Advertise on podcast: Prescription for Admission

If you’ve ever been hospitalized, you know how overwhelming it can feel to suddenly meet new doctors, hear unfamiliar terms, and wonder who’s actually in charge of your care. In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I walk you through how hospital care really works and how you can better navigate it while you’re admitted. We’re talking about hospitalists, specialists, and why you may meet physicians you’ve never seen before. I explain how hospitalists coordinate your care, how specialists are brought in, and what that relationship means for you as a patient. More importantly, I share what you need to know so you can advocate for yourself and stay informed during your hospital stay. We also dive into the realities of insurance coverage, including why surprise bills happen, how out-of-network specialists can appear without warning, and what steps you can take to protect yourself financially. If you’re thinking ahead to discharge, I’ll help you understand why follow-up appointments, referrals, and insurance approvals can delay care — and how you can stay proactive once you leave the hospital. This episode is about setting you up for success, not just while you’re hospitalized, but also after discharge. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of hospital navigation and how to make the system work better for you. Key Takeaways: You will likely meet new physicians during a hospital stay Hospitalists coordinate your care between multiple specialists Understanding how hospitalists and specialists work together helps you advocate for yourself You may not have control over which specialists are consulted Surprise bills can come from out-of-network providers Communication with your existing specialists can improve hospital care Post-discharge care often requires navigating insurance protocols Scheduling follow-up appointments early is critical Insurance coverage can delay access to specialists after discharge Self-advocacy is essential to a successful hospital experience Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Hospital Navigation02:51 Understanding the Role of Specialists05:45 Navigating Specialist Relationships08:42 Dealing with Surprise Bills12:04 Communicating with Your Specialist14:53 Accessing Specialists After Discharge17:54 The Importance of Referrals20:42 Conclusion and Resources #hospitalnavigation #patientadvocacy #hospitalcare #hospitalist #medicalspecialists #healthcarecommunication #insurancecoverage #surprisebills #dischargeplanning #patientexperience #healthcareeducation #prescriptionforadmission #healthcarepodcast #hospitalexperience #patientadvocacy

Did you know that hospital food can impact your recovery, mood, and overall hospital experience? While often overlooked, what you eat during a hospital stay matters more than you think. In this episode of Prescription for Admission, discover the real story behind hospital food and why it matters for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike. Get actionable tips on nutrition, advocacy, and how to make the most of your hospital stay by understanding what’s on your plate. We’ll discuss the meaning of cultural and emotional aspects of food, why hospital meals are designed the way they are, and how nutrition plays a critical role in managing disease states and keeping patients safe. I’ll also explain what NPO orders mean, why they’re necessary, and how they can affect your experience if no one explains them clearly. If you ever wondered why you or your loved one suddenly lost an appetite in the hospital, or felt confused or frustrated by dietary restrictions, this episode is for you. I’ll help you understand what’s happening behind the scenes and provide you with practical ways to ask questions, communicate your needs, and advocate for better food-related care. Food can be nourishment.Food can be safe.Food can also be a powerful way to express love and care, even in a hospital. 🎧 Tune in and understand how hospital food can improve your experience, support recovery, and help you feel more in control during hospitalization. Key Takeaways Food is deeply personal and often tied to culture and comfort.Nourishment is the primary purpose of hospital food.Diet plays a critical role in managing disease states.Food safety is a top priority in hospital settings.NPO orders are necessary for certain procedures and treatmentsCommunication around dietary restrictions is often unclear. Reduced appetite in the hospital is common and has multiple causes.Caregivers play a crucial role in advocating for their loved ones' food preferences.Food can be a meaningful expression of love and care.Understanding prescribed diets can support healing and recovery.Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to hospitalization and food02:21 – Why food is personal and cultural in hospitals12:12 – The true purpose of hospital food23:59 – Understanding NPO orders and why they matter28:29 – Appetite changes and nutrition challenges33:03 – Resources for navigating hospital food as a patient or caregiverIf you or someone you love is currently in the hospital or preparing for a stay, this episode will help you ask better questions and feel more confident about food-related decisions. 🎧 Listen now and follow Prescription for Admission for weekly conversations that help you navigate hospitals with clarity and compassion. #hospitalfood #patientexperience #nutritionincare #hospitalstay #npoorders #dietaryrestrictions #caregiversupport #healthcarepodcast #patientadvocacy #foodandsafety #prescriptionforadmission #hospitalcare #healthcommunication

