www.beaconpatientsolutions.com :: (617) 651-2140

The Patient Advocate You Need

November 2020
 

Hi Subscriber First Name,

I hope you are continuing to find ways to stay informed, connected to others, and active while safely remaining physically distant.

We are approaching the time in our year when we think about plans for November and December holidays and traditions. If thoughts of adjusting plans and navigating uncertainty is causing anxiety and stress, I encourage you to review the included resources below that offer helpful tips and ideas.

Technological innovations have played a major role for many in navigating 2020. It is a way for healthcare and other services to be delivered and managed, a way for people to stay connected to one another, and a source for life long learning, entertainment, exercise, and more. It is a tool being used to combat social isolation and loneliness and a resource that is transforming aging. This month’s blog highlights the benefits of embracing and exploring technological innovations.

As always, you can help others learn more about the importance and impact of working with an independent board certified patient advocate and the solutions I work toward simply by passing my name and this newsletter along to friends, family members, and colleagues.

Navigating the complexities of the healthcare system can be stressful and time consuming. Contact me so that I can help ease the burden.

Thank you for your support,
Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA
Independent Board Certified Patient Advocate
Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC
 

This month’s newsletter includes:

View past newsletters :: Did you catch us on tv?
 

Keeping Up With Technological Innovations

Technological innovations impact every aspect of our lives and access to them has been invaluable while we navigate life during a pandemic.

People all along the age continuum have learned to incorporate new technological resources into their daily lives. Securing access to and embracing technological innovations enhances our lives in a variety of ways.

As an independent board certified patient advocate, my focus is on the roles technology plays in achieving better health outcomes, facilitating patient centered care, and ensuring the patient always has the resources to make an informed decision.

Technology use can also positively impact other aspects of our overall health. READ MORE
 

The Stress of Navigating Uncertainty

Recommendations for Thanksgiving Observance: CDC Recommendations, CNET’s Safe Thanksgiving Guidelines, The Atlantic’s Pandemic Thanksgiving Suggestions

VIDEO: New York Times Living Well: Thriving in the Pandemic Winter


Navigating Uncertainty: CDC, Verywell Health, Harvard Medical School, and NAMI
 

Medicare Open Enrollment: October 15 - December 7, 2020

Any change you make during Fall Open Enrollment will take effect January 1

The Annual Election Period for Medicare (also known as Medicare Open Enrollment) has arrived. It’s the time Medicare health and drug plans can make changes to cost, coverage, and which providers and pharmacies are in their network. Make sure to research your current benefits and make any changes before December 7. Read more about things to consider when choosing Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans.
 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Resources for Preparation

Navigating our own healthcare needs when the system is stressed can be challenging. It is important to have your personal health record organized and have a “Go” plan and bag in case you need hospitalization.

  • My blog post about navigating your healthcare during this time offers tips on how to be your own best advocate, how to prepare for upcoming appointments and READ MORE
 

I’m Available to Help…

Schedule a Consultation: Sometimes, the opportunity to ask questions or talk through a healthcare situation is the only immediate service a prospective client may initially need. To assist, I offer the opportunity to schedule a one hour phone consultation to meet that need. Email me to find out more.

Patient Advocacy Needs Continue: During this challenging time, patient advocacy needs continue. I’m available to help with reviewing medical bills for accuracy, insurance claim denials, appointment preparation, and more. Visit my client services page to view the full range of services offered.

Are you or do you know a solo ager? The SOLO AGERS Advocacy Initiative was created to meet the support and planning needs of Solo Agers. Initiative members work one-on-one with me to identify and organize healthcare concerns, carefully craft their support team, and learn how to navigate the opportunities and challenges of solo aging. Now is the perfect time to get started!
 

Reliable Resources to Stay Informed:

CDC: Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Resources for Home: Plan, Prepare, and Respond to Coronavirus Disease

The John A Hartford Foundation Resource page: information for older adults, family caregivers, and health care providers.

 

About Beacon Patient Solutions LLC:
Beacon Patient Solutions LLC helps clients navigate the choppy waters of today’s complex healthcare system by empowering them to become educated and confident health care consumers. We are client focused, uniquely knowledgeable, and engage clients to ask the right questions, seek good answers, and secure reliable resources.  We provide patient advocacy services in the Greater Boston Area, throughout Massachusetts, and nationwide. Visit our website to learn more:  www.beaconpatientsolutions.com.