In this conversation, Dr. Gregory R, Johnson shares with host Dr Saba Fatima, his journey from clinician to healthcare executive, emphasizing the importance of joy in medicine and the need for physician engagement. He discusses the challenges of balancing provider wellness with productivity goals, the financial pressures in healthcare, and the significance of metrics that align with patient care. Dr. Johnson advocates for scalable interventions to enhance physician involvement and stresses the importance of creating a culture of wellness within healthcare organizations. He concludes with advice for burnt-out physicians and institutions striving to improve the healthcare system.

Dr. Gregory R. Johnson is a distinguished medical professional known for his exceptional leadership in the healthcare industry. Dr. Johnson has significantly advanced medical practices, education, and health equity throughout his extensive career. Dr. Johnson currently serves as the System Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at UnityPoint Health, where he oversees the clinical enterprise for 17 acute care hospitals and
19 rural affiliates. His efforts in restructuring service lines and standardizing clinical practices have optimized care delivery and outcomes.
Previously, Dr. Johnson was the Chief Executive Officer – Hospital Medicine and Chief Health Equity and Diversity Officer at Sound Physicians, where he managed over 200 clinical practices and almost 4000 physicians, advanced practitioners and nurses across 45 states. His initiatives in reducing health disparities and maintaining top quartile outcomes for length of stay, readmissions, and mortality were pivotal. Dr. Johnson's academic contributions are substantial.

He has served as Clinical Faculty at the McGovern School of Medicine and Texas Tech University Health Science Center. His leadership extends to professional organizations, including the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association, and the National Association of Health Service Executives.
Throughout his career, Dr. Johnson has been honored with numerous accolades. He was recently recognized as one of the "Chief Medical Officers to Know" by Becker’s Healthcare, and in 2023, he was named a "Black Healthcare Executive to Know."
His commitment to excellence is further evidenced by awards such as the Atlas Award from Sound Physicians and a healthcare awardee by the National Black MBA Association. Dr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Anthropology from Dartmouth College and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the McGovern School of Medicine. He completed a
Combined Internal Medicine/Family Practice Residency at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans where he also served as chief resident. Additionally, he earned a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Certificate from Northwestern University.
Dr. Johnson's extensive experience and unwavering dedication to improving healthcare quality and equity make him a leading figure in the medical community, inspiring and advancing the field of medicine.

keywords
#healthcare, #physicianwellness, #burnout, healthcare #leadership, #patientcare, healthcare #metrics, healthcare advocacy, #healthequity , healthcare system, #physician engagement #productivity

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

n this episode of Muted in Medicine, host Saba Fatima engages with Dr. Ali Rafiq, an international medical graduate (IMG), to discuss the unique challenges faced by IMGs in the healthcare system. They explore Ali's personal journey from medical school in Pakistan to becoming a hospitalist in the U.S., highlighting the cultural adjustments, professional hurdles, and the emotional toll of being an IMG. The conversation delves into the residency match process, strategies for increasing chances of matching, common mistakes made by IMGs, and the importance of support systems and networking. The episode concludes with reflections on resilience, persistence, and the ongoing journey of IMGs in the medical field.


Dr. Ali Rafiq currently works as hospitalist in Wichita KS. Within his organization, he has completed a one-year Emerging Leaders program. During residency, he received multiple awards for his professionalism and research. He has thus far volunteered participation in the Kansas Mortality Review Team, Ethics Integration Committee, Safety Event Review Team, and the Hospitalist peer review committee at his current hospital. He serves as the preceptor for the newly established Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Additionally, he has completed a three-year guided fellowship program, being elected as a Fellow for the American College of Physicians. He has also served in leadership positions for the Society of Hospital Medicine’s Kansas Chapter and is the current President of the same. His efforts helped SHM’s Kansas Chapter achieve the Platinum Excellence Chapter three years in a row. For his efforts, he was recognized for the Most Engaged Chapter Leader Award in the nation for SHM. Last year, he was elected as Fellow of Hospital Medicine for his efforts in the field. He currently serves in SHM’s public policy committee. He has consistently represented Kansas on the national stage, including advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.

