What do you do if your network of contacts and connections in Patient Advocacy is weak?

In the world of Patient Advocacy, networking isn't about amassing contacts; it’s about recognising needs within your circle and becoming their go-to resource. Begin by pinpointing the requirements of your contacts. Are they looking for the latest research, advice on elderly care, or connection with similar interests? Positioning yourself as a vital link in your network means meeting those needs, whether by sharing research, offering expert advice, or making introductions. The outcome? A network that’s not just extensive, but rich with profound, mutually beneficial relationships.

In my experience, it is helpful to view building and cultivating a network in a nonlinear fashion. Bringing humanity, empathy, and warmth to what could be rote interactions has been key for me in building my sphere of influence which I can use to advocate. Most providers are overstretched, under-resourced, and doing their best. I am most effective when I remember that- most of all when it seems like the opposite is true.

Networking as it relates to Patient Advocacy is different than it is in the business world. It is important to amass a network of patients and care givers so that these people have a connection who can be a voice for them. Along with this, it is important to have a network of those who make medical decisions and may implement health related policies. Having connects to healthcare providers, administrators, lobbyists, and even policymaker or members of local or federal healthcare boards can be very beneficial. Being knowledgable about the industry, but still having the best interest of patients in mind will allow for high-level conversations with these people that will hopefully be beneficial.

As a pharmacist whose primary focus is patient advocacy, I would assess the specific needs of those I serve. Identifying where I currently excel and where I fall short helps shape my networking strategy. My areas of improvement guide my efforts to connect with relevant organizations and professionals, ensuring I gather the necessary resources and contacts to enhance patient care. This strategic approach allows me to build a network that is not just broad, but also deeply aligned with the needs of my patients, maximizing my effectiveness as an advocate.

If your network in Patient Advocacy is limited, it's important to actively engage with a variety of groups and individuals affected by those health issues. For myself, this is within the Women's Health domain. By participating in online forums, government discussions, and local events, you can gain deeper insights into Patient's lived experiences. This approach not only broadens your understanding but also strengthens your advocacy network, enhancing your ability to raise awareness.

As a patient advocate, it's crucial to pinpoint the specific resources and support systems required for effective advocacy. This entails establishing connections with healthcare professionals for insights into medical treatments and advancements, engaging with patient communities to understand diverse perspectives and needs, and fostering relationships with policymakers to influence healthcare policies and regulations. Identifying gaps in these areas enables targeted networking efforts, ensuring a robust and relevant network that enhances advocacy effectiveness and impact.

Virtual Meetups: Organize quarterly virtual meetups for patient advocates. Use these gatherings to network, share experiences, and collaborate. Discuss best practices, challenges, and emerging trends in patient advocacy. Foster a supportive community where advocates can learn from one another. Referral Networking: Leverage referrals as a powerful networking tool. When encountering patients outside your expertise, refer them to another advocate who can better assist. Reach out to the recommended advocate to learn about their work and exchange insights.

1. Join relevant organizationsParticipate in patient advocacy groups, online forums, and social media platforms dedicated to healthcare advocacy. 2.Attend events and conferencesAttend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to patient advocacy to meet like-minded individuals and experts in the field. 3. **Volunteer**: Offer your time and skills to support patient advocacy organizations or healthcare-related charities. This not only helps you contribute to the cause but also expands your network. 4. **Connect with professionals**: Reach out to healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders who share your passion for patient advocacy. LinkedIn can be a useful platform for connecting with professional

Begin by identifying what you need from your network. As a patient advocate, you may require connections with healthcare professionals, access to patient communities, or relationships with policymakers. Understanding your specific needs helps you target your networking efforts more effectively. Consider the areas where you lack support or resources and aim to connect with individuals or organizations that can help fill those gaps. This focused approach ensures that you cultivate a network that is not only wide but also deep and relevant to your advocacy work.

Harnessing online platforms is a potent strategy for patient advocates to expand their network and forge connections with allies who share their passion. Engaging in authentic interactions within social media groups, forums, and professional networks like LinkedIn not only amplifies visibility but also cultivates meaningful relationships. By actively participating in discussions, sharing personal experiences, and providing valuable insights, advocates can attract like-minded individuals and organizations interested in their cause. This proactive approach not only facilitates support and collaboration opportunities but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity among advocates

To strengthen my network in patient advocacy, I actively engaged with online communities, beginning with the Patient Advocate Certification Board. This led me to discover and join a subgroup of advocates based in Florida, known as the Healthcare Advocates of Florida. We convene monthly to exchange experiences, ideas, and insights, fostering a supportive environment for growth and collaboration. This engagement has been invaluable, not only in expanding my professional network but also in enhancing my advocacy skills through shared knowledge. The key to building a strong network is being proactive and genuine in these interactions, which opens doors to new opportunities and collaborative efforts.

Boosting your network in Patient Advocacy requires active online engagement. Build a presence on relevant platforms, participate in discussions, and share useful insights into elderly care. Identify where your contacts gather online and ensure you're adding value there consistently, sharing research, posting informative content, and starting thought-provoking discussions. As you engage more, you’ll establish credibility and trust within your network. The key is not merely broadcasting your message but establishing a dialogue. This interaction helps you stay in tune with current needs, refining your advocacy work.

