healthcare decisions but also includes providing patients with the resources and tools they need to advocate for themselves and possibly prevent barriers that may slow the patient’s treatment journey.
Below highlights some of the resources patients and/or their caregivers may utilize:
I saw the power of advocacy when my dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. With various doctors’ appointments, tests, scans, and medication, the financial burden became an overwhelming obstacle within my dad’s journey. Through many avenues of support, my dad was able to obtain much-needed aid through various organizations and undergo the treatment he needed.
I am also privileged to see patient advocacy every day in my role at UBC. Our Patient Access Services team members live out our Patients First standard by taking on the role of advocate for the patients they work with. I am proud to play a part in helping patients get the assistance they need to achieve optimal outcomes.
UBC’s goal is to educate, support, and provide resources to patients and caregivers to give them a voice and the tools necessary for their treatment journey. Through access and affordability, clinical education, and care coordination, we design services that meet the unique needs of the specific patient and their therapy. To learn more, click here.
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