Episoder
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Summary
In this interview, Dr. Sarah Smith, a rural family physician and charting coach, shared valuable insights about improving clinical efficiency and patient care. Dr. Smith discussed common challenges faced by surgeons in clinic settings, including high patient volume, time management, and staff delegation. She emphasized the importance of effective communication with clinic staff, proper delegation, and creating standard operating procedures. Dr. Smith also highlighted strategies for managing patient encounters more efficiently, including integrating note-taking into patient visits and prioritizing tasks. The discussion covered both clinical workflow optimization and staff management, providing practical solutions for improving surgical practice efficiency. Dr. Smith introduced her program 'Charting Champions' and the 'Sustainable Clinical Medicine' podcast as resources for further support and development.
Chapters
Introduction to Dr. Sarah Smith and Clinic Challenges
Dr. Sarah Smith introduced herself as a rural family physician working in various capacities including emergency and hospitalist roles. She discussed common challenges in surgical clinics, including high patient volume, staff interruptions, and time constraints.
Staff Delegation and Management
Dr. Smith emphasized the importance of understanding staff capabilities and creating a common goal. She discussed how to identify staff strengths and weaknesses, and the importance of developing standard operating procedures for clinic tasks.
Patient Encounter Optimization
Dr. Smith provided strategies for managing patient visits more efficiently, including integrating note-taking during consultations, prioritizing tasks, and making effective use of appointment time.
Charting and Documentation Strategies
Dr. Smith discussed the importance of completing notes during patient encounters rather than leaving them until later, and the value of leaving 'breadcrumbs' in documentation to avoid blank notes.
Introduction to Charting Champions Program
Dr. Smith introduced her 'Charting Champions' program, which offers foundational modules and ongoing support for healthcare professionals looking to improve their clinical efficiency and documentation practices.
Action Items
Implement standard operating procedures for clinic tasks to improve efficiency
Schedule regular check-in times for staff to ask questions and receive guidance
Create answer sheets for frequently asked questions to empower staff
Integrate note-taking into patient encounters rather than leaving it until later
Consider joining the Charting Champions program for ongoing support check it out here
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Summary
Dr. Amy Vertrees presented a comprehensive discussion on 'Swimming with Sharks 2.0', exploring the metaphor of surgery and surgical environments as shark-infested waters. She explained how surgeons are often perceived as sharks, and how this perception has been perpetuated in medical culture. Dr. Vertrees, a general surgeon in private practice, author of 'Become the Boss MD', and certified coach, drew from a 1974 article about swimming with sharks to create modern lessons for navigating surgical environments. She emphasized the importance of understanding both sharks and human nature, discussing how people respond to stress through fight, flight, flee, or fawn responses. The presentation covered strategies for protecting oneself in challenging environments, managing negative emotions, and developing self-compassion. Dr. Vertrees also introduced her year-long Boss Surgeons program, which helps surgeons develop professional and personal growth strategies.
Chapters00:00:02Introduction to Swimming with Sharks 2.0Dr. Amy Vertrees introduces the concept of 'Swimming with Sharks 2.0', explaining how surgery is metaphorically like swimming with sharks, where surgeons are perceived as sharks in a dangerous environment.
00:02:11Understanding Sharks and Human NatureDr. Vertrees draws parallels between sharks and human behavior, explaining how both respond to environmental triggers and have the capacity for both harm and cooperation.
00:05:08Managing Stress Responses and EmotionsDiscussion of the motivational triad and different stress responses (fight, flight, flee, or fawn), emphasizing the importance of understanding personal stress reactions in surgical environments.
00:08:16Strategies for Swimming with SharksDr. Vertrees presents various strategies for navigating challenging professional environments, including anticipatory retaliation and managing coordinated attacks.
00:47:28The Boss Surgeons Program OverviewIntroduction to the year-long Boss Surgeons program, covering five categories including difficult colleague management, complications handling, power negotiating, clinic efficiency, and personal development.
