For many older adults, going to the doctor can be stressful, especially when trying to remember the information the doctor imparts and understand complex medical terms. Patient Partners offers a remedy by pairing JFCS vetted volunteers, who accompany clients to their doctor appointments. Volunteer medical advocates are trained to record, relay, and share information about each visit with the patient and their family, if needed. Volunteers also help decipher medical jargon and provide emotional support to the patient.
Patient Partners clients have reported better outcomes from their appointments, with an increased commitment to treatment plans and medication regimens and a better understanding of their health concerns. JFCS is now accepting and training new volunteer advocates and clients for Patient Partners. Training covers common health issues, medical terminology, honing listening and communication skills with medical personnel, confidentiality, and ethics.
Patient Partners is sponsored by Healthcare Quality Strategies Foundation, with grant funding from the Raymond & Gertrude R. Saltzman Foundation.