FAQs
General
What is Alongside Health?
Alongside Health is a service that helps patients, families, and physicians prepare for clearer, more effective healthcare conversations. We offer a confidential space to reflect, plan, and find language that brings understanding. We do not medical advice or mediation.
Is this a medical service?
No. We don’t provide medical opinions or treatment. Our focus is communication — helping you prepare for better conversations with your healthcare team.
Is this therapy or counseling?
No. This is coaching and communication support — practical, focused, and forward-looking.
What makes Alongside Health different?
We focus on the space between — where communication falters and trust feels thin. We help everyone prepare for better understanding and forward movement.
Patient & Family Guidance
What can I expect from a session?
You’ll meet virtually in a private, judgment-free space to organize your thoughts, clarify questions, and prepare for your next visit. Just bring yourself! You also can schedule a free ten minute discovery call to meet with Dr. Duffey and get an idea of how this all works.
Will you talk to my doctor?
No.
Can my family join my session?
Yes. They can sit in with you, or if they are in another location, it is up to you if you decide to share your unique virtual meeting link with them.
Can you help me understand my diagnosis or test results?
We don’t interpret medical information. We help you understand medical jargon, and we help you prepare the right questions for your clinician.
Is this confidential?
Yes. All sessions are conducted through secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms to protect your privacy and the confidentiality of your information. Everything we discuss stays private unless you choose to share it.
Healthcare Provider Coaching
Who is this coaching for?
We work with physicians and advanced practice providers at any stage, whether referred or self-initiated.
Is this disciplinary?
No. Coaching is confidential and non-punitive. It’s designed to help you reflect and strengthen communication.
What happens in coaching?
We review what brought you here, clarify goals, and practice strategies to rebuild trust and momentum.
Will my employer receive a report?
Only if requested — and you’ll have the option to read any summary first before it’s shared.
Still have questions?
Contact us at support@alongside-health.com. We’ll be glad to listen and help you decide if Alongside Health is the right fit for your situation.