Ask The Patient Advocate

Elena Borrelli
Ask The Patient Advocate

Are you tired of feeling lost and overwhelmed in the healthcare system? Do you want to regain control of your health journey and make informed decisions with confidence? If so, then this podcast is for you.  I am a Doctor of Medical Science, author, a mother and a Board Certified Patient Advocate who has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. I have been the provider, the patient, the daughter, the sister, and the parent facing the overwhelming healthcare system; and left feeling alone and confused. Navigating your health and managing your healthcare is challenging, but it's a lot better when we go through it together.  Are you ready to take charge of your healthcare journey? It's time to Ask the Patient Advocate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 6D AGO

    When Doctors Dismiss Your Symptoms: How Advocacy Can Change Everything

    Have you ever felt dismissed by doctors? Are you struggling with unexplained symptoms and countless medical visits without answers? How do you advocate for yourself when no one seems to listen? In this powerful episode of Ask the Patient Advocate, Laura Cherry shares her journey navigating multiple complex medical conditions—including idiopathic intracranial hypertension, POTS, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), dysautonomia, and endometriosis. After years of misdiagnoses and medical roadblocks, Laura finally found the right doctors and support system, proving that persistence and advocacy can change lives. Episode Highlights: ✅ The biggest barriers to getting a proper diagnosis ✅ How medical bias leads to misdiagnosis and delays in care ✅ Why self-advocacy is critical for rare and complex conditions ✅ The role of private patient advocates in navigating the healthcare system ✅ Practical tips for finding the right specialists, preparing for appointments, and asking the right If you or a loved one are facing similar struggles, know that you are not alone. Tune in now for expert insights, practical strategies, and hope for a better quality of life! Join us as we explore the challenges of living with POTS, the importance of advocacy in healthcare, and the transformative power of the right support. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    15 min
  2. MAR 10

    Medical Questions Answered by Pathway Patients Advocates

    What exactly is a private patient advocate? How do they differ from hospital or insurance advocates? Can they really help with medical bills, misdiagnoses, and navigating complex healthcare decisions? If you've ever struggled to get the right medical care, felt lost in a sea of insurance paperwork, or needed support through a challenging diagnosis, this episode is for you. Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine from Pathway Patient Advocates answer real listener questions about what patient advocacy truly means—and how it can change lives. 🔍 In this episode, we cover: ✅ What a private patient advocate does (and what they don’t do) ✅ How they help with medical bills, insurance appeals, and billing errors ✅ The difference between private and hospital/insurance patient advocates ✅ How to navigate misdiagnoses, second opinions, and finding the right doctor ✅ Why private advocacy can be the key to getting timely, life-saving care 🎧 Listen now and take control of your healthcare journey—because being prepared can make all the difference. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    15 min
  3. FEB 28

    What’s a Medical Profile Summary and Why Do You Need One

    What if you couldn’t speak for yourself in a medical emergency? Would doctors have the right information to treat you safely? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine from Pathway Patient Advocates reveal a simple but lifesaving tool that far too many people overlook—the Medical Profile Summary. This one-to-three-page document compiles your most critical medical information, ensuring that doctors, emergency responders, and specialists have the details they need when every second counts. Tune in as we discuss: ✅ What is a Medical Profile Summary? ✅ Why hospitals don’t always have accurate or up-to-date records ✅ How missing or incorrect information can lead to medical errors ✅ Where to store your Medical Profile Summary for easy access ✅ How to create one that’s clear, concise, and truly useful 🚨 Don’t wait for an emergency to realize you need this! If you want expert help creating a customized Medical Profile Summary, contact Pathway Patient Advocates today! 🎧 Listen now and take control of your healthcare journey—because being prepared can make all the difference. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    8 min
  4. FEB 21

    Cholangiocarcinoma: Your Rare Cancer Isn't So Rare To Us

    What happens when a rare cancer goes undiagnosed for too long? How can a patient advocate make a difference in the fight for proper care? In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode of Ask the Patient Advocate, Dr. Elena Borrelli shares her firsthand experience navigating the complexities of the healthcare system after her brother’s battle with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). From delayed diagnoses and medical errors to miscommunication between specialists, she exposes the challenges that so many patients face—especially with rare diseases. Joined by Christine from the Pathway Patient Advocates team, they break down: ✅ Why rare cancers like cholangiocarcinoma are often misdiagnosed ✅ How medical miscommunication can delay treatment ✅ The critical role of private patient advocates in ensuring proper care ✅ Practical advice for families navigating complex diagnoses If you or a loved one is facing a rare or serious illness, you don’t have to do it alone. This episode is packed with insights, strategies, and resources to empower you on your healthcare journey. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    17 min
  5. Patient Advocacy and POTS with Dr. Kelsey Botti

