Patient advocate: A new role to fill

After spending over the last decade as being the patient, last week I was introduced into a new role: being the advocate for my dad’s medical care. It was odd going to a medical appointment, and the decisions being made did not involve my health. Although I have been the patient many times, I was unprepared for this new role.

 

During the appointment, I did not take notes. I regretted this as soon as we left the office as I was overwhelmed with things which needed to be done—including racing off to go to my own medical appointment. When trying to sort through what needed to be done next, I was foggy on the details.

After the appointment, I was placed on my dad’s chart as someone who could talk with the medical staff. In short order, I soon started corresponding with the physician and her office. It was very odd having this new role of authority. Shockingly, the medical staff took my concerns and questions seriously. I was not just a girl on life support—I was an advocate for my father.

Since the appointment, I have done some research to ensure the care my father is receiving is the proper course to follow. I am confident in the my father's medical care, but I always want to double check the tests which are being ordered are the correct ones.

I am slightly bewildered in this new role. I am not managing my own health. When I make a decision about my medical affairs, I am the one who will have to live with whatever decision is made. However, with my dad, he is the one who will have to live with whatever decision we agree upon. I have to keep reminding myself, we cast the lot, but God determines the outcome (Proverbs 16:33). As much of a novice as I am at being a patient advocate, I have to trust God is leading the way.