Navigating the Health Care System: Why It’s Wise to Use a Health Advocate

Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D., Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), offers brief, easy-to-understand advice columns for consumers to help navigate the health care system. In her latest column, Dr. Clancy discusses the value of having someone you trust with you on certain medical visits or during hospital stays. A health advocate can help you ask questions, write down information, and speak up for you at times when you may be distracted or unable.

Dr. Clancy’s columns are published on the AHRQ Web site at http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc.htm.