About Healthcare Liaison
and Founder Joanna Smith

Healthcare Liaison

Healthcare Liaison has been helping people of all ages with healthcare advocacy for more than 15 years. We specialize in assisting individuals and families as they navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system: we are committed to giving them the tools to make informed healthcare choices. At Healthcare Liaison we now focus on short term consultations, palliative care and the CA End of Life Options Act.

We also provide consultation and training for Healthcare Advocates, consumers and Corporate entities.


Joanna Smith LCSW, MPH, CHA
Healthcare Liaison, Inc.
4318 Gilbert St.
Oakland, CA 94611

Phone: 510-704-8476


Advocacy Consultation, and Training in Healthcare Advocacy

Healthcare Liaison, Inc. includes a resource team of talented Affiliate Advocates from the fields of physician's services, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy and medical social work. These Affiliates assist us in offering you comprehensive, professional services in a timely manner.








Joanna Smith

Joanna Smith, LCSW, MPH is the CEO of Healthcare Liaison, Inc. She has 25 years experience in the fields of health, public health and mental health. She has worked as a medical social worker and hospital discharge planner in healthcare systems throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Previous experience also includes work in home health and community-based agencies. She has a thorough knowledge of both public and private sector healthcare systems and a special interest in cross-cultural issues in healthcare.

Joanna received her Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 1978 and her Masters in Public Health in Maternal and Child Health from the University of California, Berkeley in 1985. She is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California - LCSW #9586. She also holds a credential as a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. Joanna is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, The Hastings Center, and is Founder of the National Association of Healthcare Advocacy.


National Association of Social Workers

National Association of Social Workers

National Association of Women Business Owners

The Hastings Center

The Hastings Center

National Women Business Owners

National Women Business Owners