Patient Relations Liaison
Field of Study — Health Administration, Information & Communications
Patient relation liaisons work with hospital patients and their families to address any concerns or special needs. They also work directly with administrators to solve patient and family problems.
Patient liaisons:
- act as intermediaries to hospital administrators on behalf of patients and their families.
- collect data about patient care problems and report it to the appropriate departments.
- evaluate patient satisfaction and make suggestions for changes or improvements.
- investigate and direct inquiries and complaints to the appropriate hospital staff.
- interpret the hospital philosophy, policies, procedures and services to patients, their families and visitors.
- educate health care professionals on ways to humanize patients’ hospital experiences.
- collaborate with hospital risk management program personnel to ensure better service.
Patient liaisons may specialize and work in a particular health care setting, such as a nursing home, children’s hospital or clinic. They also work in public health programs.
Educational Requirements
Students wishing to pursue a career as a patient representative should take challenging high school courses in science, math and English.
Educational requirements vary depending on the hospital. Many hospitals prefer applicants with health or social services background. Some prefer a bachelor’s degree and hospital experience, including conflict resolution and direct patient contact.
Educational Institutions
Some hospitals offer on-the-job training.Professional Associations
- No Professional Associations Apply