Dr. Rafiq has authored and co-authored over two dozen peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed articles. He has over 75 citations of his publications, according to Google scholar.

keywords
International Medical Graduates, #img challenges, #residency #match , cultural adjustment, #impostersyndrome , #healthcareworkers workforce, y

Takeaways:
IMGs face unique challenges in the healthcare system.
Cultural adjustment is a significant hurdle for IMGs.
Networking and interpersonal skills are crucial for IMGs.
Persistence and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
The residency match process can be competitive for IMGs.
IMGs often experience imposter syndrome during their training.
Support systems in residency programs can help IMGs adjust.
Personal statements should reflect genuine experiences.
Common mistakes in applications can hinder IMGs' chances.
Cultural sensitivity in residency programs is essential for IMGs.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Kara Pepper shares with host Dr. Saba Fatima, her journey from a successful medical career to confronting her struggles with substance use and burnout. She emphasizes the importance of finding joy in medicine, the challenges healthcare workers face, and the need for open conversations about mental health and substance use. Dr. Pepper discusses her personal experiences with alcohol, the stigma surrounding it, and the significance of community support in recovery. She encourages listeners to recognize their autonomy in their careers and to seek help when needed, ultimately advocating for a culture shift in the medical profession.

Dr. Kara Pepper is a practicing primary care Internist and executive coach in Atlanta, GA. After 14 years in private practice, Dr. Pepper built her own 17-state telemedicine practice for adults across the southeast, especially those with eating disorders. In addition to her clinical practice, she provides executive coaching and is the founder of Micropractice Mastermind, a community for physicians transforming healthcare through solo practice. Dr. Pepper is the podcast host of "It's Not Just You," stories of survival, humanism, and career sustainability.

Chapters
00:00
Breaking the Silence on Substance Abuse in Healthcare
03:17
Dr. Kara Pepper's Journey: From Perfectionism to Recovery
06:02
The Impact of COVID-19 on Substance Use Among Physicians
08:54
Understanding Shame and Seeking Help in Medicine
11:48
The Prevalence of Substance Abuse in Healthcare
14:44
Feeling Trapped: The Burden of Professional Expectations
17:46
Taking Action: How to Seek Help and Support
20:32
Navigating Work and Recovery: Do You Need to Quit?
23:24
Creating Compassionate Work Environments for Healthcare Workers
28:13
Breaking Free from Addiction
32:15
Navigating Social Relationships Post-Addiction
33:50
Talking to Teens About Addiction
36:23
Transitioning to a New Career
38:36
Identity and Responsibility in Medicine
41:11
Normalizing Conversations Around Substance Use
42:14
Cultural Norms and Alcohol
43:17
Final Thoughts and Resources

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Albert Wu discusses with host Dr, Saba Fatima the concept of 'second victim syndrome,' which refers to the emotional distress healthcare providers experience after a patient suffers an adverse event. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting healthcare workers who face trauma, the need for effective peer support systems, and the role of apology and disclosure in patient care. Dr. Wu advocates for a cultural shift in healthcare that prioritizes the well-being of providers to improve patient safety and care outcomes.

Albert W. Wu is a practicing general internist and Fred and Juliet Soper Professor of Health Policy & Management, with Joint Appointments in Epidemiology, International Health, Medicine, Surgery, and Business at Johns Hopkins University. He is director of the Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research and PhD in Health Services Research. He has worked in patient safety since the 1988. He was Senior Adviser for Patient Safety at WHO from 2007-2009 and continues with this work. He is director of Strategic Collaborations for the Armstrong Institute, leads the online Masters of Applied Science in Patient Safety & Healthcare Quality, and is Editor-in-Chief of Journal of Patient Safety and Risk Management. He coined the term “second victim,” and is co-founder and co-director of the RISE (Resilience in Stressful Events) peer support program.