Consider creating a post that shares your perspective on advocacy or a challenge or insight that is important and meaningful for you to share. Provide resources, links and ask others to provide feedback or their perspectives. This will not only strengthen your reputation as an advocate but also give you valuable insights from others.

Attending online seminars, events and workshops is the best way to expand your network with patient advocates and colleagues in patient partnership all over the world. I prefer physical presence as it provides the human aspect while networking.

Attending healthcare and patient advocacy events is key for networking. Research speakers and attendees beforehand. Prepare an elevator pitch and contact info. Engage actively, ask questions, and listen attentively. Follow up post-event to nurture connections. Maximize impact by fostering collaborations and sharing insights.

Attending healthcare and patient advocacy events has been a game-changer for me in building a strong professional network. A highlight was having an in-person lunch with Brad Schwartz from the Greater National Advocates. It wasn't just about meeting a key figure in the field; it was an invaluable chance to connect with other local advocates, share experiences, and learn from one another. These interactions at conferences, workshops, and seminars not only broaden my network but also deepen my understanding of patient advocacy, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Improving your network in Patient Advocacy can be significantly bolstered by attending relevant events. Choose those focused on elderly care, providing an audience with shared interests. Come prepared to engage in meaningful conversations, knowing who you could potentially collaborate with. Don't forget to follow up post-event - a note or sharing of relevant content can help establish long-term relationships. Regular attendance at these events affords consistent opportunities to strengthen connections. By developing relationships based on mutual goals, you pave the way for a robust network beneficial to your advocacy.

By attending conferences webinars and meetings involving working as a Peer support or any kind of mental health. I will be able to meet new people and gain a network of people to be a great Peer support.

In the world of patient advocacy the online community is one of the best ways to grow your network and also engage with real patients. Online networking with patient advocacy groups, non-profits, industry representative and much more can really strengthen your network. Using the internet for patient advocacy is a mainstay that must be embraced to continually grow your network and engage in meaningful conversations to help meet the needs of your community.

It is critical to understand that patient advocacy should not be limited to the physical aspects of the respective disease. It is imperative to address the mental and emotional health of the patient and family through education programs and accessible resources. It is equally imperative to ensure that your organization or company recognizes the importance of reaching out to diverse populations impacted by the disease. This includes communities of color and also those impacted by income, geography, education, language/cultural barriers, age, gender and other social determinants of health. Addressing these obstacles will require different channels and methods of outreach and communication, and in many situations, significant policy change.

Enhance your network in Patient Advocacy through volunteering. Select opportunities that match your focus on elderly care, allowing you to connect with similar professionals. Share your insights, learn from others, and engage with everyone involved. Keep in touch post-volunteering, nurturing these new connections. This approach not only benefits the community but builds a valuable network for your advocacy work.

Volunteering with aligned organizations is a strategic move for patient advocates. It not only offers direct contribution but also fosters connections with like-minded individuals, leading to deeper collaborations and shared insights. Such involvement showcases dedication, enhancing one's reputation within the advocacy community and opening doors for further opportunities and impact.

Volunteer with organizations that also align with causes you support or are passionate about such as non-profits. For example the American Red Cross, the largest humanitarian organization in the world and led by over 95% volunteers has unlimited advocacy opportunities in every community.

One of the best ways to increase your network in a specific field is by joining and becoming active in associations and organizations. By doing this, my network has grown exponentially.

One way I connect with others is by always congratulating my contacts on their successes and achievements. Advocacy is about support and the passion to help others which can include contacts and your external network.

I prioritize building genuine relationships within the patient advocacy community by reaching out to individuals I learn about through various channels like podcasts, online posts, or recommendations from others. This approach is about more than just expanding my network; it's about connecting on a deeper level to understand their goals and how we can mutually support each other's efforts. I make a point to introduce myself and initiate conversations that explore potential collaborations or ways to share knowledge and resources.

In patient advocacy, prioritizing genuine relationships over mere connections is paramount. Quality always surpasses quantity in networking. Invest time in understanding individuals' goals and needs, and explore opportunities for mutual support. Remember, networking is reciprocal; offering assistance is as vital as seeking it. Trust and mutual respect form the foundation of strong relationships, fostering more impactful advocacy efforts and collaborations.

One thing I have found helpful is being aware of a patient’s needs through observing and listening. It is important to share resources to patients in a non-judgmental manner, especially if the patient has a cultural bias for certain resources, such as mental health services.

For Board Certified Patient Advocates (BCPA), leveraging the credential requirements is a great way to ensure continuous learning in patient advocacy and use the opportunity to take engaging classes.

Get working! In my experience, the strongest connections with advocates are made through collaboration and having an impact together. Find relevant projects to do, and promote your intentions. Start with a couple of collaborators - like-minded people will soon find you through your work.

I will keep pushing ans connecting more with those in my niche. I can achieve this by attending workshops and Symposium to network with like-minded professionals