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…
Join Maria Iliakova, a bariatric and general surgeon, as she shares her challenging yet transformative journey through surgical residency, where she faced overwhelming pressures and doubts. Discover how she found solace and fulfillment in the operating room, making surgery her favorite thing to do. Gain valuable insights into the world…
Join Kim Downey, a physical therapist, and Michael Hersh, a gastroenterologist, and discover how coaching can help physicians navigate challenges, change their lives, and find personal and professional growth. Don't miss their insights on finding the right coach, the impact of thoughts on feelings, and the benefits of supplementary materials.…
Envision dedicated doctors, yet consider the subtle impact of empathy, medical training, and rushed appointments. These elements erect a barrier, eroding the empathy essential for quality care and human connection. As empathy diminishes, so does the essence of compassionate medical practice, undermining both standards and the doctor-patient bond. #EmpathyInMedicine #RushedAppointments…
Step into the world of vascular medicine, where I came across a puzzling scenario that raised questions about clinician motivations. The head of my HMO asked me to review a physician's case records due to an unusual surge in bilateral venous ablation procedures. Among approximately 30 to 35 cases, nearly…
Join Erkeda DeRouen, a family physician, as we delve into the recent remake of The Little Mermaid. Discover how this Disney film led Erkeda on a journey to explore the inspiring story of Howard Ashman, his battle with HIV during the AIDS epidemic, and the lessons we can learn from…
Ever heard the saying that the best physicians might be destined for hell? It stems from the Hebrew Bible, suggesting that exceptional doctors' pride often hinders them from seeking or accepting help. This pride can lead to both missed opportunities for learning and potential failure in patient care. It's a…
Embark on the cutting edge of blood pressure innovation as cuffless devices prepare to transform primary care. Patients armed with these devices could pose both communication challenges and unanticipated insights, with blood pressure readings cropping up during the most unexpected activities. While promising wider monitoring access, the uncharted nature of…
Join patient advocate Richard A. Lawhern as he challenges prevailing myths surrounding the opioid crisis. With insights from medical literature, he questions the link between opioid prescribing and toxicity, highlighting the need for evidence-based public health policies. Learn about the human toll of opioid restrictions and explore alternatives for severe…
Our healthcare workplaces have become alarming hotspots for assaults and violence, even more dangerous than the police department, military, or heavy industry. Unfortunately, hospitals keep this grim reality hidden, leading to underreported numbers. But enough is enough – it's time to confront this issue head-on. Let's raise our voices, demand…
In this tumultuous time, it's not just about physicians facing harassment – our patients are suffering too. Threatening emails, bomb scares, and disruptive protests plague our healthcare professionals, fueled by a disturbing level of distrust and hate from a loud minority. This unprecedented situation is deeply concerning for the future…
Join Cindy Rubin, a pediatrician and breastfeeding medicine specialist, as she discusses the common challenges of nipple discomfort during breastfeeding and the controversial use of all-purpose nipple ointment (APNO). Learn about evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat lactation issues and the importance of comprehensive breastfeeding medicine education. Discover how the…
Our profession is confronting a harsh reality that demands our immediate attention. You may have heard of the alarming number of physician suicides, approximately 400 per year, comparable to a Boeing 747 or two medical school classes. What's even more shocking is the estimated 20 to 100 attempted suicides for…
Imagine a revolution in the ER: palliative medicine at the forefront, reducing ineffective treatments. Emergency medicine practitioners and trainees are eager to bring compassion and better communication skills to patients. It's a game-changing opportunity for growth, ensuring end-of-life interventions align with patients' wishes. The ER is becoming a place of…
We welcome William Lynes, a urologist, who shares his powerful and personal story. William opens up about his battle with burnout, mental illness, and multiple suicide attempts. From his successful career to the devastating medical events that changed everything, he reveals the shame he experienced within the medical community. We…
Finding the perfect surgeon for your rhinoplasty can be a game-changer, so don't be afraid to ask the right questions. First, find out how many rhinoplasty procedures they perform each year - experience matters! Take a peek at their before and after photos; it's like a window into their artistic…
Imagine this powerful scene: she held me tightly for a brief moment, and then, with a single tear streaming down her face, she let me go. It was an image etched into my heart forever. I can honestly say I've never experienced a more heartwarming thank you from a patient.…
Join Tyler Jorgensen, an emergency medicine and palliative care physician, and discover the profound insights he shares on the value of home visits in patient care. Explore the complexities of handling challenging situations, such as encountering conflicting beliefs, and learn strategies for providing compassionate care. Don't miss this enlightening discussion…
Join Francisco M. Torres, an interventional physiatrist, and Felix S. Linetsky, a pain management physician, as they delve into the world of chronic pain and its often misunderstood connection to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). They discuss the challenges of diagnosing and treating EDS, the limitations of traditional therapies, and the potential…
Join Babak Azizzadeh, a facial plastic surgeon, in discussing the sensitive topic of getting a nose job, or rhinoplasty, particularly for teenagers. We delve into the importance of thorough research, honest communication with parents, and understanding the risks and long-term effects of the procedure. Babak shares valuable insights on finding…
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…