Family Mediation. A new approach using a Patient Advocate
Family Mediation with an Independent Patient Advocate
Family members and caregivers coming to an agreement on how to care for a loved one is an important part of that loved one’s healthcare. Many times, there can be differences of opinions on how to approach the best healthcare options for a loved one. We especially see differences in opinion in our clients/families when there is no living will available. Confusion can also occur when you have insurance companies (medical bills & appeals), lawyers, and financial planners in the mix.
Family mediation can be a helpful solution to bring everyone together when there are differences of opinion, to do what’s best. Mediation is the process of utilizing an impartial and unbiased neutral party that does not advise, evaluate or advocate for any particular resolution, but gives the parties involved the ability to determine the outcome and solution of their issues.
Differences of Views and Whats Best
A serious change in a loved one’s healthcare can bring out many emotions in those closest to them. Siblings, children, parents, and spouses of the loved one can all have very different views and opinions of what should take place next and these views may not coincide with each other.
Loved ones may not express the same views as each other and may not be clear on the wishes of the patient. Mediation with loved ones, the patient, and an unbiased entity can be the difference between uncomfortable confusion and a united front with the loved one’s best interest at heart.
An Advocate can offer the time to sit down with all loved ones involved, as well as the patient, and attempt to consolidate the goals at hand to provide the most beneficial outcome to all involved in this difficult time. We will sit down with loved ones to allow everyone to express their feelings and wishes in a neutral environment.
Whitley Patient Advocates realize that individual opinions regarding the loved one may be vastly different and we will work to help you find a common ground and a compromise that first of all benefits the patient and ultimately eases your burden of “what comes next”.
Peace of Mind Through Advocacy
It is our hope that through this process we can provide your loved one and those closest to them, with peace of mind and comfort for the future, whatever it may bring. We understand that bringing together families for the support of the patient is just as important as the care the patient will receive.
Loved ones that are in agreement on various medical issues are a stress relief for the patient and can greatly improve a patient’s outlook on their future.
Let Whitley Patient Advocates be your link to a positive and stress-free health experience for you and your loved one. They deserve a compassionate and united front from the people that love them the most.