What does a Patient Liaison do?
Published 4 min read
A patient liaison is a professional who helps patients and families navigate the healthcare system. They act as a go-between for patients and doctors, providing information and support. Patient liaisons often have a background in social work or another helping profession.
Patient Liaison job duties include:
- Establish and maintain relationships with patients, their families, and healthcare team members
- Serve as a patient advocate
- Coordinate patient care
- Facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare team members
- Help patients navigate the healthcare system
- Educate patients about their health conditions and treatment options
- Assist patients with making appointments and arranging for transportation to appointments
- Help patients obtain necessary medical supplies and equipment
- Follow up with patients after they leave the hospital or doctor’s office
Patient Liaison Job Requirements
The job of a Patient Liaison is to ensure that patients receive the best possible care while they are in the hospital. They work with the medical staff to ensure that all of the patient's needs are being met and that they are comfortable with their surroundings. They also work with the family members of the patients to keep them updated on their loved one's condition and to answer any questions they may have. A Patient Liaison must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and it is preferred that they have some experience working in a hospital setting.
Patient Liaison Skills
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to empathize with patients
- Active listening skills
- Organizational skills
- Time management skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Multitasking
- Computer literacy
- Customer service
- People skills
- Phone etiquette
Related: Top Patient Liaison Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Patient Liaison
A Patient Liaison is a professional who advocates for patients and their families, providing support and guidance throughout the healthcare journey. The Patient Liaison role is vital in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and experience while navigating the healthcare system.
There are many ways to become a Patient Liaison. One way is to have a background in customer service or another people-oriented field. It is also beneficial to have experience working with the healthcare system in some capacity, whether it be as a patient, family member of a patient, or employee of a healthcare organization. Strong communication skills are essential, as is the ability to build relationships and trust with patients and their families.
If you are interested in becoming a Patient Liaison, start by doing your research. Learn about the role and what it entails. Talk to people who are currently working as Patient Liaisons and get their insights. Once you have a good understanding of what the role looks like, start exploring opportunities within healthcare organizations. Many Patient Liaisons are employed by hospitals, but there are also positions available within clinics, home health agencies, and other types of healthcare facilities.
When applying for positions, highlight your customer service or people-oriented experience on your resume. If you have any experience working with the healthcare system, be sure to mention that as well. During interviews, emphasize your ability to build relationships and communicate effectively. If you can demonstrate that you have the skills and qualities necessary to be successful in the role of Patient Liaison, you will be well on your way to starting a rewarding career advocating for patients and their families within the healthcare system.
Related: Patient Liaison Resume Example
Related: Patient Liaison Interview Questions (With Example Answers)