In the complex world of healthcare, Monique S. Nugent, MD, MPH, is one of the few voices patients and caretakers can turn to for truthful and transparent information about navigating the healthcare system and improving their experience and outcomes.
Physician, speaker, educator, mother, and author Dr. Nugent has dedicated herself to helping patients and families navigate the often overwhelming healthcare system. Her impactful book, Prescription for Admission: A Doctor’s Guide to Navigating the Hospital, Advocating for Yourself, and Having a Better Hospitalization, serves as a vital resource for anyone experiencing hospitalization, empowering them to take control of their care and advocate for the things they need to get better.
Dr. Nugent is a hospitalist practicing at South Shore Hospital in the Boston suburbs. She completed her medical education and Internal Medicine residency at Loma Linda School University Medical Center in southern California. A native New Yorker, she returned to the East Coast to complete her Master of Public Health from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Her education and experience have equipped her to address critical healthcare issues in the system.
Dr. Nugent’s career has been built around hospital-based care, leadership, and advocacy. She has focused on making healthcare safe, equitable, and high-quality. Her dedication to patient advocacy is evident in her work, ensuring that every patient receives the support they need in what can often be overwhelming environments.
In her book, “Prescription for Admission,” Dr. Nugent offers a comprehensive guide to hospital stays, preparing patients to become active participants in their healthcare journeys. With a straightforward and compassionate approach, she provides valuable insights into the hospital experience, from discussing the types of testing and procedures patients may face to providing strategies for effective communication and self-advocacy. “Hospitals are meant to be places that provide support, not add to frustration and confusion,” Dr. Nugent emphasizes. Recognizing the anxiety that often accompanies hospital visits, she was motivated to write this book as a resource for those seeking clarity and confidence in their care.
The book covers a range of essential topics, including:
- How do you prepare for hospital visits, and what decisions should you expect?
- Behind-the-scenes insights into the capabilities of hospitals.
- Techniques to stay mentally grounded during hospital stays.
- Effective communication strategies for advocating for oneself or a loved one.
- Tips for a smoother discharge process
- Discussion about end-of-life care and how to prepare for home hospice.
- Guidance on how to choose a healthcare proxy
As a physician leader, Dr. Nugent focuses on her clinical practice while working towards systemic improvements. She tirelessly treats patients on the front lines while simultaneously striving to enhance healthcare systems from behind the scenes. Her commitment to improving patient outcomes and accessibility is a testament to her commitment to all patients.
Dr. Nugent is not just a dedicated professional; she is also a family-oriented individual who enjoys traveling, exploring national parks, and spending quality time with her loved ones.
As she continues to make strides in her field, Dr. Nugent remains an inspiration to both her peers and patients alike. Her advocacy for patient empowerment and education is paving the way for a new era in healthcare, where individuals have the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate their own health journeys.
Through her work and book, Dr. Nugent is transforming hospital experiences. She ensures that patients and their families understand how to get the support they need while being active participants and drivers of their care. As healthcare continues to evolve, voices like hers will undoubtedly lead the charge toward a more compassionate and equitable system for all.