Why We Need Health Care Advocates

In June 2006, I survived an adverse event while giving birth to my daughter. In the weeks that followed my condition continued to deteriorate. A lack of accessibility and accountability in the health care system forced me to become my own patient advocate.

Thanks to the internet, I was able to find information and options for timely medical assistance. I am lucky and grateful to be alive.

As a patient I experienced first-hand the power of the internet for health information and the importance of being your own medical advocate.

At some point in our lives each of us will assume the role of “patient”. The increasing demands on our health care system will increase our need to become more informed about the system and better prepared for making health care decisions.

My searching led me to other patients at the same crossroads. People who felt their voices were being lost in the mayhem that has become the Canadian health care system.

Through my conversations with other patients, I realized the need for an independent source to provide information about our health care system. I started The Patient Factor website to improve the lives of patients by educating, engaging and empowering them on their health care journey.

The Patient Factor website is a place that values the patient perspective. Here you will find insightful information on Canadian health care. Gain a better understanding of our system, its problems and the issues facing your personal health care journey.

Get involved by sharing your views, experiences and ideas for change. Help bring focus to the most important part of the health care equation – YOU!