Illness is a stressful time for patients. During this difficult time, it might be helpful to have an advocate to assist you.

An advocate is your spokesperson. Advocates can be a spouse, another family member, or a close friend.  Choose someone you trust and who is willing to act on your behalf, as well as someone who can work well with your healthcare team. You might not need someone to choose a hospital or agree to a procedure or treatment, but you might want someone to accompany you to appointments, keep track of your medications, ask specific questions and write down information you receive from caregivers.

Let your healthcare team know who your advocate is and how you want them involved in your care. Make sure they have the numbers for your providers, hospital and pharmacy, as well as anyone else you may want to contact in case of an emergency. Your advocate will ensure that your wishes are carried out if you are not able.  Alert your family members as to who your advocate is. This will provide a consistent communication and minimize confusion and misunderstandings.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center can help you assign a patient advocate if you don’t have one.  To contact the patient advocate, please call 718-321-6191.

For more health and fitness information, join us on Facebook.com/FlushingHospital and follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.