Managing your health with Medicare can often feel like you’re trying to assemble a complex puzzle without the instruction manual. It’s easy to feel lost when you’re coordinating between different specialists, trying to understand your coverage, and keeping track of it all. The question "can you hire a patient advocate?" is especially important for Medicare members, and the answer may be better than you think. Professional support is more accessible than ever, and in many cases, it may not cost you anything out of pocket. An advocate can become your dedicated partner, ensuring you get the care you deserve.
Key Takeaways
- Delegate the stress of healthcare management: A patient advocate acts as your personal project manager, handling complex tasks like coordinating between specialists, organizing medical records, and resolving billing errors so you can focus on your health.
- Hire with confidence by doing your homework: The right advocate will have relevant experience, strong communication skills, and verifiable credentials. Always ask for a written contract and references, and trust your gut if you feel rushed or pressured.
- Explore your payment options to make advocacy affordable: While some advocates charge an hourly rate, many non-profits offer free services. For Medicare members, companies like Pairtu can connect you with an expert advocate at little to no personal cost by working with your insurance plan.
What Is a Patient Advocate?
Managing your healthcare can feel like a full-time job, especially when you're dealing with a new diagnosis or a chronic condition. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by appointments, medical jargon, and insurance paperwork. This is where a patient advocate comes in. A patient advocate is a professional who acts as your guide, your voice, and your support system, helping you handle the complexities of your care. They step in to make sure your needs are met, your questions are answered, and your concerns are heard. Whether you need help understanding a treatment plan or sorting out a medical bill, an advocate is there to work on your behalf, ensuring you receive the best possible care without the added stress.
Your Professional Healthcare Partner
Think of a patient advocate as your personal guide through the healthcare maze. What makes them so valuable is that they work directly for you, not for a hospital or an insurance company. This independence is key. Because their main goal is to support you, there are no conflicts of interest. They aren't trying to save a hospital money or stick to an insurer's policies; their loyalty is 100% to you and your well-being. This means you get unbiased advice from independent patient advocates who are truly in your corner, helping you make informed decisions about your health.
What a Patient Advocate Does for You
So, what does a patient advocate actually do? Their services can be incredibly broad and are tailored to what you need most. They can help you deal with the healthcare system by asking questions during appointments, taking notes you can refer to later, and speaking up when you feel unsure. On a practical level, they can handle tasks like scheduling appointments, organizing your medical records, and coordinating care between different doctors. Many advocates also help with the financial side of things, from deciphering complex medical bills to supporting insurance claims. Depending on their background, some focus more on clinical support, while others specialize in the financial and insurance aspects of care.
Can You Hire a Patient Advocate?
When you’re facing a health challenge, the last thing you want is to feel like you’re going it alone. The good news is, you don’t have to. Hiring a patient advocate is a real and accessible option for getting the support you need. Think of an advocate as a professional partner who steps in to help you manage the complexities of the healthcare system, ensuring your voice is heard and your needs are met. They can be an invaluable resource, whether you’re dealing with a new diagnosis, coordinating with multiple specialists, or trying to make sense of confusing medical bills. Let’s walk through what this means for you.
Yes, You Can Get a Personal Advocate
You absolutely can hire a patient advocate to work for you directly. The most important thing to know is that independent patient advocates are just that—independent. They don’t work for hospitals or insurance companies, which means their loyalty is to you and you alone. Because they work directly for the patient, their primary goal is to support your best interests without any conflicts of interest getting in the way. This dedicated, one-on-one support can be a game-changer, giving you the confidence that someone is always in your corner, focused entirely on helping you achieve the best possible health outcomes.
Different Types of Advocacy Services
Patient advocacy isn’t a one-size-fits-all service. Advocates come from diverse professional backgrounds, and the support they offer varies based on their credentials and areas of expertise. Some focus on the financial side of healthcare, helping with medical billing and health insurance. Others have a clinical focus and can help you make sense of a new diagnosis or manage multiple chronic conditions. Patient advocates also play a key role in outpatient care, where they can assist with chronic disease management, insurance claims, and even setting up home health services. This variety means you can find an advocate with the right skills for your specific needs.
