About
Jonathan Sommers, Tikkun founder
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here
My name is Jonathan, and as a cancer survivor, I know firsthand how overwhelming a serious diagnosis can be. Patients and their families often face confusion, unanswered questions, and the need for connection—connection to answers, to medical professionals, to resources, to hope, and even back to themselves. That’s where I come in.
I’m an independent Board-Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) and currently serve on the Board of Directors of the Patient Advocate Certification Board (PACB), the national organization that sets professional standards for patient advocacy. I am also a research advocate with more than a decade of experience in oncology (cancer), working on national projects to improve patient care and strengthen the healthcare system.
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 you understand your diagnosis and proposed treatment
Listens closely to your needs and work with you to meet them
Build and coordinate your multidisciplinary healthcare team
Provide compassionate care and emotional support
Navigate health insurance and explain your benefits
Works with the medical system and insurance companies about your bills
Review medical bills for errors or duplications
Teach you how to navigate the healthcare system so you can be proactive and advocate for yourself
Access and explain clinical trial options
Facilitate smooth transitions of care
Support complementary care by helping arrange appointments if desired
Provide personalized resources for all aspects of living with a diagnosis
Attend medical appointments, ask key questions, and help you make informed decisions
Locate a second or third opinion when wanted
Protect your rights and autonomy in the healthcare process
Prepare questions and strategies before medical appointments so you feel confident and informed
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.
As Seen In
Tikkun Patient Advocates Featured in JEWISHcolorado
JEWISHcolorado Interviews Jonathan Sommers of Tikkun Patient Advocates
“Patients may feel alone, but it doesn’t mean they have to be alone.”
Jonathan’s interview for Cancer Support Community’s Men’s Health Blog
Cancer Support Community’s Men’s Health Blog
“I think the ultimate sign of courage and strength,” Jonathan says, “is acknowledging when there's a challenge that's bigger than you and you can't get through it alone, so you ask for help.”
Jonathan's patient perspective piece in JCO Oncology Practice
Do I Know You? Patient Privacy and Consent in the Age of Social Media
“We question if image posting without their consent undermines a patient's right to autonomy or erodes the essential trust of this (doctor-patient) relationship.” - Jonathan Sommers
Tikkun Patient Advocates are here to walk your healthcare path with you.
