Common questions
Honest answers about what patient advocacy is, what it costs, and where it ends. If your question isn't here, just ask. The 20-minute introductory call is free and has no obligation.
What exactly does a patient advocate do?
I'm the person in your corner, in a system that's difficult to face alone. As an independent advocate, I work only for you, not a hospital or insurer. I help coordinate your care, prepare for and attend appointments, organize your records, research your options, and make sure your voice is heard. I don't practice medicine. I help you get the care you're already owed.
Are you a doctor or lawyer? Do you give medical advice?
No. I'm a Board Certified Patient Advocate, not a doctor, nurse, or lawyer. I don't diagnose, treat, or give medical, legal, or financial advice, and I don't make decisions for you. I help you understand your options and work alongside your care team.
How much does it cost?
The 20-minute introductory call is free. After your in-depth assessment, your written action plan includes estimated time and cost, so you'll always know before any work begins. See How It Works for details.
Do you work with clients outside Los Angeles?
Yes. I work with clients virtually anywhere in the U.S., including research, coordination, and joining appointments by phone or video. In-person support is available in Greater Los Angeles. If you need someone in person elsewhere, I can help you find a local board-certified advocate.
Is my information kept private?
Yes. I follow careful privacy practices, and I don't share your information with anyone, including family members, without your written permission, except where the law requires it. See the Privacy page for details.
Why do you specialize in chronic pain and complex illness?
Because I've lived it. I've had chronic pain since childhood and have spent years navigating complex, overlapping conditions and fragmented care. When someone tells me no one will listen, I don't need convincing. I've been there, and belief is where I start.
What does "independent" mean, and why does it matter?
Hospital and insurance advocates do important work, but they're ultimately accountable to the institutions they serve. You hire me directly, so my only allegiance is to you, your needs, your care, and your goals.
Can you help in an emergency?
No. Patient advocacy isn't an emergency service. If you're having a medical emergency, call 911. If you're in emotional crisis, call or text 988.
Do you work with my doctors, or against them?
With them. My goal is to make every appointment more useful for everyone, with a clear agenda, an organized history, and good follow-through. When something important seems to be missed, I'll ask about it, respectfully and persistently.
Does insurance cover this?
Independent patient advocacy generally isn't covered by insurance, and that's part of what keeps me independent.
Can a family member reach out for someone else?
Yes. The person receiving care is my client, and I only share information with the people they give me written permission to include.
How long does working together usually last?
It depends on what you need. Some people work with me on one focused project, like organizing records before seeing a new specialist. Others work with me on an ongoing basis. Your action plan will include an estimated timeline.
What if I'm not sure what I need?
That's okay. Most people aren't. That's exactly what the free introductory call is for.
Still wondering about something?
Book a Free Introductory Call