In this episode, I sit down with Resea Selph to talk about one of the most powerful forces in healthcare: parental advocacy. You’ll hear Resea’s deeply personal journey advocating for her son, Nicholas, during a critical medical crisis that exposed serious gaps in pediatric care and sepsis recognition. This is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike. We dive into the realities of advocating for your child in the hospital, the rapid escalation of sepsis in children, and the crucial importance of knowing exactly what care your hospital can provide. Resea shares how advocating for her child didn’t stop at the bedside. You’ll learn how her experience led to legislative efforts aimed at improving healthcare standards, patient safety, and transparency, ensuring that no family has to face the same uncertainty alone. This is a powerful episode, reminding us that education empowers parents and that informed advocacy can change the healthcare landscape for future generations. Whether you’re caring for a child now or want to be better prepared if a crisis arises, this episode will help you feel more confident to ask questions, speak up, and advocate for the care your child deserves. 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation about how advocacy saves lives. Key Takeaways Self-advocacy in healthcare saves lives.Specialized pediatric care can be the difference between life and death.Sepsis can escalate rapidly—early recognition is crucial.Parents must demand transparency about hospital capabilities.Legislative action can raise patient safety standards.Education empowers parents to be assertive advocates.Community voices drive lasting healthcare change.Every child deserves access to the best possible care.Today’s advocacy protects tomorrow’s families.Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Why Advocacy Matters 01:09 – Resea’s Journey Navigating Pediatric Care 05:35 – The Lifesaving Power of Specialized Care 10:27 – What Every Parent Needs to Know About Sepsis 16:09 – Nicholas’s Recovery and Ongoing Care 21:18 – From Personal Crisis to Policy Change: Nicholas’s Law 27:01 – The Legislative Journey: Making Healthcare Safer for All 31:57 – How Education Empowers Parents Share this with another parent or caregiver who needs to hear it. Follow Prescription for Admission for more conversations that help you navigate hospital care, advocate confidently, and improve patient safety one story at a time. #prescriptionforadmission #parentaladvocacy #pediatriccare #sepsisawareness #patientexperience #hospitalcare #patientsafety #healthcareeducation #healthcarelegislation #patientadvocacy #caregiverjourney #healthcarestandards #pediatricsepsis #advocacyworks

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with Dr. Joe Sherman, a seasoned pediatrician and physician coach, to explore the evolving world of pediatric hospital medicine and what it truly takes to build a meaningful, sustainable career in pediatrics. Together, we talk about how pediatric care has changed over the years, why understanding a patient’s community is essential to delivering effective care, and how parents play a critical role as experts in their child’s health. Dr. Sherman shares powerful insights on balancing the medical and emotional demands of pediatric hospital medicine, setting boundaries, and prioritizing clinician well-being in an increasingly complex healthcare system. This conversation is especially valuable for pediatricians, hospitalists, medical students, and residents navigating physician burnout, career longevity, and the pressure to conform during medical training. We also reflect on authenticity, self-care, and why maintaining relationships outside of medicine is essential for perspective and long-term fulfillment. If you care about pediatric patient experience, physician coaching, and creating healthier healthcare communities — this episode is for you. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and follow Prescription for Admission for weekly conversations about hospital medicine, patient advocacy, and clinician well-being. Key Takeaways: Pediatric hospital medicine has evolved significantly over time Community context plays a vital role in pediatric patient care Parents should be treated as trusted partners in their child’s healthcare Pediatricians often balance roles as clinicians and social workers Increasing specialization has reshaped the pediatric patient experience Hospital systems and workflows are critical to managing workload Physician burnout can be reduced through boundaries and self-care Medical training often pressures learners to lose their authentic voice Relationships outside of medicine support career longevity Reflective practices help clinicians stay grounded and fulfilled Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to pediatric hospital medicine 01:58 The evolution of pediatric care 09:59 The role of community in pediatric health 16:46 Navigating the pediatrician-parent relationship 17:49 The changing landscape of pediatric hospital medicine 22:30 The evolution of medical documentation 26:07 Systems and strategies in hospital medicine 29:58 Redefining sacrifice in medicine 32:08 Advice for medical students and residents 39:38 Authenticity, reflection, and self-care 43:06 The patient perspective as a mirror to medicine #pediatrics #hospitalmedicine #pediatriccare #patientexperience #physiciancoaching #clinicianwellbeing #physicianburnout #medicaleducation #healthcarecommunity #careerlongevity #prescriptionforadmission #healthcarepodcast #pediatrichospitalist #physiciansupport #healthcareleadership

