What is the primary objective of patient advocacy?

The primary objective of patient advocacy is to ensure that patients' rights and preferences are respected in their care. This means that advocates work to empower patients by providing them with information about their medical options, helping them understand their rights within the healthcare system, and supporting their decisions regarding treatment. By advocating for the patient's perspective, the goal is to create a healthcare environment where the patient's needs and wishes are prioritized and integrated into their care plan. This focus on respecting individual choices is fundamental to patient-centered care, fostering trust and communication between patients and healthcare providers.

While preventing diseases through awareness, managing healthcare costs, and increasing healthcare accessibility are all important aspects of the healthcare system, they do not specifically encapsulate the core purpose of patient advocacy, which is centered on honoring and facilitating the patient's voice and autonomy in their own health journey.