In today's special sponsored episode, we feature Texila American University College of Medicine (TAUCOM) in Guyana. Dr. Dheeraj Bansal, dean of medicine, and Dr. Nisarg Patel, director of admissions. provide an in-depth look into why TAUCOM is a compelling choice for aspiring medical students. They discuss the university’s unique curriculum,…
Why don't large reductions in medical debt lead to better financial outcomes? In this video, I explore the surprising findings on how medical debt forgiveness affects credit scores, delinquencies, and other financial measures. It turns out that preventing or forgiving medical debt might not free up money as much as…
We dive into the intriguing world of endurance exercise and cardiovascular health with our guest, John C. Hagan III, an ophthalmologist and veteran endurance athlete. John shares his personal journey with long-distance running and the unexpected health challenges he encountered. We explore the latest research on the potential risks of…
Weight loss isn't just a one-size-fits-all solution; it often requires careful coordination with primary care doctors. Before diving into any weight loss plan with a patient, I always make sure to consult their primary care physician. This isn't just a courtesy; it's crucial to avoid stepping on toes and ensure…
What if our perceptions of schizophrenia are completely off the mark? They believe that patients with schizophrenia are dangerous, not realizing it's a medical diagnosis, much like diabetes or hypertension. I feel that we often picture patients with schizophrenia as constantly ill, but that's not the case. Just as someone…
Join us for an insightful podcast episode featuring Shideh Shafie, an emergency physician. We'll delve into the profound values that drive physicians to serve humanity and alleviate suffering, and discuss the impact of corporate-driven metrics on the medical field. Shideh shares her experiences and strategies for balancing institutional pressures with…
What you put on your body can be just as important as what you eat. Did you know that many makeup products contain harmful chemicals like BP A and phthalates? I had a pregnant patient today who showed me a lightning cream she was using, and it turned out to…
The absence of parents in the hospital can significantly impact a newborn's health and family well-being. From postpartum depression to a shortage of breast milk and weaker parental bonding, the effects are far-reaching. After discharge, the financial burden doesn't easepremature infants often need costly equipment like oxygen tubes and feeding…
Join Nikki Keefe, an interventional radiologist, as we delve into the complexities of uterine fibroids and the disparities in treatment access. Despite uterine fibroids affecting up to 70 percent of women and causing severe symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility, many, especially Hispanic and rural patients, are…
Experiencing a spinal cord injury has completely transformed my approach to patient care. Before my accident, I was often rushed and abrupt due to my workload. Now, I take the time to listen more deeply to my patients. Ive realized that sometimes, what patients truly need is just a bit…
Why is schizophrenia so misunderstood? Misconceptions stem from how media portrays mental health issues, often linking them to criminal behavior. Movies frequently depict individuals with schizophrenia as bizarre, evil, or crazy. If this is someone's only exposure to the condition, it's no wonder they have the wrong idea. The root…
We delve into the critical issue of physician burnout with Jillian Bybee, a pediatric intensive care physician. Jillian shares her firsthand experiences from the front lines of health care, discussing the unique challenges faced by pediatric intensivists and the broader implications for medical professionals. Tune in as we explore strategies…
Forgiving medical debt sounds like a great idea, but have you ever considered its broader implications? In this video, I explore the impact of eliminating medical debts from credit profiles on both consumers and providers. Interestingly, a recent randomized control trial showed a modest reduction in the payment of existing…
Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Isabelle Tran, a medical student and writer, to explore the intersection of technology and health. Inspired by her poem "AI Ally," Isabelle delves into the emotional journey of patients receiving a serious diagnosis like thyroid cancer. We discuss how…
Shifting to a plant-based diet can seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Start by taking your favorite meals and making small, manageable changes. For instance, swap your usual egg and bacon breakfast for a tofu scramble. If you're a fan of quesadillas, replace the meat and cheese with…
Spending extra time listening to patients can make all the difference in their care. In this video, I discuss how compassionate and empathetic listening can lead to a better understanding of what truly matters to patients. As physicians, we often lack the time to engage deeply, but recognizing patients as…
Join us as we delve into the evolving landscape of physician employment agreements with Dennis Hursh, an attorney. Discover the significance of the new Individual Specialty Residency Program Agreements that compensate physicians for mentoring residents. We explore the potential long-term impacts on medical education, the challenges of implementing these agreements,…
When the pelvic floor is too loose, everything can drop lower, leading to issues like bladder prolapse, rectal prolapse, or vaginal prolapse. These conditions may require surgical intervention, but more commonly, people experience disorders of defecation. Obstructive defecation, often due to holding it in too much or pushing too hard,…
Balancing a master's program, caring for a newborn at home, and visiting another in the hospital was a daily whirlwind for my husband and me. After my work shift, I'd rush to the hospital to hold, change, and feed our baby before heading home so my husband could take his…
Join radiation oncologists Shannon MacDonald and Sean McBride as they delve into the evolving landscape of telemedicine in oncology. They discuss the significant improvements telemedicine brought during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges and legal barriers now faced with cross-state telemedicine, and how these restrictions impact patient care, particularly for those…
Have specialists been inspired to incorporate more obesity medicine into their practices? Were seeing a rising interest, marked by the increase in American Board of Obesity Medicine certifications. Our upcoming conference this October will delve into integrating obesity treatment into various specialties, reflecting the growing demand. The emergence of GLP-1…
Join us for a conversation with Tracey O’Connell, a radiologist and physician coach, as we explore the hidden challenges within the medical profession. In this episode, we delve into the unsettling experience of facing a mandatory performance review, the strain it places on trust among colleagues, and the emotional turmoil…
Imagine being 28 years old with your whole life ahead of you, only to have it turned upside down by a car accident. The driver was a 92-year-old man with dementia, and I was so angry. This experience made me realize how important it is to be careful about who…
Balancing the demands of work, a hospitalized baby, and a master's program pushed us to our limits. Every day was a whirlwind of hospital visits, diaper changes, and financial stress. Our joy at our sons' survival soon turned into anxiety as medical bills piled up, reaching over $80,000. Credit cards…