Ask The Patient Advocate

What does it really mean to live with an invisible illness like Lupus?How do you advocate for yourself when doctors aren’t listening?And how do you turn personal pain into purpose—especially for the next generation?In this powerful episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli is joined by Semi Watson—a Lupus warrior, children's book author, and founder of Light for Lupus. Diagnosed after a traumatic health crisis, Sammy shares her decade-long journey with Lupus, the challenges of being heard in the healthcare system, and how she transformed that experience into a mission to educate and empower young people with chronic illness.From breaking down complex symptoms in kid-friendly language to advocating for patient-provider communication, Sammy’s story is one of hope, resilience, and redefining what it means to live boldly with chronic illness.🎯 In this episode, we explore:How to talk to your doctors when they aren’t listeningThe difference between pain and discomfortWhy saying “no” is a complete sentence in healthcareThe story behind her children’s book “Luna and the Tiny Superhero”How Light for Lupus is changing lives one young patient at a timeWhether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply someone looking to better understand chronic illness, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered, informed, and not alone.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Semi:https://www.instagram.com/lightforlupus/https://lightforlupus.com/Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Have you or a loved one ever wondered: “Should I consider a clinical trial?”Do clinical trials feel confusing, intimidating, or even risky?Could they actually be a turning point in your care—or someone else’s?In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borelli and Christine demystify the world of clinical trials—what they are, who they’re for, and how they can open doors to life-changing care when traditional options fall short.We break down the most common fears and misunderstandings, from the word “experimental” to insurance concerns, and walk you through what really happens behind the scenes. You’ll also hear how private patient advocates play a crucial role in helping families understand, access, and enroll in trials that fit their unique needs.Whether you're facing a diagnosis, exhausted from limited treatment plans, or simply curious about cutting-edge options, this episode is your guide to the hope, help, and healing that clinical trials can offer.🎯 What You’ll Learn:What clinical trials really are (and what they’re not)How to find out if you're eligible—and how to enrollWhy insurance may cover more than you thinkWhat to ask your doctor (and what they may not know)How private patient advocates simplify the entire processWhether you’re just starting treatment or you’re years into your journey, this episode is your reminder: you always have a choice, and your voice matters.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Have you ever been told your pain is “just part of being a woman”?Do doctors brush off your symptoms, making you feel unheard—or even gaslit?What if what you're experiencing is more than "just bad periods"?In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Nicole Notar, founder of Endo Excision For All, who shares her deeply personal—and all-too-familiar—journey with endometriosis.From years of misdiagnosis and dismissal, to finally receiving life-changing excision surgery, Nicole turns her struggle into a mission to empower others. Together, we break down the medical gaslighting so many patients face, the critical difference between ablation and excision surgery, why insurance barriers are leaving patients behind, and how you can advocate for the care you deserve.Whether you're wondering if you might have endometriosis, struggling to get a diagnosis, or looking for the right care path—this episode is your roadmap, your validation, and your voice.🎙️ Inside this episode:The shocking truth about how long it takes to get diagnosed with EndoWhy so many providers still misunderstand the diseaseThe financial and systemic barriers to excision surgeryRed flags to watch for when choosing a providerHow to get support through advocacy, mentorship, and private patient advocates🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Nicole:nicole@endoexcisionforall.orghttps://endoexcisionforall.org/https://www.instagram.com/endoexcisionforall/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolenotar/Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

