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Ever wonder how the latest advancements in nephrology could transform healthcare? Join us as we sit down with the esteemed Dr. Qasim Butt, nephrologist and innovator whose dual expertise in clinical and interventional nephrology offers a rare glimpse into the world of kidney care. From his hands-on work with dialysis procedures to his transition into telehealth and tech consulting, Dr. Butt shares his inspiring journey of innovation and passion that fuels his exceptional career. You’ll discover how Dr. Butt's diverse professional experiences have shaped his unique approach to patient care and driven his relentless pursuit of excellence in nephrology.

Unlock the secrets to the future of chronic kidney disease treatment as we dive into groundbreaking medications and the shift towards value-based care. Learn how new therapies like SGLT2 inhibitors are not only managing glycemic levels but also offering renal and cardio protection, marking a significant leap forward in kidney healthcare. We'll also shine a spotlight on the revolutionary Alio Smart Patch, a remote monitoring device that promises to enhance patient safety and reduce healthcare costs by providing real-time data on critical health parameters.

Advancements in AI and telehealth are also transforming the landscape of nephrology, and Dr. Butt takes us through the cutting-edge applications of these technologies. From DeLorean's AI platform's role in identifying high-risk dialysis patients to the innovative ways telemedicine is bridging gaps in care, you'll gain insights into how technology is reshaping patient outcomes and clinical workflows. Don't miss out on the future of dialysis technology, patient education, and the potential for wearable artificial kidneys—all discussed in this must-listen episode.

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Ever wondered how your heart and kidneys are more connected than you think? Join us as Kimberlee, a registered Nurse and Vice President of Clinical Services with Specialty Care Management, reveals the fascinating cardiorenal connection. Discover why heart disease is the leading cause of death among Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients and how maintaining stable blood pressure and proper hydration can make a world of difference. Kimberly uses everyday analogies, like comparing your vasculature to household plumbing, to explain how cardiovascular issues can directly impact kidney function and vice versa. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of how heart and kidney health are interconnected. Kimberly delves into the cyclical nature of cardiorenal diseases and provides practical insights on how daily self-care practices can help manage these conditions. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone keen on improving your own health, Kimberlee’s expertise will empower you with valuable knowledge and actionable tips. Tune in to learn how to prioritize your body's intricate plumbing system and mitigate the risks associated with heart and kidney diseases.

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Can understanding the hidden dangers of obesity save your kidneys? Join us this week as Kimberlee, a registered nurse and VP of Clinical Services with Specialty Care Management, shares the profound impact obesity has on chronic kidney disease. From hormonal imbalances to increased insulin resistance, Kimberlee breaks down how excess body mass sets off a cascade of health issues that not only jeopardize your kidneys but also pave the way for diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. You'll learn how your BMI and waist-to-hip ratio can be crucial indicators of your kidney health and why monitoring these metrics is vital.

Kimberlee delves into the mechanics of hyperfiltration, explaining how our kidneys go into overdrive to manage increased body mass, potentially leading to harmful conditions like glomerulomegaly and proteinuria. She offers actionable advice on tracking essential markers like creatinine and GFR to keep tabs on your kidney function. Don't miss this educational and practical session packed with insights and tips to help you take control of your kidney health and prevent the progression to dialysis. Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge to make healthier choices!

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Did you know that smoking affects more than just your lungs? Discover the hidden impacts of nicotine on your body in our latest episode. Kimberlee from Specialty Care Management unpacks how nicotine binds to vitamin C, disrupting crucial collagen production that keeps your blood vessels healthy. This neglect not only strains your heart but also affects your blood pressure and kidney function. We also delve into identifying personal triggers and rewards associated with nicotine use to help you quit more effectively. Learn why deep breathing is the true stress reliever and explore healthier alternatives to replace the habit.

Imagine the life-changing benefits of quitting smoking—better health, financial savings, and improved physical appearance. We focus on the rewarding journey of going smoke-free, highlighting the improvements to every organ in your body, your skin, and even your hair. Picture yourself using the money saved from quitting on a dream vacation or simply enjoying the enhanced sense of victory and vitality. This episode is packed with practical tips and emphasizes seeking support from healthcare providers or services like 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Remember, you possess the strength to succeed, and Kimberly is here to support you every step of the way. Be healthy, friends!

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What if you could achieve greater joy, peace, and fulfillment by simply investing in your own wellness? Join us as we chat with Kimberlee, a multifaceted professional who combines her expertise as a nurse, Reiki master, and certified professional coach to share invaluable insights on kidney health and business development. In this episode, she shares the significance of self-care during tough times, revealing her personal practices like restorative pajama days. She also draws inspiration from Robin Sharma's workshops, discussing the critical importance of investing in key wellness assets, such as energy, to lead a purposeful and joyful life regardless of external challenges.

