In most states, each county is required to provide a Patient Advocate to help the public with healthcare-related issues. Furthermore, most hospitals and facilities have a patient advocate to assist their patients. These patient advocates are paid by the institutes who employe them, and their services are available for free.
So Why "Hire" an Independent Patient Advocate?
The issue with "free" patient advocates, is that they are employed by the same institutions with which patients might have conflicts. This situation clearly creates a conflict of interest, as the advocate's ability to help may be limited by their employer. Specifically, if a hospital or facility policy has caused harm, the advocate might not be able to effectively support you.
What Makes Us Different?
At Patient Advocate of the Sierras, Our Patient Advocate operates independently from any institutions or government entities that may be directly involved in your clinical care. Our patient advocate has no conflicts of interest with the facilities or organizations you may be struggling with.
According to WIC section 5325 (h) of the Lanterman Petris Short (LPS) Act, one of the "undeniable rights" granted to patients, whether they are voluntarily or involuntarily receiving mental health care, is:
"To see and receive the services of a patient advocate who has no direct or indirect clinical or administrative responsibility for the person receiving mental health services."
Rights under WIC 5325 cannot be waived as a condition of admission to a facility, part of a treatment plan, or a right to be earned. Additionally, these rights cannot be waived by the patient or their conservator.
At Patient Advocate of the Sierras,
we work hard for you and only you!
We are dedicated solely to you and your family. We have no external commitments or financial ties that could lead to a conflict of interest in representing your needs.
If you're experiencing financial challenges and we determine you have a significant need for an independent advocate, we can arrange interest-free payment plans, sliding-scale fees, and in certain cases, we may even work pro bono for you or on a donation basis.
Contact us at info@patientadvocateofthesierras.com to find out about payment plans and how to receive 50% off our regular prices, or if you qualify to receive our help for free!
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