Patient Advocate
30
When you have a chronic illness it can be overwhelming. Having someone you trust to go to appointments with you and help you learn how to get the care you deserve from medical providers can make a huge difference. I used to work for a Federally Qualified Health Center and help Patients with no insurance get their medicines and treatment. Now I am a professional patient. I have learned how to advocate for my self and others, sometimes that is just being there to hold their hand during a scary appointment and other times it is asking providers question about their choice of treatments. I am not a medical professional but I have extensive experience dealing with the medical system as a advocate and as a patient.
Training & Qualifications
I worked as an advocate for 5 years. At this point I help friends and sometimes strangers online help find the services they need. Whether you are newly diagnosed or frustrated that you aren't getting the attention you need from your provider you need someone who can help you get the most out of your interactions with your provider. Talking with someone who can help you ask the right questions or help you prepare for appointments by teaching you what you need to track to give your Dr the information they need to properly treat you can make a huge difference.
I would love to help people who are getting ready to start dialysis understand what it is like and what the Drs dont tell you. I have talked to my providers about this and they agreed that it would be helpful for new patients to have a peer available to help them through the process.
Availability & Preferences
afternoons. I am at dialysis all night so I am not awake until later. I can however arrange a morning if that is what is needed.