Mgma Small Talk

In the latest episode of the MGMA Mindful Medicine Podcast, host Daniel Williams welcomes Dr. Andrea Sankar, a medical anthropologist and co-author of the newly released third edition of Dying at Home: A Family Guide for Caregiving. Dr. Sankar discusses the evolution of end-of-life care, including the challenges faced by family caregivers and the crucial role medical practices can play in supporting patients and their loved ones during this sensitive time.Key Takeaways:Dr. Sankar's journey into end-of-life care research was shaped by her experiences studying community-based care for the elderly in China and witnessing the challenges of caregiving during the AIDS epidemic.The third edition of Dying at Home reflects the significant changes in end-of-life care, including the increasing prevalence of frail patients living longer and the expanded availability of sophisticated home-based care due to advancements in medical technology and the TEFRA Act.Family caregivers often face significant emotional and physical