​ What does the credential Board Certified Patient Advocate/BCPA actually mean? 

​The BCPA certification is a credential for professional patient/health advocates. The intent is to assure the general public that any BCPA advocate they work with has met the standards and competencies defined through this credential, including successfully completing the rigorous certification board exam.

 

Patient Advocate Certification Board   www.pacboard.org

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What is the Role of a Patient Advocate?

A patient advocate works with your medical care team, to assure your voice is heard and your needs are met. Advocates are committed to helping clients and client communities make informed choices and access resources. They do not recommend specific treatment choices, provide clinical opinions, or perform medical care of any type, even if they possess clinical credentials. The role of an advocate is informational, not medical.

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Can I hire an advocate to consult on a loved one or someone other than myself?​

Absolutely. Individuals, family members concerned about a family member, or a surrogate decision maker can request and contract advocate services help with navigating the healthcare journey of someone they are concerned about. To be clear, even when the services are paid by a third party the advocate’s allegiance would still be to the client. 

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What about Privacy and Confidentiality?

Although independent professional advocates are not officially required to comply with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act), we do. Your information is kept confidential, stored securely and only shared if and when you give specific permissions to do so. For us to access or receive any of your medical/personal information, you will need to sign HIPAA release forms.

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