This class helps students to understand better how to work with the healthcare system, speak up for a loved one in the hospital, and plan ahead for future medical care. We will explore how hospitals and healthcare providers work, and how to ask questions, get clear answers, and make sure care is well-coordinated. The course also covers how to support a family member or friend during a hospital stay, including ways to speak up respectfully and make sure their needs are met. Finally, we will cover advance care planning—how to make decisions now about the kind of care you or a loved one may want in the future. This course is great for anyone who wants to be more confident and prepared when dealing with health issues, either for themselves or someone they care about.

Subject: health, sociology

Dr. Jason Beckrow began his medical career as an oncologist before transitioning to hospice and palliative medicine, serving as a medical director for Caring Circle in St. Joseph, Michigan, and McLaren Greater Lansing Hospice and Palliative Medicine in Lansing, Michigan. In addition, he is currently an assistant professor for Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he enjoys teaching the next generation of physicians.