Question

The evolving role of the medical assistant under the supervision of the provider has some practices utilizing them to conduct preplanning visits, assist with referrals and engaging the patients in managing their own health care. This role is known as the patient navigator or patient ____________ .

Answer 1

The role under discussion is known as the patient advocate, who aids in healthcare navigation, facilitation of referrals, and enhances patients' self-management of healthcare, distinct from a health care proxy or the concept of hospice.

Step-by-step explanation:

The role described in the question is known as the patient navigator or patient advocate. This role typically involves helping patients navigate the complex health care system, aiding in preplanning visits, managing referrals, and empowering patients to take an active role in their health care. The patient advocate liaises between patients and health care providers, ensuring that the patient's journey through the health care process is smooth and that their needs are met. This is different from terms like health care proxy, which is a legal role that allows a designated individual to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient who is unable to communicate their wishes. Similarly, while patient navigator helps with managing care, particularly in challenging health systems, the focus is on the understanding and facilitation of treatment rather than the decision-making rights outlined in a living will or the end-of-life care provided by hospice service.