Health Advocacy

Promoting health and managing illness is a dynamic process. This is especially true for individuals diagnosed with a sudden, serious or life threatening illness. These days, individuals are living longer with chronic conditions and benefit from a holistic approach that strives to address all aspects of a person. This includes emotional, mental and spiritual support in addition to the physical. Addressing “goals of care”, as well as “advance care planning” can ease the journey for patients and caregivers alike.

Having an experienced advocate and guide by your side can simplify care decisions and bring deep peace and acceptance. In today’s chaotic world, the demands of and on the health care system often don’t allow for the time and consideration patients desire in relation to their care. With shorter and shorter provider visits; a health advocate can make all the difference. Thoughtful guidance and advocacy enable clients and families to optimize quality of life and keep the focus on “living well”. Addressing issues “early on” and having a “plan” helps to reduce suffering. It also encourages patients to be proactive in managing their health,

Often the trajectory of care will cross numerous care delivery settings (i.e. hospitals, long term care settings, assisted living communities, clinics, residential care homes, hospices, individual homes). Information related to treatment options, community resources and prognosis can be instrumental for “informed decision making”.

Advance Care Planning is another essential element of “a plan of care”. Taking the time to have discussions PRIOR to an event or illness eases burdens for all who face the unexpected. Having a guide and advocate to navigate choices and conversations with loved ones and/or care providers is tremendously helpful. It provides peace of mind to help ensure a person’s unique values and desires will be respected when faced with future care choices.  

Advance Care Planning includes:
~Information on the medical options and life-sustaining treatments available.
~Deciphering the nuances of treatment choices should one be diagnosed with a chronic or life-limiting illness.
~Clarifying and sharing personal values and desires with loved ones.

Health care preferences can be formalized through:
~ A Living Will: A legal document outlining a person’s medical treatment preferences in the event they become incapacitated or unable to make informed medical decisions for themselves.

~A Health Care Power of Attorney (Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care): A legal document appointing someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf “if” you are unable to do so.