Action Items00:56:28Dr. Vertrees will upload the presentation to a landing page and send out the replay link by email 00:49:21Participants in the Boss MD program should prepare their goodbye letter to their 2024 self 00:52:59Interested participants can sign up for the Boss Surgeons program at bosssurgery.com with a $1,000 discount 00:50:17Dr. Vertrees will implement more flexible meeting times based on poll results in the Facebook group 00:59:23Participants should contact Dr. Vertrees at [email protected] or through Facebook for program questions
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Summary
In this interview, Dr. Susan Trocciola, a cardiothoracic surgeon, discussed her experiences with locum tenens work and expert witness consulting. Dr. Trocciola shared her journey from traditional employment to locums after facing challenges in finding the right job fit and dealing with personal health issues. She emphasized how locums work has allowed her to achieve better work-life balance, earning twice as much while working half as much compared to her previous full-time job. Dr. Trocciola detailed her approach to determining value in locums work, recommending rates starting at $2,500 per day, and discussed the importance of establishing boundaries with locums companies. She also shared insights about her expert witness work, explaining how it has made her a better doctor through improved documentation practices. The discussion highlighted the benefits of locums work in providing flexibility, better patient care options, and opportunities for professional growth.
Chapters
Introduction and Background of Dr. Susan Trocciola
Dr. Trocciola introduced herself as a cardiothoracic surgeon trained at prestigious programs including Cornell, NYU, and Texas Heart. She shared her journey through traditional employment challenges, personal health issues, and eventual transition to locums work.
Benefits of Locums Work
Dr. Trocciola discussed how locums work has transformed her approach to medicine, allowing her to focus on patient care rather than RVUs. She shared an example of prioritizing patient care over personal convenience in a recent case.
Determining Value in Locums Work
Dr. Trocciola explained her approach to establishing value in locums work, recommending working with multiple companies to understand market rates and emphasizing the importance of negotiating fair compensation.
Navigating Locums Assignments
Dr. Trocciola shared insights about identifying good locums companies, establishing boundaries, and recognizing when to leave assignments that aren't a good fit.
Expert Witness Work
Dr. Trocciola discussed her journey into expert witness work, how it has improved her practice, and the importance of honesty and thorough documentation in both expert witness cases and clinical practice.
Future Plans and Work-Life Balance
Dr. Trocciola expressed her desire to reduce clinical work and increase expert witness work, emphasizing the importance of maintaining work-life balance and having time for personal activities.
Action Items
Dr. Trocciola recommends starting locums assignments with shorter commitments to allow for better evaluation and negotiation opportunities
Dr. Trocciola advises establishing a minimum daily rate of at least $2,500 for locums work
Dr. Trocciola suggests working with multiple locums companies to understand market rates and negotiate better contracts
Dr. Trocciola emphasizes the importance of thorough documentation in both clinical practice and expert witness work -
Summary
This meeting featured a discussion with Dr. Josh Hartzell about his new book 'A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership'. Dr. Hartzell, a recently retired army colonel with 25 years in military medicine, shared insights about building a culture of compassion and excellence in healthcare leadership. He emphasized how healthcare, despite being a caring profession, often neglects its own people. The discussion covered the importance of caring leadership, delegation, giving feedback, and expressing gratitude in healthcare settings. Dr. Hartzell shared personal experiences from his military career and discussed how early influences shaped his leadership philosophy. The conversation highlighted the critical need to balance mission accomplishment with caring for people, addressing burnout in healthcare, and creating positive organizational cultures through intentional leadership practices.
Chapters
Introduction to Dr. Hartzell and His Book
The host introduces Dr. Josh Hartzell and his book 'A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership'. Dr. Hartzell explains his background as a retired army colonel with 25 years in military medicine.
The State of Healthcare Leadership
Discussion reveals healthcare as one of the most toxic industries despite being a caring profession and highlights the need for better care of healthcare workers.
Early Influences and Leadership Development
Dr. Hartzell shares how his parents and early mentors shaped his understanding of caring leadership, including examples from his mother's work at Walmart and his father's community service.
Balancing Mission and People
The discussion explores how good managers can accomplish both mission objectives and care for their people, challenging the traditional 'mission first' mentality in healthcare.
Delegation and Growth Opportunities
Dr. Hartzell explains how effective delegation shows respect for others' roles and provides growth opportunities, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication.