What Services Do Patient Advocates Offer?
Think of a patient advocate as your personal healthcare project manager. Their services are designed to lighten your load so you can focus on what truly matters: your health. They step in to handle the complex, confusing, and time-consuming tasks that often come with medical care. From the moment you receive a diagnosis, an advocate can be by your side to help you process the information, ask the right questions, and understand your path forward.
Their role is incredibly versatile. One day, they might be on the phone with your insurance company sorting out a billing issue; the next, they could be sitting with you in a specialist's office, taking notes and making sure your concerns are heard. They organize your medical records, coordinate communication between different doctors, and ensure that everyone on your care team has the same, up-to-date information. Essentially, a patient advocate works for you, helping you deal with the healthcare system to ensure you receive the best possible care and support.
Help with Medical Bills and Insurance
Navigating medical bills and insurance paperwork can feel like a full-time job. A patient advocate takes on this burden for you. They are skilled at reviewing itemized bills to spot errors, duplicate charges, or services you never received. If something doesn’t look right, they’ll contact the hospital billing department or your insurance provider to dispute the charges on your behalf.
Advocates also help with the insurance side of things, from understanding your coverage to filing claims and appealing denials. They can explain your benefits in plain language and help you find out if you qualify for financial aid or other assistance programs. By handling these logistical and financial tasks, they not only save you money but also reduce a significant source of stress.
Coordinate Care Between Your Doctors
If you see multiple specialists, you know how challenging it can be to keep everyone on the same page. A patient advocate acts as the central point of communication for your entire care team. They can schedule appointments, make sure medical records are transferred smoothly between offices, and summarize key information from one doctor to share with another.
This coordination is vital for ensuring your care is seamless and effective. An advocate helps prevent conflicting treatments or prescriptions and ensures that each specialist has a complete picture of your health. By facilitating better communication with and between doctors, they help you receive more cohesive and comprehensive care, reducing the risk of important details falling through the cracks.
Manage and Access Your Medical Records
Your medical history is a critical piece of your healthcare puzzle, but gathering all the records from different doctors, labs, and hospitals can be a hassle. A patient advocate can take charge of this process for you. They will formally request, collect, and organize all your medical documents into one comprehensive file.
Having your complete medical history readily available is essential, especially if you’re seeking a second opinion or seeing a new specialist. An advocate ensures your records are accurate and up-to-date, giving your providers the information they need to make the best decisions for your care. This service saves you countless hours of phone calls and paperwork, allowing you to focus on your appointments.
Explain Your Treatment Options
When you’re facing a new diagnosis, the amount of information can be overwhelming. Doctors may use complex medical terms that are hard to understand, leaving you feeling confused and uncertain. A patient advocate can bridge this communication gap. They attend appointments with you to listen, take notes, and ask clarifying questions.
After the appointment, they can sit down with you to review what the doctor said, explain complex medical information in simple terms, and help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options. They don’t provide medical advice, but they empower you to make informed decisions about your own health by ensuring you have all the information you need.
Provide Emotional Support and Guidance
A health challenge affects more than just your physical well-being—it takes an emotional toll on you and your family. A patient advocate provides a steady, supportive presence throughout your healthcare journey. They offer a listening ear when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed and can be a source of calm and reassurance during stressful appointments.
This support extends to your loved ones, too. Advocates can help reduce the burden on caregivers by managing logistical tasks and connecting the family with helpful resources like support groups. By providing both practical help and emotional guidance, an advocate helps you and your family feel less alone and more in control.
How to Find and Hire a Patient Advocate
Okay, so you're ready to get some help. Knowing you can hire a patient advocate is the first step, but finding the right person can feel like another daunting task on your to-do list. Don't worry—it’s more straightforward than you might think. You don’t have to sort through this alone. There are several reliable places to look for a qualified professional who can step in and become your trusted partner in healthcare. From online organizations and hospital resources to specialists and personal referrals from your own doctor, you have options. Let’s walk through the best ways to find an advocate who fits your specific needs.
