Advocacy at the End of Life: Meeting the Needs of Vulnerable Latino Patients

Abstract

This research explores health care professionals' understanding of the problems that arise in managing a terminal condition impacting the Latino population and conceptualizes the components of patient advocacy that address gaps in end-of-life care for patients and their family members. Limited research exists regarding patient advocacy from the perspectives of health care providers working with vulnerable Latino populations utilizing a public sector health care system. Forty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted with providers from different disciplines including medicine, nursing, social work, and chaplaincy. Although roles and responsibilities vary among health providers, it is imperative that all providers become aware of the need for patient advocacy. Doing so is not only in the best interest of vulnerable Latino populations but also has overarching financial benefits and positive outcomes for patients, administrators, and public health care systems. Social workers are the ideal professionals to assume leadership roles and share their knowledge of how to advocate effectively for the most vulnerable populations.

Keywords:

• Latinos
• advocacy
• end of life
• public sector health care system

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by the VA Associated Health Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, HSR&D Center of Excellence, the American Cancer Society Doctoral Training Grant in Oncology Social Work DSW-06-220-03-SW (F.R. Nedjat-Haiem, PI).