Patient advocacy is about getting your needs met within the healthcare system. Dr. Wheeler works for you, not your healthcare providers. Patient advocacy can help you get the most out of your healthcare. From helping you find a provider, to attending appointments, working with insurance denials and appeals, or even end of life planning- Dr. Wheeler is here to help.
Dr. Wheeler is a Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) and former family medicine physician. She is also a medical writer and editor. Her expertise in these fields allows her to be an excellent asset to “d ecoding” medical records and jargon in appointments. She frequently works with patients who desire help understanding their diagnosis and finding the resources and care they need to manage it.
Dr. Wheeler can provide support virtually, or in person. She offers free consultations to help you determine if her services are right for your needs. Living in a rural area provides some unique, challenging healthcare issues and Dr. Wheeler is well-equipped and ready to help. She has experience advocating for patients across the lifespan from children to seniors.
Dr. Wheeler is also available to speak in group settings about patient empowerment, hospital safety, telehealth tips, and more, including custom presentations. She is interested in interviews and finds sharing her knowledge to be meaningful and enjoyable.
Patient advocacy can change lives for the better. If you are struggling with navigating the healthcare system, please reach out to a patient advocate. They will step up to the plate and do what it takes to get your needs heard and satisfied. You won’t regret prioritizing your wellbeing and seeking help from a patient advocate like Dr. Wheeler. With a patient advocate, you’re never alone in healthcare.
To learn more about patient advocacy visit Dr. Wheeler’s website at www.lostcoastadvocacy.com. She can also be reached by email at lauren@lostcoastadvocacy.com, or by phone at (785) 623-8751.
This article appears in My Humboldt Life January 2026.