THE GOAL OF HEALTH ADVOCACY IS OPTIMIZED WELL-BEING

     Health advocacy evolved out of the shifts in demographics and health care.  It involves assessing a clients physical, mental, and social needs, then developing an individualized plan of care to meet them, be they small or large, medical or practical.  This includes making referrals to appropriate services, and coordinating, evaluating, and adjusting them as needed.  Unprecedented changes have occurred in America's health care delivery system during the past 20 years.  These changes have created an alphabet soup of confusion for health care consumers-HMO, PPO, MCO, MCP, ISN, DRG, UR, MDS, RAI, RUG, OASIS, and more.  But people who need health care aren't the only ones confused by these changes, physicians are confused and disturbed by these trends as well.  Before 1990, over 80% of physicians owned their practices, with most of them practicing either alone or in small group practices.  But currently, fewer than 50% of physicians retain ownership in their practices.  The majority of physicians have become employees of hospitals, universities and HMOs, usually through market forces and not by choice.  Currently, over 90% of physicians have contracts with managed care organizations, and these contracts account for over 40% of their revenue.  Managed care organizations generally impose practice guidelines, utilization review and financial incentives on physicians, causing a loss of clinical autonomy as physicians must consider cost-containment in their clinical decision-making. 

     These changes have resulted in a need for a personal Health Advocate.  People who are facing undiagnosed symptoms, or those who with a serious acute or chronic health condition, need access to broad information about their condition, their diagnosis and their treatment options.  With the limitations and constraints imposed on physicians and consumers by managed care organizations, many people do not receive all the necessary information to make informed decisions about their health care.

     Who can you turn to for help or even know when to seek it?  You can turn to us.  Matrix AdvoCare Network is the leading private sector care management organization in the nation.  Since 1987 Matrix has been providing care consulting and advocacy services for people with acute and chronic illness and seniors.  Because Matrix is not affiliated with other providers, does not provide any services other than consultation and advocacy, and does not receive any compensation for referrals to providers, clients are assured that their Health Advocate is acting strictly in their best interest.

ONLY REGISTERED NURSES PROVIDE MATRIX HEALTH ADVOCACY 

     All Matrix AdvoCare Network health advocacy is done by registered nurses who are at the top of their profession.  All have expertise in nursing and health care issues, as well as special skills in assessment, care planning, and knowledge of community resources.

     Each helps only a small number of clients, which fosters a genuinely deep and therapeutic relationship that is wholly dedicated to meeting client needs.  A clients personal dignity and self-esteem are foremost, especially when decisions and choices are considered.

     And, since Health Advocates make recommendations, not decisions, they work cooperatively with you and your health care providers to develop and implement an appropriate plan of care.

HEALTH ADVOCATES REMAIN INVOLVED FOR AS LONG AS NECESSARY 

     Health advocacy can be a one-time fix of immediate needs.  It can also be an ongoing relationship that ensures a client receives the specific care necessary to optimize quality of life.

     For example, Health Advocates are there to advocate for clients at medical appointments, to assist with research and treatment options, and to assure correct administration of medications, critical if more than one physician is writing prescriptions.  They assess and equip living environments for safety.  If help is needed with daily activities from grooming to shopping, they find appropriate services.  Social needs, such as transportation, companionship and spirituality, are addressed.  In other words, Health Advocates do what no single service does.  No problem is too small or too large for them to resolve.

WE SUPPORT YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY 

     We know how difficult it can be to face a tough situation alone.  So our Health Advocates ensure that you have support throughout the process of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. They'll discuss concerns you may have, whether its finding another opinion, arranging transportation and housing, or modifying your job so you can return to work as soon as possible.  Your Health Advocate will help you work through all the medical, social, psychological, and practical issues that are involved.

     The extent to which a Health Advocate can enhance quality of life is directly related to how early intervention is sought.  Left unattended, small problems have an uncanny way of becoming bigger.   Earlier intervention is also highly cost-effective, especially when handled by a knowledgeable Health Advocate, and can minimize undue expense.

     So if you are concerned about your health and want to talk with someone who will take your concerns seriously, you can contact a Matrix Health Advocate.

THE RESULTS ARE POSITIVELY LIFE-GIVING

     Few of us would try to deal with a legal or medical situation on our own we would call in experts.  The Matrix AdvoCare Network Health Advocate is an expert both in health care services and getting things done, and can provide unparalleled support of the highest integrity for you.  Our interventions frequently extend clients lives, and nearly always improve the quality of their lives.  In essence, Matrix AdvoCare Network can make the difference of a lifetime. 

YOU MAY BENEFIT FROM HEALTH CARE ADVOCACY SERVICES IF YOU ARE HAVING: 

• Difficulty obtaining a clear diagnosis

• Difficulty understanding medical information

• Concern about appropriateness of treatment

• Concern about health plan restrictions

SIGNS THAT YOU MAY NEED A HEALTH ADVOCATE:

If you are concerned about the quality of your health care services, there is likely a valid reason for your concern.  These early warning signs should alert you to possible problems, and identifying a problem is the first step to solving it.