Special Thanks to the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation

Aug 14

CAN is deeply grateful for the generous gift from the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation, which will allow us to continue to work hard and fight for the dignity of consumers in Washington, DC. Thank you so much for supporting the work that we do!

Simon Fuerstenberg

CAN News Fall 2022

Remembering Effie Smith

Recognizing Wise Healthcare Consumer Month at Consumer Advocate Network

February is Wise Healthcare Consumer Month, a time dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their healthcare. At Consumer Advocate Network (CAN), we champion self-advocacy and equip our consumers with the tools they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

What Does It Mean to Be a Wise Healthcare Consumer?

A wise healthcare consumer takes an active role in their health by:

✅ Understanding their rights – Knowing they have a say in their treatment and care.

✅ Asking questions – Seeking clarity about diagnoses, medications, and procedures.

✅ Exploring options – Weighing different healthcare choices to make the best decisions.

✅ Advocating for themselves – Communicating needs clearly and standing up for their well-being.

✅ Utilizing resources – Accessing available healthcare programs and financial assistance.

How Consumer Advocate Network Promotes Wise Healthcare Consumerism

At CAN, we embody these principles every day through:

🔹 Peer Support & Education – Our trained peer specialists, with lived experience, guide consumers in understanding their healthcare rights.

🔹 Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) – We help individuals develop personal wellness strategies for better healthcare outcomes.

🔹 Community Partnerships – We connect consumers to essential healthcare resources, ensuring access to quality care.

🔹 Advocacy & Empowerment – We provide a voice for those facing barriers in healthcare, reinforcing their ability to make informed decisions.

Why This Matters

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially for those managing mental health challenges, financial barriers, or systemic inequities. Through education, empowerment, and advocacy, CAN ensures that every individual we serve becomes a stronger, wiser healthcare consumer—not just in February, but every day of the year.

💙 This month, let’s commit to making informed healthcare choices and supporting others in their journey to self-advocacy. #WiseHealthcareConsumer #SelfAdvocacy #ConsumerAdvocateNetwork #HealthcareEmpowerment

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