What if your doctor just doesn’t feel right—but you’re afraid to make a change?Is it okay to switch your oncologist… even in the middle of cancer treatment?Will asking for a second opinion offend your care team—or empower your recovery?In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine tackle one of the most sensitive—but most important—questions in cancer care: When is it okay to change your oncologist? (Spoiler: It’s always okay.)💬 In this episode, we explore:Why patients feel afraid or guilty for switching doctorsRed flags that suggest it’s time to get a second opinionWhen during your treatment journey you can make a changeHow to find the right oncologist for you—not just your diagnosisThe critical role of private patient advocates in helping you feel heard, supported, and confidentWhether you’re just starting treatment or you’re years into your journey, this episode is your reminder: you always have a choice—and your voice matters.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Has your insurance ever denied a treatment you desperately needed?Did you feel stuck, overwhelmed—or forced to pay out-of-pocket?What if we told you… a denial isn’t the end of the road?In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine break down the confusing and emotional reality of insurance denials—and more importantly, what you can do about them.💡 You’ll learn:Why insurance denials happen (and how often they’re fixable)The real reasons behind denied claims—and how to spot themHow to appeal the decision (yes, you have the right!)Steps to take before you ever pay a denied billHow a private patient advocate can take the weight off your shouldersWhether you're facing a recent denial or just want to be prepared, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and tools to fight for the care you deserve. Don't give up—get informed.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Have you ever wondered if your DNA could hold the key to better healthcare? Heard of genetic testing but unsure if it’s right for you—or how it even works? Curious about precision medicine but confused by all the buzzwords?In this enlightening episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine break down everything you need to know about genetic testing and precision medicine—from what it is, to who it’s for, to how it can potentially change the course of a diagnosis or treatment plan.🔍 In this episode, we’ll explore:What genetic testing actually is (and what it isn’t)How precision medicine tailors treatment to your unique DNAThe risks and limitations you should consider before testingWhat to do with results that leave you with more questions than answersHow a private patient advocate can help you access, understand, and act on genetic insights✨ Whether you're managing a rare disease, facing unanswered medical questions, or just want to take a more proactive role in your care—this episode is your roadmap to understanding the power (and complexity) of personalized medicine.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Ever wonder why every person in the hospital seems to wear a white coat—but no one explains who they actually are?Is your doctor an MD or a DO? What’s a resident? A fellow? And who exactly is managing your care?In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine unpack one of the most confusing parts of navigating the healthcare system: understanding the titles and roles of your medical team. Whether you're seeing a physician, nurse practitioner, resident, or fellow—it’s not always clear who’s doing what. And that lack of clarity can impact your confidence and your care.🔍 You’ll walk away knowing:The real difference between MDs, DOs, PAs, and NPsWhat residents, interns, and fellows actually doWhy titles don’t always reflect experienceHow to politely ask, “Who are you, and what’s your role?”Why private patient advocates are essential to keeping your care team aligned🩺 You deserve to know exactly who’s making decisions about your health—and how to stay informed every step of the way.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Have you ever opened a medical bill and thought, "Wait…what am I even paying for?"Or worse, did you feel too overwhelmed to question it and just pay for it anyway?You’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine pull back the curtain on the confusing (and often flawed) world of medical billing. Whether you’ve been overcharged, billed twice, or denied by insurance for something your doctor said you needed, this episode is packed with real-world solutions.They break down the most common billing errors, explain how to fight back, and share a few jaw-dropping stories—including the man who was billed for a hysterectomy he never had. (Yes, really.)🔎 In this episode, you’ll learn:The top 3 medical billing errors and how to spot themWhat to do if your insurance denies a claimHow duplicate billing happens more than you thinkReal success stories where patients saved thousandsWhy it’s always worth fighting a bill you don’t understand💡 If you’ve ever felt stuck, confused, or burned by the billing system—this episode is your roadmap to getting answers and saving money.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

What if your symptoms were dismissed as “just hemorrhoids”—but turned out to be cancer? What would you do if you were diagnosed at 34 with stage 3 rectal cancer while raising three young kids?In this moving episode of Ask the Patient Advocate, we sit down with Melissa Groff, a mother of three and fierce advocate who shares the raw, real, and incredibly inspiring journey through her colorectal cancer diagnosis.From subtle symptoms that were brushed off, to a fight for answers, and now, to a mission of spreading awareness—Melissa opens up about what it’s like to live, heal, and thrive with cancer in your 30s. She shares how she blended conventional and holistic care, how she kept a positive mindset through chemotherapy and surgeries, and the powerful lessons she’s now using to help others.💡 Whether you’re navigating your own diagnosis, advocating for a loved one, or just want to understand the signs of colorectal cancer—this is the episode you’ll want to share.🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How Melissa’s symptoms were initially dismissed—and why she kept pushing for answersWhat it’s like navigating cancer treatment as a young momHow she combined Western medicine with naturopathic therapiesThe power of patient-led advocacy in early detectionPractical advice for anyone feeling unheard or overwhelmed by the healthcare system🛑 Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your body is always telling you something—Melissa’s story is your reminder to listen.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Melissa,https://www.instagram.com/loveitandshareConnect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com