We've noticed a trend where solutions being emphasized often revolve around practices like yoga and mindfulness—things that physicians are encouraged to adopt for their self-care. However, during our conversations with physicians, a resounding sentiment emerged: these strategies aren't effective. In fact, they seem to unfairly place the blame on the…
Join Amy Baxter, a clinical associate professor of emergency medicine, as we explore the intricate balance between physicians' roles in perpetuating the crisis, addressing systemic factors, and the influence of pharmaceutical industry-sponsored education. Discover the brain's response to pain and opioids, contextual risk factors for opioid use disorder post-surgery, and…
Join William Lynes, a urologist, as he shares his remarkable journey from a successful medical career to battling mental illness and physician burnout. With over three decades of experience, he delves into the root causes of burnout within the medical profession and unveils his insights on revitalizing the sacred doctor-patient…
Meet Altelisha Taylor, a family medicine physician, and get clear insights into student loan repayment options. We discuss the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program and discuss options to address medical school debt as a new attending. Altelisha Taylor is a family medicine resident and can be reached at Career…
Join Miguel Villagra, a hospitalist, as we explore how our thoughts shape emotions, dissecting cognitive distortions like all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and more. Discover strategies to break free from negative loops, challenge assumptions, and cultivate a balanced perspective. Learn how awareness of our thoughts can lead to enhanced emotional well-being. Miguel…
Picture this: In the ever-evolving world of medicine, doctors today are shouldering an extraordinary load. They're not just practicing medicine; they're now expected to juggle supervisory roles over larger teams, including mid-level practitioners. The days of complete autonomy are fading, replaced by hours navigating electronic health records rather than relying…
Join Jay K. Joshi, a family physician and the author of Burden of Pain: A Physician's Journey through the Opioid Epidemic, as we delve into the intricate world of clinical decision-making within evolving health care policies. Our focus extends beyond the surface to delve into the fascinating realm of game…
In the realm of healthcare, we often find ourselves stuck in a repetitive cycle, clinging to traditional practices simply because they're familiar. Take the example of Epic – we've stuck with it since the early days of electronic medical records, even though many other hospitals have embraced it. But isn't…
Heather Furnas, an adjunct clinical associate professor at Stanford and an aesthetic surgeon, joins us as we delve into the intricate world of recommendation letters, biases in evaluations, and their impact on diverse fields. Heather lends her expertise to unravel the complexities of authenticity, gender disparities, and alternative assessment methods.…
In the whirlwind of our 10+ years of clinical training, the spotlight rarely shines on mastering the art of research. It's like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. As we step into the world of academia, the early days are all about soaking in the wisdom of research mentors,…
Join Tomi Mitchell, a family physician, as we tackle the pressing issue of physician burnout. This episode delves into the stark disparity between perception and reality in medical careers, exploring strategies to combat burnout and prioritize well-being. Gain insights for health care professionals and discover how we can collectively redefine…
Join Dennis Hursh, an attorney with over 40 years of experience in health law. We explore the complex decisions physicians face when considering leaving a position without proper notice. Discover the legal, financial, and reputational consequences that can arise, along with practical advice for navigating these challenging situations. Tune in…
The true essence of our opioid crisis has been inaccurately characterized, as it does not stem from the use of medical opioids or any supply-related factors. Rather, it emerges from the underlying social factors influencing health. These factors have led to a growing sense of despair among significant segments of…
Join Sarah Samaan, a retired cardiologist and physician development coach. Discover how burnout is a response to workplace stress, not a personal flaw, and how it relates to grief and compassion. Gain valuable insights into distinguishing burnout from compassion fatigue, navigating systemic challenges, and practicing self-compassion. Explore actionable strategies to…
Join Andrea Wadley, a pediatrician who navigated career burnout to embrace the direct primary care (DPC) model. Discover how DPC transformed her practice, offering personalized care, shorter wait times, and improved doctor-patient relationships. Andrea's journey sheds light on how DPC can revitalize both a physician's career and patient care. Andrea…
The practice of medicine and surgery encompasses much more than mere theoretical knowledge. While technical skills serve as the foundation, they are just the starting point. Proficiency, safety, and competence are imperative, yet orchestrating a patient's secure journey to the operating room involves much more. This entails adeptly managing a…
Join Mara Buchbinder, a medical anthropologist, and explore the pressing issue of clinician burnout within the health care system. Delve into the shortcomings of conventional mental health approaches and the potential of an occupational health lens to uncover underlying causes. Discover practical solutions that prioritize psychosocial safety and organizational well-being,…
We delve into urologist William Lynes' emotional journey as a physician grappling with burnout and the weight of medical decisions. A distressing note triggers introspection, unraveling the hidden turmoil of a healer. Join us to explore the intersection of duty and personal battles in the world of medicine. William Lynes…
What I've learned is that when I pause amidst the whirlwind of my day to genuinely listen to a patient – to absorb their stories and share their struggles – something magical unfolds. A few words of gratitude, a heartfelt thank-you, possess the incredible power to transform a challenging day…
We join hematologist Toyosi Onwuemene who shares her transformative journey from clinician to scientist. A decade ago, she faced obstacles trying to build a research career without support, funding, or training. Now, she sheds light on the common struggles many physicians face when balancing clinical responsibilities and research aspirations. We…
Join Wendy L. Hunter, a pediatrician, as she shares a powerful story about a teenage girl found alone, having a seizure outside her clinic's front door. This incident prompted Wendy to explore trauma-informed care in her practice. Discover how Wendy's clinic implemented changes, such as using risk-scoring tools and community…
Join clinical psychologist Lisa Miller and neurosurgeon Philip E. Stieg as he discusses how the human brain is hard-wired for connection and the neuroprotective effects of spirituality. Discover practical ways to cultivate a sense of community, enhance mental health, and find joy in reconnecting with nature. Lisa Miller is a…
In the past year, a noteworthy shift has emerged in the conversations I've engaged in. Unlike any other time, I've witnessed individuals proactively reaching out, expressing their desire to explore alternative paths. In my initial discussions, I make it a priority to delve deep and uncover the underlying sources of…
Time rushes past us, an undeniable truth that leads us all toward a common conclusion. In the closing chapter of this journey, the words of poet Hartzell Wilson resound, underscoring the significance of how we invest each passing day. Every day we allocate is a fragment of our existence, a…