keywords
second victim syndrome, #healthcare, #medicalerrors, #peersupport, psychological first aid, #patientsafety, #healthcare providers, resilience, burnout, #apology in healthcare

takeaways
Second victim syndrome highlights the emotional toll on healthcare providers after patient harm.
Support systems are crucial for healthcare workers to cope with trauma.
Apologizing to patients can foster trust and transparency.
Peer support programs like RISE provide essential emotional aid to clinicians.
Psychological first aid is vital for healthcare workers after traumatic events.
There is a disconnect between providers and patients regarding emotional experiences.
Healthcare leaders must prioritize the well-being of their staff to improve care.
Burnout among healthcare workers is a significant issue that needs addressing.
Creating a culture of openness can help reduce shame and blame in healthcare.
The evolution of support for healthcare workers is ongoing and requires continuous effort.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this episode, Dr. Galina Gheihman discusses with host Dr. Saba Fatima the pervasive issue of medical uncertainty, its impact on healthcare providers, and strategies for navigating this challenge. The conversation explores the emotional toll of uncertainty, the importance of communication with patients, and the role of mentorship and teamwork in managing uncertainty. Dr. Gheihman introduces frameworks for recognizing and addressing uncertainty, emphasizing the need for courage and a growth mindset in the medical field.

Galina Gheihman, MD is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and an attending physician in General Neurology at Mass General Brigham. Dr. Gheihman attended the University of Toronto for her undergraduate studies. She earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School. She completed her residency at MGB, where she served as Chief Resident in 2023-2024. Galina helps run a monthly acute neurology simulation program for medical students, founded the BRAINS program supporting near-peer teaching of medicine residents, and is co-director of a CME course on neurology for the non-neurologist. She is also co-founder of the NeuEJM monthly medical education journal club and co-leader of the MGB neurology residency med ed certificate program. Galina has wide research interests including resilience, leadership, navigating uncertainty, and mentorship and career development for clinician educators.

Her work on medical uncertainty referenced in the podcast include the following articles

12 Tips for Thriving in the Face of Uncertainty: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30912...

Navigating Clinical Uncertainty: The RAPS Framework (Recognize, Acknowledge, Partner, & Seek Support): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38286...

Impact of clinical uncertainty on trainees in GME: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35666...

HMS Magazine article on navigating uncertainty in Medicine:

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr Rachel Thienprayoon discusses with Host Dr Saba Fatima, the importance of organizational compassion in healthcare, particularly in pediatrics and palliative care. She explores the concept of organizational grief, the impact of burnout on healthcare professionals, and the need for compassionate leadership. Rachel emphasizes the significance of creating supportive systems and environments that foster emotional well-being among clinicians. The discussion also highlights practical strategies for implementing compassion in healthcare settings, including stress first aid and the importance of small acts of kindness.

Dr. Rachel Thienprayoon is the Chief Clinical Wellness Officer and an Associate Professor of Anesthesia and Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. She completed pediatrics residency and a pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, Texas, and a fellowship in pediatric hospice and palliative care at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, OH. She has been a faculty member in the Palliative Care team at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center since 2014. Her research focuses on measuring clinician experiences of compassion within teams and organizations. She lives in Cincinnati, OH with her husband, Paul, and their two girls.


keywords
organizational #grief, #compassion, #pediatrics care, #burnout, #healthcare leadership, #mentalhealth, wellness, stress management, emotional support, #healthcaresystems #leadership #gunviolence #vaccinerefusal #nursing

takeaways
Pediatrics is an optimistic field due to the resilience of children.
Organizational grief is a significant issue in healthcare settings.
Burnout is more than fatigue; it's an existential struggle for clinicians.
Compassion should be a measurable domain in patient care.
Creating systems that support compassion is essential for healthcare providers.
Leadership presence during difficult times fosters a sense of care.
Small acts of kindness can significantly impact team morale.
Stress first aid is crucial for managing workplace stress.
Self-compassion is vital for healthcare professionals.
Acknowledging grief and suffering is necessary for healing in organizations.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Organizational Grief
07:11
The Journey to Pediatric Palliative Care
12:45
The Impact of Organizational Grief
18:18
Compassion in Healthcare
24:04
Implementing Organizational Compassion
29:06
Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations
34:54
Acknowledging Grief and Suffering in the Workplace
41:23
Encouragement for Those Experiencing Suffering
48:22
Conclusion

