Health Advocates

Although independent patient advocates may have more opportunities to put the patient first, they sometimes gain that freedom at the expense of job stability and a predictable salary. ZipRecruiter.com reports that patient representatives earned median annual salaries of $42,997 in November 2024. Earnings ranged from less than $29,500 to $66,000 or more.

A self-employed patient advocate or an advocate at a private firm will likely work for consultant fees that tend to vary from job to job. Some independent patient advocates charge flat fees from $75 to $150 or more to analyze insurance statements; if the advocate identifies any savings for the client, the advocate and client split the savings 50-50. While these rates may work out to significant earnings per year, independent advocates have no guaranteed business, and a slow year will mean a lower income. At nonprofit organizations, advocates can rely on predictable salaries; however, because nonprofits often lack the financial wherewithal of hospitals and corporations, advocates working at nonprofits tend to earn salaries at the lower end of the pay scale.

Health advocates usually receive benefits such as vacation days, sick leave, health and life insurance, and a savings and pension program.