(804) 506-3848
“Closing the GAP in your healthcare”
In collaboration with clients, families, and healthcare providers, we help create an environment where every patient feels empowered, respected and supported throughout their healthcare journey.
Mission:
Our mission at Gilstrap Advocacy Partners is to empower individuals navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. Through advocacy, education, and compassionate guidance, we are dedicated to fostering understanding and cultivating positive outcomes in your healthcare journey.
See how we can help transform
your healthcare experience!
Meet the Advocate
For the past seventeen years, I've dedicated my career to serving as a registered nurse in acute care settings. Throughout this journey, I've embraced the privilege of utilizing my expertise to support patients and their families, guiding them through the complexities of their medical journeys with compassion and clarity.
My passion for healthcare advocacy was ignited when my grandmother faced her own battle with cancer. Witnessing firsthand the challenges of coordinating care and navigating the intricacies of the healthcare system, I realized the profound need for support and guidance for those outside the medical field.
Driven by a desire to bridge this gap, I made it my mission to become the trusted "nurse in the family" for individuals facing similar struggles. I recognized the importance of empowering clients with a deeper understanding of their medical conditions, treatment options, and the confidence to actively participate in their healthcare decisions.
Shakiah Gilstrap, MSN, RN
By providing personalized attention and resources, I strive to ensure that each individual I serve feels supported, informed, and empowered throughout their healthcare journey. My commitment to advocacy extends beyond the bedside, as I work tirelessly to improve communication between medical providers and foster a collaborative approach to care.
With every interaction, I am honored to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve, embodying the values of compassion, empathy, and dedication that define my calling as a nurse and healthcare advocate.
Services
Services
Click each service to learn more
We will simplify medical terminology into plain language to enhance your comprehension, and help clients develop goals for their healthcare.
We will communicate with healthcare providers on your behalf to address any communications gaps rectify errors, and ensure accurate information maintenance.
We will compile a comprehensive list of medications, including side effects and other pertinent details.
Participate with healthcare appointments to offer support, encourage client participation in the healthcare process, and assist clients with any needed pre-appointment preparations.
We will provide ongoing support as the client moves throughout the healthcare system. Whether the client is moving from home to hospital, hospital to rehab, or any combination of facilities, we will be there to support the client and family.
- Review of Medical Records
- Examine the medical records and reports of the client, including results from different tests. We will simplify medical terminology into plain language to enhance your comprehension.
- Upon agreement, we'll gather detailed information to evaluate the client's individual circumstances, generate a summary to determine how we can assist, and decide on the appropriate advocate service(s) required.
- We will provide a comprehensive medical history document for your reference, and to be shared with your healthcare team.
Advocacy & Communication
- With the client's written consent, we will communicate with healthcare providers on their behalf to address any communication gaps, rectify errors, and ensure accurate information maintenance.
Medication Organization & Safety
- Examine the client's prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, and any supplements. We will compile a list of these medications, including side effects and other pertinent details.
- We will evaluate the client's or caregiver's comprehension of the medications, provide assistance in learning as necessary, and assess proper storage as directed by the medical provider.
Navigate Medical Appointments & Healthcare System
- Confirm the client's medical appointments and any necessary preparations as instructed.
- Participate in the client's healthcare/medical appointments either in person (meeting the client at the facility) or through online video calling. Prior to appointments, we will discuss any concerns the client or family has, and help to develop questions to ask at the appointment. This will empower the client to have the confidence to be an active participant in their healthcare.
- Subsequently, review the appointment details with the client and designated family member(s) and provide a written summary of the discussion.
Transition of Care
- We will provide ongoing support to clients, even as their care transitions from home to another facility.
- For new clients undergoing transitions, we will be engaged to advocate on their behalf during hospitalization, admission to rehabilitation facilities, or any other transitions, including their return home.
- We will thoroughly review all orders, medications (if applicable), and instructions for both the client and their family, decreasing stress related to the transition.
Get Started:
Step 1:
We invite you to visit to schedule a free 30-minute preliminary phone consultation. During this consultation, we will gather basic background information about your specific healthcare situation and needs. This will allow us to determine if we can work together and which service(s) may be of help.
We look forward to the opportunity to assist you on your healthcare journey.
Healthcare Intake Process :
Step 3.
We are dedicated to providing personalized advocate care plans to support you on your healthcare journey. If you decide to use our services, here's what you can expect:
Development of Personalized Advocate Care Plan:
After the intake process, we will develop a personalized advocate care plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This plan can be implemented at an hourly rate or via a retainer, depending on your preferences and requirements.
Our Services Include:
- Collecting, Reviewing, and Gathering Information: We will collect and review your medical records and test results to ensure we have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history and current situation.
- Writing Summary and Care Plan: Based on the gathered information, we will write a summary and care plan designed to address your healthcare needs effectively.
- Reviewing Care Plan with You: Before implementation, we will review the care plan with you to ensure it aligns with your goals and preferences.
- Advocating on Your Behalf: With your consent, we will communicate with your medical provider(s) on your behalf to ensure your needs are addressed effectively.
Fees for Ongoing or Intermittent Supportive Services:
- Retainer: Our services are rendered via a retainer. The retainer amount is determined based on our hourly rate and the estimated amount of work required. That amount is paid first then deductions are subtracted from it, based upon the hours of work you need. Any unused portion of the retainer will be refunded to you at the end of our contract.
Step 2.
- Schedule Your First Consultation Session: Upon confirming our ability to assist you, we will schedule your first consultation session either in-person or online. During this session, we will conduct a thorough health history intake to gain a complete understanding of your situation. Please note that this step commonly takes about two hours to ensure we gather all relevant information.
- Pay the Initial Consultation/Intake Fee: Before the consultation session, you will be required to pay the initial consultation/intake fee. This fee covers the time and resources involved in the intake process.
- Sign the Service Agreement: Once the initial fee is paid, we will provide you with a service agreement outlining the terms and conditions of our engagement. Upon mutual agreement, both parties will sign the service agreement, and the intake process can begin.
Feedback From Clients
Patients' Testimonials
"I want to thank you for understanding me today and for holding my heart. You gave me a very secure feeling. You advocated for me and I thank you for that!"
“You boost my spirits and I know that I can trust you.Thanks so much today, You are a pleasure to be around.”
Get In Touch
Phone
(804) 506-3848
Email
Shakiah@GilstrapAdvocacyPartners.com
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