Advance directives are something many of us have heard about—but do we really understand what they mean when a medical crisis happens? In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, we break down advance directives in clear, everyday language. We explore what these documents can—and cannot—do when someone is too sick to speak for themselves. You’ll learn why choosing the right healthcare decision-maker may be just as important as completing the paperwork. We’ll also discuss why conversations with the people you love should happen long before anyone reaches the emergency room or ICU. Because the best time to make your wishes known is before someone else has to guess what they are.

Every medication may have been prescribed for a good reason—but is every one still helping? In this episode, Arn Facklam explains how multiple medications can contribute to dizziness, falls, confusion, bleeding, kidney problems, and avoidable hospitalizations. Learn what deprescribing means and why medication side effects are sometimes mistaken for new illnesses. You’ll also hear five important questions to ask during your next medication review.

Kratom is often marketed as a natural herbal product, but “natural” does not automatically mean safe. In this episode, we explain what kratom is, why people use it, and how it can affect the brain and body. We explore the risks of dependence, withdrawal, side effects, drug interactions, and potentially serious complications. Most importantly, we separate the marketing claims from what people need to know to make informed decisions about kratom.

Superbugs are bacteria that have learned how to survive the antibiotics we rely on to treat infections—and they’re becoming a growing concern in healthcare. In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, we break down what makes a “superbug” super, how antibiotic resistance develops, and why it matters to all of us. We’ll also look at what each of us can do to help protect ourselves and slow the spread of antibiotic resistance. This isn’t about being afraid of antibiotics—it’s about understanding how to use these lifesaving medications wisely so they’ll still work when we truly need them.

This is Part 2 of a three-part Beyond the Stethoscope miniseries on Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR). In this episode, we take a closer look at mumps—what causes it, how it spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and why complications can sometimes be more serious than many people realize. We’ll also discuss how mumps is diagnosed, what treatment looks like, and the role of the MMR vaccine in prevention. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode gives you clear, practical information without the medical jargon. Beyond the Stethoscope turns complicated health topics into information you can actually understand and use.

Measles is back in the headlines, leaving many people wondering how concerned they should be. In this first episode of our three-part vaccine-preventable disease series, we explain what measles is, how it spreads, why it can be far more serious than “just a childhood rash,” and what you should do if you think you’ve been exposed. We also briefly discuss German measles (rubella) and clear up the common confusion between these two very different diseases. Join us next as we continue the series with an in-depth look at mumps, followed by polio—the diseases we hoped we’d never have to think about again.

Aortic dissection has been in the headlines—but what exactly is it, and should you be worried? In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, Arn Facklam explains how a tear develops inside the body’s largest artery and why it can become life-threatening so quickly. You’ll learn the warning signs, major risk factors, and how hospitals diagnose and treat this medical emergency. Most importantly, you’ll understand when sudden chest, back, or abdominal pain means it is time to call 911.

Artificial intelligence is already transforming healthcare, but what does that really mean for patients? In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, Arn Facklam, NP, FHM, explains how AI is being used in hospitals today—from helping detect disease earlier to improving patient safety and supporting clinical decision-making. Learn where AI excels, where human judgment remains essential, and why understanding this technology can help you make more informed healthcare decisions. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply curious about the future of medicine, this episode separates fact from fiction and explains AI in plain English.

Cyclospora is making headlines, but what exactly is it—and should you be concerned? In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, we explain what Cyclospora is, how people become infected, the symptoms to watch for, and why fresh produce is often involved in outbreaks. You’ll also learn who is at greatest risk, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and the simple steps that can help reduce your risk. Join us as we separate facts from fear and explain the current outbreak in plain English.

Every day, millions of people encounter medical advice on TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and now AI—but how do you know what’s actually true? In this episode of Beyond the Stethoscope, we explore why medical misinformation spreads so easily and share the same evidence-based approach clinicians use to evaluate health claims. You’ll leave with practical tools to separate fact from fiction, ask better questions, and make more informed decisions about your health. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply curious, this episode will help you navigate today’s information overload with greater confidence.