What does a Patient Advocate do?
A Patient Advocate works with a diverse range of patients to provide primary care and comfort. They work as advocates between the patient and other healthcare providers to ensure that the patient is provided with the necessary care during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Several work environments employ Patient Advocates. They are found in health care establishments such as hospitals, hospices, medical clinics, nursing homes, and even assisted care facilities for the elderly.
Patient Advocate skills and qualifications
Successful Patient Advocates have a desire to help others and approach patients with respect and dignity. Due to the variety of patients they encounter, a Patient Advocate has excellent communication skills when dealing with the patient and family members, and the other healthcare professionals they work closely with. Top skills for a Patient Advocate include:
- Ability to understand medical terminology
- Solid computer skills, including data entry and word processing
- Ability to multitask and prioritize work tasks
- Practical oral and written communication skills
- Ability to serve others with compassion, empathy, and respect
- Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role
- Understanding of the healthcare system and how to assist a patient through their care program
Patient Advocate experience requirements
Primary patient care, including grooming, bathing, feeding, and positioning, are all essential experience requirements of a Patient Advocate. Previous experience in taking patient vital signs, collecting specimens and proper documentation is also helpful. Other required experiences will vary on the role, work environment, and company.
Patient Advocate education and training requirements
Although not nationally regulated, Patient Advocate training requirements may differ from province to province. Typically, some secondary school education is required, along with on the job training. Many colleges or private educational institutions offer a nursing aide, nursing orderly, or health care aide program covering the necessary training for a Patient Advocate. Certificates in CPR, first aid, and food handling and safety are other common requirements.
Patient Advocate salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Patient Advocate in Canada is $60,244 per year. Actual salary will vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the hiring company.
Job description samples for similar positions
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