What is an Advocate?

It is essential to be knowledgeable about the systems around you. Navigating them and using them to their fullest potential can be challenging for various reasons, and the responsibility lies with you, the policyholder, to assert yourself and your rights so that you can receive the best care possible.

This can be a daunting task for anyone, and that is in no small part to their association with the word “advocacy.”

To many people, “advocacy” is associated with significant policy changes. Fighting to alter a piece of legislation, calling your senators and telling them how you feel about a bill, or writing letters all of which are essential pieces of the puzzle. But most people don’t start at the picket line. They start at home.

“Advocacy” does not have to be a grand movement. It can also be for yourself and your loved ones. In an evolving political climate, you must be able to advocate for your own health and learn to help your loved ones. No one knows your body better than you do, and it is important to express those needs in a way that providers will understand.

To become an effective advocate for yourself and the children you care for, remember these steps:

• Define a clear goal. What is it you need, and why isn’t your current situation working for you?
• Research your options. Ask your provider about your treatment options.
• Be specific. Talk about your symptoms and when they started to appear. The more detailed, the better!
• Ask questions. If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification. If anything about the treatment doesn’t seem right, speak up. Never be afraid to ask for specifics.
• Bring a friend. It can be easier to speak on your behalf when you have a like-minded family member or friend with you. They can bolster your concerns and give you more space to be vocal. Another person will also reduce the odds that you will miss out on important information.
• Get a second opinion. If something about your diagnosis doesn’t feel right or you are unsure about the treatment plan, you have the right to see another physician. Do not feel obligated to stay with the same care team if you believe it is no longer serving your best interests.

At the end of the day, while it is possible to have an effective third-party advocate, you are the expert on what is wrong with your body. Speaking loudly on your own behalf will always be the most effective tool for shaping your care.