Description
As naturopathic physicians, we have so much to offer to optimize the end of life. In our time together we will discuss discovering and supporting people's end of life wishes, as well as naturopathic modalities to accomplish these goals of care. Understanding what hospice care has to offer, while integrating all modalities, including medications prescribed by hospice, is helpful to ensure a true collaboration during this time. This patient-centered, team approach can ease the patient's and their loved ones' concerns. Meeting people "where they are" is as important as ever during this time, as we are living until the moment of death. We will also review the many ways people die, including allowing natural death (AND), voluntary stopping eating and drinking (VSED), and medical aid dying (also known as death with dignity).
Speaker Bio: Stephanie Kaplan, ND has been a naturopathic physician in Portland, Oregon since 2001 and specializes in serving older adults and those at the end of life. She meets her patients wherever they are living and dying through her home visit practice. With a focus on geriatric and palliative care, Dr. Kaplan supports and advocates for patients in collaboration with their other health providers to find creative solutions for their medical, social, and psycho-spiritual concerns. She meets the individual needs of seniors and the dying with the vast offerings of naturopathic medicine, including nutrition, movement, mindfulness, craniosacral therapy, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and medication management.Â
**This presentation is worth 1 Category 1 CE credit for Washington NDs.**
Originally presented November 17, 2022.