Action Items
Hartzell recommends leaders should actively look for reasons to say thank you to all staff members, from physicians to cleaning staffLeaders should set boundaries and make personal health a priority to model work-life balance for their teamsHealthcare leaders should implement systematic changes to address burnout rather than just offering temporary solutionsLeaders should provide both positive and constructive feedback to build trust and improve performanceOrganizations should focus on creating transparent systems for delegation and professional development -
Episode Title: Blood Sugar Stabilization and Preventive Health with Dr. Amina Goodwin
Summary:
In this insightful episode of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amina Goodwin shares her expertise on blood sugar stabilization and its impact on overall health. An internal medicine and infectious disease physician originally from Antigua, Dr. Goodwin has been practicing in Mississippi since 2013. She discusses her extensive experience treating diabetic patients and her transition to locum tenens work, which grants her the flexibility to focus on preventive care.Dr. Goodwin introduces her upcoming book, Beaming Health, set for release on February 6, and explains her BEAM framework for blood sugar management: Burn more sugar, Eat less sugar, Absorb less sugar, and Make less sugar. She highlights the significance of maintaining stable blood sugar levels and examines how stress, diet, and lifestyle choices influence glucose regulation. The discussion also covers the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring and the limitations of medication-based interventions like GLP-1 agonists, advocating for sustainable, lifestyle-based solutions.
Episode Chapters:00:00:00 – Introduction and Background of Dr. Amina Goodwin
Dr. Goodwin introduces herself, detailing her journey as a physician from Antigua to Mississippi. She discusses her work with diabetic patients and her shift to locum tenens practice, which allows her to focus on preventive care and writing her book.00:06:14 – The BEAM Framework for Blood Sugar Management
Dr. Goodwin breaks down her BEAM strategy for regulating blood sugar, using a kitchen sink analogy to explain how insulin functions in the body.00:15:24 – Burning Sugar and Physical Activity
She emphasizes the importance of consistent movement throughout the day rather than relying solely on dedicated gym sessions. She explains the role of muscle mass in sugar metabolism.00:19:04 – Eating and Sugar Consumption
Dr. Goodwin advises monitoring added sugar intake, setting a limit of 24 grams (6 teaspoons) per day. She also introduces her 'bean food pyramid' concept.00:24:28 – Absorption and Food Pairing
She explains how fiber, protein, and fat help slow sugar absorption, using a football field analogy to illustrate their effects on blood sugar regulation.00:27:10 – Stress and Blood Sugar Regulation
Dr. Goodwin discusses the impact of stress on blood sugar levels, including psychological stressors and physical stressors such as sleep apnea and chronic inflammation.00:30:06 – Medication Approaches and Lifestyle Changes
Key Takeaways and Action Items:
She reviews GLP-1 agonists and other medications, emphasizing that while they can be helpful, they should not replace foundational lifestyle modifications. She encourages focusing on natural, sustainable health practices.✔ Monitor added sugar intake – Stay within 24 grams (6 teaspoons) per day (00:20:28)
✔ Incorporate physical activity regularly – Move every 60-90 minutes throughout the day (00:15:59)
✔ Use continuous glucose monitoring – Track real-time blood sugar levels (00:12:15)
✔ Prioritize whole foods – Prepare meals using basic, unprocessed ingredients (00:22:18)
✔ Manage chronic stress – Address underlying factors like sleep apnea and inflammation (00:28:16)Why You Should Listen:
This episode is essential for healthcare professionals and anyone interested in metabolic health, as Dr. Goodwin provides practical, science-backed strategies for improving blood sugar regulation. Her BEAM framework offers an easy-to-follow guide for optimizing diet, movement, and stress management, helping listeners take control of their long-term health. -
Summary
In this interview, Dr. Christin Mullane discusses her new book 'Medical Stress and Trauma: A Mindfulness-Based Approach to Reclaiming Safety and Empowerment,' which addresses the psychological challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients in medical systems. Dr. Mullane, a psychologist with extensive experience in various healthcare settings across the United States, explains how the pandemic has exacerbated existing issues in healthcare systems, leading to increased trauma and stress. She introduces the Cartman-Drama triangle framework, which identifies three roles people can play in these systems: victim, rescuer, and perpetrator. Dr. Mullane discusses concepts like vicarious traumatization, compassion fatigue, and burnout, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries and developing self-compassion. The conversation covers the challenges of working in healthcare systems, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery, and highlights the need for better language and understanding around these issues. Dr. Mullane also shares information about her practice, Ginkgo Leaf Health, which offers support to healthcare workers, patients, and caregivers dealing with medical trauma and stress.