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Stephen Cohen shares his insights with Dr, Saba Fatima on the challenges and realities of litigation in medicine, particularly for physicians. He discusses the common reasons for lawsuits, and how to navigate the complexities of communication and documentation. Dr. Cohen emphasizes the significance of recognizing complications, the role of expert witnesses, and the emotional toll of depositions. He offers practical advice for physicians facing litigation, highlighting the importance of remaining calm and focused on the facts, and the dos and dont's of preparing for a deposition. Ultimately, he reassures listeners that being sued does not define their capabilities as doctors and encourages them to seek support during difficult times.

Dr. Stephen Cohen, MD, MBA, is a board-certified surgeon specializing in colorectal advancements, dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for his patients. As a medical educator, he trains the next generation of surgeons, and as a medical-legal expert, he provides clear, unbiased reviews for both plaintiff and defense attorneys, clarifying medical facts, causation, and standards of care.

With three decades of experience, Dr. Cohen combines hands-on surgical expertise with the ability to simplify complex medical issues—whether for patients, students, attorneys, or juries.
Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Cohen is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle. He has completed two Ironman triathlons and over ten marathons, applying the same discipline and dedication to professional pursuits.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Medical Malpractice
04:04
Understanding the Reality of Lawsuits in Medicine
07:17
Common Reasons for Medical Litigation
10:01
The Importance of Documentation and Communication
13:08
Recognizing Complications and Patient Communication
15:59
Navigating the Legal Process After a Lawsuit
19:10
Preparing for Depositions: Do's and Don'ts
22:03
Expert Witnesses and Standard of Care
25:09
The Role of Colleagues in Legal Cases
26:55
Navigating Depositions: Expert Insights
32:36
Understanding the Legal Process: From Lawsuit to Trial
37:55
The Emotional Toll of Litigation: Coping Strategies
43:14
Communication with Patients: What to Avoid
45:45
Words of Wisdom: Encouragement for Sued Physicians

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Michelle Schuster shares her journey and insights with Host Saba Fatima into the prevalence of PTSD among nurses and healthcare workers. She discusses the importance of recognizing PTSD as a significant issue in the healthcare profession, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Michelle emphasizes the need for supportive work environments, the impact of systemic factors, and the importance of self-advocacy for nurses experiencing PTSD. She also highlights the significance of creating a culture that encourages open discussions about mental health and provides resources for those in need.

Michelle Schuster is a pediatric hematology oncology nurse at Boston Children's Hospital with a strong passion for nurse-driven research and supporting and addressing workforce issues. Her specific research interests include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in nurses and enhancing staff support. She is a co-developer of HART (Hematology/Oncology/SCT Advancing Resiliency Team), a nurse-led program that provides real-time support to oncology staff, and she is also a co-developer of a Promoting Resilience Series. Michelle has been published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing and the Journal of Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nursing and has presented work locally and nationally at conferences.

Michelle Schuster received a BSN from Midwestern State University in Texas and a MSN with a concentration in Nursing Education from Framingham State University in Massachusetts. She is currently enrolled in a PhD program at UMass Dartmouth and is expected to graduate in 2025.
Within the last year, Michelle has moved from bedside nursing to a nursing management role where she leads an inpatient pediatric oncology/hematology nursing team. She works to foster a positive workplace environment to best support her staff and the patient and families on the unit.

keywords
#PTSD, #nurses, #healthcare, #mentalhealth, #resilience, support, workplace culture, nursing management, #trauma, self-care

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com
Transcript

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com