In this episode of CocoaPods, Dr. Bola Sogade hosts Dr. Julia Interrante from the University of Minnesota to discuss the alarming rise in maternal mortality in the U.S., particularly in rural communities. They examine the consequences of inadequate maternal healthcare access, the role of data in shaping policy, and how technology, such as telemedicine, can support rural healthcare providers. Dr. Interrante highlights the ongoing closure of birth centers and hospitals offering obstetric services, emphasizing that funding and policy changes are essential to prevent further losses. The conversation underscores the need for a systemic shift in healthcare financing and advocacy efforts to ensure safe childbirth for all women, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.Dr. Julia Interrante is a mentee of Dr.Katy Backes Kozhimannil,a Distinguished McKnight University Professor and Co-Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center.

#CocoaPodsPodcast

Maternal Health & Advocacy:

#RespectfulMaternityCare
#BlackMaternalHealth
#MidwiferyMatters
#DoulasSaveLives
#EndPreventableMaternalDeaths
#PregnancyCareForAll
#MomsDeserveBetter
#ReproductiveJustice
#BirthEquity

Rural & Telemedicine Solutions:

#TechForMoms
#DigitalHealthSolutions
#HealthcareInnovation
#VirtualCareForMoms
#TelehealthSavesLives
#MaternalCareAccess

Policy & Systemic Change:

#FixMaternalHealthcare
#MedicaidForMoms
#ReformMaternityCare
#FundBirthCenters
#SupportReproductiveRights
#MakeBirthSafe

General Engagement & Awareness:

#EveryMomCounts
#HealthyMomsHealthyBabies
#NoMoreMaternityDeserts
#PregnancyIsNotAPreexistingCondition
#SupportLocalBirthCenters

Support the show

Can Rural Hospitals Survive the Storm of Obstetric Care Closures?

Our latest episode features Dr. Julia Interante, who has collaborated extensively with Dr. Katy Backes Kozhimannil, Distinguished McKnight University Professor and Co-Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center.

With Dr. Julia Interante from the University of Minnesota, we uncover the alarming disparities in maternity care access between rural and urban hospitals. Dr. Interante sheds light on the sharp decline in obstetric services from 2010 to 2022and the significant financial challenges rural hospitals face due to low birth volumes. This episode provides valuable insights into the ripple effects of these closures on maternal and infant health, emphasizing the urgent need for policy-driven interventions to bridge the gap.

Join us as we explore the complex landscape of rural maternity care, particularly within BIPOC communities, and discuss actionable policy measures to reverse these concerning trends. Discover innovative solutions such as telemedicine, remote monitoring, and learn how mission-driven recruitment and preconception care can sustain essential services.

We also discuss the importance of balancing patient demographics and offering diverse birthing options to attract and retain rural mothers. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on improving maternal health outcomes in America’s heartland, as Dr. Interante shares strategies poised to transform rural healthcare by 2025.

#MaternalHealth #WomensHealth #MaternityCare #HealthyMoms #MaternalWellness #PregnancyCare #BirthEquity #HealthcareAccess #HealthForAll #BridgingHealthGaps #HealthEquity #AccessToCare #ImprovingHealthcare #NonUrbanHealth #CommunityHealth #HealthcareForAll #HealthInEveryCommunity #SmallTownHealth #LocalHealthMatters #HealthcareEverywhere #MaternalHealthPolicy #HealthAdvocacy #HealthcareReform #SupportMoms #HealthPolicyMatters #HealthcareInnovation #CollaborativeCare #PublicHealthSolutions #HealthcareInnovation

Support the show

Support the show

This episode focuses on the journey to healthy aging, featuring insights from Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu about maintaining vitality and wellness as we grow older. It explores the significance of lifestyle choices, patient-provider communication, and fostering social connections in promoting healthy aging. 

• Importance of effective communication between healthcare providers and patients 
• Key pillars of healthy aging: diet, sleep, social connections, and exercise 
• Role of early detection and regular health screenings 
• Discussion of ageism and its impact on older adults 
• Strategies for fostering social connections as a counter to isolation 
• Exploring the connection between environment, mental health, and aging 
• Call to action for listeners to prioritize their health and well-being

Support the show

Unlock the secrets to empowering your elderly loved ones and fostering a nurturing environment of inclusion and respect. Join us as we explore the transformative power of decision-making freedom and active participation in family activities for older adults. By valuing their input and encouraging social engagement, we create a vibrant community that celebrates the enduring contributions of our elders. Listen to the valuable insights from Dr. Ogugua Osiyogu from Abuja, Nigeria, as we discuss how families can support their older members in maintaining a sense of autonomy and relevance.

Discover the incredible potential of lifelong learning and how it can reshape the aging experience. From senior centers to university courses, we reveal opportunities that keep the elderly engaged and fulfilled. We delve into the science of healthy aging, discussing the profound impact of a plant-based diet, probiotics, and stress management on well-being. Together, we explore the fascinating world of cellular regeneration, autophagy, and senolytics, offering practical insights to promote vitality and longevity.

Experience the joy and therapeutic power of music and dance, as we share personal stories illustrating their profound impact on older patients with dementia. Learn how simple lifestyle adjustments, like intermittent fasting and hydration, can lead to a long and healthy life. We also highlight the significance of social connections and self-contentment in achieving happiness and well-being. With practical tips and inspiring anecdotes, this episode is your guide to building a life that honors the wisdom and vitality of our elders.

