Tools and Resources for Advanced Care Planning (2026 AC Live)

Only available as part of a package

Learning Objectives:

Explain the contemporary reframing of advance care planning (ACP) from a document-completion task to a longitudinal communication process centered on real-time goals-of-care (GOC) conversations, citing the evidence that standalone directives do not reliably produce goal-concordant care 2. Apply the Serious Illness Conversation Guide (SICG) as a practical, patient-tested tool to structure values-based conversations in clinical practice
Distinguish the highest-value role of the internist in ACP across settings, early longitudinal conversations in the ambulatory/community setting versus mortality-risk-calibrated GOC discussions triggered by hospitalization
Identify triggers for specialist palliative care referral in complex ACP/GOC scenarios, including intractable symptoms, surrogate–clinician conflict, and disease-specific criteria for advanced heart failure and dementia

Sherika Newman, DO

Founding CEO

DITF

Dr. Sherika Newman is a board-certified physician, acclaimed national speaker, and founder of Doctor in the Family (DITF). Renowned for her expertise in hospice, palliative care, and patient advocacy, Dr. Newman is a trusted voice on the national stage—empowering audiences to rethink how we care for the seriously ill and support families through life’s most challenging moments.

Dr. Newman’s journey began with her patient-centered approach, which quickly made her the “go-to” doctor for friends and family navigating the healthcare system. Inspired to give everyone the same level of support, she launched DITF, a virtual-first practice dedicated to providing every patient the experience of having a “doctor in the family.” She also serves as a consultant for the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC), contributing her insights and leadership to national initiatives that shape the future of serious illness care.

Dr. Newman’s key contributions include advancing best practices in patient advocacy, weight management, and holistic, values-based care. Her work has been featured in national conferences, podcasts, webinars, and professional publications, earning her recognition as a thought leader and innovator in her field.

Off the stage, Dr. Newman is a proud mother and grandmother who loves to travel and spend time fellowshipping with loved ones. Her passion for compassionate care, education, and advocacy continues to inspire audiences and transform lives across the country.