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Bring It On! Forum Fireworks Erupt Again
One of the most valuable resources any profession has is access to other people who are also invested in the interests of that profession. The internet and social media, of course, provide an opportunity to access this valuable resource on a global scale. … Which means that participants, including professionals and the people who are striving to join their professional ranks, come from a variety of backgrounds and attitudes, environments, personalities and life views. Now, mix that together with a specific profession – patient advocacy – where its proponents are highly passionate about their work. Add a dash of mixed opinions, and a pinch of “the rules aren’t yet written”, and what do we get? A recipe for fireworks! Oh yes we do. And oh yes – we’ve experienced fireworks again in the AdvoConnection / Alliance Forum. This is actually (only) the second time in the three years since we revved up the Fourm that the fireworks have gotten out of hand. The first time around, we looked at the question of Who Is Qualified to Be a Patient Advocate? It should be noted that those fireworks didn’t really accomplish much since that very question is still being debated, even today. This time around, it began with a simple request by a new, already-in-business advocate who wanted to know whether anyone thought it was a good idea to establish a monthly membership approach to her practice, and if so, how could the pricing structure be determined? The first few folks who responded shared what they are doing along those lines, and their success levels. Then one member, who happens to be a legal nurse consultant, suggested that such a discussion might violate the law, as if it was price fixing. The complexion of the conversation immediately shifted, and soon we witnessed personal attacks, lawyer bashing, and downright negativity. The conversation has now been closed (although you can access it through the forum to see what was said.) So what can we learn from these fireworks? You might actually be surprised at my thoughts on the subject. I’ll share them –…