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

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.

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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/

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.

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

 

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

Get your podcast guide HERE

Summary

This podcast episode discusses strategies for making the most out of attending medical conferences as a surgeon. The host shares personal experiences and insights on preparing for conferences, managing thoughts and emotions, networking effectively, reflecting on career goals, and following up after the event. Key points include setting intentions beforehand, being mindful of self-talk, making meaningful connections, allowing for flexibility in plans, and practicing self-compassion throughout the experience.

Chapters

Introduction and Anticipation

The host introduces the topic of attending conferences and the mixed feelings of excitement and dread that often accompany them. She emphasizes the value of anticipating the event and enjoying the experience before, during, and after. Preparing for presentations and packing in advance can help reduce stress and allow for a more positive mindset.

Managing Thoughts and Emotions

The host acknowledges the various thoughts and emotions that can arise during conferences, such as self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and feelings of inadequacy. She encourages recognizing these as choices and practicing self-compassion. Strategies like setting deadlines, being present, and listening to one's body are recommended.

Networking and Connecting

Networking and making meaningful connections are highlighted as essential aspects of conferences. The host suggests preparing an elevator pitch, being open to new contacts, and following up after the event. Social media can also be a valuable tool for extending connections and promoting one's work.

Reflection and Career Goals

The host emphasizes the importance of reflecting on career goals and direction during and after conferences. Feelings of inspiration, intimidation, or discouragement can provide valuable feedback on desired growth areas. Gratitude and self-compassion are encouraged throughout the process.

Post-Conference Follow-Up

After the conference, the host recommends recording lessons learned, reviewing materials, completing CME requirements, submitting expenses for reimbursement, and scheduling a buffer day for reflection and recalibration. Proper follow-up can help maximize the benefits of attending the conference.

Action Items