The Road to Advocacy: From RV Parks to Healthcare Reform featuring Terry McLellan

Patient Advocacy Now

In this episode of the Patient Advocacy Now Podcast, Terry McLellan, a seasoned patient advocate, shares her journey from nursing to becoming an independent patient advocate. Her transition was fueled by her experiences as a travel home health nurse, where she identified a significant need for patient advocacy, particularly among older individuals in RV parks. This realization, coupled with the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired her to establish her own advocacy practice in December 2020.

Terry emphasizes the importance of patients having access to information about their medical treatments and medications. She also discusses her efforts to work with local lawmakers to create legislation allowing patients to have independent advocates, particularly in hospitals where information sharing can be problematic. Building strong relationships with hospital staff, such as nurses, is a key component of ensuring patients receive the best possible care.

Terry further highlights the growing role of patient advocates and the need for stronger advocacy in the evolving healthcare system. She mentions the significant growth in attendance at the Healthcare Advocate Summit, underscoring the rising recognition of the need for patient advocates