Search Online Advocacy Groups
A great place to start your search is online. You can find national and state-level organizations dedicated to connecting people with the support they need. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services suggests you can find a patient advocate by looking for groups that help with medical bills or focus on specific diseases. Try searching for terms like “patient advocate in [your state]” or “advocate for cancer patients.” These groups often have directories of certified professionals, giving you a pre-vetted list to explore. It’s a solid way to find someone who not only has the right credentials but also specializes in the exact area where you need the most help.
Ask About Hospital-Based Programs
Did you know that many hospitals have patient advocates right on staff? These professionals are employed by the hospital to help you with issues that come up during your care. They can be an incredible resource for resolving communication problems with staff, understanding your rights as a patient, or addressing concerns about the quality of your care. To connect with one, you can call the hospital’s main phone number and ask for the patient advocate or patient relations department. You can also often find their contact information on the hospital’s website under a “Patient Services” or “Patient Rights” section. While their focus is on your experience within that hospital, they are a valuable, and often free, first line of support.
Find Advocates for Specific Conditions
If you’re managing a chronic illness or a complex diagnosis, finding an advocate who specializes in that area can be a game-changer. These advocates have deep knowledge of the specific treatments, specialists, and insurance hurdles related to your condition. They know the system inside and out for your particular situation. For example, some organizations offer different kinds of advocates to match your specific needs, whether that’s help with billing, fighting for insurance benefits, or appealing denials. When you get help from a specialist, you’re not just hiring an advocate; you’re hiring an expert who is already ten steps ahead because they’ve worked on this exact path before.
Get a Referral from Your Doctor
Sometimes, the best resource is the one you already trust: your doctor. Your healthcare team is often well-connected within the local medical community and can provide excellent recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor, a trusted nurse, or a hospital social worker if they know of any patient advocates they would recommend. A personal referral like this can give you peace of mind, as your provider is unlikely to suggest someone they don’t believe is credible and effective. It’s as simple as asking at your next appointment. This is one of the most reliable ways to choose the right patient advocate because it comes from someone who already understands your medical history and needs.
What to Look for in a Patient Advocate
Finding the right patient advocate is a lot like choosing a trusted partner for your healthcare journey. This person will be in your corner, helping you understand your options, communicating with your medical team, and ensuring your voice is heard. It’s a significant role, so you want to feel confident you’ve found the right fit. The best advocates bring a combination of professional qualifications, practical experience, and strong interpersonal skills to the table. They act as your guide, your translator, and your support system when things feel complicated.
When you start your search, focus on four key areas: their credentials, communication style, professional background, and what past clients have to say. Think of it as a friendly interview process where you’re making sure their skills and personality align with your needs. Do they have the training to handle complex medical situations? Can they explain things in a way that makes sense to you? Does their experience match the kind of support you’re looking for? Taking the time to explore these questions will help you find an advocate who can truly make a positive difference in your healthcare experience and bring you much-needed peace of mind.
Check for Certifications and Credentials
When you’re looking for an advocate, it’s a good idea to check their qualifications. While many experienced advocates have been helping patients for years, a formal certification shows they’ve met specific professional and ethical standards. Look for credentials like a Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) designation, which is managed by the Patient Advocate Certification Board. This tells you they have a solid foundation of knowledge.
Don’t be afraid to ask about their training and any certificates they hold. An advocate who is committed to their profession will be happy to share their qualifications with you. This step isn’t about finding the person with the longest list of acronyms after their name; it’s about giving you peace of mind that your partner in health is knowledgeable and credible.
Assess Their Communication Skills
An advocate’s most powerful tool is their ability to communicate clearly and effectively. They will be speaking with your doctors, your family, and insurance representatives on your behalf, so it’s crucial they can get their point across. They also need to be excellent listeners, taking the time to truly understand your concerns and goals. During your first conversation, pay attention to how they interact with you. Do they explain complex topics in simple terms? Do they listen more than they talk?
