Independent Patient Advocacy
Heard. Validated. Advocated For.
“As someone who has navigated this system personally, I know what matters most: someone who actually shows up for you.”
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Is This You?
You just got a diagnosis and don't know where to start.
Your SSDI claim was denied, or the process feels impossible to navigate alone.
You were just discharged from the hospital with no real plan for what comes next.
You're caring for a loved one and drowning in paperwork, appointments, and phone calls.
What Is an Independent Patient Advocate?
An independent patient advocate works for you, not a hospital, not an insurance company. That means no conflicts of interest and no divided loyalty. My only job is helping you understand your options, organize your case, and get the support you need to move forward.
Services You Can Trust
Personalized, professional patient advocacy support for every step of your journey.
Health Navigation
Doctor visit prep, medical records, care coordination, lab result explanation
SSDI Application & Appeals
Prepare a strong application and organize your case for appeal, from a registered Social Security representative
Whole Health Advocacy
Bill tracking, community resources, financial organization, case management
How It Works
Reach out for a free 30-minute introductory conversation.
We talk through your situation and what support looks like.
We sign a simple engagement agreement and get to work.
About Becky
MSW, Kentucky Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW). 15+ years as a volunteer legislative patient advocate with the National Patient Advocate Foundation and NORD, lobbying in Frankfort and Washington, DC. Beginning a PhD in Social Work at the University of Kentucky in fall 2026, focused on cancer disparities and rural Appalachian healthcare access. While she works with clients nationwide, Becky has a particular focus on rural healthcare access in rural Eastern Kentucky and Appalachia.
Recognition: Top 3 finalist, NPAF's Donna Guinn Patient Advocate of the Year Award; 2025–2026 Vital Voices Visionaries Fellow.
My Advocacy Journey
17 years of legislative patient advocacy at the highest levels.
Congressional Advocacy
Kentucky Representative Andy Barr, 6th Congressional District, advocating for patient rights on Capitol Hill.
National Advocacy in Washington, DC
National legislative patient advocacy work in Washington, DC.
NPAF Volunteers
National Patient Advocacy Foundation, working alongside patient advocates nationwide.
Mitch McConnell
US Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Kentucky patient advocacy at the federal level.
Disclaimer: Becky Barnes is a non-clinical advocate. She does not diagnose, treat, or provide medical care. Services are limited to non-medical navigation, coordination, and advocacy support. See our Privacy & Security Policy for how client information is protected.
Get In Touch
Independent Patient Advocate serving clients nationwide, 100% remote, with a particular focus on rural Eastern Kentucky and Appalachia (limited in-person support available in Richmond and Lexington, KY areas, on a case-by-case basis).
info@thepatientsadvocate.org