Kimberlee will break down practical strategies for maintaining intense periods of concentration, such as eliminating distractions and setting boundaries. She also dives into the necessity of fostering creativity for better problem-solving and innovation. The discussion pivots to execution intelligence—highlighting the need for tangible results—and the value of networking up to foster personal and professional growth. Wrapping up, we explore four key principles from Robin Sharma -  to navigate life's challenges: protecting your energy, honing your focus, nurturing creativity, and executing your goals. Tune in for an episode that promises to inspire you to believe in yourself and truly relish life's moments.

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When life throws you curveballs, sometimes all you can do is swing with all your might – and that’s exactly what Christina, our fabulous and resilient guest has done. Listen in as she shares her extraordinary journey from battling kidney disease, enduring a pregnancy with undiagnosed PIH (Pregnancy Induced Hypertension) that caused blindness and seizures, to finding strength through humor and love. Her story isn't just about survival; it’s about thriving against the odds and embracing each day with hope and joy.

Throughout our conversation, Christina and her champion and husband, Michael transport us through their life's tapestry.  Hers is a story of determination as she navigated the challenges of being a young single mother dealing with kidney failure. Her candid revelations about societal misconceptions and personal adversities shed light on the often-overlooked struggles of those living with chronic conditions.  Despite all the setbacks, she rose again - over and over.  She met and married Michael and they live life to the fullest and on their own terms.  Their narrative is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's indomitable will to find self-worth and happiness, even in the darkest of times.

Join us as we explore the intimate world of home dialysis, nocturnal treatments, and the unshakeable bond she shares with her husband and care partner, Michael. Their story is a testament to the profound impact that support, empowerment, and a good laugh can have on overcoming life’s obstacles. Prepare to be moved and inspired as we honor Christina and Michael's gratitude, strength, and the life-changing role of nurses and caregivers who inspire, educate and support people to thrive on dialysis.....and beyond!

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The SCM Nurses are sharing our discussion with Dr. Clement of Siba Health as we talk about the evolving landscape of chronic care management. He chronicles the shortcomings of traditional healthcare, especially in the face of diseases like type 2 diabetes, Dr. Clement spotlights the critical need for tailored, patient-centric strategies. Our in-depth conversation reveals how Siba Health's innovative multi-product platform and robust data collection paint a comprehensive picture of patient health. From bridging gaps in care to emphasizing the importance of individual patient narratives, this episode promises to shift your mindset on risk mitigation vs management.

Technology can be a powerful tool to revolutionize patient engagement and empowerment, and this episode is a testament to that transformation.  Coupled with a therapeutic and professional helping relationship, connected devices and real-time data analysis are not just enhancing patient outcomes but sometimes even saving lives. Dr. Clement discusses the importance of care coordination and its fiscal implications for employers and health plans. We also talk about the invaluable intersection of physical and mental health, demonstrating the power of collaborative, data-driven healthcare in a system that desperately needs both efficiency and a personal touch.

Our journey concludes with an inspiring look at Siba Health's interdisciplinary care model, boasting engagement rates of 75% and an astounding 98% success in reversing chronic conditions through personalized health plans and lifestyle modifications.

Discover the profound impact of dietary choices on disease management and the thoughtful integration of various treatment modalities, like GLP-1 step therapy, in addressing individual needs. By tuning in, you'll be equipped with insights on how these pioneering healthcare strategies are pioneering a model that places humanity at its core while steering the future of medical innovation.

You can learn more about Ciba Health here:  www.Cibahealth.com
And Specialty Care Management here:  www.specialtycm.com

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Venture beyond the glossy facades of dialysis center advertisements with Tom, an author who uncloaks the somber truths of an industry at odds with protecting and serving some of the most vulnerable patients.

In this conversation, we exchange our some of our most memorable experiences; I recall my days in home health care, witnessing the grueling battles of kidney disease patients, while Tom reveals his transformation into an informed critic, guided by whistleblowers' revelations. We confront the industry's stark dilemmas, where healthcare workers tread the thin line between profit and patient care, and the alarming compromises that endanger lives.

This episode doesn't just skim the surface—it probes into the unsettling vulnerabilities within dialysis care. The risks associated with inadequately trained personnel are laid bare, alongside firsthand accounts affirming the distressing realities exposed in Tom's book. We discuss the alarming state of the dialysis industry and the necessity for systemic reform. Moreover, we grapple with the commodification of human health as we dissect the ethical quandaries facing professionals in the field, who must navigate the waters of a profit-driven healthcare system.

