Patient advocacy in emergency medical services is primarily focused on catering to patient options and involving patients in their care. This approach emphasizes the importance of recognizing patients as individuals with their own rights, preferences, and needs. In emergency situations, it is crucial for EMS professionals to not only treat the clinical condition but also to listen to the patient's concerns, preferences, and choices regarding their care.
By fostering a collaborative relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider, patient advocacy encourages informed decision-making, ensuring that patients have a voice in their treatment plan. This empowerment can enhance patient satisfaction and lead to improved health outcomes, as patients who feel involved in their care are more likely to adhere to treatment recommendations and engage positively with healthcare interventions.
This perspective contrasts with approaches that might minimize patient involvement, such as solely adhering to common procedures without consideration of individual patient choices, or prioritizing clinical conditions over personal preferences. Furthermore, limiting discussions to healthcare providers can undermine the role of the patient in their own care. Thus, the essence of patient advocacy is to actively include patients in the decision-making process regarding their health.