Cancer Doula & Patient Advocate
This course will prepare you to support cancer patients and their families, whether or not their diagnosis is terminal. You will be equipped with the knowledge required to have informed conversations with your clients and their loved ones, as well as their medical providers. You will discover resources for cancer patients and everyone that is affected by a cancer diagnosis. You will learn how to advocate for your clients with hospitals, physicians, other medical providers, and health insurance companies.
The course will start on March 4, 2026 and run through June 10, 2026. We will meet every Wednesday from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM CDT.
$575
Black Friday Sale
$148.75 / 5 monthly
Topics Covered
- Definition and history of cancer
- Types of cancer by cell
- Types of cancer by system
- Stages of cancer
- Diagnosis and prognosis
- The cancer team
- Treatments and side effects
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trials
- Holistic treatments
- Planning for life during treatment
- Nutrition
- Resources for patients
- Maintaining “health”
- Childhood cancers
- When to call hospice
- Supporting the patient and their family
- What comes next?
- Life after cancer
- Patient advocate
- Medical ethics and healthcare laws
- Health insurance
- Navigating systems
- Communication styles
- Justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Case studies
- Review for PACB exam (Patient Advocate Certification Board)
Penny M. Clement
Penny is the founder of Peaceful Transitions, an end-of-life doula and patient advocate service that focuses on helping individuals and their loved ones through the most significant transition of their lives. As a doula she focuses on planning, educating, and walking with her clients through the end of life, and providing continuing support to those left behind. As a patient advocate, Penny works with clients who are facing various medical conditions, offering support throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Prior to receiving her certification as an end-of-life doula, Penny was the primary caretaker for both of her parents during illness, aging, dementia, and the end of their lives. She was able to fulfill their wishes to pass at home surrounded by loved ones. This inspired her to do everything she could to help others in having as peaceful a transition as possible.
Penny’s previous career in banking, trust, and wealth management have given her a unique perspective on end-of-life planning and estate settlement that perfectly complements the other aspects of end-of-life doula services. She has a mind for business and a heart for service.
What people are saying
Why IDLM?
Continued education
Monthly at no cost to our students. Keeping you updated on industry advances and tools to enhance your practice.
The Movement
You found your doula family. Our family community for ongoing support on a daily basis.
Instructors
Who are actively practicing their specialty/services daily.
