So Many Types of Patient Advocates, So Little Understanding of Why We All Matter
Hello, Colleagues,
Spring is upon us, a time for new beginnings and growth. Patient advocacy is certainly growing (especially since I ventured into this work post-brain surgery in 2008, when I didn’t even know the term “patient advocate.”)
Growth is always accompanied by rewards (as well as some pain thrown in the mix.) I’ve been around the patient advocacy block for almost two decades, and have witnessed the good, the bad, and the ugly in healthcare (getting uglier) and even in our own profession.
My intention with this post is to hopefully bring us together as colleagues, regardless of our business practice models. When I started out, it was “sink or swim” on your own. Practice models have developed into many other variations, with different guarantor arrangements.
In my case, an independent advocacy practice (soulsherpa.net and soulsherpasolutions.com) suits my goals, preferences, and lifestyle well, but I’d like to open up the conversation to all colleagues for comments on what business model types work for them, and why. Personally, I love not answering to anyone but my client, but we’re all unique. Please share your business model, and why it works for you.
I really appreciate this reflection and the invitation to have this conversation.
What I’ve come to understand over time is that while our business models may look different on the surface, the deeper question is often less about how we structure our work and more about how we show up within it.
In my own practice, I’ve found that independence allows me to remain fully aligned with my clients ' needs and beliefs, especially in complex and evolving situations. That alignment becomes particularly important when decisions are being made under pressure, or when clarity is still developing.
At the same time, I’ve come to respect that there are many ways to do this work well. Different models can serve different populations, access points, and levels of need.
What seems to matter most — regardless of model — is whether the advocate is able to:
— bring clarity into complex situations
— support informed, values-aligned decision-making
— and ensure the patient’s voice remains present, especially when it’s at risk of being overshadowed
Perhaps the real strength of our field is not in choosing one model over another, but in recognizing that each plays a role in meeting patients and families where they are.
Because in many cases, the difference isn’t the model—it’s whether understanding is present when decisions are being made.
The more I explored advocacy, the more I realized how broad our work truly is. We can support almost anyone, in so many different situations, and I worried that defining my services too narrowly might limit how clients see their own needs.
That’s why I offer a short, free consultation. It gives me space to ask questions clients may not think to ask, listen to their concerns, and highlight support they may not realize an advocate can provide. That brief conversation often brings clarity for both of us.
I had to Etch-a-Sketch my business model almost immediatly when I opened my independent advocacy practice. My LLC was formed in February 2020 and the world closed down in March due to Covid. But the changes I made allowed me to serve clients all over the USA remotely. Over the years my business has evolved. The unforseen changes I had to implement early, have benefited throughout the years. Being able to adapt to client's needs is something I continue with to this day.
My core philosophy remains unchanged: to be a true champion for patients and their families as they navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system. Many who need advocacy simply cannot access it due to cost. For me, the greatest reward has always been human, not financial, and I do everything I can to work with Medicare clients and expand access for those who might otherwise go without support.
I also believe our services should not be excessive. I can not relate to fees of even 200.00 or more. At the same time, I respect advocates for whom this is their primary profession—they must charge fair, realistic, and justifiable rates.
I am encouraged that Umbra is helping create pathways for Medicare reimbursement. While modest, it represents an important step forward—one we should all support.