Patient Advocate Job Description Template

Patient advocate educating her clients on the details of their medical coverage.

The key to hiring the right patient advocate for your organization is to write a clear job description that attracts skilled candidates and makes them excited about the opportunity to join your healthcare team. You may find it helpful to start by reading patient advocate job postings on Monster to see how other organizations are hiring for this challenging but rewarding role.

When you’re ready to start your search, you can update this patient advocate job description. With an effective job description in place, you’ll be able to hire someone with the skills and experience to be an asset for your patients and their loved ones.

Patient advocate educating her clients on the details of their medical coverage.

Patient Advocate

[Intro Paragraph] Start strong by writing a captivating introduction to the patient advocate role and your organization that will move candidates to apply. Consider showing off the history, culture, mission, values, and any awards your organization has received. You may want to include a few patient testimonials to show the impact the candidate would have.

Patient Advocate Job Responsibilities: Use this part of your patient advocate job description to share an in-depth list of the job responsibilities. Be detailed so that candidates can determine whether it is a fit. Depending on your needs, you might want to include:

  • Teaches patients about their treatment plan and diagnosis.
  • Reminds patients about their treatment plan and medication.
  • Contacts patients with medical updates and follows up regularly.
  • Joins patients at doctor’s appointments, asks questions, and takes notes.
  • Speaks with doctors, nurses, and administrators on the patient’s behalf.
  • Submits insurance claims and other paperwork for the patient.
  • Investigates patient concerns when necessary.
  • Maintains patient confidentiality and discretion.
  • Follows all the organization’s policies and procedures.

[Work Hours and Benefits]: Use this section of your patient advocate job description to specify whether you’re hiring a full-time or part-time patient advocate. If the patient advocate would need to work a shift schedule, note the various days and times so they know the necessary time commitment. Show that their hard work will pay off by detailing your organization’s competitive benefits package. Mention any other perks your organization offers like performance bonuses, wellness stipends, and employee resource groups (ERGs).

Patient Advocate Qualifications and Skills: This is where you’ll describe the ideal candidate. Keep in mind that some candidates will only apply to a job if they meet all the qualifications. You’ll likely get a larger candidate pool if you note what is necessary versus preferred.

  • Demonstrates stellar bedside manner.
  • Works well in a fast-paced medical facility.
  • Remains calm during emotional conversations.
  • Explains medical information clearly and concisely.
  • Builds strong relationships with patients and colleagues.

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent is preferred
  • Bachelor’s or associate degree in social work, psychology, or a related major is preferred
  • Board Certified Patient Advocates (BCPA) are preferred

[Call to Action] Finish your job posting with a compelling call to action. Encourage interested candidates to apply and provide instructions for applying from the job board, your organization’s website, or by contacting a hiring manager directly. It’s also helpful to note the next steps in the hiring process at your organization and the ideal timeline for filling the role.

Go From Patient Advocate Job Description to Offer Letter

You’ve completed one of the most important steps in hiring a skilled patient advocate. Now that you’ve detailed the job requirements, expectations, qualifications, and workplace culture, it’s time to put it to work. Start collecting resumes quickly by posting your job description for free.