How can you navigate patient advocacy in the digital age?

1 Use reliable sources

One of the benefits of the digital age is that you have access to a wealth of information and resources online that can help you learn more about your health condition, treatment options, rights, and support services. However, not all information is accurate, relevant, or trustworthy, and some may even be misleading, biased, or harmful. Therefore, you need to use reliable sources that are based on scientific evidence, professional expertise, and ethical standards. Some examples of reliable sources are government websites, reputable health organizations, peer-reviewed journals, and certified patient advocates.

2 Protect your privacy

Another challenge of the digital age is that your personal health information may be exposed, shared, or used without your consent or knowledge. This can compromise your privacy, security, and autonomy, and potentially affect your access to care, insurance, employment, or legal rights. Therefore, you need to protect your privacy by being aware of how your health information is collected, stored, transmitted, and used by different parties, such as health care providers, insurers, researchers, or apps. You also need to exercise your rights to access, correct, or delete your health information, and to opt out of any data sharing or use that you do not agree with.

3 Communicate effectively

Communication is a key skill for patient advocacy, as it allows you to express your needs, preferences, and concerns, and to build trust and rapport with your health care team and other stakeholders. However, communication can also be challenging in the digital age, where you may have to use different modes and platforms, such as phone calls, emails, texts, video calls, or social media. Therefore, you need to communicate effectively by choosing the most appropriate mode and platform for your purpose and audience, using clear and respectful language, listening actively and empathetically, asking questions and clarifying doubts, and confirming understanding and agreement.

4 Embrace telehealth

Telehealth is the use of technology to deliver health care services remotely, such as online consultations, monitoring, diagnosis, or education. Telehealth can offer many advantages for patient advocacy, such as convenience, accessibility, affordability, and continuity of care. However, telehealth can also present some challenges, such as technical issues, quality concerns, or lack of personal connection. Therefore, you need to embrace telehealth by preparing well for your virtual visits, ensuring that you have a stable internet connection, a suitable device, a quiet and private space, and all the necessary information and documents. You also need to follow up with your health care team after your virtual visits and provide feedback on your experience and satisfaction.

5 Join online communities

Online communities are groups of people who share similar interests, experiences, or goals related to health and wellness. They can provide you with support, information, advice, and inspiration for your patient advocacy journey. However, online communities can also have some drawbacks, such as misinformation, conflict, or toxicity. Therefore, you need to join online communities that are relevant, respectful, and safe for you. You can find online communities on various platforms, such as websites, blogs, forums, podcasts, or social media. You can also create your own online community if you have a specific topic or need that you want to address.

6 Keep learning

The digital age is constantly changing and evolving, and so are the health care system and the patient advocacy field. Therefore, you need to keep learning and updating your knowledge and skills to stay informed and effective as a patient advocate. You can keep learning by taking advantage of the various online courses, webinars, workshops, or events that are available on different topics related to patient advocacy. You can also keep learning by networking with other patient advocates, health care professionals, or experts who can share their insights and experiences with you.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?