Some of the more common emotions that people feel when they are in a dissatisfying situation with their doctors are anxiety, hurt and anger, distrust and helplessness. It is not always a case of incompetence on the doctor’s part, or lack of comprehension on the client’s part, sometimes it is just a lack of proper communication. An advocate can step in to help figure out the dynamics of the situation and help turn it around.
Why is a patient advocate so important for people in this situation?
“No one should have to experience those things and feel there is nothing that can be done about it” says Dr. Paul. Shy and/or unassertive people tend to shrink away from any confrontation of their physicians and other health professionals. They miserably go along with whatever their doctor says thinking that the doctor is the knowledgeable one so they must know better than them. On the other side of the table - suspicious, over-emotional and/or litigious individuals may raise havoc with their helpers, ethics boards and medical or other health professions boards. Without an advocate involved, the whole situation can become quite time and effort consuming for all parties.
Despite the above, Dr. Paul does not see his job as telling his clients what is reasonable or justifiable, but to present them with all their options, to discuss the ways he can help them with each one and the likelihood of success of each.
He has found that there are extremely few advocates like him in the private sector. He goes on to say “If people are like me in trusting private help to be more responsive and individualized than public help, they might well be looking for me.” He believes that there are many ways of assisting dissatisfied patients and clients. At this stage of his career, advocacy intrigues him the most. It takes a very strong knowledge base and a wealth of experience to be able to positively mediate a conflicted professional situation. Dr. Paul has that knowledge and experience to offer.
Having another professional involved with the client and their professional helper will improve the quality of care - physically and emotionally. The bottom line is - to whom is a professional care taker most likely to listen to with a minimum of defensiveness and a maximum of cooperation?
Potential clients can call or email Dr. Paul to discuss their particular situation and see if advocacy is right for them.