Finally, we turn our focus to the broader spectrum of healthcare challenges, including the management of chronic kidney disease and diabetes. The life-saving potential of new medications is weighed against their prohibitive costs, igniting a call for federal action to ensure equitable access. By the end of the episode, we underscore the paramount need for a healthcare paradigm that champions patient outcomes over fleeting profits. Join us for a session rich with insight, as we pay tribute to the relentless pursuit of knowledge and its power to spearhead meaningful change for patients - and health plans everywhere.

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Join the Specialty Care Managment Nursing team and special guest Dr. Randall Smith, D.M.D as we talk about an all- too- silent health destroyer. 

From the heartache of his father's health struggles to his own diagnosis of sleep apnea, Dr. Smith unveils the gravity of this condition that, when left untreated, leads to serious health issues like hypertension, kidney disease and congestive heart failure. Our discussion lays bare the importance of quality sleep, not as a luxury, but as a cornerstone of bodily repair; and we confront the startling fact that 80% with sleep apnea are walking through life undiagnosed and untreated.

• "Untreated sleep apnea will take  7-10 years off your life"
• "Untreated moderate-to-severe sleep apnea will cost a patient upwards of $200,000 in other medical bills"
• 'Having untreated sleep apnea is worse than being a pack a day smoker'
• 30 million people in the US have sleep apnea and 80% of those people don't know it
• Risk factors include:  Snoring, waking  at night to urinate, waking with morning headaches, waking with gasping for air, daytime fatigue, and others....
• if your BMI is over 30 - your risk of sleep apnea is 70%
• Consequences of untreated sleep apnea include: hypertension, cardiomegaly (heart enlargement), CHF (Congestive Heart Failure), cognitive decline, and more...

The dentist's role in the fight against sleep apnea is not to be underestimated, and Dr. Smith spotlights this with expertise and passion. We touch on everything from the cellular restoration that occurs during sleep, to the clues that could indicate you're at risk and that you want to be sure to talk to your doctor about.  In our conversation, he also addresses the high-stakes long-term health risks of leaving sleep apnea unchecked.

By bringing to light the barriers to diagnosis and the tools at our disposal, we're not just talking about sleep—we're discussing a potential pivot in the longevity and quality of our lives.

While the gold standard is polysomnography -  in a sleep lab,  Dr. Smith talks about the ease and the savings of the home sleep test.  Your PCP can order your sleep test, or in some states, your dentist may be able facilitate that process of obtaining a prescription for your sleep study as well.  He also walks us through the various treatments for sleep apnea including:  positional therapy,  CPAP, the potential game-changer of oral appliances, and the cutting-edge Inspire implant.

But the take-home message is this:  in many cases, weight loss and lifestyle changes can be just as powerful.  And early diagnosis and treatment can help you enjoy a health life.

YOU can absolutely do something about this threat.  Talking to your health care provider about your risk and getting a sleep study are the first steps to help you take hold of your health and breathe easier—the restful nights you seek may just be on the horizon.

Great Books he shared today:
Matthew Walker: Why We Sleep
James Nestor: Breath
Dr. Bradley Bale and Amy Doneen:  Beat the Heart Attack Gene

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Feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders can be more than just a metaphor when stress begins to take its toll. In our latest episode, join me and the SCM RN coaches as we unravel the tapestry of relaxation and stress relief, sharing the personal anchors that help us deal with the stresses that naturally occur - as well as during the holidays.

 Through the power of guided imagery, I invite you to join me on a mental escape to nature's calm embrace, offering respite from the daily grind. 

We also bask in the warmth of the holiday spirit, reminiscing about the cherished traditions and heartfelt connections that light up our family gatherings, infusing our lives with joy and a touch of cultural richness.

Don't forget the power of exercise!  Stephanie will take you through some of the benefits of a good stretch and learning to practice progressive relaxation so that you can harness the power of relaxation in moments where you need it most. - Awareness is key here.  

With the year winding down, it's the perfect time to reflect on the small cues that signal our need for a breather, like the tension that creeps into our shoulders, whispering for attention. This episode is a treasure trove of relaxation strategies, from the gentle progression of muscle relaxation to the rhythmic dance of breathing exercises, and the grounding presence of loved ones. Drawing from the wisdom of  our team of nurses and my own journey in professional coaching, we arm you with practical techniques to sidestep stress and invite tranquility into your life. 

As we wrap up, let me extend a heartfelt wish for your festive season and the year ahead to be brimming with serenity, happiness, and health. Happy holidays, and let's commit to gifting ourselves moments of calm—it's a present that keeps on giving.