About
I created Ishta Patient Advocacy to support first-generation and South Asian immigrants, and anyone who feels overwhelmed by medical care, insurance, or billing. I know how hard it is to balance a busy career, cultural expectations, and caring for kids and elders while trying to make sense of the U.S. healthcare system. Healthcare shouldn’t be confusing. Whether you’re facing an insurance denial, an unexpected medical bill, a new diagnosis, or you’re trying to help an aging parent, I’ll help you understand your options and advocate for the care you deserve.
Meet the Founder
— Chitra Patil, BCPA
Chitra Patil has called the San Francisco Bay Area home for over 25 years. She brings a rare mix of technical skills, real-world healthcare experience, and personal insight to her work as a Patient Advocate. Chitra understands the differences between healthcare in India and the U.S., and she understands South Asian communication styles — this helps clients feel heard, respected, and supported.
Why I Became a Patient Advocate
More than a decade ago, I became a patient advocate for a family member — long before I knew this was even a profession. When my family member could no longer advocate for themselves, I stepped in. I coordinated care between hospitals and treatment centers, researched doctors and programs, and worked closely with physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers. I kept the family informed, and with the patient’s permission, I shared updates on their condition and medications so the care team could provide better care.
When well-known treatment programs had long waitlists, I found an out-of-state program with immediate openings and worked with the care team to arrange a timely transfer. When the insurance company denied coverage, saying outpatient treatment was enough, I filed a complaint with the California Department of Managed Health Care. I won the appeal and secured about $70,000 in coverage — all while working full time.
During my years in Silicon Valley, I kept appealing insurance denials, securing coverage for out-of-network care, and resolving complex claims for others.
These experiences taught me how overwhelming healthcare can be, especially when you’re caring for a loved one while juggling work and family. My goal is to ease that burden — helping you understand your options, navigate the system with confidence, and get the care and coverage you deserve.
Background & Qualifications
- 25+ years in IT and technical writing; first-generation immigrant with a deep understanding of South Asian cultural norms.
- Completed a one-year UCLA Extension Patient Advocacy Certificate (2024) and earned Board Certified Patient Advocate (PACB) certification (2025).
- Successfully handled complex insurance issues, including over $100,000 in overturned denials and 150+ out-of-network claims filed.
- Personal experience managing major family health crises: navigating multiple providers, insurance challenges, appointment delays, and coverage issues — all while working full time.
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