Professional Advocates

[DogMan79]

I reside in suburban Melbourne 

I sometimes attend a Peer Group. I'm taking a break from it, owing to not seeing eye to eye with the facilitator 

But a while back, something was mentioned in the group which I have been thinking about 

An advocate to attend medical appointments with me 

I don't think that the background details particularly matter. But I either have a history of coercion in health care, or some suspicious beliefs about related matters. Depending on who is consulting 

I opted out of the NDIS (Which I must mention often. Given that I only had to type “Opted” and predictive text knew the rest) in 2018. I was signed up without my consent, aged 39. This left a bad taste in my mouth and I would prefer to avoid the scheme 

But does anyone know about options for professional advocates to attend medical appointments? I'm happy to pay, within reason 

My personal network aren't likely to help. Even if they agreed to attend, their presence would not suit the purpose 

Sorry for any odd formatting or grammar. My phone doesn't love this site

[MatchaToad]

Hey @DogMan79 

I am really proud of you for reaching out here!

I know for myself, having someone who can advocate for me and support me, particularly during appointments with health professionals, is very important to me.

I do see a social worker who has advocated and supported me throughout many different appointments and has assisted me with navigating different systems. Perhaps seeing a social worker and establishing a good relationship with them might be of interest to you?

It sounds like you are not confident that your own personal network would be able to provide advocacy, as their presence would not suit the purpose of the appointment, which is entirely valid!

I'm sure other members of the community here may be able to give some suggestions for other advocacy services and such that may be relevant to you.

I hope that what I have said has helped a little 🙂

Take care!