You want someone who can confidently mediate conversations between you and your healthcare providers, ensuring nothing gets lost in translation. Strong communication skills are the foundation of good advocacy and are essential for coordinating all the moving parts of your care.
Verify Their Healthcare Experience
Patient advocates come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, and their experience often shapes their area of expertise. Some specialize in the financial side of healthcare, helping clients with medical billing and insurance claims. Others have a clinical focus, drawing on their experience as nurses or doctors to help manage new diagnoses or chronic illnesses.
Think about what you need most. If you’re overwhelmed by paperwork, an advocate with a background in medical billing might be the best fit. If you need help coordinating care between multiple specialists, someone with clinical experience, like the advocates at Pairtu, would be ideal. Be sure to ask about their professional history to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.
Ask for References and Testimonials
One of the best ways to understand how an advocate works is to hear from people they’ve helped before. A great advocate should be able to provide references from past clients or direct you to online reviews and testimonials. Hearing about other people’s experiences can give you valuable insight into the advocate’s communication style, effectiveness, and overall approach.
If an advocate is hesitant to provide references, consider it a potential red flag. Reputable professionals are proud of the work they do and understand that you need to feel confident in your choice. Seeing positive testimonials can confirm that you’re making the right decision and connecting with someone who has a proven track record of helping patients.
Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring
Finding the right person to join your healthcare team is a big decision. While the vast majority of patient advocates are passionate professionals dedicated to helping you, it’s always wise to be thorough in your search. Think of it like hiring any other expert—you want to be sure they’re the right fit. Knowing what to look out for can help you avoid potential problems and find a trustworthy partner you can rely on. Keep these key red flags in mind as you interview potential advocates.
No Written Contract or Agreement
A professional relationship needs a professional agreement. When your health and finances are involved, a verbal promise simply isn’t enough. A huge red flag is when an advocate only makes a verbal offer and won't provide a written contract. A formal agreement protects both of you by clearly defining the scope of work, fees, and responsibilities. This document should spell everything out so there are no surprises down the road. A transparent advocacy service will always insist on a clear, written contract before getting started.
Lacks Relevant Experience
Healthcare is incredibly specialized, and your advocate’s experience should reflect your specific needs. Be cautious if a potential advocate doesn't have relevant experience with your medical condition or the local healthcare system. An advocate who has deep knowledge of your diagnosis can offer more effective support, from finding the right specialists to understanding treatment protocols. Don't hesitate to ask pointed questions about their background with cases similar to yours. The right advocate will have a track record that gives you confidence in their ability to help.
Pressures You to Decide Quickly
Hiring a patient advocate is a personal choice that should never feel rushed. If you feel pressured to make a quick decision, especially when it concerns your health, consider it a major warning sign. A reputable advocate will understand that you need time to consider your options and feel comfortable with your choice. High-pressure tactics are unprofessional and suggest that the advocate may not have your best interests at heart. Trust your gut—a supportive partner will give you the space you need to decide.
Won't Provide References
Any professional who is confident in their work should be happy to provide references or share testimonials from previous clients. If an advocate is hesitant or refuses to connect you with past clients, that’s a significant red flag. Speaking with references gives you a chance to hear firsthand about their experience, communication style, and effectiveness. Seeing positive client testimonials can also provide peace of mind. An advocate’s reluctance to share this information may indicate they don’t have a history of satisfied clients.
How Much Does a Patient Advocate Cost?
Let's talk about one of the biggest questions on your mind: the cost. It’s completely normal to worry about adding another expense when you’re already dealing with medical bills. The good news is that getting help from a patient advocate can be more affordable than you think, and in some cases, it might not cost you anything out of pocket.
The price of hiring an advocate isn't a simple, one-size-fits-all number. It really depends on your unique situation. Factors like the complexity of your medical needs, where you live, and the specific services you’re looking for all play a role in the final cost. Some advocates charge by the hour, while others offer a flat fee for a specific project, like resolving a billing error.
