Getting tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections, or STIs, is easier than you think! In this episode, we sit down with Maura Rowley, Manager of Student Health Nursing at MIT Health, to talk about how quick, simple, and confidential STI screening is for students. Learn how to book an appointment, what to expect during your visit, and why routine testing is important—even if you feel fine. Plus, we’ll clear up common myths and answer your questions about privacy, cost (spoiler: it's covered!), and next steps if you have concerns. Taking care of your sexual health is stress-free at MIT—tune in to find out how!

Who would make medical decisions for you if you couldn’t? In this episode of Conversations with MIT Health, Jessica Senesi, ANP-BC, and Lydia Barlow, MD, explain why healthcare proxies matter, how to choose one, and the key conversations to have. They’ll also clear up misconceptions and discuss how proxies interact with advance directives. Whether planning for yourself or a loved one, this discussion will help you make informed decisions with confidence.

“Conversations with MIT Health” presents “Nutrition Tips for Managing Hypertension or Diabetes,” featuring Dr. David Podradchik, clinical pharmacist at MIT Health. Dr. Podradchik offers practical guidance on making sustainable dietary changes to better manage blood pressure and blood sugar. He discusses common nutrition challenges, simple adjustments that can have a big impact, and how diet interacts with medications. Listeners will gain insight into working with their care team to develop a personalized plan for long-term health.

In this episode of Conversations with MIT Health, we discuss the importance of colorectal cancer screening with Nicole Napier, Population Health Manager at MIT Health. Nicole shares why early detection is critical, explains the different screening options available, and addresses common concerns that may cause hesitation. We also explore why screening guidelines have changed, when to start testing, and how MIT Health supports prevention efforts. Tune in to learn how you can take proactive steps toward better health and early detection.

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. There are over 40 types of HPV, 13 of which can lead cancer. In this episode, Jennifer Shark, CNM, explains need to know information for protecting yourself against HPV as well as screening and treatment options.

The team at MIT’s Occupational Health Service provides an overview of the unique work-related and environmental support that they offer MIT employees and beyond. More specifically, they discuss their employee-oriented comprehensive consulting, treatment, and health-education support – as well as examinations, vaccinations, and immunity certifications for Institute employees and affiliated groups like Draper Laboratory.

Monisha Rajinikanth, OD provides us with an overview of Optometry services at MIT Health. She also talks about when you should plan to see an eye doctor (and how), when you shouldn’t – as well as common eye concerns seen in the MIT community.

MIT Health offers a variety of treatments to support conditions related to allergies. Treatments include allergy shots, environmental changes, antihistamines and other medications – as well as initial diagnoses support.

MIT Health patients now have access to physical therapy appointments -- on campus -- thanks to our new partnership with Bay State Physical Therapy. Shawn Ferullo, MIT Health Associate Medical Director, speaks with Ben Rose, Bay State Physical Therapy’s Managing Partner and Physical Therapist and Alexandra Leon, Clinic Manager about the treatments and services available through this partnership.

Travel Health is a unique clinical service and benefit for the MIT community. MIT Health’s Travel Nurse Advisor Program Manager Pauline Lee gives us an overview of how the service can help students, faculty, staff – family members, and retirees develop a safe travel plan before traveling abroad for recreation, study, internships, and more.