In this powerful episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with Jenn Robb to talk about a moment no family ever expects, a mental health crisis that unfolded despite signs that things seemed to be improving. If you’ve ever had a gut feeling that something wasn’t right, this conversation is for you. Jenn shares the heartbreaking experience of trying to reach a loved one, trusting her intuition when something felt off, and later learning how close the situation came to becoming irreversible. Together, we talk honestly about recognizing signs of emotional distress, how mental health can profoundly affect decision-making, and why “doing better” doesn’t always mean someone is safe. You’ll hear how quiet suffering, overwhelming mental noise, and missed warning signs can lead to devastating outcomes, and why listening to your instincts and strengthening support systems can make all the difference. This episode is not just about crisis; it’s about awareness, prevention, and the courage to act when something feels wrong. If you’re a parent, caregiver, healthcare provider, or someone who wants to better understand mental health warning signs, this conversation may help you see things more clearly and possibly save a life. Key Takeaways You may not always see the warning signs — but your intuition matters “She had been doing better” doesn’t always mean the crisis has passed Emotional distress can significantly impact judgment and decision-making Quiet suffering can be just as dangerous as visible distress Strong support systems and early intervention save lives Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to mental health and emotional distress 00:30 Trusting intuition and recognizing warning signs #mentalhealth #suicideprevention #emotionaldistress #recognizingthesigns #mentalhealthawareness #supportsystems #caregiverawareness #healthcarepodcast #patientadvocacy #prescriptionforadmission

As we welcome a new year, I’m taking a moment to reflect with you on the journey of Prescription for Admission — and what we’ve learned together about hospital care, patient advocacy, and navigating complex healthcare systems. In this New Year’s episode, I look back on both seasons of the podcast and the powerful conversations that shaped them. From pediatric care and emergency medicine to mental health, medication safety, and case management, each episode has reinforced one core truth: patients and families deserve clarity, compassion, and a voice inside the hospital. You’ll hear why emergency medicine often becomes the entry point into hospital care, why parents are their child’s first and most important advocate, and how technology can help you support elderly loved ones even from a distance. I also highlight the often-overlooked role of case managers in helping patients transition safely from hospital to home — and why medication safety is essential at every step of care. We also revisit some of the most meaningful conversations from the podcast, including why talking openly about death prepares families, strengthens care teams, and leads to better patient experiences. As we look ahead, I share what’s next for the podcast and how we’ll continue creating healthcare education rooted in real patient stories, trust, and transparency. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed navigating hospitals — for yourself, your child, or someone you love — this episode is for you. Key Takeaways I created this podcast to help you better understand hospital care and healthcare systems I’m deeply grateful for the friends, colleagues, and listeners who supported this journey Season one laid the foundation for understanding real hospital experiences Emergency medicine is often the front door to hospital care You are your child’s first and strongest advocate in healthcare settings Patient advocacy is essential for people with complex medical needs Technology can help you advocate for aging parents from anywhere Case managers are critical to safe hospital-to-home transitions Talking openly about death helps families prepare and cope Medication safety is a cornerstone of quality hospital care Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome and reflections on the podcast journey 02:52 – Season highlights and key guests 05:45 – Navigating pediatric care and advocacy 09:08 – Patient advocacy and family support 12:05 – Technology in healthcare advocacy 14:57 – Understanding case management and support systems 17:45 – Conversations on death and dying 21:03 – Mental health in acute care settings 23:52 – Medication safety and pharmacy insights 25:40 – Looking ahead: the future of the podcast #prescriptionforadmission #hospitalcare #patientadvocacy #healthcaresystems #navigatinghospitals #pediatriccare #mentalhealthincare #medicationsafety #casemanagement #patientstories #healthcareeducation #caregiversupport #hospitalpodcast #doctorpodcast

