Patient Representatives are employed by providers (hospitals/health systems/doctors offices) while Patient Advocates are employed directly by the patient.
Why is this difference significant?
It’s important because it determines to whom the representative/advocate has an allegiance. As a Patient Advocate, I am able to work directly for the patient/family to make sure they are receiving the best service possible regardless of what provider (hospital/doctor/health system) they choose to use. Whereas the Patient Representative has an allegiance to their employer which at times can conflict with what might be best for the patient. Also, within patient advocacy, there are several areas of specialty available. I specialize in medical billing so I work hard to make sure patients/families are maximizing their health insurance and only paying what they actually owe since 80% of all medical bills contain errors.
Here is an article that explains more: https://tennesseehealthadvocates.com/whatisahealthadvocate/
