An advocate is someone who provides practical and emotional support, can speak or make decisions for you when you are unable to do so, and can help you take charge of your medical situation. Oftentimes family and friends naturally assume the role of advocating on your behalf. Another advocacy alternative can be found through a variety of organizations and related health professionals.

Start with your physician who can refer you to community resources, intervene on your behalf if you are having trouble getting certain drugs or treatments covered by insurance, and can speak with family members who might not agree with your treatment choices.

Most hospitals have a "patient relations" or "patient representative" department and long-term care facilities often have ombudsman programs run by a state agency, where staff are specially trained to intervene on a patient's behalf. To learn more about these programs go to the National Long Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center at www.ltcombudsman.org.

Medical billing advocates understand the unique language and hospital billing codes and use their talents to evaluate hospital bills and rework rejected insurance claims. Medical Billing Advocates of America (http://www.billadvocates.com) boasts that they catch common and not so common billing errors that add millions of dollars to insurance costs each year. A national nonprofit organization, The Patient Advocate Foundation (http://www.patientadvocate.org) helps patients with life threatening or debilitating diseases.

Use your health insurer as a resource. Many offer case management or patient advocacy programs geared toward helping patients deal with complex medical issues. They also may offer a variety of services including patient education, and how best to access doctors, hospitals and support groups.

Disease or condition specific organizations are another resource to learn about how to understand and manage your condition. Their national Web sites will guide you through to the local chapters and a host of advocacy information.

There are also personal patient advocates who offer premium services like finding specialists, managing your medical records, dealing with insurance issues and much more. You can sign up as an individual or these benefits may be available through your employer. According to Money Magazine, "if you're managing a chronic condition, hiring a patient advocate can be like having a personal shopper for health care."

When searching for an advocate, use the following tips:

* Take time to formulate a complete list of problems/goals you need help with.

* Carefully check the credentials of companies or individuals who purport to be advocates and make sure they are best suited for your particular concerns.

* If costs are involved, make sure to fully understand your financial responsibility and the services that will be provided, before you make a commitment.

For more information on selecting an advocate or to send questions or comments, go to www.otherwisehealthy.com.