[header] How to be a hospital advocate [title] Do some background research. [step] The more familiar you are with the health care system, the insurance system, and the specific medical condition your loved one is grappling with, the more effective you can be as an advocate. [substeps] For example, take some time to learn how the hospital bureaucracy works. 
What is the " chain of command? " who does your loved-one's doctor or medical team report to? Learn about the patient's health insurance policy and/or medicare aid. Look into the process of appealing when aid is denied.