The U.S. health care system ranks poorly among high-income countries, but the direct primary care (DPC) model offers a potential solution. In this model, primary care providers are paid a consistent fee through a retainer or membership program, rather than relying on insurance billing. This frees up providers to spend…
It can be challenging when we encounter patients who have seen multiple specialists but still don't have a clear diagnosis. It's important to remember that the patient's symptoms are real and valid, regardless of a lack of explanation. In these cases, it's crucial to listen and validate their experiences. Here…
Are you considering taking the entrepreneurial route as a physician but wondering if an MBA is necessary? There are pros and cons of obtaining an MBA for physician entrepreneurs. Many argue that an MBA's real value is its network, but is it really worth the investment? Julien L. Pham is…
When I first decided to pursue a career in healthcare, I knew that it would be a challenging field. But what drew me in was the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. And while the healthcare system can sometimes feel like a big machine, with electronic health…
I believe that a thorough evaluation is the key to providing excellent care for my patients. During my training, I learned that a good interview is the foundation of good work, and that's why I spend up to two hours evaluating each person who comes to see me. I ask…
In this episode, we talk to Holly MacKenna, an integrative psychiatrist, about her experience as a chronic patient in the health care system. Holly shares how emotional and overwhelming the process was, and how she was able to draw on her own experience to better understand and support her patients.…
As a physician, one of the most challenging aspects of the job is understanding our worth and how to assess our value. We often find ourselves comparing ourselves to our colleagues, and asking ourselves if we are good enough. But the reality is that we are all clinically superbly qualified,…
I believe in the power of alternative and holistic approaches to treating pain. Pharmaceutical and surgical interventions are not the only options available and often, they are not the safest or most effective for managing chronic and acute pain. There is a wealth of knowledge and resources out there for…
In this episode, we welcome Cindy Perlin, a licensed clinical social worker and chronic pain survivor, to discuss the ongoing issue of prescription painkiller abuse and the dangers of relying on medication to treat pain. Research shows that physicians continue to prescribe large amounts of opioids for patients with minor…
As physicians, we often put the needs of our patients before our own. But it's important to remember that we are human beings too and sometimes we need to reach out for care. My passion for the well-being of physicians stems from my belief that when physicians are at their…
Don't make the same mistake I did: speaking from personal experience, I didn't handle COVID-19 the way I should have. I thought I could just "tough it out" on my own, without reaching out for help from my primary care physician. But when a colleague noticed how poorly I was…
In this episode, we hear from Alen Voskanian, a palliative care physician, who shares his personal experience with COVID-19. Dr. Voskanian reflects on the mental coping mechanisms he used to try and understand how he contracted the virus and the guilt he felt about potentially exposing his family. He also…
I believe that one of the most important things we can offer our patients is the space to talk and be heard. Often, patients come to us with complex and challenging issues that can't be fully resolved in a single visit. But simply taking the time to listen and acknowledge…
I've seen firsthand the devastating impact that threats to the safety of nurses and clinicians can have on the healthcare setting. Unfortunately, I've witnessed it frequently. The hardest and most heartbreaking part is that many of us have been led to believe that it's simply something we must endure as…
Join us on our latest episode as we explore the importance of addressing violent behaviors in health care settings. We'll be discussing the role of Behavioral Emergency Response Teams (BERTs), trained in non-violent intervention techniques, in managing disruptive behavior and improving safety for both patients and staff. We'll also dive…
Primary care is the backbone of our healthcare system, and it's no surprise that nearly 500 million visits are made to primary care physicians each year. In fact, over half of all physician visits are with primary care physicians. This is why investing in a strong primary care physician pipeline…
The beauty of my work as a healthcare professional is that it becomes much more fulfilling when we truly listen to and understand our patients' needs. I've realized that behind every cry for help, there is a deeper story waiting to be heard. That's why I strive to be more…
In this episode, interventional physiatrist Francisco M. Torres shares a poignant story about missing the signs of depression in a patient. He reflects on the challenges of limited time with patients in modern health care and the importance of truly listening to patients and paying attention to what is between…
When it comes to lawsuits, it's important to take an active role and be a front-seat participant. As you navigate through the legal process, it's important to consider what resources and support you may need. It can be difficult for physicians to admit vulnerability and ask for help, but this…
When it comes to lawsuits, it's important to understand the difference between discussing the facts and specifics of your case and how the lawsuit affects you personally. Your attorney may advise you not to discuss the ins and outs of the case, but it's important to address the impact it's…
In this episode, we explore the emotional impact of medical malpractice lawsuits on physicians and how they can navigate the process. Attorney Christine Zharova shares her insights on how these lawsuits can affect relationships with colleagues, staff, family, friends, and the self. She emphasizes the importance of seeking support and…
The operating room is not what you see on TV. It's not just one person calling the shots, it's a team effort. Everyone plays an important role and works together towards the same goal. And with the culture of safety that we have now, anyone at any time can speak…
The power of trust in medicine is truly remarkable. As doctors, we may only interact with our patients for a short time, but the bond formed is undeniable. Even when our patients are asleep for the majority of our interactions, there is still an intimacy and shared humanity that cannot…
David Alfery is a cardiac anesthesiologist who shares his experiences in the operating room and intensive care unit. In this discussion, he reflects on the lessons he learned about life, death, and the balance in between through his encounters with patients. He offers a unique perspective on the profession, providing…