Chapters00:00:55Introduction to Dr. Kristin Mullane and Her BackgroundDr. Mullane introduces herself as a psychologist with extensive experience in medical systems, having worked in emergency rooms, palliative care, and cancer clinics across various healthcare settings in the United States, including inner city hospitals and rural outpatient clinics.
00:02:14Understanding Medical Stress and TraumaDr. Mullane explains the Cartman-Drama triangle framework, describing how healthcare workers can identify as victims, rescuers, or perpetrators in their roles. She discusses concepts like vicarious traumatization, compassion fatigue, and burnout, emphasizing the challenges faced by healthcare professionals.
00:07:00The Impact of the Pandemic on Healthcare SystemsThe speakers discuss how the pandemic has changed perceptions of healthcare workers, from being seen as heroes to facing increased medical distrust. They explore how financial challenges and staffing shortages have compounded existing problems in healthcare systems.
00:29:00The Importance of Boundary SettingDr. Mullane outlines the five steps to effective boundary setting, emphasizing the importance of creating, communicating, and maintaining boundaries while also allowing for flexibility when necessary.
00:40:20Overview of Ginkgo Leaf Health PracticeDr. Mullane describes her practice's focus on supporting healthcare workers, patients, and caregivers dealing with medical trauma. She discusses their offerings, including pro bono financial counseling, life and meditation coaching, and virtual consultations across most states.
Find her book HERE
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Find more information here:
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/healthcare/impactwellbeingguide/index.htmlhttps://drlornabreen.org/become-an-ambassador/Summary
In this interview, Dr. Stephanie Simmons, an emergency room physician and Chief Medical Officer of the Lorna Breen Foundation, discussed the critical issue of mental health among healthcare workers. Dr. Simmons shared her personal experience with postpartum depression during residency and how it shaped her understanding of mental health stigma in medicine. She described her work leading professional well-being initiatives for 26,000 physicians across 1,000 hospitals in 36 states before the pandemic. Dr. Simmons detailed the foundation's mission to remove barriers to mental health care for healthcare workers, particularly focusing on changing licensing and credentialing practices that discriminate against those with past mental health treatment. She emphasized the importance of culturally competent care for healthcare workers and discussed legislative efforts, including the Dr. Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Protection Act, which funded 45 projects across the country to promote healthcare workforce well-being. The conversation highlighted the three sources of stigma facing healthcare workers: internal, external, and institutional, and how the foundation is working to address these issues through advocacy, collaboration, and solution acceleration.
Chapters
Introduction and Personal Journey
Dr. Simmons introduced herself as an emergency medicine physician and Chief Medical Officer of the Lorna Breen Foundation. She shared her personal experience with postpartum depression during residency and the initial fears that prevented her from seeking help, which later informed her work in professional well-being.
Scaling Well-Being Programs
Dr. Simmons explained her approach to implementing well-being programs for 26,000 physicians across 1,000 hospitals in 36 states, focusing on leadership training, coaching programs, and developing Wellness Champion networks at each site.
The Impact of the Pandemic
Dr. Simmons described how the pandemic changed the landscape of healthcare worker well-being, comparing pre-pandemic efforts to the increased urgency and visibility of mental health issues during the crisis.
The Lorna Breen Foundation
Dr. Simmons detailed the foundation's origins following Dr. Lorna Breen's death, its mission to change perceptions of mental health care as a sign of strength, and its focus on removing workplace obstacles to joyful medical practice.
Addressing Stigma and Barriers
Dr. Simmons discussed the three sources of stigma facing healthcare workers: internal, external, and institutional. She outlined the foundation's strategies to address these issues through legislative advocacy and systemic change.
Legislative Advocacy and Impact
Dr. Simmons explained the foundation's work on the Dr. Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Protection Act, its funding of 45 projects, and ongoing efforts to reauthorize the legislation and implement its findings.
