In this episode of The HealsPod, we dive deep into the pressing issue of mental health, particularly in the context of Las Vegas, where a staggering 84% of the population lives in a mental health provider shortage area. I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Brian Mears, the founder of Alleviant Integrated Mental Health, who brings a unique perspective to psychiatry, having transitioned from a successful career in anesthesiology.

Dr. Mears shares his journey into the field of mental health, driven by personal experiences and a desire to improve psychiatric care. He emphasizes the need for objective measures in mental health treatment, critiquing the reliance on subjective questionnaires that often fail to capture the complexities of an individual's mental state. We discuss the importance of understanding the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a person—what Dr. Mears refers to as the biopsychosocial-spiritual model.

Throughout our conversation, we explore how modern technology and lifestyle choices contribute to mental health challenges, particularly in children and adolescents. Dr. Mears highlights the impact of screen time, the dopamine reward system, and the importance of sleep, nutrition, and quality relationships in maintaining mental well-being. He advocates for a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on lifestyle changes rather than solely relying on medication.

This episode is a call to action for listeners to reassess their own lives, consider how they spend their time, and recognize the factors that contribute to their mental health. Dr. Mears' insights challenge us to think differently about mental health care and the importance of addressing the root causes of mental health issues in our society.

In this episode of the HealsPod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Becky Torrez from BrightStar Care, a unique home healthcare company that bridges the gap between personal care and skilled nursing services. We delved into the often-overlooked aspects of healthcare that focus on providing quality care for our aging population, emphasizing the importance of dignity and safety in home care.

Becky shared her journey into the healthcare industry, transitioning from a former teacher and stay-at-home mom to a business owner. She explained how BrightStar Care stands out by not accepting Medicare or Medicaid, instead working with private pay clients and certain insurance companies. This model allows them to offer a blend of personal care and medical services, which is crucial for families who need extra support at home.

We explored the various service lines BrightStar Care provides, including personal care assistance (PCA) and skilled nursing, and discussed the challenges of staffing in the healthcare sector, especially during the pandemic. Becky highlighted the importance of treating employees well and creating a positive work environment to attract and retain talent.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the significance of emotional intelligence and effective communication in caregiving. Becky emphasized the need for caregivers to be mindful of their interactions with clients, especially when dealing with sensitive situations. We also discussed the importance of training and adapting to the needs of both clients and caregivers, ensuring that everyone receives the support they require.

This episode serves as a reminder of the vital role that home healthcare plays in our communities and the dedication of individuals like Becky who strive to make a difference in the lives of others.

In this episode of the HealsPod, we dive into the intersection of healthcare and local governance with City Councilwoman Francis Allen-Palenske. As we approach election season, we discuss the importance of civic engagement and how the healthcare community can effectively communicate with legislators.

Councilwoman Palenske shares her unique background as a Korean American and the journey her family took to settle in Las Vegas. We explore the challenges of healthcare access in Southern Nevada, particularly in underserved areas, and the need for better healthcare services for our growing population.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the complexities of local government, the impact of term limits, and the importance of collaboration among council members. Palenske highlights her commitment to public safety and her efforts to bring new resources, such as a police substation and a state-of-the-art communication center, to her ward.

We also discuss the pressing issue of healthcare shortages, particularly the need for more medical professionals in the area, and how community members can engage with city council to advocate for better healthcare outcomes.

As we wrap up, Palenske emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication and the need for citizens to voice their concerns and ideas. This episode serves as a reminder that every voice matters in shaping the future of healthcare in our community.

In this episode of the HealsPod, I, Diego Trujillo, am joined by Dr. Maia Carter as we delve into the critical topic of leadership and the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who challenge us to grow. We kick off the discussion with a thought-provoking quote about living on the edge of fear and the necessity of having people in our lives who push us beyond our perceived limits.

Dr. Carter shares her personal experiences of building her business and the challenges that come with it, emphasizing the value of having a supportive circle that encourages growth. We explore the metaphor of weightlifting to illustrate how pushing past our comfort zones can lead to significant personal development.

As we transition into the main topic, we discuss the evolving role of physicians in leadership positions within healthcare organizations. Dr. Carter highlights the benefits of having physician leaders, such as improved patient outcomes and better customer service, while also addressing the historical disconnect that has led to fewer physicians in executive roles.

We reflect on the mindset shifts necessary for physicians to recognize their potential as leaders and the importance of building relationships within their organizations. The conversation touches on the balance between clinical excellence and the business side of medicine, as well as the need for physicians to advocate for their colleagues and patients.

Throughout the episode, we emphasize the significance of emotional intelligence, effective communication, and the ability to lead from any position within an organization. We conclude with a call to action for listeners to evaluate their own leadership styles and the impact they have on their teams, encouraging them to be the type of follower they would want in a leader.

