What is meant by "patient advocacy"?

"Patient advocacy" refers to the active support and promotion of the needs and interests of patients within the healthcare system. This concept emphasizes ensuring that patients receive appropriate care, information, and resources necessary for their health and well-being. Advocates work to empower patients by helping them understand their rights, make informed decisions regarding their healthcare, and navigate complex medical systems.

By focusing on the patient's perspective, advocates aim to bridge gaps in understanding and communication between patients and healthcare providers, thus fostering an environment where patients feel respected and valued. This commitment to supporting patients ultimately leads to improved healthcare outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction.

The other options, while relevant to healthcare in different contexts, do not capture the essence of patient advocacy. Diagnosing conditions pertains to the role of healthcare providers in clinical assessment, providing financial assistance relates to financial management or social services, and managing medical records involves administrative tasks that ensure accurate documentation and privacy but do not directly advocate for patient needs.