While many independent advocates are paid directly by their clients, there are other avenues for covering the cost. Some insurance plans, especially Medicare, may cover these services. There are also non-profit organizations that offer support for free. The key is to understand your options so you can find the right support for your health and your budget. At Pairtu, we focus on how it works with your existing insurance to connect you with an expert advocate, often at little to no cost.
Understand Hourly vs. Flat-Fee Rates
When you start looking for a patient advocate, you’ll likely see two common pricing models: hourly and flat-fee. An hourly rate is just what it sounds like—you pay for the time the advocate spends working on your case. This can range from $100 to $400 or more per hour, depending on their experience and location. This model works well for ongoing support or when you’re not sure how much help you’ll need.
A flat-fee or project-based rate is for a clearly defined task, like reviewing your medical records or appealing an insurance denial. This gives you a clear, upfront cost, so there are no surprises. The cost of hiring a patient advocate varies, so it’s always a good idea to ask for a detailed written agreement that outlines all fees before you commit.
See What Your Insurance Covers
One of the first questions people ask is whether their health insurance will pay for a patient advocate. In most cases, private insurance plans do not cover the services of an independent advocate. The main reason is that the advocate works directly for you, not the insurance company. Their job is to represent your best interests, which can sometimes mean challenging an insurer’s decision.
However, don’t assume you have no coverage without checking first. Always call your insurance provider to ask about your specific benefits. Some employer-sponsored health plans include advocacy services. Additionally, many hospitals have their own patient advocates on staff, and their help is typically free to patients receiving care at that facility. These hospital-based advocates can be a great resource for issues that arise during your stay.
Explore Free Advocacy Resources
If paying for a private advocate isn't feasible, please know you still have excellent options. Many non-profit organizations are dedicated to helping patients at no cost. These groups are often funded by donations and grants, and their mission is to ensure everyone has access to the support they need.
The Patient Advocate Foundation is a fantastic national organization that offers free assistance to people with chronic or life-threatening illnesses, helping them resolve insurance issues and find financial aid. You can also look for groups that focus on specific conditions, like the American Cancer Society or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. These organizations often have trained advocates who can provide guidance, resources, and support tailored to your specific diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them—they are there to help.
How Medicare Can Affect the Cost
For those with Medicare, the landscape for patient advocacy is becoming more favorable. While private insurance often leaves you to cover the cost, Medicare is starting to recognize the value of these services. Some independent advocacy firms have begun accepting Original Medicare, which can significantly reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses, though a small co-payment may still apply.
This is where a service like Pairtu can make a huge difference. We are specifically designed to help Medicare members. We partner with your health plan to connect you with an experienced advocate—often a doctor or a nurse—who can provide personalized support for your needs. Because of this partnership, our services are often available at no cost to you. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and have Medicare, it’s worth it to talk to an advocate and see how you can get the support you deserve without the financial strain.
How a Patient Advocate Can Help You
When you’re dealing with a health issue, the last thing you want is to get tangled up in administrative tasks. A patient advocate steps in to manage the details so you can focus on your well-being. They act as your personal guide, helping you make sense of complex information, communicate effectively with your care team, and stand up for your rights. Think of them as a knowledgeable partner who is entirely on your side, ensuring you get the best possible care and support every step of the way.
An advocate can be especially helpful when you feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. They can attend appointments with you, translate medical jargon into plain English, and make sure your questions are answered. By having someone dedicated to your needs, you can feel more confident and in control of your healthcare journey. They handle the logistical and administrative challenges, from coordinating between different specialists to dealing with insurance paperwork, freeing you up to concentrate on getting better.
Simplify Complex Medical Bills
After a hospital stay or a doctor's visit, the bills that follow can be confusing and stressful. A patient advocate can take this burden off your shoulders. They will carefully review each bill for errors, question duplicate charges, and make sure you were only billed for the services you actually received. They are also skilled at talking with insurance companies to clarify coverage and can help you understand your medical bill in plain language. If you’re facing high costs, your advocate can also research and help you apply for financial assistance programs you may be eligible for, giving you peace of mind.
