avigating medical bills, insurance denials, or confusing paperwork can feel overwhelming. One of the most valuable resources available to patients is a patient advocate. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, denied health insurance claims, or just trying to understand your bill, learning how to find a patient advocate can make a major difference.
If you’re looking for additional tools to support your medical billing journey, visit our Education Center for guides on health insurance terms, billing errors, and more.
What Is a Patient Advocate?
A patient advocate is someone who helps you navigate the healthcare system. They can speak up on your behalf, help explain your rights, clarify confusing charges, and even support you in resolving disputes with insurance providers.
Knowing how to find a patient advocate gives you someone in your corner—especially when you’re under stress or managing a complex health issue.
Where to Find a Patient Advocate
Search Online
Many nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups help patients based on their location or specific medical condition. You can search for “find a patient advocate in [your state]” or include a specific diagnosis to get tailored results.
Ask Your Hospital
Most hospitals employ in-house patient advocates who can help you:
Understand your bill
Apply for financial assistance
Request or review medical records
To reach them, contact the hospital’s billing or patient services department and ask if they have a patient advocate on staff.
Contact the Patient Advocate Foundation
The Patient Advocate Foundation is a nonprofit that supports people with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. They assist with accessing care and resolving insurance or billing issues.
Call 800-532-5274
Visit patientadvocate.org
This is one of the most trusted ways to find a patient advocate on a national scale.
If You Get Care at a VA Facility
The Department of Veterans Affairs has its own Patient Advocacy Program. Each VA Medical Center has designated advocates who help veterans and their families understand their rights, benefits, and bills.
You can find your medical center’s page at VA.gov.
Avoid Scams
When trying to find a patient advocate, be cautious. Avoid anyone who:
Promises to erase medical bills from your credit
Charges upfront fees to negotiate with insurance
Guarantees surprise bill protection for a price
Legitimate advocates will explain their services clearly and avoid pressure tactics. Learn more about medical debt and credit scams at ConsumerFinance.gov.
Why You Should Find a Patient Advocate
Having a knowledgeable support system can change everything. Whether it’s challenging a denied claim, understanding your rights, or securing financial assistance, a patient advocate gives you clarity in a system that often lacks it.
Taking the time to find a patient advocate now can save you money, time, and unnecessary stress later. You don’t have to go through this alone.
External Resource Required by CMS:
https://www.cms.gov/medical-bill-rights/help/guides/patient-advocate
