What do patient advocates do?
If you’ve helped a loved one navigate a complicated health care decision or stood by a friend through a tough medical diagnosis, you already have a sense of what a patient advocate does.
Patient advocates act as a mediator between patients and the health care system. Their role is centered around communication, empathy and coordination.
According to Shauna Magnum, director and clinical assistant professor at Arizona State University’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, patient advocates need to balance emotional support and encouragement with respect for patient autonomy in making decisions.
That balance is essential to the profession. Advocates listen actively, explain complex information in a clear and understandable way, and help patients navigate insurance, medical records, appointments and treatments. They build trust not only with patients but also with health care teams and insurers, all while keeping the patient’s well-being front and center.
How to become a patient advocate
There is no one-size-fits-all path to becoming a patient advocate, but the right education can help you build a strong foundation.
At ASU, you can choose a degree path that matches the kind of advocacy you want to do.
If you’re interested in working directly with patients, the online Bachelor of Science in health care coordination teaches you how to guide individuals through their care plans, access resources and move confidently through the system. You’ll focus on:
- Community and public health resources
- Health policy and financing
- Patient advocacy and education
You’ll also build essential skills in problem solving and organization, two must-haves for navigating the often complex health care environments.
If your goal is to advocate at the community or population level, consider the online Bachelor of Science in community health. This degree prepares you to design and support large-scale health initiatives that improve the well-being of entire communities. In this program, you’ll explore:
- Cross-sector partnerships
- Health promotion and care coordination
- Inclusive and sustainable health interventions
Both programs can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program, where you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your bachelor’s. This option saves you time and money, and equips you with advanced skills to further your impact.
The differences between a patient advocate and a health care coordinator
These roles share a common goal: supporting patients in getting the best possible care. But they take different approaches.
“Patient advocates and health care coordinators help patients navigate the health care system,” Magnum explained. “A patient advocate focuses more on the patient’s rights and needs, while the health care coordinator ensures coordination and transition between health care settings.”
While a patient advocate prioritizes the individual’s preferences and experience, a health care coordinator works behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. That might include managing discharge plans, communicating with providers or arranging follow-up care.
No matter where you want to make your impact, one-on-one with patients or at the community level, your next step starts with the right education. Explore the Bachelor of Science in health care coordination or the Bachelor of Science in community health through ASU Online to begin your journey. Each program is designed to give you the skills, confidence and flexibility to lead change, one person or one population at a time.