Is pediatric surgery just about the procedure, or is it about a lifetime of health? In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with Dr. Evan Nadler, a world-class pediatric bariatric surgeon, to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood areas of children’s healthcare. Whether you’re a parent navigating a difficult diagnosis or a healthcare provider looking to sharpen your patient advocacy, this conversation is for you.We dive deep into why pediatric bariatric surgery is a tool for long-term health, not just a number on a scale, and how families can navigate the emotional and clinical complexities of a hospital stay.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ The Questions That Matter: What parents should really ask during a surgical consultation.✅ Beyond the Scale: How bariatric intervention impacts a child’s long-term metabolic health.✅ The Trust Gap: How surgeons and families can build a partnership rooted in communication.✅ Breaking Barriers: How telemedicine is solving geographic disparities in surgical care.✅ The Media vs. Reality: How public perception shapes the way we see surgeons and their patients.Dr. Nadler’s journey is a masterclass in advocacy, education, and the reminder that grace matters on both sides of the hospital bed. Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction: The reality of pediatric bariatric surgery 04:15 – Dr. Evan Nadler’s mission and professional journey 10:30 – Addressing childhood obesity: A long-term health perspective 18:45 – How to build trust between surgeons and families 25:20 – The role of effective communication in clinical outcomes 32:10 – Geographic disparities & the power of telemedicine 40:00 – Closing thoughts: Why education is power🔗 Connect with Us:If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to Prescription for Admission for more deep dives into the healthcare world.Check out Dr. Evan Nadler's website for a wealth of knowledge about obesity medicine: www.obesityexplained.com, or you can connect with him if you have any questions through his ⁠email⁠: [email protected] us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_happiest_hospitalist/Visit our Website: https://drmoniquenugent.com/Subscribe to the Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6vKqzk4XIKXO1HB6vBX4px/#PediatricSurgery #ChildhoodObesity #HealthcareAdvocacy #DrEvanNadler #PrescriptionForAdmission #PatientCare #MedicalEducation #Telemedicine