Streamline Communication with Doctors
Have you ever left a doctor's appointment feeling like you forgot to ask something important? A patient advocate can join you for these visits to make sure that doesn't happen. They listen carefully, take detailed notes, and aren't afraid to ask clarifying questions about your diagnosis, treatment options, or medications. Because independent patient advocates work directly for you—not a hospital or insurance company—their only priority is your best interest. They ensure your voice is heard and that you have all the information you need to make confident decisions about your health.
Get Your Medical Records Faster
Your medical records are a complete history of your health, and accessing them is your right. However, the process can often be slow and frustrating. A patient advocate knows exactly how to request and gather your records from different doctors and hospitals. They handle the paperwork and follow-ups, which is especially helpful if you need to share your information with a new specialist or get a second opinion. By managing this process, they ensure your care is coordinated and that every member of your medical team has a full picture of your health history without unnecessary delays.
Handle Complaints and Appeals
Facing a denied insurance claim or a roadblock in your treatment plan can feel defeating. This is where a patient advocate becomes your strongest ally. They have the expertise to challenge insurance denials and file effective appeals on your behalf. If you have a complaint about the care you’ve received, they can guide you through the proper channels to resolve it. Advocates are also a crucial resource for dealing with medical debt, helping you find solutions and negotiate payments. They are trained to fight insurance denials and solve problems, ensuring you receive the care and coverage you are entitled to.
What to Know Before You Hire an Advocate
Finding the right patient advocate is about more than just checking boxes for credentials and experience. This person will become a trusted partner in your healthcare, so you want to be sure it’s a good fit from every angle. Before you make a final decision, there are a few key areas to discuss to ensure you’re setting yourself up for a successful relationship.
Think of this as your final checklist. You’ll want to get a clear understanding of the business side of things, like contracts and payment. It’s also critical to define exactly what the advocate will and won’t be doing for you, so your expectations are aligned from the start. Beyond the practicalities, the personal connection matters immensely. You need to feel comfortable with this person and confident in their ability to represent you. Finally, you’ll want to confirm their availability and communication style to make sure it works for your needs. Taking the time to cover these points will help you hire with confidence.
Clarify Payments and Contracts
Before any work begins, make sure you understand the full financial picture. A professional advocate should provide a written contract or service agreement that clearly outlines their fees, payment schedule, and the scope of their services. A verbal-only offer is a major red flag. This document protects both of you and ensures there are no surprises down the road. Read it carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything that seems unclear. With Pairtu, many members find that their insurance covers the cost, so you can often get the help you need with little to no out-of-pocket expense.
Define Their Role and Responsibilities
The term "patient advocate" can cover a wide range of services. Some advocates specialize in the financial side, like dealing with medical bills and insurance claims. Others have a clinical background and focus on helping you manage a new diagnosis or coordinate care between multiple doctors. Be specific about what you need help with and ask a potential advocate if their expertise aligns with your goals. A great question to ask is, "Based on my situation, what specific actions would you take to support me?" This helps clarify their role and sets clear expectations for how it works from day one.
Make Sure Your Personalities Match
This is a partnership, and you need to feel a sense of trust and rapport with your advocate. This person will be involved in very personal aspects of your life, so you want someone you feel comfortable opening up to. During your initial conversation, pay attention to how they make you feel. Do they listen attentively? Do they explain things in a way you understand? Are they empathetic to your situation? You’re looking for a supportive ally, so it’s important that your personalities mesh well. Don't be afraid to talk to an advocate first to ensure you feel a strong connection.
Confirm Their Availability and Response Time
Your health needs don’t always follow a strict schedule, so it’s important to know what to expect in terms of communication. Ask about their typical business hours and how quickly they respond to calls or emails. It’s also wise to find out their process for handling urgent situations that might come up outside of normal hours. Understanding their availability and communication style upfront helps prevent frustration later on. This ensures you can count on them for timely support when you need it most, giving you valuable peace of mind.
