Regarding the Nov. 24 New York Times article on health advocacy: David Wayne Smith is admirable for the devotion and care he has shown his son during a horrible experience. Some situations, however, might benefit from a professional perspective, either from an independent geriatric care manager or nurse care coordinator.
For instance, the care-giving relative may be older or infirm or feel overwhelmed by the situation. Or there may be a number of treatment options presented and the caregiver needs help choosing the one that best fits the patient's goals. With prostate cancer, for instance, patients are often left to decide whether to have surgery or wait.
Another time a caregiver might consider engaging an independent care coordinator is if he wants to ensure getting impartial advice, instead of the perspective of an insurance company or other interested party.
