Becoming a Powerful Patient: Understanding and Practicing Patient Advocacy

Your health is your most valuable asset—and your voice is the key to protecting it. Becoming a Powerful Patient is an interactive, in-person workshop that empowers individuals to take an active role in their healthcare. Led by Shermelle Schaffer, participants will learn how to advocate for themselves with confidence, prepare for appointments, ask the right questions, and understand their rights as patients. The session also explores emotional coping strategies to help manage stress and uncertainty during challenging medical experiences.

Through guided instruction, group discussions, and roleplay exercises, attendees will gain practical tools to become more effective and confident advocates for themselves and their loved ones.

What You’ll Learn:

• The role and importance of self-advocacy in healthcare

• How to prepare for medical visits and maximize your time with providers

• Communication strategies for clear and effective conversations with healthcare teams