How Pairtu Connects You with an Expert Advocate
Finding the right support shouldn't be another item on your to-do list. At Pairtu, we simplify the process by connecting you directly with a dedicated patient advocate who understands your unique healthcare situation. We’ve designed our service to provide clear, compassionate, and expert guidance right when you need it. Think of your advocate as a trusted partner who is there to handle the complexities of the healthcare system so you can focus on your well-being.
Get Paired with Experienced Doctors and Nurses
Your health is personal, and the person helping you should be a qualified professional. We pair you with experienced advocates, including doctors and nurses, who have firsthand knowledge of the healthcare system. Because they work for you—not for a hospital or insurance company—their only priority is your best interest. This independence ensures the advice and support you receive are completely focused on your needs, free from outside influence. They bring their clinical expertise to your side, helping you make sense of your care with confidence.
Receive Personalized Support for Your Needs
Every healthcare journey is different, which is why we offer truly personalized support. Your advocate is there to help with a wide range of tasks, from scheduling appointments and organizing medical records to explaining a new diagnosis in simple terms. They can coordinate care between your different doctors, follow up on insurance claims, and even help you prepare questions for your next specialist visit. Our process is designed to give you one-on-one attention, ensuring you have a single point of contact who understands your history and goals. You can learn more about how we work to tailor our support for you.
Find Help Designed for Medicare Members
If you have Medicare, you might feel like your options for this kind of personal support are limited. We’ve created our service with your needs in mind. Pairtu is built to help Medicare members get the dedicated assistance they deserve without the headache of figuring it all out alone. An advocate can help you understand your coverage, find in-network specialists, and ensure all your providers are on the same page. This focused support can make a huge difference in managing chronic conditions or dealing with a new diagnosis. If you’re ready to see how we can help, you can talk to an advocate today.
Learn How Insurance Can Cover the Cost
Concerns about cost should never be a barrier to getting the care you need. While many independent advocacy services are paid for out-of-pocket, Pairtu works differently. For many insured members, our services may cost as little as $0. We help you understand what your plan covers and work to make sure you get the maximum benefit from your insurance. Our goal is to provide affordable, accessible support so you don't have to choose between your health and your finances. To see what this could look like for you, you can get help and learn more about our approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hospital's patient advocate the same as an independent one? This is a great question, and the difference is important. A hospital advocate works for the hospital, and their main role is to help you with issues related to your care within that specific facility. An independent advocate, like the ones you connect with through Pairtu, works directly for you. Their loyalty is 100% to you and your best interests, which means they can support you across different doctors, hospitals, and insurance matters without any conflict of interest.
Can a patient advocate give me medical advice or make decisions for me? A patient advocate does not provide medical advice or make decisions on your behalf. Instead, their job is to empower you to make your own informed choices. They do this by helping you gather information, translating complex medical terms, and making sure you understand all your treatment options. Think of them as your communication and information expert, ensuring you have everything you need to confidently direct your own care.
How do doctors usually react when I bring a patient advocate to an appointment? Most doctors welcome the presence of a patient advocate. They see it as a sign that you are proactive and engaged in your health. An advocate helps make appointments more efficient by ensuring your questions are organized and your concerns are clearly communicated. This partnership often leads to better communication and a stronger relationship between you and your care team, as everyone is working together toward the same goal.
When is the right time to hire a patient advocate? There’s no single right time, but a good rule of thumb is to seek help whenever you feel overwhelmed, confused, or unsupported in your healthcare. This could be right after a new diagnosis, when you're managing multiple chronic conditions, or if you're struggling with complex medical bills and insurance paperwork. You don't have to wait for a crisis; getting support early can prevent stress and help you feel more in control from the start.
How does Pairtu make getting an advocate easier, especially if I have Medicare? Pairtu simplifies the entire process. Instead of you having to search for and vet an advocate on your own, we connect you directly with an experienced professional, often a doctor or nurse, who is a good fit for your needs. We specifically designed our service to work with Medicare members, and because we partner with your health plan, our services are often available at little to no cost to you. We handle the logistics so you can get expert support without the financial worry.