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with Dr. John Lees to unpack one of the most confusing and frustrating parts of the healthcare system: hospital pricing and healthcare transparency. Dr. Lees shares his fascinating journey from studying physics to developing technology that helps patients like you access clear, accurate healthcare information. Together, we break down why healthcare costs, hospital pricing, and informed patient advocacy matter more than ever. If you’ve ever felt lost trying to understand a bill, unsure what something should cost, or overwhelmed by a lack of information during a hospitalization, this conversation is for you. We explore the realities behind inpatient and outpatient costs, hidden hospital expenses, nonprofit hospital economics, and why so many people receive care without knowing what they’re being charged. Most importantly, we discuss how better data enables you to make informed decisions and navigate your care with confidence. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why information in healthcare is safety — and how transparency can change outcomes for patients and hospitals alike. Key Takeaways Here’s what you’ll walk away with: Dr. Lees' journey from physics to healthcare technology through management consulting. Why healthcare transparency is essential for informed decision-making. How patients often struggle to access clear hospital pricing information. The role of fixed costs in hospital billing — and why they’re rarely itemized. Why many nonprofit hospitals operate at a loss and how that affects pricing. The lack of consumer choice during emergencies — and how it leads to unexpected bills. The impact of hidden healthcare costs on patient financial stress. How better access to data empowers you to advocate for yourself or your loved one. Why the healthcare system must evolve to provide more clarity and accountability. The shared responsibility we all have in demanding pricing transparency. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Healthcare Transparency02:18 — Dr. Lees' Journey from Physics to Healthcare08:18 — Why Healthcare Pricing Transparency Matters09:52 — The Challenges of Accessing Clear Pricing12:26 — What Actually Drives Hospital Costs13:53 — Outpatient vs. Inpatient Care Costs17:52 — Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Hospital Pricing19:06 — What Happens When You Have No Choice in Emergencies20:29 — The Hidden Costs You Never See23:45 — How Information Shapes Consumer Choices26:51 — Empowering Patients Through Real Data31:28 — The Future of U.S. Healthcare Pricing34:39 — How Transparency Improves Decision-Making41:21 — Final Thoughts + Your Call to Action #healthcaretransparency #hospitalpricing #healthcarecosts #patientadvocacy #patientexperience #hospitalbilling #healthcareinformation #hiddenhealthcarecosts #healthcareeconomics #healthcaretechnology #inpatientcare #outpatientcare #empoweredpatients #prescriptionforadmission

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I’m joined by patient safety expert Dr. Julie Siemers for an honest and eye-opening conversation about what really keeps patients safe in hospitals and what puts them at risk. Together, we break down the real-world issues behind patient harm: communication breakdowns, medication errors, failure to rescue, and gaps during transitions of care. Dr. Siemers shares decades of experience in nursing, hospital quality, and patient safety, reminding us why patients and families must become active participants in their own care. Whether you work in healthcare, care for a loved one, or want to understand how to advocate for yourself during a hospital stay, this episode gives you clear, actionable strategies that can improve safety outcomes and save lives. We explore hospital accreditation, The Joint Commission’s safety standards, the importance of safety culture, and why reporting near misses is essential for preventing future harm. Most importantly, we discuss how you — as a patient, family member, or healthcare provider — can contribute to creating a safer healthcare environment. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why patient safety is a critical issue in every hospitalHow patients and families can become strong advocatesWhy medication errors remain the most common hospital safety problemHow poor communication accounts for a large percentage of preventable harmWhat The Joint Commission really looks for during hospital accreditationWhy transitions of care are some of the most dangerous momentsWhat “failure to rescue” means and why it leads to preventable deathsWhy reporting near misses can transform hospital safetyHow a just culture encourages honesty, transparency, and improvementTop Takeaways Safety must be a priority for both providers and patients.Patients should speak up, ask questions, and actively participate in their own care decisions.Communication errors contribute more to patient harm than most people realize.Families play a vital role in monitoring changes and preventing mistakes.Transitions of care — admission, discharge, transfers — are high-risk moments.“Near misses” are learning opportunities that strengthen safety systems.Failure to rescue is preventable when teams communicate and respond early. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes to keep patients safe — or what you can do to protect yourself or a loved one — this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and practical tools. Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Patient Safety in Hospitals 02:01 — Dr. Julie Siemers’ Journey in Healthcare 05:06 — Understanding Hospital Safety Concerns 10:03 — Accreditation Standards & The Joint Commission 13:03 — Communication: The Key to Patient Safety 16:58 — Why Family Involvement Matters 19:54 — Transparency & Learning from Mistakes 24:58 — Medication Errors & Their Impact 28:26 — Building a Just Culture in Healthcare 30:23 — Patient Safety and Advocacy 31:57 — Rapid Response Systems 34:33 — Failure to Rescue: Recognizing Deterioration 38:21 — Families as Safety Partners 40:23 — Near Misses & Error Reporting 45:56 — Empowering Patients Through Education #patientsafety #hospitalcare #caregiverlife #patientexperience #caregiversupport #hospitalnavigation #patientadvocacy #healthcareprofessionals #hospitalmedicine #qualityimprovement #clinicalsafety #healthcarequality #jointcommission #riskmanagement #nearmissreporting #failuretorescue #transitionsofcare #justculture #healthcarepodcast #medicalpodcast #patientsafetypodcast #prescriptionforadmission

