How To Be A Patient Advocate with Cheryl A. Petruk CEO of Heal Canada

Maureen McGrath's Health Show Podcast

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When my journey of advocacy began, it was a personal crusade fueled by a need to ensure my voice, and those of others, were not lost in the labyrinth of the healthcare system. That path led me to the inspiring Cheryl A Petruk from HEAL Canada, who joins us to share her transformative story, ignited by her husband's battle with a rare blood cancer. Together we unravel the intricate weave of patient advocacy, highlighting its crucial role in empowering patients and amplifying their voices amid the complexities of care, especially for those facing rare diseases. Cheryl's deep dive into the creation of support networks paints a vivid picture of the lifelines that advocacy can extend to individuals in their most vulnerable moments.
This episode is not just a narrative; it's a treasure trove of insights into the burgeoning integration of AI in healthcare and the power of education in patient empowerment. We tackle the sensitive issue of medical gaslighting head-on, unraveling how it can be addressed and overcome with the right support and knowledge. Furthermore, we explore the sometimes turbulent waters of workplace dynamics, such as bullying among nursing staff, and how these can ripple through to patient care. With Cheryl's experience at the helm of HEAL Canada's resource-rich digital magazine, we underscore the importance of community support and effective communication in ensuring that patients are not merely participants, but co-pilots, in their health journey.