In this episode of The Empowered Patient Podcast, Maria Cortina speaks with David Friedman, a certified pharmacy technician and healthcare advocate who bridges the gap between insurance systems and patient care. With a business administration background and hands-on retail pharmacy experience, David shares how he found purpose in helping patients navigate complex systems with compassion.

From prior authorizations and specialty medications to co-pay assistance and Medicare Part D tools, David highlights the everyday barriers patients face—and how miscommunication can turn small issues into major setbacks. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he uses empathy, active listening, and advocacy to ensure patients are seen as people, not just data points.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that real change in healthcare starts with human connection.