What does patient advocacy represent in healthcare?

Patient advocacy in healthcare primarily represents the act of supporting patients' rights and needs. This involves ensuring that patients have access to the information they require to make informed decisions about their healthcare, while also embodying the values of empathy, respect, and ethical standards.

Advocacy entails a proactive approach where healthcare professionals listen to patients' concerns, address their preferences, and strive to empower them throughout their treatment journey. By serving as a liaison between patients and the healthcare system, advocates help to ensure that individuals receive appropriate care that aligns with their values and desires. This can include speaking up on behalf of patients or helping them navigate complexities in the healthcare system to ensure that their voice is heard.

This supportive role enhances the overall patient experience and promotes better health outcomes, as patients who feel understood and respected are more likely to engage positively with their care. Hence, supporting patients' rights and needs is fundamental to the philosophy of patient-centered care and advocacy in the healthcare field.