About
Jonathan Sommers, Tikkun founder
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here
My name is Jonathan and, as a cancer survivor, I intimately know how a serious diagnosis can leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, and with more questions than answers. In this ocean of unknowns, patients and their families often find themselves wanting to grasp onto something tangible and to be connected. Connected to answers, to medical professionals, to resources, to hope and even themself. That’s where I come in.
I’m an independent Board-Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) and also a research advocate with over a decade of experience working in oncology (cancer). As an independent patient advocate, I work for you and your well-being is my top priority. As a research advocate, I collaborate on national patient-centered projects that improve outcomes and the medical system on a whole.
My unique background allows for integrative and compassionate care that sees you as the person you are and not a diagnosis. I’m able to be that connection for you, ensuring that your needs are met along the entire healthcare continuum. If you or a loved one wants to improve your care, I’d love to connect.
You Might Like to Know
Serves on SWOG’s - a cooperative group of the National Clinical Trials Network - Patient Advocate, Adolescent Young Adult, and Digital Engagement Committees
Published in peer-reviewed journals including the Journal of Clinical Oncology
Worked on several Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) grants
2020 Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of The Year campaign
Featured in Cancer Today Magazine
Guest on The Cancer Support Community Podcast
AYA@USC Patient and Family Advisory Council Member
Samfund/Expect Miracles Foundation grant reviewer
Primary Investigator on study that incorporates digital tools to improve patient outcomes
Launched a pilot project that reformed the Los Angeles Unified School Health curriculum to include importance of screening for testicular cancer
Affiliations:
Services
Turning A Diagnosis Into Survivorship
An unexpected diagnosis can turn your world upside-down and leave you and your loved ones with the same question — Ok, so what’s next? Tikkun Patient Advocates helps you navigate the next best steps. Collaborating with your healthcare team, I’m your champion who protects your interests and provides the professional support needed to navigate the myriad of challenges you’re facing.
This Includes:
Ensure an understanding of diagnosis and proposed treatment
Listen to you to understand your needs and work to meet them
Assist in forming your multidisciplinary healthcare team
Provide compassionate care and emotional support
Explain medical bills, health insurance, and your options
Access and educate about clinical trials
Teach how to navigate the healthcare system so you can be proactive and your own advocate
Locate a second or third opinion when wanted
Review medical bills for errors or duplications
Facilitate transitions of care
Equalize the power dynamics so you feel comfortable with your providers
Provide custom resources for the multiple ways a diagnosis and treatment impact your life
Facilitate complementary care appointments
Attend doctor appointments and ask the necessary questions so you can make informed decisions
Protect your rights and autonomy
Let’s Connect: 720-778-0095
What People Are Saying
FAQ
What is a Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA)?
A patient advocate is a professional that helps patients and their loved ones navigate the healthcare system and ensures they’re making informed decisions. A BCPA is a patient advocate who has received accreditation from the governing body of our practice, Patient Advocate Certification Board. In order to do so, they have to meet certain professional criteria, pass a lengthy exam, and follow strict ethical and professional guidelines.
How are independent patient advocates different?
Independent patient advocates like myself work for you and not a hospital or institution. I don’t have quotas to meet or bureaucracy to follow. I’m truly able to offer you a wide variety of options, suggestions and resources so you can select what you believe to be the best for your situation
Are patient advocates health practitioners?
Health practitioners study, diagnose, and treat medical conditions and patient advocates do not. We work in tandem with practitioners to complement your patient experience. Even a BCPA who is also a licensed health practitioner, when hired in the capacity of a patient advocate, is not permitted to offer their clinical expertise.
Do you accept health insurance plans?
Unfortunately health insurance companies don’t cover independent patient advocates and therefore I don’t accept health insurance.
How does it all work?
I tailor my services to meet your or your loved ones specific needs and situation. Since everyone is different, I offer a free 30 minute consultation call where we get to know each other and what I could to help. If you think I’d be a good fit and want to hire me, we’d then enter a written agreement stating my services and length of time.
What do you charge?
My hourly rate is comparable to other advocates with similar experience and credentials. I invite you to contact me to learn more.
Tikkun Patient Advocates are here to walk your healthcare path with you.
