Healthcare is about more than diagnoses and treatments—it’s about people. Patient advocacy ensures that individuals receive the care, respect, and resources they deserve. Healthcare administrators are uniquely positioned to champion patient rights and elevate their voices within the system.
What is Patient Advocacy?
Patient advocacy involves safeguarding patients’ rights, improving access to care, and empowering individuals to participate in their healthcare decisions.
How Healthcare Administrators Advance Patient Advocacy
- Creating Patient-Centered Policies: Administrators shape policies that prioritize patient satisfaction, privacy, and involvement.
- Improving Access to Care: By addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), administrators work to remove barriers to healthcare services.
- Facilitating Communication: They ensure patients understand their rights, treatments, and care options by fostering clear communication systems.
- Building Support Systems: Administrators oversee initiatives like patient navigators, support groups, and complaint resolution systems.
Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology: Preparing Patient Advocates
At Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, students in the Bachelor of Healthcare Administration program gain the tools to lead patient-centered initiatives:
- Courses on Ethics and Legal Issues in healthcare.
- Training in cultural competence to meet diverse patient needs.
- Faculty expertise, including Valerie J. Connor, author of Applied Law & Ethics for Health Professionals, who brings a wealth of knowledge on patient advocacy and rights.
Conclusion
Patient advocacy is at the heart of healthcare administration. At Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, we prepare you to be a leader who not only manages systems but ensures that every patient’s voice is heard.