Action Items
Dr. Simmons mentioned the need to remove invasive and stigmatizing language from licensing and credentialing applications
Dr. Simmons emphasized the importance of increasing access to culturally competent mental healthcare for healthcare workers
Dr. Simmons proposed implementing screening programs like the ISP (Interactive Screening Program) backed by culturally competent care
Dr. Simmons recommended using the Impact Well-Being Guide as a starter resource for hospital leaders
Dr. Simmons highlighted the need to advocate for changes in peer reference forms to eliminate questions about past mental health treatment
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Summary
In this interview, Dr. Mel Thacker discussed her significant career transition from a successful surgical practice to becoming a coach for surgeons. Dr. Thacker shared that she left her practice in December 2024 after nearly a decade of service, despite being at the peak of her career with a high six-figure income. She cited three main reasons for her departure: moral injury from the healthcare system, witnessing unsafe practices in the for-profit hospital system, and personal growth. Dr. Thacker described a pivotal moment in September 2023 when she encountered systemic issues with insurance approvals that deeply affected her practice. She emphasized her transformation through coaching, which helped her overcome panic attacks and develop new methods for handling surgical complications. Now, she focuses on empowering surgeons through coaching, offering group programs and resources to help them navigate the challenges of modern medical practice.
Chapters
Career Transition and Current Status
Dr. Thacker explained her recent career change, leaving a successful surgical practice after nearly a decade. She described being at the top of her game, with excellent surgical skills and patient connections, before making the decision to leave.
Reasons for Leaving Practice
Dr. Thacker outlined three primary reasons for her departure: moral injury from the healthcare system, witnessing unsafe practices in the for-profit hospital system, and personal growth through coaching. She emphasized that her husband supported her decision despite being the primary breadwinner.
Experiences with Healthcare System Challenges
Dr. Thacker detailed her experiences with moral injury, including a specific incident in September 2023 where an insurance company denied necessary surgery for a patient. She described multiple instances of systemic issues affecting patient care and treatment options.
Coaching Transformation and Methodology
Dr. Thacker discussed her transformation through coaching, developing what she calls the 'on layering method' for handling surgical complications. She explained how she applies coaching concepts to surgery and helps other surgeons through this process.
New Direction and Coaching Focus
Dr. Thacker introduced her new coaching program, the 'Empowered Surgeons Group,' starting April 30, 2025. She described the program structure, including weekly meetings, self-directed learning modules, and a comprehensive workbook.
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Summary
The meeting featured Frank Lobb, a former Navy pilot, discussing healthcare insurance contracts and their impact on medical care. Lobb shared his personal experience of losing his wife after being denied healthcare coverage, despite offering to pay out of pocket. He explained how his investigation through legal proceedings revealed that healthcare insurance contracts are secret, state-approved documents that effectively allow insurance companies to ration healthcare. Lobb discovered that these contracts, standardized around 1990, contain provisions that prevent patients from paying for care when insurance denies coverage. He emphasized how the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's recent involvement has shifted the burden of proof for billing accuracy to healthcare providers. The discussion highlighted how the current system disadvantages both patients and healthcare providers, with Lobb suggesting that medical organizations like the AMA should push for contract reform.
Chapters
Introduction to Frank Lobb and His Healthcare Experience
Frank Lobb introduced himself as a former Navy pilot who became involved in healthcare contract analysis after personal tragedy. He shared his experience with DuPont's Clean Air Act negotiations, demonstrating his ability to analyze complex legal situations despite not being an attorney.
Personal Tragedy and Legal Investigation
Lobb described how his wife's illness led to his investigation of healthcare contracts. Despite offering to pay, multiple hospitals denied care after his insurance company's denial. Through legal proceedings, he gained rare access to typically secret insurance contracts.
Evolution of Healthcare Insurance System
Lobb explained how healthcare insurance evolved from a simple fee-for-service model in 1929-1930 to the current complex system. He highlighted the Supreme Court's 1990 ruling that confirmed insurance companies' right to ration healthcare.
Contract Structure and Patient Rights
Lobb revealed that unlike other insurance types, health insurance operates on a single contract system. He emphasized that patients don't actually have contracts with their insurance companies, only providers do.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Impact
Lobb discussed how the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's involvement has shifted the burden of proof for billing accuracy to healthcare providers, potentially creating leverage for system reform.
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Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Jen Johansson shared her journey from being a dentist to pursuing a more holistic approach to life and work. Dr. Johansson discussed her experiences with seasonal depression, feeling misaligned in her dental career, and eventually finding a new path through digital marketing and coaching. The discussion focused on how to have difficult conversations about controversial topics while maintaining empathy and understanding. Dr. Johansson explained her approach using the 'map of consciousness' framework developed by Dr. David Hawkins, which categorizes human emotions and states of being. The conversation also covered how to navigate discussions with people holding different worldviews, particularly in the context of religious beliefs and social issues. Dr. Johansson emphasized the importance of checking one's own energy before engaging in difficult conversations and the value of approaching these discussions with curiosity rather than defensiveness.
