We are all inundated with advice to get more tests, whether it's from a partner, a parent, a health advocacy group or a caregiver.

By 2010, almost two dozen organizations had begun offering certificate programs, workshops and degrees in patient or health advocacy.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, health advocacy companies began to appear to help patients deal with the complexities of the healthcare system.

Each year, more organizations, including colleges and universities offer such programs, satisfying the needs of the many people who are turning to careers in patient and health advocacy.