Support the show

Explore the keys to aging gracefully with Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu, a distinguished expert in aging from Abuja, Nigeria. Immerse yourself in the essentials of longevity, as Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu unveils the impact of a plant-based diet, restorative sleep, and meaningful social connections on our physical and mental well-being. This episode serves as your comprehensive guide to maintaining vitality, emphasizing the critical role of regular health checks in early detection and prevention. Discover how engaging in physical social connectivity over digital reliance can enhance life quality, and delve into the promising realm of senolytics, which targets aging cells to potentially rejuvenate cell function.

Older adults often face unique mental health challenges, and Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogbu sheds light on fostering a supportive environment to combat anxiety and depression. The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose, especially during life's transitions, and highlights the significant role of social support and prayer. As we navigate these topics, listeners will gain invaluable insights into managing chronic conditions and enhancing overall quality of life. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for cultivating a fulfilled life, even as the years add up.

Support the show

Can a single vote shape the future of a nation? We explore this compelling question as we dive into the diverse perspectives surrounding the 2024 US presidential elections. Our episode features voices from opposite ends of the political spectrum, with one participant passionately backing Donald Trump for his economic policies and perceived divine appointment, while another advocates for Kamala Harris, emphasizing the need for leadership that sets a positive example and tackles economic issues head-on. These contrasting views offer vivid insights into the fervor and rationale behind voter choices.

We also navigate the complex terrain of reproductive rights and healthcare, where Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand on opposing sides. A critical discussion unfolds around the candidates' positions on abortion access and compassionate healthcare, highlighting the nuanced impact of their stances on women's health and reproductive rights. We even touch on Trump's controversial claim of being the "father of IVF," probing the broader implications for women's autonomy and family planning. A unique perspective comes from a participant who questions the electoral process, adding depth to the conversation around political engagement.

The conversation wouldn't be complete without emphasizing the power of the vote in the upcoming election. We stress the importance of informed decision-making, urging listeners to look beyond partisan lines and consider the broader implications of their electoral choices. Whether grappling with support for Trump's economic policies or Harris's progressive initiatives, the episode underscores the necessity of civic engagement and the transformative potential lying in each ballot cast. Join us as we unravel the complexities of the 2024 election, encouraging every listener to make their voice count.

Support the show

Unearth the complexities of women's healthcare policies in the 2024 election with Dr. Bola Sogade. Discover the contrasting approaches of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, where market-driven strategies clash with the expansion of federal measures. Learn about the implications of these policies on reproductive rights, healthcare affordability, and access, and how these stances could shape the future landscape of women's healthcare. 

Explore the nuanced reasons behind women's choices regarding abortion and contraception through a compassionate lens. Delve into the candidates' differing policies, from Trump's allowance for employers to deny contraceptive coverage on religious grounds to Harris's push for broader contraception access. Examine how these stances affect real women, especially in terms of maternal health disparities and access to essential family planning resources.

Finally, assess the critical role of federal versus state control in healthcare and the impact on health disparities. Through Dr. Sugade's expert lens, understand the significance of federal oversight in ensuring equitable care, particularly in maternal and emergency healthcare scenarios. With the election on the horizon, arm yourself with the knowledge needed to evaluate which candidate's vision aligns with your values on women's health and autonomy.

Support the show

Can the idyllic life on a small Greek island hold the key to a longer, healthier life? Discover the hidden secrets of Icaria, where residents enjoy exceptional longevity and vibrant health. Together with Dr. Ogugua Osi-Ogu from Abuja, Nigeria, we explore the unique climate, rich history, and fascinating cultural practices that contribute to the well-being of the Icarian people. Dr. Osi-Ogu shares her invaluable insights into the world of geriatrics, including the strides being made in Nigeria with initiatives like the National Senior Citizen Center and new national policies aimed at improving the quality of life for the elderly.

Ageism is a formidable barrier that older individuals face daily, impacting their ability to live fully and contribute to society. In this episode, we tackle the pervasive issue of age-based discrimination, highlighting the importance of changing societal mindsets. Drawing from personal experiences on television and radio, we discuss the necessity of advocacy and awareness to ensure that older individuals are recognized and valued. Join us for an enlightening conversation on how we can fight ageism and build a more inclusive world for our aging population.

Support the show

Can reducing screen time before bed really enhance your sleep quality? Learn from Dr. Jessica Patella as she shares transformative lifestyle tips that promote better mental and physical well-being for women in maternal health; and really for all.From the secrets of improved sleep hygiene through melatonin production to the importance of setting healthy boundaries with digital devices, this episode is packed with practical advice. Dr. Patella and Dr. Bola Sogade also discuss how engaging in outdoor exercise and connecting with nature can significantly reduce stress, fostering a sense of community and spiritual well-being, especially for new mothers.

Celebrate the miracle of motherhood with us as Dr. Patella highlights the extraordinary capabilities of the female body. We delve into the profound blessings women bring to the world, emphasizing the role of natural health in this awe-inspiring journey. Dr. Sogade’s commitment to her profession shines through, and we express our gratitude for the deep insights shared in this heartfelt discussion. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will leave you inspired and appreciative of the incredible impact of maternal health and naturopathic medicine.

Support the show