Hospital Patient Advocacy: How to Be Your Own Best Advocate

Being an active participant in your hospital care can improve your outcomes, prevent errors, and ensure your wishes are respected. Here are practical strategies for advocating for yourself or a loved one during a hospital stay.

Before Your Hospital Stay

Prepare Your Information

• Create a complete list of all medications, including dosages and frequencies
• List all allergies (medications, foods, latex, contrast dye)
• Prepare a summary of your medical history and chronic conditions
• Bring copies of advance directives (living will, healthcare power of attorney)
• List your doctors and their contact information

Designate a Healthcare Advocate

• Choose a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate
• Make sure they understand your medical wishes
• Give them copies of your medical information
• Authorize them to receive information about your care (HIPAA authorization)

During Your Hospital Stay

Ask Questions

• Ask about every test, medication, and procedure — why it's being done and what to expect
• Ask about results and what they mean for your treatment
• If you don't understand, ask for the explanation in simpler terms
• Write down answers or have your advocate take notes

Verify Everything

• Check your ID wristband for accuracy
• Confirm your identity and the procedure with every provider
• Ask the name and purpose of every medication before taking it
• Verify that providers have washed their hands before touching you

Communicate Clearly

• Speak up about pain levels — use the hospital's pain scale
• Report any new symptoms immediately
• Tell providers about any changes in your condition
• Don't minimize symptoms because you don't want to bother anyone

Participate in Your Care

• Attend care team rounds when possible
• Ask about the plan for the day and your overall treatment plan
• Understand your discharge criteria — what needs to happen before you can go home
• Ask about alternatives if you disagree with a recommendation

If Problems Arise

• Escalate concerns to the charge nurse or attending physician
• Contact the hospital's patient advocate or ombudsman
• Document any concerns in writing
• If you feel your safety is at risk, say so clearly and firmly
• Many hospitals have a "Condition H" or rapid response process that families can activate

At Discharge

• Make sure you understand your discharge instructions
• Confirm follow-up appointments before leaving
• Get a complete medication list with instructions
• Know the warning signs that should prompt a return to the hospital
• Ask who to call with questions after discharge

Data sourced from CMS. Visit Medicare Care Compare or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice.