What is the primary role of patient advocacy in healthcare?

The primary role of patient advocacy in healthcare is to represent and support patients' rights and interests. Patient advocates work to ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and are treated fairly within the healthcare system. This may involve assisting patients in understanding their rights, navigating complex medical situations, and expressing their preferences regarding their health and treatment options. Advocates also strive to empower patients by educating them about their health conditions and potential treatments, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care.

By placing the focus on patients’ experiences and needs, patient advocacy plays a critical role in not only promoting better health outcomes but also fostering a healthcare environment that respects and values patient autonomy and informed consent. This advocacy is especially important in situations where patients may feel overwhelmed, vulnerable, or unable to voice their concerns due to various barriers, such as language differences, health literacy issues, or complex medical conditions.