Join us for this insightful discussion that not only explores the challenges of leadership but also inspires listeners to embrace their potential and push through their fears.

In this episode of the HealsPod, I had the pleasure of hosting Edie Taylor and Dr. Jerry Reeves from Comagine, an organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality and addressing workforce shortages. We discussed the importance of building a robust pipeline for healthcare careers, starting from K-12 education through to post-secondary training and into the job market.

Edie shared insights about Comagine's Area Health Education Center (AHEC) program, which focuses on providing educational opportunities and hands-on experiences for students interested in healthcare careers. We explored the challenges faced by students, particularly in understanding the pathways to various healthcare professions and the importance of mentorship and real-world exposure.

Dr. Reeves, a pediatric hematologist oncologist with extensive experience in healthcare delivery, emphasized the need for personalized relationships in healthcare and the value of storytelling in inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals. We discussed how students are often more engaged when they can connect with real-life experiences rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Throughout the conversation, we highlighted the significance of communication, the impact of technology, and the necessity of adapting educational programs to meet the unique needs of students in different regions. We also touched on the cultural shifts in values among younger generations and how these changes affect their career aspirations.

Ultimately, this episode underscored the critical role of community engagement and collaboration in addressing workforce challenges in healthcare, as well as the need for innovative approaches to inspire and guide students toward fulfilling careers in the field.

In this episode of the HealsPod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Assemblywoman Dr. Rebecca Edgeworth, a dedicated physician and community advocate who recently transitioned into politics. We delved into her journey from growing up in Las Vegas to running for office, highlighting her commitment to improving healthcare access for underserved populations.

Dr. Edgeworth shared her experiences during her medical training and how her passion for helping disadvantaged communities shaped her career. We discussed the challenges she faced as a new legislator, including the steep learning curve of navigating the legislative process and the importance of bipartisanship in passing effective legislation.

One of the key topics we explored was her work on various bills, including AB 315, aimed at reducing healthcare fraud, and a hospice bill that sought to establish a bill of rights for hospice patients. Dr. Edgeworth emphasized the need for collaboration across party lines to achieve meaningful change in healthcare policy.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the misconceptions surrounding healthcare in Nevada and the importance of community engagement in the legislative process. Dr. Edgeworth encouraged listeners to reach out to their legislators and advocate for their needs, reinforcing the idea that effective legislation often requires small, incremental changes rather than sweeping reforms.

As we wrapped up, I was inspired by Dr. Edgeworth's optimism for the future of healthcare in Las Vegas and her belief that our community can become a healthcare destination. This episode serves as a reminder of the power of individual voices in shaping policy and the importance of working together to improve the lives of Nevadans.

In this episode of the Las Vegas Heals Pod, we had the pleasure of welcoming Miss Nicole King, the Vice President of Community Solutions and Government Relations at Silver Summit Healthplan. Our conversation delved into the intricacies of managed care organizations (MCOs) and the vital role they play in healthcare, particularly for low-income and disabled populations in Nevada.

Nicole provided a clear explanation of what a managed care organization is, emphasizing its mission to manage members' care by building networks of qualified providers and engaging community health workers. We discussed the shift from a fee-for-service model to value-based care, highlighting how this approach benefits patients by ensuring they receive the right care at the right time, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and cost savings.

Nicole shared her journey into the healthcare sector, starting from her non-profit work in Reno to her current role at Silver Summit. We explored the unique challenges faced by rural communities in Nevada, where access to healthcare can be limited. Nicole emphasized the importance of listening to these communities and respecting their needs, which has informed Silver Summit's strategies.

One of the most exciting developments discussed was Silver Summit's recent contract award, which includes a focus on non-emergency medical transportation. This initiative aims to address one of the biggest barriers to care in rural areas, allowing members to access healthcare services more easily.

We also touched on the importance of community health workers and the innovative programs being implemented to support members, including housing assistance and substance use disorder treatment. Nicole highlighted the collaborative efforts within the Centene family of companies to share best practices and drive innovation across states.

Overall, this episode was a deep dive into the compassionate and strategic work being done at Silver Summit Health Plan to improve healthcare access and outcomes for Nevadans. Nicole's passion for her work and commitment to serving the community was truly inspiring, reminding us all of the human element behind healthcare.

In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming two remarkable guests, Karen Booker and Annie Cooper, who are the newly appointed co-presidents of the Clark County Medical Society Alliance (CCMSA). We kicked off the conversation by discussing their backgrounds and what brought them to Las Vegas. Annie shared her journey from New York State, where she worked as a cardiac ICU nurse, to moving to Las Vegas with her husband. Initially hesitant about the move, she eventually embraced the city after visiting friends and exploring the community. Karen, on the other hand, hails from Tucson, Arizona, and has a rich history of moving due to her father's military career. After a long career in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, she and her husband settled in Las Vegas, where they have been happily living for the past seven years.

