Clark’s mother recently had surgery, and Clark has had a maddening time helping her sort through and pay the bills. It’s nearly impossible to figure out all the codes and determine if what you’re paying is fair. Something that may help is having a “patient advocate.” Clark talked about this idea years ago, hoping it would catch on. Finally, it seems like it may be happening, according to the Houston Chronicle. Basically, patient advocates are bureaucrats for consumers. They help individuals and small businesses figure out their bills and acts as representatives of that person. If you are having trouble getting coverage from your insurer, the advocate will step in, as well. The only problem is that there is no referral source Clark knows of to give you. You will have to dig for the information, possibly through a social worker at your doctor’s office or at the hospital. Patient advocates usually charge $50 to $75 an hour, but it can be a huge help at a time when you need it most.