For the first 20 years of my life as a practitioner, my focus was always on asking, "What's the matter?" I would search for the problem, try to fix it, and explain everything to my patients. It was a common approach, diagnosing and dictating what they needed. However, everything changed…
Blood pressure accuracy is an absolute game-changer, and it's a critical factor in patient care. As time goes on, our blood pressure goals are getting narrower and more precise. However, if we're not measuring blood pressure accurately, we run the risk of subjecting patients to unnecessary negative effects from medications.…
Join David Alfery, a cardiac anesthesiologist and author of Saving Grace: What Patients Teach Their Doctors about Life, Death, and the Balance in Between. David recounts a transformative moment from his medical mission trip to Nicaragua, where he cradled an infant named Jose with a cleft lip and palate. We…
As a trusted source for my patients, we stand strong against the clutches of greed, both from outside and within our profession. It's high time we clean up our act and uphold the integrity of our calling. Most of us are dedicated and upright physicians, committed to providing the best…
Caring for my late father with my sisters gave me a shocking insight into the healthcare system. I realized how shielded I had been in a pediatric utopia, where things seemed smooth. However, with my dad, I saw dysfunction and communication gaps among his medical providers. I had to become…
Alan Lindemann, an obstetrics-gynecology physician, exposes the overlooked side of state medical boards. Join us as we shed light on the damage done to physicians and patients. Discover the need for transparency, accountability, and improved oversight to ensure the fair functioning of medical boards and safeguard the well-being of all…
There was a time when I hit a phase of depersonalization in my work. I found myself rushing through patient appointments, just trying to reach the end of the day. It was a stark contrast from the passion I once felt. The realization that I was experiencing burnout struck me…
Let's talk about women in medicine and mothers in medicine. Are we creating a good space and advocating for them? What about maternity and paternity leave policies? Is there enough postpartum support for physicians when they return? Let's offer flexibility, emergency child care, and create spaces for open discussions. To…
We discuss the striking similarities between the Kentucky Derby and the challenges of medical training. Our guest, Corinne Sundar Rao, an internal medicine physician, shares valuable insights based on her expertise. We explore the shared traits of speed, stamina, skill, training, and positioning, while also addressing the pressing issue of…
My passion for primary care stems from a perfect blend of factors that keep me going and loving what I do. Faith provides me unwavering strength, while a fantastic network of friends offers love and support. To stay grounded, I balance my medical expertise with other passions like gardening, travel,…
Let me take you on a journey of self-discovery and share the pivotal moment when I realized I was facing burnout. It's funny how I never thought that words like "burnout" or "moral injury" would ever be associated with me. When I embarked on my path in primary care, my…
Join Harry Severance, an emergency physician, as we explore the factors contributing to this issue, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the demonization of health care workers. Discover the alarming statistics and consequences presented by organizations like the Association of American Medical Colleges and National Nurses United. Harry…
Calling all physicians! We hold the key to winning this crucial battle against climate-induced health challenges. As our patients' greatest advocates, it's high time we stand up not only for them but also for ourselves. Let's bravely confront the conversation about how climate change is affecting health and take a…
Discovering new cancers and diagnosing subtle conditions can be incredibly rewarding in our line of work. Picture this: after a motor vehicle collision, we spot a hidden traumatic injury that calls for immediate surgery. These moments, these victories, they fuel our passion for what we do. Witnessing patients respond positively…
Join Meredithe McNamara, a pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist, in discussing the challenges adolescent medicine physicians face due to the current political climate. We explore the impact of unfilled pediatrics residency spots and the importance of their expertise in caring for youth. Join us to learn about the struggles, sacrifices,…
Join Kara Wada, an adult and pediatric allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine physician, as we discuss the epithelial barrier hypothesis. What is the epithelial barrier hypothesis? What are some of the diseases that have been linked to epithelial barrier dysfunction? What are some of the factors that can disrupt the…
Think back to your college days – maybe you had this story in your mind, "I'll be happy when I finally get into med school." And then, you achieve that goal. But wait, there's another milestone – "I'll be happy when I finish med school and land the perfect residency."…
We talk with Jordana Cohen, an internal medicine physician, about the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement. With the rise of telehealth and at-home monitoring, ensuring reliable readings is crucial. Jordana discusses concerns regarding device accuracy and introduces the U.S. Blood Pressure Validated Device Listing (VDL) as a solution. Discover…
Join Scott Abramson, a neurologist, as we delve into the complex interplay between work and home life for physicians. Scott shares his personal experiences and reflections on how challenging periods in his family and personal life led him to seek solace and support in his professional work. Discover the emotions…
Imagine your primary care doctor as the star quarterback, not just a gatekeeper. They're not simply taking tickets at a ballpark; they're more like Tom Brady, skillfully passing the ball and orchestrating the game. Unfortunately, the current situation has evolved due to insurance-related reasons rather than any sound medical logic.…
Join Don Gaede, an internal medicine and vascular medicine physician, to discuss the "existential threat of greed in U.S. health care" highlighted in a JAMA editorial. Don shares his firsthand encounters with unethical practices within his specialty of vascular medicine, where patients are urged to undergo unnecessary procedures. We delve…
Join Amna Shabbir, an internal medicine physician, as she shares her personal journey and reflections on physician burnout and its impact on family dynamics. Amna opens up about her early exposure to burnout through her mother's experiences as a physician and the profound effects it had on her upbringing. We…
Join Earl Stewart, Jr., an internal medicine physician, as we discuss the critical need for electronic health record (EHR) systems to address the impact of climate change on patient health. Earl highlights the limitations of current EHRs and shares his vision for integrating climate education into these systems. Discover how…
Join John R. Mehall, a cardiothoracic surgeon and physician executive. We explore the lasting impact of the global pandemic on hospitals in the United States, uncover the underlying financial crisis often overlooked by headlines, and discuss innovative strategies to bolster hospital finances. In particular, we delve into the misconceptions surrounding…