How To Advocate For Yourself
BDFF encourages you to advocate for yourself! Click here for a brochure to print out. HTCs – Please share with your patients!
Being your own advocate means asking for what you need in a direct, respectful manner.
To Be Your Best Advocate:
- Believe In Yourself
- Know Your Rights
- Have Your Facts Straight
- Decide What You Want
- Plan A Strategy
- Target Your Efforts
- Gather Support
- Express Yourself Clearly
You Have To Advocate Yourself:
- With Your Medical Team
- Through Insurance Issues
- Legislatively
Advocating For Yourself Medically:
Knowing how to navigate the healthcare system will allow you the best treatment possible. If you and your HTC team are partners in your healthcare decisions, you’ll feel ownership of your wellness. Standing up for yourself medically is your right.
Advocating For Yourself With Your Insurance Company:
It is your right to appeal your insurance company’s decisions on claims. Communicate with your HTC team. They can help. Be patient: This may take time.
Advocating For Yourself Legislatively:
Laws are made for you and the bleeding disorders community statewide and federally. You can have a voice in what laws are passed by understanding the process and identifying your legislators. BDFF is part of the Bleeding Disorders Coalition of Florida and is here to help you advocate for the bleeding disorders community legislatively. Contact [email protected] if you’re interested in getting involved legislatively.
BDFF has a social worker and outreach nurses on staff to help you advocate for yourself. Contact [email protected] for assistance. Click here for a list of Florida Hemophilia Treatment Centers.
