Healthcare navigators go by different titles
like patient navigators or patient advocates. However, they all have the same
objective--to help people navigate the complex American healthcare system.
Anyone can pursue a career in patient
advocacy, whether you’re a healthcare professional, a social worker, or a
layperson with experience in the medical system. As long as you have knowledge
in the healthcare system and the heart to help people, you’ll fit right in.
If you want to explore the prospect of
pursuing a career as a healthcare navigator, then you
are on the right track! Here’s a run-down on everything you need to know on how
to become a healthcare navigator.
1. Responsibilities of a Healthcare Navigator
A patient navigator refers to experienced
personnel trained in guiding patients, employees, and small companies as they
navigate the healthcare system (e.g., enrolling in health insurance, undergoing
a procedure).
Navigators have different responsibilities
depending on the field or setting they choose to work in. But there are common
practices that all patient advocates should do, including:
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● Acting as
a healthcare liaison between patients and medical personnel.
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● Advocating
equal access to healthcare.
2. Where Can You Practice Healthcare Navigation
Hospitals are not the only institution that
employs patient navigators. Rehabilitation centers and clinics also need
patient advocates to aid them in delivering quality services. Other
organizations that hire patient advocates include:
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● Working
directly for a patient
Most healthcare navigators have previous
medical professions like nursing and Medtech. Some of them are social workers
in the healthcare setting.
But more often than not, patient advocates
are volunteers who just want to help loved ones, friends, and other people.
3. Credentials and Requirements
Healthcare navigation is still a new concept
in the medical field. It is an up-and-coming profession that can reinvent the
whole healthcare system for the better.
If you have been searching the net for ways
on how to become a healthcare navigator, then you’ve probably found some
universities that offer certifications for patient advocates.
Medical institutions (e.g., hospitals,
medical schools, government health sectors) also offer short degrees and
programs to advance a would-be healthcare navigator’s knowledge.
Moreover, a Patient Advocate Certification Board had already been established since March
2018. You can check your eligibility, apply, and take an exam to become a
board-certified healthcare navigator.
Besides these credentials, all patient
advocates should also practice specific qualities to help them do their
advocacy better. This includes:
● A great
set of communication skills because you will be dealing with seniors, adults,
kids, and professionals in this field.
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● An open
mind and compassionate heart.
