When the healthcare system gets complicated — and it always does — Kara Turner is the one you want in your corner. With close to 30 years of experience, she’s made it her mission to cut through red tape, advocate fiercely, and make sure no one gets lost in the shuffle. She does it all with equal parts compassion and tenacity.
I had the chance to talk with Kara about her work, what drives her, and how Closure Mapping has influenced the way she approaches both life and care.
Q: What exactly is healthcare navigation and advocacy?
I’m a care manager — healthcare advocacy is just one part of what I do. Think of me as a social worker and case manager rolled into one. I assist with all things medical and social service related.
I started out as a healthcare advocate, but it’s grown far beyond that. I help people navigate crises and care for them every step of the way.
Not every care manager supports individuals across all ages and diagnoses, but I do. That’s part of what makes Turner Care Management different. I built this business on one simple principle: care comes first, business comes second.
Q: How did you discover this work was for you?
I didn’t exactly choose this work — it chose me. I just knew I wanted to help, to care, to serve. I started out in healthcare as a medical assistant and trainer, and over time, all my experience in both medical and social services converged. Care management became the place where it all came together.
One of my earliest experiences was caring for my Nana in hospice when I was just 17. She was in and out of a coma. I felt helpless — but also at ease in the care she was receiving. Years later, my best friend went through multi-organ failure. And even though I was doing this work professionally by then, she didn’t want my help.
Those two moments shaped me deeply. The two closest people to me went through intense crises, and I couldn’t do anything. Sometimes the people you love most can’t receive what you’re offering. But I keep offering anyway. Because that’s who I am — I care deeply, and I don’t stop showing up.
Q: What makes your approach different from others in the field?
I don’t just assess — I act. I don’t want to waste people’s time or money. I offer sliding scale services because I know the need is there, even when the budget isn’t.
Also, I’m certified and credentialed at the highest level. As an Aging Life Care Professional®, I hold what’s considered the gold standard in this field. You shouldn’t settle for less.
Q: How has creating your own Closure Map impacted you?
It made me realize how much I need to prepare. I don’t have a power of attorney, yet I am one for so many clients. I’m still figuring it out personally — and honestly, that’s the whole point of the Closure Map. It gave me a clear list of what I need to gather and what I need to delegate.
One of my favorite parts is the step about making a list of things people should bring me if I’m ever in a care facility.
Like… who’s going to know that I want my paper planner? Or my skincare stuff with me? That’s real life. Those little things matter. And I love that the Closure Map makes space for them.
Q: Step 38 of the Closure is to “Build your Bucket List.” I know you’ve been traveling a lot lately! What’s at the top of your travel bucket list?
Gosh, I love to travel, and there are a lot of places I’d like to go. But Bali — it’s far, it’s expensive, and it would take at least three weeks to make it worth it. But I really want to go.
Q: Anything else you’d want people to know?
Most people don’t find out about care management until they’re already in crisis. I want them to know they can plan ahead. That they can have a medical advocate — for themselves, yes, but also so their family can just be their family when that crisis comes. I can help manage the other details.
You can learn more about Kara Turner and Turner Care Management here, and find out how to begin your own Closure Mapping journey at our next workshop.
