Because paid patient advocates are so new to healthcare, there are few formal degree or credentialing programs available. Most patient advocates are self-proclaimed, coming from backgrounds varying from nursing or other healthcare professions, to social work or education. Some patient advocates have simply gained on-the-job experience helping a loved one navigate the system, and now they hope to expand that experience into a career helping others.
The existing health and patient advocacy programs are available mostly for those wishing to receive a master's degree, or for medical students who wish to add advocacy as an adjunct to their medical degrees. More recently, online programs have been developed, too.
Case managers may earn a credential which can be earned through a combination of education and testing. Most case managers have nursing degrees or social work degrees to begin with, then take a test that makes them eligible for jobs that require the case manager credential. Most are employed with managed care/HMO (health management organizations), or by government entities to work directly with patients. (See note about case manager employment.)
