You're determined to protect a patient's rights. How can you overcome hospital administration resistance?

1 Understand Rights

Before engaging with hospital administration, it is critical to have a thorough understanding of patient rights. These rights often include the right to informed consent, the right to privacy, and the right to make decisions about one's own care. Familiarize yourself with both federal and state laws that govern patient care, as well as the hospital's own policies. Knowledge is power, and having this information at your fingertips will give you the credibility and confidence to advocate effectively for your patient's rights.

2 Build Relationships

Building positive relationships with hospital staff and administrators is a proactive step towards overcoming resistance. Start by establishing rapport with key individuals who have the authority to make decisions. Approach each interaction with professionalism and respect, seeking to understand the hospital's perspective. By fostering open communication and trust, you are more likely to find allies within the administration who can help navigate and negotiate solutions that honor the patient's rights.

3 Present Evidence

When advocating for a patient, come prepared with evidence-based arguments. This means gathering all relevant medical records, literature, and guidelines that support the patient's case. Presenting a well-researched rationale for why a particular treatment or care plan is necessary can help sway administration by demonstrating that your advocacy aligns with best practices and patient-centered care.

4 Offer Solutions

Resistance often stems from perceived problems or conflicts with existing protocols. To overcome this, don't just present problems—offer solutions. Be creative and collaborative in your approach, suggesting alternatives that still respect the patient's rights while also taking into account the hospital's concerns. Your goal is to find a middle ground where both the patient's needs and the hospital's capabilities are met in a satisfactory manner.

5 Involve the Patient

Empowering the patient to be an active participant in their own advocacy can be a powerful tool in overcoming resistance. Encourage the patient to express their wishes and concerns directly to the administration. The personal narrative of a patient can often be more persuasive than third-party advocacy alone. Ensure that the patient is well-informed about their rights and the reasons behind your advocacy efforts.

6 Follow Up

Persistence is key in patient advocacy. After initial discussions with hospital administration, follow up regularly to keep the issue at the forefront. Document all interactions and any progress made, and continue to push for a resolution that upholds the patient's rights. By maintaining a consistent presence and showing dedication to the cause, you convey the message that the patient's rights are not to be overlooked or dismissed lightly.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?