Chapters00:00:02 Introduction and Background of Dr. Jen JohanssonDr. Johansson introduced herself, sharing her background growing up in upstate New York, experiencing seasonal depression, and eventually becoming a dentist. She discussed her journey through dental school, feeling like an imposter, and facing personal challenges like gut health issues and infertility.
00:05:08 Transition from Dentistry to New PathDr. Johansson described her transition from clinical dentistry to digital marketing, initially helping other dentists with online marketing before burning out. She eventually reduced her clinical hours to 12 hours a week and began developing her new business in 2023.
00:15:35 The Map of Consciousness FrameworkDr. Johansson explained Dr. David Hawkins' map of consciousness, detailing the scale from shame and fear at the bottom to love, joy, and enlightenment at the top. She discussed how this framework helps understand people's worldviews and reactions.
00:18:44 Approaching Difficult ConversationsDr. Johansson shared her approach to having difficult conversations, emphasizing the importance of checking one's own energy first, asking permission before discussing sensitive topics, and maintaining a mindset of curiosity and empathy.
00:48:30 Ground Heal Thrive Coaching ProgramDr. Johansson introduced her coaching program called Grounded Now, explaining its two branches: burnout recovery and business coaching. She described the framework of 'Ground Heal Thrive' focusing on internal safety, pattern recognition, and living life on one's own terms.
Action Items00:49:09 Dr. Johansson mentioned implementing a 90-day coaching program with two branches: burnout recovery and business coaching 00:51:25 Dr. Johansson suggested offering one-off one-hour sessions as an alternative to the 90-day program 00:18:44 Dr. Johansson emphasized the importance of checking one's own energy before engaging in difficult conversations 00:15:35 Dr. Johansson recommended using the map of consciousness framework to understand different worldviews
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Summary
The meeting featured Dr. Erin Stevens, a gynecologist oncologist at Prevea Health, discussing her experiences with medical mission trips to Bolivia through Solidarity Bridge since 2019. Dr. Stevens shared how she began these missions through a former surgery partner's invitation, initially working in Santa Cruz and later in Sucre. She detailed the significant differences between US and Bolivian healthcare systems, particularly in equipment usage and resource conservation. Dr. Stevens emphasized how Bolivian medical staff meticulously maintain and reuse equipment that would be discarded in the US. She highlighted the critical issue of cervical cancer in Bolivia, where screening rates are below 20% and treatment options are limited. The discussion also covered the evolution of her teaching approach, focusing on building sustainable surgical skills among Bolivian doctors and the importance of cultural understanding in medical missions.
Chapters
Introduction to Medical Mission Work in Bolivia
Dr. Stevens described her background as a gynecologist with 11-12 years of experience in rural medicine, practicing in Montana and Wisconsin. She began mission trips to Bolivia with Solidarity Bridge in 2019, initially working in Santa Cruz and later in Sucre.
Impact of COVID-19 on Mission Work
Dr. Stevens discussed how the 2020 mission was cancelled due to the pandemic. She explained the lasting effects on Bolivia's healthcare system, including continued universal masking and delayed vaccine distribution. The pandemic significantly impacted cancer screening rates, which dropped to zero during 2020-2022.
Equipment and Resource Management in Bolivian Healthcare
Dr. Stevens detailed how Bolivian healthcare providers maximize resource utilization, including meticulous cleaning and reuse of surgical equipment. She highlighted the stark contrast with US practices regarding medical waste and equipment disposal.
Teaching and Cultural Exchange
Dr. Stevens emphasized the importance of working in solidarity with Bolivian medical professionals, focusing on teaching surgical skills while learning from their practices and culture. She described the progress made in teaching laparoscopic procedures and the relationship built with local medical staff.