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I’m sitting down with patient advocate and podcaster Hollis Peirce to delve into what it truly means to be a vulnerable patient in today’s healthcare system. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed during a hospital stay — or if you care for someone who is — this conversation will help you understand the realities patients face and how you can advocate for yourself (or someone you love) more effectively. Hollis and I discuss the moments when patients feel unseen, unheard, or misunderstood — and why it matters so much for providers to engage directly with patients. You’ll hear his personal stories of navigating acute care, living with long-term disabilities, adjusting to a "new normal," and the power of having strong support systems both inside and outside the hospital. Whether you're a healthcare professional looking to improve communication, a caregiver supporting someone in crisis, or a patient trying to make sense of a complicated medical system, this episode gives you actionable insights you can use right away. Together, we explore: What defines a vulnerable patient Why support systems dramatically change outcomes How communication builds trust, safety, and therapeutic relationships When patients should speak up — and how to do it effectively The realities of long-term care and adapting to life with disabilities Why advocacy isn’t optional — it’s essential If you want better experiences in healthcare, this episode will empower you to ask better questions, build stronger relationships, and navigate hospitalization with more confidence and clarity. KEY TAKEAWAYS A vulnerable patient is anyone with serious or complex medical issues. Support systems are essential — they significantly shape patient outcomes. Direct communication with the patient builds trust and better care. Strong therapeutic relationships help patients feel seen and supported. Advocacy is essential for high-quality hospital care. Long-term care and disability require new routines and new normals. Patients shouldn’t be afraid to let others help them. Life outside the hospital still moves forward — support is needed on all fronts. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 — Introduction to Patient Experience02:29 — Understanding Vulnerable Patients05:03 — The Importance of Patient Engagement12:07 — Building Therapeutic Relationships15:09 — The Role of Support Systems19:54 — Life Outside the Hospital22:07 — Why Support Systems Matter26:35 — Adapting to Long-Term Care28:50 — Advocacy and Patient Representation36:41 — Navigating Hospital Stays37:01 — Adapting to New Normals43:44 — Hollis’s 21st Century Disability Podcast #healthpodcast #medicalpodcast #patientexperience #hospitalcare #healthcarestories #patientadvocacy #caregiversupport #disabilityawareness #vulnerablepatients #healthtalks #healthcareeducation #prescriptionforadmission #drmoniquenugent #patientempowerment #hospitalstories #healthcarecommunication #advocacyinhealthcare #supportsystems #therapeuticrelationship #longtermcare #patientrights #caregiverlife #disabilitysupport #healthandwellnesspodcast #prescriptionforadmission #drmoniquenugent