    FEB 7

    Patient Advocacy and POTS with Dr. Kelsey Botti

    🩺 Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)? 💡 Are you experiencing dizziness, fatigue, rapid heart rate, or brain fog—but struggling to find the right treatment plan? 📲 How can technology, like The POTS Life app, help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life? Managing POTS can feel overwhelming, especially when diagnosis is delayed, symptoms vary, and effective treatment plans seem hard to find. But you don’t have to go through it alone! In this episode, Dr. Elena Borrelli welcomes back Dr. Kelsey Botti, a physical therapist, POTS patient, and founder of The POTS Life app. Together, they dive into: ✅ Why POTS is so commonly misdiagnosed ✅ The biggest challenges people face when managing POTS ✅ How structured exercise and nutrition play a key role in symptom management ✅ What makes The POTS Life app different—and how it’s changing lives nationwide ✅ Why community and support are critical for living well with POTS If you or someone you love is navigating POTS, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Tune in now for expert insights, practical strategies, and hope for a better quality of life! Join us as we explore the challenges of living with POTS, the importance of advocacy in healthcare, and the transformative power of the right support. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Kelsey Botti: The POTS Life app https://www.instagram.com/the_potslife/ https://thepotslife.com/ The Pots Life Program https://thepotslife.com/pots-treatment-program/ Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    17 min
  6. FEB 3

    How to Choose the Right Patient Advocate: What You Need to Know

    🔎 Do you or a loved one need extra support navigating the healthcare system? 🩺 What’s the difference between a private patient advocate and one provided by an insurance company or hospital? 🤔 How can you be sure you’ve found the right advocate for your needs? Choosing the right patient advocate can make all the difference in your healthcare journey, but with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine break down exactly what to look for when selecting a qualified, experienced, and compassionate patient advocate. Tune in as we discuss: ✅ What a patient advocate does and why you might need one ✅ The key differences between private and hospital-provided advocates ✅ What certifications and experience to look for ✅ Why it’s okay to switch advocates if it’s not the right fit ✅ How to feel confident in your choice Your health deserves the best possible support! Join us for an insightful conversation on how to find an advocate who will truly prioritize your needs. 🎧 Listen now and take control of your healthcare journey! Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    10 min
  7. Rare Disease Nutrition: Simplifying Meal Planning for Busy Parents with Chardell Buchanan

    JAN 17

    Rare Disease Nutrition: Simplifying Meal Planning for Busy Parents with Chardell Buchanan

    Are You a Busy Parent Navigating Rare Diseases and Nutrition? How do you manage healthy eating while caring for a child with unique medical needs? Is it even possible to take care of your family and prioritize your own health? In this heartfelt episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli is joined by Chardell Buchanan, a registered dietitian nutritionist, rare disease advocate, and mom of three, including her son Ben, who has Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. Together, they tackle the challenges of meal planning, self-care, and simplifying nutrition for families with special needs. Chardell shares her personal journey of resilience and offers actionable advice on making small but impactful changes to improve your family’s health without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re dealing with rare diseases, picky eaters, or busy schedules, this episode is packed with tips to help you feel more energized, balanced, and confident in your caregiving journey. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Chardell Buchanan: support@chardellbuchanan.com https://www.instagram.com/chardellbuchanan.nutrition/ https://chardellbuchanannutrition.square.site/ Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    28 min
  8. Navigating Motherhood and Mental Health with Natalie Suazo

    JAN 10

    Navigating Motherhood and Mental Health with Natalie Suazo

    How does a trauma-informed doula support birthing parents? What role does therapy play in untangling cycles of chaos in life? And how can combining approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Theory help create lasting change? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Natalie Suazo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and trauma-informed doula with over 13 years of experience. Natalie shares her insights on guiding clients through anxiety, depression, and trauma while supporting birthing parents in navigating their fears and creating empowering experiences. If you’re curious about blending therapy with parenting support—or simply want to hear inspiring stories about resilience—this episode is for you. Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Natalie Suazo: (479) 857-0621 https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingdoula/ https://breakinggroundcounseling.com/ Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    19 min

About

Are you tired of feeling lost and overwhelmed in the healthcare system? Do you want to regain control of your health journey and make informed decisions with confidence? If so, then this podcast is for you.  I am a Doctor of Medical Science, author, a mother and a Board Certified Patient Advocate who has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. I have been the provider, the patient, the daughter, the sister, and the parent facing the overwhelming healthcare system; and left feeling alone and confused. Navigating your health and managing your healthcare is challenging, but it's a lot better when we go through it together.  Are you ready to take charge of your healthcare journey? It's time to Ask the Patient Advocate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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