Action Items
Stevens mentioned the need to continue providing essential surgical equipment to Bolivian hospitalsStevens highlighted the importance of establishing sustainable training programs for laparoscopic surgeryStevens emphasized the need to address cervical cancer prevention through increased screening and vaccination programsStevens suggested exploring ways to improve medical supply conservation and reuse practices
Find her TEDx talk HERE
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Summary
Dr. Robyn Tiger, a double board-certified physician in diagnostic radiology and lifestyle medicine, discusses her book 'Feeling Stressed is Optional' and shares insights on stress management for physicians. She emphasizes that while stressors are inevitable, feeling stressed is optional. Dr. Tiger introduces the concept of 'stress-free snacks' - quick, implementable tools for managing stress in busy medical settings. She explains the six pillars of lifestyle medicine, including stress management, nutrition, sleep, social connection, exercise, and avoiding risky substances, with nature as an unofficial seventh pillar. The discussion covers the importance of breathing techniques, co-regulation with patients, and the distinction between lifespan and healthspan. Dr. Tiger emphasizes making 1% improvements daily rather than overwhelming changes.
Chapters
Introduction to Dr. Robin Tiger and Her Book
Dr. Tiger introduces herself as a double board-certified physician in diagnostic radiology and lifestyle medicine, discussing her new book focused on transforming chronically stressed physicians' lives.
Stress Management Through Breathing Techniques
Dr. Tiger explains the four functions of breathing and introduces the concept of co-regulation with patients through breathing exercises, emphasizing how this can improve both physician and patient experience.
The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
Dr. Tiger outlines the six pillars: stress management, nutrition, sleep, social connection, exercise, and avoiding risky substances, with nature as an unofficial seventh pillar. She emphasizes how these pillars work together for optimal health.
Book Features and Implementation Approach
Dr. Tiger describes her book's interactive and multimodal approach, including videos, worksheets, and book club materials, emphasizing the importance of making 1% improvements daily.
Action Items
Tiger recommends implementing daily breathing exercises with patients for co-regulationTiger suggests focusing on making 1% improvements daily rather than overwhelming changesTiger advises incorporating all six pillars of lifestyle medicine into daily practiceTiger encourages utilizing the book's multimodal resources including videos under 5 minutesTiger recommends connecting with the Stress Free MD community through website stressfreemd.net
Get the book on Amazon HERE
(affiliate link for Amazon) -
The latest BOSS podcast features Dr. Shirin Towfigh a hernia specialist in private practice, owner of a hernia center in Beverly Hills and innovator in the field of surgery.
She mentioned that innovation for her was born out of frustration. She never set out to be in private practice, she thought she would be a leader in academic medicine. She found significant benefits of being her own boss and the freedom to pursue her passions:
"I don't think I'll leave this job. I love my employer, who is me, and she doesn't discriminate based on gender. I don't have a pay discrepancy based on my chromosome. And she's really great at allowing me to do what I like to do and not bombard me with fluff."
Dr. Towfigh emphasized the importance of understanding the business side of medicine, including billing and revenue cycles. She also talks about her innovations in hernia care, including gender-based hernia mesh designs and her efforts to improve research in women's hernia care. She created an online patient education platform and leads international hernia collaborations.
--Dr. Shirin Towfigh is a Board Certified General Surgeon and owner of her own private practice at the Beverly Hills Hernia Center. Her practice is exclusively dedicated to hernias and their complications. Dr. Towfigh went to medical school at UC San Diego and finished her surgical residency at UCLA. She is internationally known for her tailored approach to treatment of hernias, with the goal of reducing chronic pain and related complication, much of which is outlined in her book, The SAGES Manual of Groin Pain. Her research includes innovations to promote the hernia field. She was awarded an honorary certificate in Abdominal Wall Surgery granted by the European Board of Surgery. As an advocate for patient perspectives in hernia care, she started the free patient discussion forum herniatalk.com and hosts the weekly podcast, HerniaTalk LIVE, which showcases topics and fellow physicians to discuss hernia related topics. She is CEO of her tech company, Hexagon Health, Inc., whose mission is to promote gender based advances in hernia care through innovation and research. She holds 9 patents for gender based inguinal hernia mesh designs. She also sponsors the annual Female Factors in Hernia research award at the American Hernia Society.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herniadoc
Twitter/X: https://x.com/herniadoc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Towfigh
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirintowfigh/
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I was warned not to talk about this. And another friend told me that not talking was the problem.
In the last 4 years I have learned a lot about dealing with difficult situations and our thoughts.
I hope that my opinions will help you understand yourself and your neighbor, because just like power corrupts, powerlessness is a dangerous and destructive force.