If you're caring for aging parents while also managing your own family, career, or life responsibilities, you’re not alone. In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I’m talking with Shari Ross — senior living expert and author of Senior Living Made Simple — about what it really looks like to navigate elder care with confidence instead of crisis. Shari and I delve into the emotional, financial, and practical realities of the sandwich generation, exploring why so many families wait until something goes wrong before seeking help. You’ll hear why planning can reduce fear, guilt, overwhelm, and rushed decision-making when it comes to senior living. We break down the differences between independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care, and how you can identify which community is the right fit for your loved one. Shari also introduces The Simple Method, her step-by-step approach that helps families understand their options, communicate more clearly, and create a structured plan that feels manageable. If you’re supporting an aging parent, navigating family dynamics, dealing with dementia or cognitive decline, or just trying to understand your options, this conversation will give you the clarity you need to take the next step. You deserve peace of mind — and so do the people you love. Key Takeaways: Planning can prevent crisis-driven decisions in elder care. The sandwich generation faces unique emotional and logistical challenges. Understanding the spectrum of senior living communities is essential. Emotional support plays a huge role in navigating senior care transitions. Clear conversations with aging parents reduce guilt and fear. Memory care offers specialized support for dementia patients. Financial planning has a major impact on long-term senior living decisions. The Simple Method gives families a structured way to make informed choices. Engagement and regular involvement remain important after a move into senior living. Episode Summary In this episode, I sit down with Shari Ross, author of Senior Living Made Simple, to talk about how families can prepare for the realities of senior living. Shari shares her journey into the elder care industry and explains the emotional and practical challenges faced by the sandwich generation — adults caring for both children and aging parents. We explore the different types of senior living communities, discuss the importance of open communication, and break down the financial considerations many families overlook. Shari also walks us through her Simple Method, a step-by-step guide designed to help families plan ahead, reduce stress, and make thoughtful decisions that honor the needs of their aging loved ones. This episode is a must-listen if you want to better understand elder care, memory care, assisted living, or how to start planning before a crisis hits. Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Hospital-Based Care 02:11 — Navigating the Sandwich Generation 04:38 — Shari’s Journey into Senior Living 08:46 — Understanding Family Dynamics in Elder Care 11:29 — Why Planning Ahead Matters 15:14 — Real Stories of Aging Parents 21:34 — Exploring Senior Living Communities 26:46 — Memory Care & Dementia Support 29:57 — Financial Planning for Senior Living 41:34 — The Simple Method for Elder Care Planning 54:40 — Closing Thoughts & Resources If you’re navigating elder care, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform. Just search Prescription for Admission. Watch the full conversation on YouTube. Share this with someone who’s caring for an aging parent. #seniorliving #eldercare #agingparents #sandwichgeneration #assistedliving #memorycare #seniorcareplanning #seniorlivingcommunity #dementiacare #agingwithdignity #prescriptionforadmission #healthcarepodcast #podcastepisode #podcastforcaregivers

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with Dr. Nekaiya Jacobs-Pratt, a pediatric critical care physician, to talk about what life in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is really like — for both the care team and the families who live through it. Together, we dive into the emotional and medical complexities of caring for critically ill children and what it takes to balance clinical precision with compassion. Dr. Jacobs-Pratt shares how communication, empathy, and cultural awareness shape every hospital experience, especially when families are navigating some of the hardest days of their lives. You’ll hear us unpack: The realities of pediatric critical care and what makes the PICU such a unique environment. How you, as a parent, can advocate for your child and communicate effectively with the healthcare team. Why self-care isn’t selfish — taking care of yourself helps you take better care of your child. How cultural identity and representation influence the quality of pediatric care. The inspiration behind Dr. Jacobs-Pratt’s children’s book, The Magic Bonnet, and how inclusive practices — even something as simple as hair care — can make hospitals feel more welcoming for every child. If you’ve ever had a child in the hospital, worked with pediatric patients, or simply want to understand what compassionate care looks like at its deepest level, this conversation will stay with you. Key Takeaways:The PICU isn’t just about cuddling babies — it’s a place where precision, teamwork, and heart come together. You are an essential part of your child’s care team. Self-care helps you show up stronger when your child needs you most. Speak up — communication and advocacy matter in every step of your hospital journey. Cultural identity and representation are powerful parts of healing. Inclusive practices, like hair care for all textures, bring comfort and dignity to every child’s hospital experience. Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Pediatric Hospital Medicine02:24 — Understanding the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)10:12 — The Role of Pediatricians in Critical Care18:10 — Navigating the PICU as a Parent29:24 — The Importance of Communication in Healthcare36:36 — Self-Care for Parents in the PICU46:30 — The Magic Bonnet: Celebrating Cultural Identity Connect with Dr. Kay Jacobs-Pratt: Instagram/@heyitskay_md

