Advocacy groups

Patient advocacy groups (PAGs) are organisations - often non-profits - formed to support, represent, and advocate for individuals affected by specific health conditions or diseases. These groups are typically made up of patients, carers, healthcare professionals, researchers, & community supporters, and they work to amplify the voices of those with lived experience.

They play a vital role in health education, policy reform, research advocacy, support services, and public awareness, making them powerful allies in healthcare communication and public relations.​

PAGs ensure that the lived experiences of patients are included in decisions about healthcare, from clinical research to government policy. They advocate for patients’ rights, access to care, and dignity in treatment.

These groups are often the first stop for newly diagnosed individuals or those seeking guidance. They offer educational resources, peer support, helplines, forums, & information about treatment options.

Many PAGs play a key role in fundraising for medical research & raising awareness of research participation opportunities. They often partner with research institutions to guide studies that reflect patient priorities.

Through lobbying, submissions, campaigns & community mobilisation, advocacy groups help influence government policies to improve patient outcomes, access to services & funding for support programs.

By sharing stories, producing campaigns, & running public events, they bring visibility to health conditions that are under-recognised or stigmatised, helping to normalise conversations & reduce discrimination.

Patient advocacy groups are deeply trusted within their communities. They bring credibility to healthcare campaigns because they are seen as authentic, community-aligned, and patient-focused - not driven by commercial interests.

These groups are a vital source of lived experience voices - from patients & carers to families - who can bring powerful human perspectives to media stories, often supported by expert knowledge or peer-reviewed evidence.

Working with PAGs strengthens a brand or organisation’s commitment to social responsibility. It demonstrates that a campaign is not just about promotion, but about creating genuine, meaningful impact for communities.

PAGs are often closely connected to clinicians, researchers, allied health professionals & government agencies. This makes them influential partners for securing interviews, endorsements, or access to thought leaders in a campaign.