FAQ
Answers to our most frequently asked questions.
What is a Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA)?
A BCPA is a professional who is trained and credentialed to help clients navigate the healthcare system independently. They do not work for hospitals, insurance companies, or providers instead, they work solely on behalf of the patient or caregiver to offer unbiased guidance, support, and advocacy. They abide by the Code of Ethics for Board Certified Patient Advocates and continue to expand their knowledge of advocacy and related issues through continuing education.
What kinds of people do you work with?
We support patients, caregivers, and families facing challenges with chronic illness, rare disease, complex care plans, hospital discharges, denied insurance claims, billing issues, or general medical system overwhelm. We also work with, and are highly entrenched in, the LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and disabled communities. If you’re unsure whether we can help, book a free discovery call to talk it through.
Do you provide medical advice or replace my doctor?
No. Chronically Advocating does not provide medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. We complement your care team by helping you prepare for appointments, understand your options, and communicate more effectively with providers.
How do your services work?
We start with a free 20-minute discovery call to learn more about your situation and how we can help. If you decide to move forward, we’ll outline a plan of support tailored to your needs.
Do you work with clients in-person?
No, Chronically Advocating works virtually only. All services are provided remotely via phone, video call, or secure messaging, allowing clients across the U.S. to access expert support from the comfort and privacy of their own home.
Do you accept insurance?
Our services are private pay and not covered by health insurance. We also strive to maximize value often helping clients avoid unnecessary expenses or resolve costly billing errors.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on your specific needs. Please contact us or schedule a free discovery call to discuss.
Can you help if I don’t even know where to start?
Yes—especially then. Many clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, unsure what the exact problem is, or too exhausted to figure it out. That’s okay. You don’t need to have everything organized or even know the right questions to ask. We’ll listen, help you sort through what’s going on, and build a plan that meets you where you are.
Do you work with Commercial Insurance or ACA Plans?
Yes! We support clients with both commercial (private) insurance and Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans—with a special focus on plans based in California. We have in-depth knowledge of the state’s insurance landscape, including Covered California plans, major regional insurers, and the nuances that often confuse or overwhelm patients.
While our services are not reimbursed by insurance, many clients with ACA or employer-based coverage choose to work with Chronically Advocating to better understand their benefits, appeal denials, and advocate for medically necessary care.
Do you work with Employer-Sponsored (Commercial) Plans?
Yes! Chronically Advocating works with clients who have employer-sponsored (commercial) health insurance plans. We are experienced in navigating the complexities of these plans including understanding coverage, appealing denials, resolving billing issues, and maximizing in-network benefits.
While advocacy services are not typically covered by employer-sponsored insurance, many clients find that working with an independent advocate saves them time, money, and stress, especially when dealing with high deductibles, complex claims, or out-of-network care.
Do you work with Medicare or Medicare Advantage Plans?
Yes! We work with clients who have Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. We’re familiar with how these systems work and can help you navigate denials, appeals, authorizations, and other insurance-related challenges.
While Medicare does occasionally cover certain types of care coordination or navigation services, we are independent advocates, which means we are not reimbursed by Medicare and we are not limited by its coverage restrictions or documentation requirements. This allows us to provide more personalized, flexible support based solely on your needs and not insurance billing rules.
If you’re specifically seeking a Medicare-covered services, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to refer you to an advocate or advocate services who may meet that need.
Do you work with VA or TRICARE Plans?
Yes! We work with clients who are covered under VA and TRICARE plans.
While our services are not reimbursed by VA or TRICARE, we can still work alongside your existing care structure to help you understand your benefits, prepare for appointments, organize medical records, and advocate for the care and services you need.
Is everything confidential?
Yes! We treat all client information with the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism. As a Board Certified Patient Advocate, Victoria follows strict ethical guidelines and does not share your information without your permission.
Do you help people with rare conditions or complicated cases?
Absolutely! Supporting individuals with rare, complex, or multisystem diagnoses is one of our core specialties. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, still searching for answers, or coordinating care between multiple specialists, we help you organize information, ask the right questions, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Can you help with hospital discharges or care transitions?
Yes! We work with patients and families during and after hospital stays to ensure a safe, supported discharge plan. That includes advocating for needed services, reviewing follow-up instructions, and coordinating with case managers or providers so you’re not sent home without the care or resources you need.
I’m not sure where to begin—can you still help?
Absolutely! You don’t need to have it all figured out. Many clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or stuck. That’s exactly why we’re here. Start with a free discovery call we’ll take it from there.