Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does insurance cover the cost of independent advocacy services?
At this time, no. See #2 for a further explanation.
2. My insurance company and my local hospital offer patient advocates/nurse advocates for inpatients free of charge. Why should I hire an independent advocate?
Insurance case managers or hospital health advocates are committed to protecting their employer’s interests before yours. An independent advocate works only for YOU, and protects YOUR best interests. They are not beholden to any organization, but are there to focus on you and your needs, and to make certain that you get the health care that you deserve.
3. Will it upset my doctor if I work with an advocate?
Patient advocates work with your doctors. We strive to improve communication between you and your providers and between your providers themselves. Doing so reduces gaps in health care or duplication of care. All of this promotes better compliance, which will make your doctor happy, and will help to improve your health outcomes. Oftentimes, a physician will refer a patient to the services of an advocate because they know the value of having one.
4. How long will I need to use your services?
It will depend on your objectives and your individual circumstances. You may have all you need after the initial meeting and assessment. Or, if you are undergoing active treatment, you may need assistance for several weeks. You may just need a bimonthly evaluation after the initial meeting to keep you on track. Maybe you just want to have your last MRI report translated into something you can understand. The best plan for you will be discussed at our first meeting and mutually agreed upon.
5. Can I hire you to advocate for my elderly parent?
Absolutely! It is difficult to fully support a loved one if you live far away, or if you are juggling work and kids and all the stresses of your own life. An advocate can help provide you with peace of mind and will keep you informed every step of the way. (Note: the person receiving services, not the separate financially responsible party, must sign a consent to have their health information shared with other people, and must specify who those people are).
6. Will you make choices for me?
No. Patient advocates are there to guide you, support you, and help provide you with the answers and information that will assist you in making the choices that are right for YOU.
7. What does BCPA mean?
BCPA is short for Board Certified Patient Advocate. This is the only certification available to patient advocates and is awarded by the Patient Advocacy Certification Board to qualified individuals who pass a rigorous exam and who adhere to the highest ethical standards for the protection and benefit of their clients.
8. Will you keep my health information confidential?
Yes. Per HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), your information can be disclosed or discussed with ONLY those people for whom you have given written permission (your doctors, family members, etc). Email and electronic sharing of documents occurs within HIPAA-compliant applications. All paperwork is maintained in locked file cabinets and is destroyed after our partnership is terminated.