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I sit down with licensed fiduciary Sarah Ecklein to unpack what it really means to plan for hospital care, incapacity, and aging—especially when you’re flying solo or your family lives far away. If you’re wondering how to protect your health and your estate when you can’t speak for yourself, this conversation is for you. We explore healthcare proxies, advance directives, and the fiduciary role in bridging legal, financial, and hospital care decisions. We also delve into the growing reality of “solo aging,” how COVID-19 has altered our perspective on hospital transitions, and why writing down your wishes is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. By the end of the episode, you’ll feel more confident about having the “what-if” conversations, making sure your values guide any healthcare decision, and planning so that loved ones and providers are clear when you can’t speak for yourself. Key Takeaways Proactive planning is essential for healthcare and financial decisions. Healthcare proxies and advance directives are crucial for making informed decisions when you are unable to make them yourself. Solo aging is a growing concern as families become more dispersed and support networks change. Planning for incapacity should include meaningful conversations about your values, wishes, and goals of care. Conversations about goals of care must be ongoing — not a one-time event. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we approach and prioritize healthcare decisions in hospital settings. Nutrition and feeding decisions (e.g., when to start/stop artificial nutrition) are critical and often overlooked in healthcare planning. Cultural attitudes toward aging and death impact how people plan (or avoid planning). Resilience and flexibility are key in caregiving situations and in the face of unexpected hospitalisation. Writing down your wishes provides clarity and relief for both you and your family. Follow us on socials: Facebook/thehappiesthospitalistInstagram/@the_happiest_hospitalist

In this episode of Prescription for Admission, I’m sitting down with Aimée Yawnick, a death doula, to have one of the most honest and meaningful conversations you’ll ever hear about death, dying, and what it really means to live fully. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when medicine can no longer cure, or how families can find peace during the end-of-life journey, this episode is for you. Together, we’re exploring how death doulas support patients and families through one of life’s most vulnerable transitions — offering comfort, guidance, and a new perspective on dying with dignity. We’ll talk about grief, emotional preparation, spiritual care, and how having these conversations before the crisis can change everything. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare professional, or someone navigating your own fears about mortality, you’ll walk away feeling more empowered, informed, and compassionate. Let’s learn how to approach death not with fear, but with understanding, grace, and love. Follow the podcast and connect with me on social media for more stories that bridge medicine, humanity, and healing. You’ll find all the links below, and I’d love to hear your thoughts after you listen. If this episode made you think differently about life and death, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Follow Prescription for Admission for more heartfelt conversations that help you navigate healthcare with confidence and compassion.Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube.Let’s keep the conversation going — connect with me @the_happiest_hospitalist on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. ,#deathdoula #endoflifecare #palliativecare #hospicecare #healthcarepodcast #prescriptionforadmission #griefsupport #deathanddying #caregivingjourney #compassionatecare

Have you ever wondered why some hospital admissions are necessary—and what options you might have instead? In this episode of the Prescription for Admission podcast, I take a closer look at the complexities of hospital admissions and the critical role of safety, access to care, and informed decision-making in every patient’s journey. From unexpected admissions to navigating post-hospital recovery, I’ll share insights to help you better understand the “why” behind hospital care and how to advocate for yourself or your loved ones. We’ll also talk about home hospital programs and how they’re reshaping the way care is delivered, bringing medical support right to your home. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this episode is here to help you feel empowered and equipped to make confident healthcare decisions. Episode Recap: Why safety is the primary reason for hospital admission. How access to care influences recovery after discharge. What to ask your care team before and during hospitalization. The potential benefits and challenges of home hospital programs. How healthcare policy and financial considerations impact care decisions. Key Takeaways:✅ Hospital admissions are often necessary for patient safety, not just treatment.✅ Home hospital programs can be a valuable option for stable patients.✅ Always ask about outpatient and follow-up care before discharge.✅ Understanding medication reconciliation helps prevent errors.✅ Healthcare policy and financial planning are key parts of care decisions. Follow Along:If this episode resonated with you, make sure to follow Prescription for Admission on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for more insights on hospital care, patient experience, and healthcare navigation. Stay connected and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn. Let’s keep learning how to make hospital care safer, smarter, and more human. #hospitalcare #patientexperience #healthcareprovider #hospitaladmission #safety #accesstocare #homehospital #healthcarepolicy #healthpodcast #prescriptionforadmission