One of the lessons I learned over time is that my role as a case manager is to work myself out of a job by educating and empowering my patients to advocate for themselves. Doing this reinforces that when people have the tools they need, they are resilient and able to move forward despite their challenges.
Over the past few weeks, I have watched my patient Troy advocate for himself and work hard to live the life he wants.
We have worked together over the past two years to fight for what he needs to live as a quadriplegic. As his advocate, I always had him on the phone when I called anyone on his behalf. After the initial introduction, I would let him tell his story and explain why he needed what he was asking for and how it would help him. It was not always easy. Many times we saw firsthand just how broken the healthcare system was. But by working together and helping him stand up to ‘the system,’ he learned he has a voice, and by using his voice, he could get the resources he needed or meet his needs.
He used his voice to negotiate, be assertive, and advocate for himself and ask questions so he understands things regarding his care.
He knows his life will never be what it was before he became a quadriplegia, but he is not giving up and has plans to be the best he can be. His life is not easy, but taking back control of his life is giving him the confidence he needs to move forward.
I learned a lot from him, also. I learned that despite a disability, you can live a life. I learned not to settle for no – but to have patience, look for resources in unsuspecting places, and stay positive, and never give up on yourself.
I am grateful to have met him and proud to watch him grow. I wish him all the best!
A perfect example of how a Nurse Advocate can you work herself out of a job by educating a client with patience, persistence and most of all a heart. Great example Anne!!!
The goals for all advocates is to teach them to learn how to be their own advocate
Anne, very inspiring, thanks for sharing, keep up the good work, great mission.
The ultimate success! Kudos, Anne.
This is what is known as “Mission Accomplished–A Job Well Done!” 👍🏾
Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.’ Your work with Troy is the perfect embodiment of this ancient proverb. Keep shining Anne, the work you are doig is so needed !!
Wish I had not aged myself out of active Case Management, RN and as both, was a Patient Advocate.
I so enjoy reading your postings and responses from others.
After Labor Day I will be volunteering with RAISE (Recognizing Abilities & Inclusion of Special Employees) in the greater Orlando area.
– the focus of working with this population, age 18 and older, is to prepare them to become employed. It has been in existence for 10 years, with the majority of clients who have gone through this program are now employed!
– My years of working as a RN Case Manager, hopefully, will provide me with mentorship these clients need.
Your dedication and commitment towards Troy shows your professionalism and your compassion towards your clients.