Dr. Travis Engel, Chair of Pediatrics, brings his expertise and compassion to a thoughtful discussion on the current measles situation affecting parts of the United States. With just under 500 cases nationally—concentrated primarily in West Texas and eastern New Mexico—he offers a balanced perspective on what families need to know without creating unnecessary alarm.

Engel offers practical guidance for what to do if measles appears in your community. Rather than rushing to emergency departments, Dr. Engel explains the protocols already in place for testing and treatment, highlighting how calling your doctor first can prevent unnecessary exposures and healthcare system strain.

Whether you're fully committed to vaccination, hesitant, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers valuable insights free from judgment or panic. Join us for this important discussion that prioritizes information, respect, and child health above all else. Have questions about your family's specific situation? Your pediatrician or primary care physician is your best resource for personalized guidance.

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When 26-year-old Cody Towler walked into an emergency room for an unrelated issue, he never expected to walk out with a stage four colorectal cancer diagnosis that would transform his life forever. Despite his prognosis, Cody radiates a remarkable resilience that defies medical expectations.

After enduring eleven brutal rounds of chemotherapy, over twenty sessions of radiation, and receiving the devastating news that he had only six to twelve months to live, Cody leaned deeper into his faith.

The heart of Cody's story isn't just about fighting cancer—it's about finding purpose and connection during life's darkest moments. After working as an EMT, he found himself in a dispatch position at Centra where colleagues became family, supporting him through every setback. Despite needing a colostomy, Cody continued living fully—going to the beach, working, and refusing to hide away. His message to fellow cancer patients resonates with powerful simplicity: find happiness, surround yourself with encouragers, and never give up. 

"If no one's there for you, I will be," he offers, embodying his belief that no one should fight alone. For anyone facing seemingly impossible medical odds, Cody's journey serves as a powerful reminder that diagnoses don't define destinies.

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Join us as we explore how Centra is addressing critical healthcare shortages by engaging local students through innovative educational programs. Our guests share how local healthcare camps provide students with exposure to a multitude of career options in medicine.

This episode unpacks the role of local healthcare educators who foster student connections with real-world experiences, building excitement for various healthcare roles. As listeners, you'll learn why it's essential to cultivate this interest early and understand the pathways available for students eager to enter the field. Through compelling personal stories, our hosts and guests discuss how these initiatives not only fill imminent workforce gaps but also enhance the quality of healthcare in local communities.

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Join us for a timely conversation during Heart Month, where clinical cardiac navigator MaryAnne Poling, cardiologist Dr. Parichart Junpaparp, and heart failure patient Ken Mueller offer invaluable insights and personal stories. Through an in-depth discussion, we cover the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of heart failure, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing it from other conditions like COPD or anemia. 

Ken Mueller shares how he far surpassed his six month diagnosis living now over five years later. By focusing on empowerment through understanding, we aim to inspire listeners to not only manage heart failure but to live positively and thrive.

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Unlock the secrets to proactive health management with the expertise of Dr. Cindy Hanawalt and Dr. Micki Hall from HealthWorks. This episode delves into the essential role of biometric screening in personal health management, dispelling myths and clarifying its purpose in identifying potential risk factors for various health conditions. We emphasize the importance of these screenings as proactive measures and discuss their historical context, access methods, and their potential downsides, advocating for informed health engagement. 

Join us as we examine the accessibility and benefits of biometric screenings, whether through your annual wellness labs or specialized services like those provided by HealthWorks, which even offer on-site workplace screenings. Learn how biometric screenings can spark meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider, enhancing your wellness journey without replacing regular check-ups. 

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Establishing a health baseline is critical for effective personal health management. By working closely with your primary care provider, you can tailor a plan that addresses your unique health needs and sets manageable goals for lifelong wellness.

Dr. Allega breaks down how your primary care provider acts as the "quarterback" of your health, orchestrating the complex playbook of healthcare to help establish and maintain your health goals. From selecting the right timings for health screenings to monitoring crucial indicators like blood pressure and cholesterol, learn why it's important to start this partnership early. 

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Unlock the transformative power of mental health care with our insightful conversation featuring James Bryant, Vice President for Emergency Services at Centra. Together, we shed light on the pressing issue of mental health accessibility, and discover how Centra is pioneering a "no wrong door" approach to mental health support by collaborating with key partners in each of our health-system communities. 

Our discussion also highlights how Centra is breaking new ground with their mental health urgent care, providing immediate support for adults. Mental health is a priority and appropriate and urgent care is essential, especially during crises. Learn where to go and what to expect in this episode of & so much more.

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Together with James Bryant, Vice President for Emergency Services, we discuss the specialized capabilities of Centra Health's Emergency Departments. Learn when to go the ED and when to go to urgent care, what to expect when you go to both and how the triage process works. We also explore the role of urgent care centers as a vital bridge to emergency departments, highlighting their strengths and limitations compared to hospital resources. We offer practical health and wellness tips to prevent illness and reduce the need for emergency visits.

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Grief is a journey many of us embark on, often without warning, and the holiday season can amplify these emotions unexpectedly. Join us as we engage with Ashley Butt and Brynn Davis, who help us unravel the complexities of grief. Together, we explore how grief is not limited to the loss of a loved one but can stem from the end of relationships or dashed dreams. We promise you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how to recognize and name your grief, which is the first step toward healing. With practical strategies, we learn to navigate grief triggers that often surface during festive times, embracing the idea that creating new traditions can foster resilience and self-discovery.

Our conversation also extends into the physical and emotional impacts of grief, as we discuss the rollercoaster of sadness, anger, and confusion that can disrupt daily life. Dr. Sipsy shares valuable insights into the denial and emotional shutdowns that often accompany significant loss. This dialogue is enriched by tips on setting boundaries, asking for help, and honoring loved ones through meaningful acts, reminding us all that experiencing joy is not only possible but essential. As we encourage open conversations about mental health, we underscore the importance of taking each day as it comes and prioritizing self-care, ensuring this holiday season is one of healing and growth.

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Unlock the secrets to a inclusive holiday season for neurodiverse families with insights from Dr. Emily Bradshaw and Daniel Sullivan of Centra's Autism and Developmental Clinic. Together, we redefine the holiday experience by honoring each child's unique strengths and challenges, all while exploring the concept of neurodiversity as a spectrum of diverse brain functions. Expect to learn practical strategies for creating inclusive and comfortable environments, even if that means tweaking traditional plans to prioritize your child's well-being and comfort.

The conversation talks about the significance of respecting personal boundaries, offering alternatives to physical greetings, and promoting mutual respect and successful interactions. Join us for an enriching discussion on fostering a supportive holiday environment where every child can thrive.

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