When it comes to negotiating employment contracts, it's essential to prioritize your battles and choose your fights wisely. As a doctor, I understand the temptation to want to make changes to every single word and section, but it's important to focus on the most crucial aspects and stand your ground…
Skinny fat, a term used to describe normal weight individuals who still carry excess fat and are at risk for the same diseases as those who are obese. Don't let your BMI deceive you - even if you're within a "healthy" range, undiagnosed skinny fat can still put you at…
In this episode, we explore the concept of normal weight obesity and skinny fat with scientific researcher Marc Nelson. Marc discusses how genetics, diet, exercise, and lifestyle all play a role in determining our body type, and how new research is helping us better understand the complex relationship between body…
The bond between physicians and patients is the foundation of good health and medical decision making. It is a sacred relationship that should be the focus of everything we do in the healthcare industry. As physicians, we are valuable assets, but our patients are even more precious. We must always…
As a society, it's clear that we are facing a shortage of physicians. But have you ever stopped to think about how we are utilizing the time of the physicians we do have? It seems that instead of focusing on patient care and hospital work, doctors are being pulled in…
"Let’s ask which elements of our system support this and promote and enhance those elements. If anything takes time or focus away from the main principle, let’s remove or replace it. Whether it’s the EMR, payment models, prior authorizations, or even automated phone systems, let’s rethink things so the two…
Are you striving to become a memorization pro and earn a spot in medical school? Well, let me tell you, once you get there, the amount of information you'll need to manage and comprehend can be overwhelming. That's why it's important to not just memorize facts and figures, but to…
Congratulations to all the future doctors out there who just got accepted into med school! Remember, you are capable of finishing and achieving your dreams. It's important to surround yourself with a supportive network and never be afraid to ask for help. Medical school can be tough, but it's normal…
"My hope for the future is to see a health care workforce that matches the diversity of the communities it serves. As we continue to push for health equity, we also continue to evaluate and reassess our student programs to provide tailored support and help them reach their full potential.…
Feeling lost and disconnected? Take a step towards finding your purpose and connecting with what truly matters. Embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. Whether you're looking to delve into a specific topic or simply seeking a change of scenery, there is something for everyone. Follow your heart and…
As a military physician, I often hear people asking what it's like on the "other side" - as if civilian life is somehow easier or better. But the truth is, the grass is not always greener on the other side. Both military and civilian life come with their own unique…
"The retreat offered me the opportunity to see that I want more time (don’t we all) to connect with quiet, peace, and loved ones. I want to embody love as well as the badass that I am. That’s what I got out of the retreat and what I brought home…
As a healthcare professional, it's important to be able to offer more than just medical treatment to our patients. Sometimes, all they need is someone to be present with them and listen to their concerns. That kind of companionship is crucial, especially for those who may not have strong social…
As a hospice volunteer, I have had the opportunity to witness the unique beauty of end-of-life care. In this setting, the focus shifts away from aggressive medical interventions and towards the interpersonal connections and support that can bring comfort to those in their final days. I have been able to…
"The finality of death is a powerful teacher. For some patients, being diagnosed with a terminal illness is an experience that lends a tremendous shift in perspective and newfound authenticity. This can be instructive to them and the people around them. As psychologist Charles Garfield says, 'The living have much…
Feeling burnt out? It might be because you're not feeling empowered in your profession. As doctors, it can often feel like we're losing control of how we're able to care for our patients due to all the red tape and bureaucracy surrounding EMRs. That's why it's so important to find…
Are you a writer with a passion for medicine? Do you have a knack for making engaging videos or a talent for creating memes? No matter your strengths, there's a platform on social media that can showcase your skills and help you share medical information with a wider audience. If…
Have you ever stopped to think about how important it is for healthcare companies to make life easier for clinicians? In my opinion, it's absolutely crucial. Unfortunately, doctors and other medical professionals often don't have much of a say in the systems and technologies that are implemented in their workplaces.…
Everywhere we look, people seem to be laser-focused on getting the right code for their visits. And we get it, accuracy is important, especially when it comes to Medicare Advantage. Proper coding ensures that scores can be calculated and payment can be processed smoothly through all the necessary channels. But…
"With the shift to value-based care models, it will be more important than ever to give clinicians a diagnostically focused view for each patient and each of their medical problems. Clinicians need these details instantly, without having to randomly search through unrelated sections of the clinically inert EHR. By empowering…
Why do we do this to ourselves? Going through the motions of borrowing money and deferring payment seems like a never-ending cycle. We become numb to the impact debt has on our lives and before we know it, we're drowning in a sea of financial obligations. It's no wonder so…
As a patient, there's nothing more important to me than making sure I fully understand my treatment plan and any information my doctor shares with me. That's why I believe it's so important for doctors to have their patients repeat back what they've heard in their own words - it…
"My father’s struggle to exist as a father after getting married was evident. But at the same time, the birth of his children changed his world forever. His march towards success through hard work, unmatched anger, and repression prevented him from rising out of his poverty mindset, even though he…
As a nurse, I learned that patients with the best attitude, determination, and enthusiasm for recovery often had the best outcomes. In my experience working with patients recovering from open heart surgery, I saw firsthand how a positive attitude can make a big difference. That's why I was impressed with…