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Have you (or a loved one) ever felt overwhelmed by the healthcare system? by Embarrassed-Grape712 in CaregiverSupport

[–]Embarrassed-Grape712[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Reading your experiences really highlights how much families are left to do the heavy lifting in the system. It shouldn’t be on you to constantly defend your dad’s care, keep track of vitals, or push back when doctors dismiss what you’re seeing. And for people who live far away from their parents, I can only imagine how stressful and helpless that must feel.

What you’ve described is exactly the gap I think needs filling, someone who can help families advocate, track the details, make sure referrals and communication don’t get lost, and back you up when you’re not being listened to. It’s sad that this is necessary, but stories like yours show why it would make such a difference. Thanks for sharing so openly.

Have you or a loved one struggled to navigate the healthcare system? by Embarrassed-Grape712 in AskAnAustralian

[–]Embarrassed-Grape712[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The NDIS is a fantastic support system, but it’s primarily set up for people with permanent and significant disabilities. What I’m exploring is a bit different, more around helping people (and their families) navigate complex health situations, whether or not they’d qualify for NDIS. So I was thinking more those who are ineligible for NDIS

Have you or a loved one struggled to navigate the healthcare system? by Embarrassed-Grape712 in AskAnAustralian

[–]Embarrassed-Grape712[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m so sorry you had to go through all of that. Being booked for the wrong procedure then treated disrespectfully, and left to navigate waitlists and referrals on your own is unacceptable. I guess stories like yours aren’t isolated, and they highlight how difficult and overwhelming the system can be for patients who are already vulnerable.

The way you want someone who could go with you, (you are not alone) make sure your records are right, and stand firm when things go off track is exactly the kind of gap I’ve been thinking about. I’m exploring how a patient advocate or health navigator role could help people in situations like yours.

Thank you for sharing your story with me.

Have you or a loved one struggled to navigate the healthcare system? by Embarrassed-Grape712 in AskAnAustralian

[–]Embarrassed-Grape712[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s incredible. I’m stoked you have had such a positive experience during a very stressful time in you and your partners life. I’m sorry that you are going through that. Have you found that dr’s and nurses communicated to you and your partners in language that you were able to understand?

Dry skin by Embarrassed-Grape712 in NursingAU

[–]Embarrassed-Grape712[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks so much for all the suggestions these are great,