How to Become a Health Advocate

Health advocates help patients make informed decisions about the medical care that they receive. They typically work solely on the patient's behalf and have specialized knowledge about the healthcare industry. You can expect a rewarding position if you decide to become a health advocate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Obtain a college degree. Although it is not always required, most organizations are going to give special consideration to a college graduate. Colleges around the country offer graduate programs in health advocacy, but degrees in other majors are also usually accepted.

2. Look for a nonprofit organization that specializes in health advocacy. Companies, such as the National Patient Advocate Foundation, employ health advocates as a way to ensure that each patient is given a chance to make informed healthcare decisions.

3. Check at local hospitals for open positions. Hospitals and clinics put health advocates on staff to work as a liaison between the hospital and patients.

4. Attend the necessary training programs. Once you secure a position, you are likely to be put through a vigorous training program. The program provides expansive details about the medical community, patient disputes and insurance claims.

5. Branch out and open your own private firm. Once you get enough experience, you can become an independent contractor and charge an hourly rate to act as a patient's health advocate.

Tips & Warnings

• Health advocates are also often referred to as patient advocates. Both titles provide the same services.
• A job applicant with prior experience in the medical field is likely to be considered for a health advocate position.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.

[ateague1]

on 6/7/2008 This is a wonderful article.

[Shai]

on 5/8/2008 You do not need a college degree to be a health advocate. However it does help to have a medical background. I started out working in the coporate office of a major healthcare system. I found that I was helping patients communicate with their doctors. I also found myself helping them to come up with a budget where they could afford to pay their bills but at the same time be able to live. Another thing I found myself doing is helping patients get more answers about their medical conditions. I saw a need for these services so I turned it into a business which has been rewarding as well as practical for lots of people. I think your info was really good and I hope people decide to come into the advocacy field.