Reducing fear alone – improves healthcare outcomes

 Our healthcare system struggles to meet the needs of our most complex patients and generally has become a monstrous beast to navigate for all. Our siloed system of providers whom have limited time to provide education and guidance adds complexity further. All of this heightens fear, deteriorates trust and adds stress onto an already stressful time. When faced with a diagnosis, a possible surgery, or treatment needed an advocate helps with patient understanding, preparedness and guidance to appropriate resources. Many advocates do this from a healthcare background. Providing that in-side systems knowledge.  

 Serving a case in terms of advocacy may look different for each. Medical advocacy while not medical care supports patients to optimize their care, find right fit providers/facilities, weigh treatment options, and make the most of medical appointments. Advocates are autonomous health resources who ensure a patient’s ability to voice their own priorities and needs.   

Educate: Decode medical jargon regarding diagnosis or treatment options ensuring understanding which guides an informed choice.

Navigate: Find and review providers and facilities necessary for care. Collaborating and detailing communication amongst providers. Coordinate care. 

Prepare: Gather medical records, summarize a chronological clinical synopsis, prepare questions/agendas for medical appointments.  Making the most of an expert consult.  

Support: Note taking during medical visits, review and summarize recommendations to create actionable plans.   

Care: Empathetic listening and focused problem solving. Anticipating needs and stressors. Reducing fear, frustration, and supporting expectations. 

To begin we both need to determine fit.   A 15 minute complimentary call helps us both to determine fit, assess needs, and understand costs.  Following I will offer an initial retainer with agreed upon hours and scope of work. 

  “Annie leaves no stone unturned to find the best solution for her patients. She treats each one as an individual with specific needs and researches the best possible treatment. She targeted my situation and greatly improved my quality of life both pre and post surgery. Her care and dedication all the way through, made sure I could walk unaided again. Her level of knowledge, and concern, are truly unique. Annie is also recognized by medical doctors and professionals who speak very highly of her ability.

Annie is an extremely personable and caring person who has been a fantastic resource for our family. All three of us, Mom, Dad and active 11 year old have had injuries that she has helped guide us to the best possible treatment. She walked us through test results (some that sounded terrifying) and explained what they really meant in understandable terms. She then helped connect us with the right doctor for the injury and situation. Annie understands that we are active people that get injured and want to get back to our activities. There are so many great providers in our area and knowing who to go to can be an overwhelming and daunting task. Annie helped match us with providers that are not only excellent in their field but also have the personality and approach that best fits us.