The Doctor's Crossing Carpe Diem Podcast Episode #236: A Trauma Surgeon's Unexpected Journey Into Patient Advocacy and Navigation
Have you ever found yourself helping a loved one through a confusing medical situation and thought, "I wish I could do this full-time"? You're not alone. Many physicians are naturally drawn to patient advocacy and navigation, even if they don't yet realize it has a name or a career path.
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Angie Ingraham, a former trauma surgeon and critical care physician who made a powerful career transition after her father's diagnosis with glioblastoma. Experiencing the healthcare system from the other side opened her eyes to the gaps patients and families face. That journey led her to launch True North Patient Advocates, where she now supports others through complex medical situations with clarity and compassion.
Whether you've thought about becoming a patient advocate and navigator — or are simply curious about what this work actually involves — Angie shares the real-life steps she took to create a fulfilling and sustainable new path.
In this episode we're talking about:
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How a personal family crisis led Dr. Ingraham to explore patient navigation
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The surprising barriers patients face, even with medical connections
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What professional patient advocates and navigators actually do and how physicians are uniquely qualified
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How she built her business without formal business training
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The variety of clients and services in her day-to-day work
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Financial considerations and typical rates for advocates
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Steps you can take to explore this path for yourself
You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:
www.doctorscrossing.com/episode236
Links for this episode:
Dr. Angie Ingram — True North Patient Advocates
Greater National Advocates Directory
Alliance of Professional Health Advocates - Offers a Boot Camp and 100-day program for business startup
Patient Advocate Certification Board
National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Work
Episode #68: Being a Patient Advocate is a Real Option
Episode #156: How To Start A Side Gig Or Business As A Patient Navigator
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LinkedIn Course – 3 CME hours
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Resume Kit – 2 CME hours
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