The decision from votes does not have to be a dark day, this could be a day where circumstances have led to a call to action. We have free will in our mind, that is where our power is, and we can choose where to direct it. Emotions are the fuel that move in the direction you choose.
So pick a direction, and fuel it with the emotion you choose.
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In this episode, sleep physician Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, author of 'Beyond Tired: A Sleep Physician's Guide to Solving Your Child's Sleep Problems' discusses the impact of children on sleep patterns, the difference between sleep deprivation and insomnia, and shares practical tips for improving sleep quality.
Dr. Afolabi-Brown highlights the importance of self-care, the role of physical activity, and dietary choices in achieving restful sleep. They also address common sleep disorders like sleep apnea and offer advice for new mothers and busy professionals. Listeners are encouraged to pay attention to sleep habits and seek professional help for persistent sleep issues.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:46 Meet Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown
01:29 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents
02:34 Dr. Brown's Journey to Sleep Medicine
04:11 Understanding Sleep Deprivation vs. Insomnia
06:19 Common Sleep Disorders and Statistics
09:04 Steps to Improve Sleep Quality
12:27 The Role of Sleep Studies
18:14 Postpartum Sleep Strategies
26:24 Sleep Issues in Different Life Stages
32:36 Conclusion and Where to Find More Resources
https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/about
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Summary
This transcript is a conversation between Dr. Amy Vertrees, a general surgeon, and Carrie Glass, her office manager. They discuss the crucial role of an office manager in ensuring smooth operations, managing staff, handling patient interactions, and navigating various administrative tasks. Carrie shares her background and how she transitioned into the office manager role after gaining diverse experience in the medical field. They delve into the challenges of scheduling patients, managing late arrivals, collecting copays, and dealing with difficult situations. Keri emphasizes the importance of documentation, coding, and proper billing procedures to ensure timely reimbursements from insurance companies. They also discuss strategies for maintaining staff morale, addressing performance issues, and enforcing boundaries. Throughout the conversation, Keri's expertise and Dr. Vertrees' appreciation for her contributions are evident, highlighting the significance of a strong office manager in a successful medical practice.
Chapters
Introduction and Background
Dr. Vertrees introduces Carrie Glass, her office manager, and highlights the importance of understanding the office manager's role. Carrie shares her background, starting in the medical field at a young age and gaining diverse experience in various roles before becoming an office manager.
Managing Patient Interactions
Carrie discusses her approach to managing patient interactions, including scheduling appointments, handling late arrivals with compassion, and explaining policies like copay collection. She emphasizes the importance of being a mediator between patients and providers, ensuring smooth communication and understanding.
Staff Management and Morale
Carrie shares her strategies for managing staff, addressing performance issues, and maintaining morale. She highlights the importance of open communication, being a team player, and creating a positive work environment through small gestures like buying lunch or allowing early departures on slow days.
Documentation and Coding
The conversation shifts to the importance of proper documentation and coding for successful billing and reimbursement. Carrie explains the pitfalls of incorrect coding, the need for accurate documentation, and the challenges of working with insurance companies' requirements.
Revenue Cycle and Reimbursement
Carrie and Dr. Vertrees discuss the revenue cycle, from scheduling and pre-authorization to coding, billing, and collecting payments. They highlight the importance of each step and the potential consequences of missing any part of the process, emphasizing the need for collaboration between providers and office staff.
Relationship and Collaboration
Throughout the conversation, the strong relationship and collaboration between Dr. Vertrees and Carrie are evident. They discuss the importance of mutual support, understanding each other's roles, and working together to overcome challenges and achieve success in the medical practice.
Action Items
Establish clear communication channels between providers and office staff to address scheduling conflicts, documentation requirements, and coding queries.Implement regular training sessions for staff on coding best practices, insurance requirements, and documentation standards to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.Develop a comprehensive policy for managing late patient arrivals, addressing the root causes with compassion while maintaining office efficiency.Foster a positive work environment by recognizing staff contributions, offering flexibility when possible, and promoting team-building activities.Conduct periodic reviews of the revenue cycle process, identifying potential bottlenecks or areas for improvement, and implementing necessary changes to streamline operations.Encourage providers to document procedures using precise terminology aligned with coding guidelines to facilitate accurate coding and minimize denials or delays in reimbursement.Establish clear boundaries and enforce policies consistently, addressing performance issues promptly while maintaining open communication and offering support when needed. - Se mer
