Patient Advocate
Sometimes it can be hard to vocalize your needs and concerns around receiving care. That’s why CRMC provides Patient Advocates as a resource to help you communicate things that might be difficult to discuss with your care team.
To connect with a Patient Advocate, please call (218) 545-5380 or email patientadvocate@cuyunamed.org.
*Please do not include protected health information such as a date of birth.
Patient Advocate FAQ
Are Patient Advocates employed by CRMC?
Yes, but the Patient Advocate acts as a neutral party, serving as a link between you and the medical center. Patient Advocates are not lawyers and do not provide legal advice.
What kind of issues does the Patient Advocate handle?
A Patient Advocate looks into and helps resolve patient and family complaints regarding care. If you are not satisfied with your care or communication about it, a Patient Advocate can help you.
Who can talk to a Patient Advocate?
Patient Advocates can only discuss care concerns with the patient or their legal representative but will listen to all concerns.
If I have a concern, how will it be handled?
The Patient Advocate will look into your concern and work with you to resolve the issue. Your complaint is then entered into our database, and reports are sent to hospital leadership. This information is used to enhance the services we deliver. Our investigation will include:
- Asking your permission to start the investigation
- Talking with you and/or your family
- Talking with the person(s) named in your complaint
- Reviewing all appropriate documents, including your medical record if necessary
- Collaborating with you on a possible resolution
Can I report a complaint without giving my name?
Yes, but the investigation will be more difficult because we will not be able to use specific information about your case.
What if I want to report my complaint to an outside agency?
You can file quality of care complaints with the following agencies:
- Minnesota Department of Health, The Office of Health Facility Complaints: 651-201-4201 or 800-369-7994
- The Joint Commission: 800-994-6610
- Livanta (Medicare recipients): 888−524−9900
- Office of the Ombudsman for Older Americans: 651-431-2555 or 800-657-3591 or TTY: 771 800-627-3529
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