Nothing should stand between you and the best possible care

Does this describe you or a loved one:

Do you have a rare disease or an advanced illness?
Have you been told you need surgery but want a second opinion?
Are you frustrated with your health insurance and its costs?
Are you confused about advance care directives?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, I can help. As an independent health advocate, I work exclusively for you –– not for a hospital or insurance company –– to help you obtain the best possible care. I customize my services to fit your needs and walk you through the healthcare system with confidence. I work with clients in the San Francisco Bay Area, including the East Bay, Marin, Silicon Valley, Palo Alto, and Monterey County.

How can I help?

Let hope help you heal™

My life’s work

is taking a stand on behalf of those our healthcare system has failed. I founded Tree of Life Health Advocates to always be at my clients’ side when they need help most. I’m a health advocate trained as a medical sociologist, bioethicist, and health policy analyst. An expert on breast cancer, long-term care, clinical trials, and the end of life, I hold a Ph.D. in sociology from Brandeis University and a certificate in patient advocacy from UCLA. I believe that you shouldn’t have to face unexpected healthcare problems alone. Read my full bio Meet me via video

I know that anyone I refer to Ruth will be in the most capable and caring hands.
She is a pioneer in pushing forward several significant health-related initiatives. I trust her in every respect.
VJO, San Francisco, CA

“I felt overwhelmed by all of the family insurance plan choices and the subtle differences between plans. Ruth’s extensive knowledge of each plan and willingness to thoroughly evaluate all of the possibilities made me feel confident that I was making the right decision.”
HU, Los Angeles

“I was fortunate to work with Ruth on a complex medical billing case. Her ability to organize, prioritize and simplify a challenging set of problems was impressive, and her follow through went beyond all expectations. I’d gladly work with her again if given the opportunity.”
Linda Adler, Founder & CEO, Pathfinders Medical, Palo Alto, CA

IF YOU HAVE A HEALTHCARE CHALLENGE, I WANT TO BE YOUR ADVOCATE

OVERWHELMED?

You feel overwhelmed by a new diagnosis or proposed treatment.

THE RIGHT DOCTOR?

You’re searching for the right doctor to treat your illness or manage your care.

INSURANCE CHOICES?

You need guidance purchasing a new health insurance plan.

ARE HOSPITALS SAFE?

You’re going into the hospital and want to stay as safe as possible.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES?

You need to prepare or update your advance directives.

PATIENT-RIGHTS VIOLATIONS?

Your rights as a patient may have been violated.

CLINICAL TRIALS?

You’ve exhausted your treatment options and don’t know where to turn.

NEED SUPPORT?

You need help handling your own or a loved one’s care.

DECLINED PROCEDURES?

Your insurance has declined to cover a provider, procedure, or prescription.

Learn more about what Tree of Life can do for you