Lisa Perrone BSW, BCPA, MHA
After the cancer diagnosis of a close friend, Lisa became deeply interested in Professional Health Advocacy. This emerging field provides the tools and support to avoid the painful experiences endured by many. Patience First, LLC was formed to provide a full scope of patient advocacy.
Professional, Independent Health and Patient Advocates
Professional, Independent Health and Patient Advocates work directly with patients, their families, and their healthcare providers to promote the patient’s interests as they navigate the complexities of our health care system. Health advocates make a significant difference in the lives of their clients.
Health advocates make a significant difference in the lives of their clients.
Health advocates make a significant difference in the lives of their clients.
The health care system in the United States is overwhelming and extremely complicated. Professional Health Advocates provide you with the non-medical help you need when dealing with a health crisis, a new diagnosis, or a chronic health concern. Professional, Independent Health Advocates work with people facing medical challenges and difficult life transitions. They work with Solo Seniors (elders living alone) who want to stay in their homes safely and do so on their own terms. Advocates also work with people who want to make well-informed health care decisions, especially when they are impaired due to illness, chronic pain, social isolation, mental health conditions, or are recovering from surgery or an accident. Having an advocate by your side can reduce the risk of medical errors and can encourage positive wellness outcomes.
Having an advocate by your side can reduce the risk of medical errors.
Having an advocate by your side can reduce the risk of medical errors.
Health Advocates give patients and their families direct, customized assistance when navigating the healthcare system and they can help you express your concerns, ask the right questions, and find your way through your wellness journey. They can help you understand your diagnosis and explore your many options. A Health Advocate is there for you if any misunderstandings occur between you and your health care team or when communication breaks down. Your Health Advocate will make sure that you are heard by your care team even when it’s difficult for you to find your voice.
Credentials Matter
Credentials matter when choosing the right advocate for you or your loved one. Training, education, and experience can set a Professional Independent Health Advocate apart from well-intentioned family members and friends who lack the advocacy skills needed to properly support, empower, protect, and cultivate self advocacy skills for their loved ones.
“Adding to the confusion is the fact that there are no official licenses or credentials required, so anyone can claim to be a patient advocate. Thoroughly vetting anyone claiming to be a patient advocate is important, as is asking for no less than three references from past clients.” ~ Joy Intriago
As a BCPA, Lisa is held to a higher standard.
As a BCPA, Lisa is held to a higher standard.
Lisa earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, a Certification in Patient Advocacy, a Master of Arts in Health Advocacy, and national certification through the Patient Advocacy Certification Board. As a Board Certified Patient Advocate, she is held to a high professional standard. To maintain her board certification, she must adhere to the Patient and Health Advocate’s Code of Conduct and Professional Standards, which sets the ethical standards and number of continuing educational credits required of Patient and Health Advocates and sets these professionals apart from non-certified advocates.
As a Board Certified Patient Advocate, the goal when working with clients is to improve their medical and wellness outcomes and help them overcome obstacles to their health and safety. Lisa works on her clients’ behalf and guides them through the complicated Healthcare System.