By Debby Deutsch, BCPA
For the past almost-ten-years, I’ve worked in a supportive role as a Patient Advocate at Gilda’s Club.
What might this mean to you? Like all wonderful programs and supports at Gilda’s Club, my advocacy services are at no cost. I am well trained, having studied at the Center for Patient Partnerships at the UW-Madison School of Law, and I was among the first patient advocate cohort to sit for, and pass, Board certification.
How can I help you specifically?
I’ve helped Gilda’s Club members navigate the Social Security website to apply for SSI and/or SSDI – federal disability programs. I’ve guided folks though the NIH website in search of clinical trials. I’ve helped set up logistics in seeking second opinions at places like Mayo Clinic. I coached folks on how to have physician conversations when seeking a second opinion, or when requesting ADA accommodations with an employer. I’ve helped negotiate complex medical billing debt and billing errors. I’ve identified possible financial resources and other community supports – locally and nationally, and in a couple instances, internationally.
I’ve helped Gilda’s members, families and caregivers understand the nuances of complex treatment plans, home care, palliative care and hospice care. When care is no longer possible at home, I’ve identified appropriate respite stays or care communities. I have a professional network of elder attorneys and financial planners to whom I can refer members when matters stretch beyond my scope.
I’ve referred folks to insurance brokers who can help with identifying best insurance plans and supplemental policies. I’ve helped ‘translate’ long-term care insurance policies so that members can realize their benefits and initiate claims in a timely manner.
I can share that I have also been in private practice for over 10 years, and I have found that advocacy services remain vital and relevant as our healthcare systems, insurance companies and federal and state benefits become increasingly complex. Add to that a complex cancer diagnosis and high stress levels and treatment side effects, and it becomes…complicated. I truly believe, because I have seen – how anyone, at any age – stands to benefit from the guidance of a professional patient advocate. I’m proud of the work that I do with Gilda’s Club members because I can see that it makes a difference.
I am limited to Monday afternoons/early evenings at Gilda’s Club, but please get in touch with me if you would like to discuss how I can support through which I can guide and support you.