As we delved deeper into their experiences, we discussed the unique lifestyle challenges faced by spouses of physicians. Both Karen and Annie shared personal anecdotes about the sacrifices that come with being married to someone in the medical field, including the unpredictability of schedules and the emotional toll it can take on families. They emphasized the importance of camaraderie and support within the CCMSA community, which provides a space for spouses to connect and share their experiences.

We also explored the upcoming initiatives and events that CCMSA has planned for the year. Karen and Annie highlighted their commitment to maintaining a vibrant calendar of events, including monthly luncheons and the Healthcare Scholarship Project, which raises funds for local medical schools. They expressed their excitement about this year's charity of choice, the Children's Heart Foundation, which supports children with congenital heart diseases and their families. Annie shared her personal connection to this cause, recounting her own experiences as a parent navigating the challenges of her child's health.

Throughout the episode, we discussed the significance of building a supportive network for families in the medical community, especially in a transient city like Las Vegas. I encouraged listeners to get involved with CCMSA by attending their luncheons, which are open to everyone, not just physician spouses. The luncheons provide a relaxed atmosphere for networking, fundraising, and fostering friendships.

As we wrapped up the episode, I expressed my gratitude to Karen and Annie for their dedication to CCMSA and the invaluable work they do for the community. I also invited listeners to mark their calendars for the first luncheon on September 16th at Ocean Prime and to stay tuned for the annual fashion show on April 2nd at Durango. This episode was a heartfelt reminder of the importance of community, support, and the shared experiences that unite us all.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, we dive deep into the essential topic of leadership, particularly in the context of healthcare and the challenges of burnout. I am thrilled to welcome back Dr. Maia Carter, a passionate advocate for leadership principles, to help us unpack this complex subject.

We begin by defining burnout, a multifaceted issue that affects many in the healthcare field. Dr. Carter outlines its three primary components: emotional and physical exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of personal accomplishment. We share personal anecdotes that illustrate these experiences, highlighting how burnout can manifest in various ways, especially in high-stress environments like medicine and hospice care.

As we explore the nuances of burnout, we discuss the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Dr. Carter emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to recognize their feelings and take proactive steps to address them. We touch on the significance of resilience versus relentlessness, advocating for a shift in mindset that prioritizes well-being over the traditional "grind" mentality.

Throughout the conversation, we reflect on the importance of gratitude and perspective. I share a poignant story about a young patient facing terminal illness who expressed gratitude despite his circumstances, illustrating the profound impact of mindset on our experiences. Dr. Carter and I agree that cultivating a sense of gratitude can be a powerful tool in combating burnout and fostering a healthier work environment.

We also discuss the role of community and social connections in maintaining mental health. Dr. Carter highlights the need for healthcare professionals to build supportive networks, especially during training when many are away from their families. We explore how creating a culture that normalizes mental health discussions can help alleviate the pressures faced by those in the medical field.

As we wrap up the episode, we emphasize the importance of prioritizing self-care, including sleep, exercise, and emotional well-being. We encourage listeners to take a moment to reflect on their own experiences with burnout and to consider how they can implement small changes in their lives to foster resilience and compassion.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, we delve into the critical topic of men's health in honor of Men's Health Month this June. I had the pleasure of welcoming two esteemed guests, Dr. Brian Le, a specialist in pain management, and Jamil Rizk, who focuses on wellness. Together, we explore the multifaceted challenges men face today, from emotional struggles to the biochemical aspects of health.

We kick off the conversation with Dr. Le sharing his journey into pain management, highlighting how his background as an anesthesiologist led him to focus on interventional pain management. He emphasizes the prevalence of pain in the population, noting that 80 to 90% of people will experience pain at some point in their lives. Dr. Le discusses the evolution of pain management over the last two decades, moving from traditional methods like physical therapy and medication to more innovative approaches, including regenerative medicine and hormone treatments.

As we dive deeper, we address common misconceptions about pain clinics, particularly the stereotype of them being "pill mills." Dr. Le clarifies that his practice focuses on a holistic approach, integrating medication, physical therapy, and psychological support to optimize patient wellness. This leads us to the concept of "pain and wellness," where we discuss how understanding one's body can significantly improve pain management and overall quality of life.

Jamil Rizk joins the conversation to discuss the integration of wellness into pain management. He shares insights from his experience in developing clinics that focus on a comprehensive approach to health. We explore how advancements in technology and testing allow for a more personalized understanding of each patient's needs, moving beyond general reference ranges to tailor treatments that truly benefit individuals.

Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, in managing pain and improving overall health. I share my personal journey of weight loss and fitness, highlighting how my experiences have shaped my understanding of wellness. We discuss the impact of stress on health and the need for balance in our lives, especially in today's fast-paced world.