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Kaiser Uses Algorithms to Diagnose Mental Health Patients in Violation of State Law
Therapists say system routinely results in patients at risk of suicide not getting immediate and appropriate care In the vibrant...

Sierra Nurse
Apr 143 min read


What is a Board Certified Patient Advocate?
Our patient advocate recently became board certified! What does this mean? What does BCPA mean? Board Certified Patient Advocate The...

Sierra Nurse
Apr 111 min read


Common Misconceptions About 5150 Holds
Many people mistakenly believe that individuals with psychiatric diagnoses are violent and dangerous. In truth, those with mental...

Sierra Nurse
Mar 244 min read


VA Loma Linda Accused of Illegal Use of 5150 Holds
In the Golden State of California, a troubling trend is emerging within the walls of esteemed health care facilities receiving State...

Sierra Nurse
Mar 104 min read


What We Do at "Independent Patient Advocate of the Sierras"
For those unfamiliar with the medical field, understanding your medical records and grasping your patient rights can be challenging. At...

Sierra Nurse
Mar 55 min read


Withholding Medical Records from a Patient: A Serious Crime
Withholding medical information from a patient who has a legal right to access it is not only unjustifiable but also fraught with peril. ...

Sierra Nurse
Mar 32 min read


March is Brain Injury Awareness Month
At the Patient Advocate of the Sierras, we recognize that March is Brain Injury Awareness Month . Brain injuries can often be mistaken...

Sierra Nurse
Mar 23 min read


Our Story: It's not just professional, it's personal
Leslie Waddington (nee Reyes), BSN, RN, our independent patient advocate, brings extensive experience in the health care field since 1998...

Sierra Nurse
Feb 283 min read


Your Medical Records and Exculpatory Evidence
Understanding Exculpatory Evidence Exculpatory evidence plays a pivotal role in the legal landscape, serving as the cornerstone that can...

Sierra Nurse
Feb 192 min read


Understanding Mandatory Reporting: A Crucial Responsibility
Mandatory reporting is not just a legal obligation; it's a vital safeguard for our communities, ensuring that suspected abuse or neglect...

Sierra Nurse
Feb 12 min read


Why the "Right to make phone calls and have visitors" is so important to mental health patients under the Lanterman Petris Short Act
Allowing patients to stay in touch with loved ones, advocates, regular doctors and therapists is crucial to healing One of the earliest...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 304 min read


Understanding your rights under the Lanterman Petris Short Act
In 1967, Ronald Reagan, who was the Governor of California at the time, signed the Lanterman Petris Short Act into law. During this...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 202 min read


Advocating for Autistic Adults: Independent Patient Advocate of the Sierras
In the realm of healthcare advocacy, one name stands out for its dedication to serving a diverse range of patients in need - Patient...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 152 min read


Navigating Mental Health Rights and The Lanterman Petris Short Act (5150) in California
Navigating mental health rights and resources in California can be a daunting task for individuals and their families. From understanding...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 142 min read


Unpacking Substance Abuse Care: Patient Advocate of the Sierras' Services for those seeking recovery
Navigating the complex world of healthcare can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to mental health, substance abuse disorders, and...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 112 min read


What Makes Us Different at Patient Advocate of the Sierras
In most states, each county is required to provide a Patient Advocate to help the public with healthcare-related issues. Furthermore,...

Sierra Nurse
Jan 72 min read
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