There is a continuous need for donated blood. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires blood, and donations contribute to saving approximately 4.5 million lives annually.

Host Jennifer Semenza welcomes Dr. Daniel Getz, Chief Medical Officer for Providence Inland Northwest Service Area and former emergency room physician, to discuss the essential need for blood donations.

Dr. Getz provides insights on how donated blood is utilized in medical settings, the importance of maintaining a steady blood supply, and offers tips for preparing to donate blood.

On this episode, we dive into the digital realm of wellness, where your smartphone is your sidekick and your health journey gets an upgrade. Whether you’re tracking symptoms, scheduling appointments, or connecting with your healthcare providers, the Providence app has your back.

Jennifer Semenza is joined by David Long, Marketing Executive Director for Providence, to discuss how the Providence app can be one of the most helpful items in your wellness toolkit.
 
 So, grab your phone, download your healthcare digital app and let’s get your questions answered!

In this episode, Dr. James Simmons, NP, and Dr. Robin Henderson, PsyD and Chief Executive of Behavioral Health for Providence Oregon, delve into the emotional complexities and common pitfalls associated with New Year's resolutions. As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us are tempted to set ambitious goals, only to find ourselves overwhelmed and disheartened by mid-January.

Join us as our expert guests discuss why resolutions often lead to frustration and disappointment, and explore healthier, more positive approaches to welcoming the new year. Dr. James and Dr. Henderson will share their insights on how to set realistic, meaningful goals that nurture your mental well-being and personal growth. They'll also provide practical tips on maintaining motivation, overcoming setbacks, and celebrating progress, no matter how small.

Whether you're a perennial goal-setter or someone who shuns resolutions altogether, this episode offers valuable advice on making lasting, positive changes in your life. Tune in to learn how to turn the promise of a new year into an opportunity for genuine self-improvement and fulfillment.

For more resources go to Providence.org or Work2BeWell.org.

In this episode of Talk With a Doc, we delve into a remarkable story of resilience and innovation. Howard "H" White, the man instrumental in building the iconic Jordan Brand at Nike, Inc., is now championing a new cause--the Howard "H" White Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis.
 
Join host Jennifer Semenza as she speaks with Dr. Jacob Abraham, section head for advanced heart failure, and Dr. Jenna Kay, medical director of the new Howard “H” White Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis, both from the Providence Heart Institute. They are joined by center namesake, Howard "H" White, Vice President for NIKE Inc.’s Jordan Brand, and heart transplant recipient. 

The Howard “H” White Center was established in honor of White, who relied on the expert care at Providence Heart Institute  in 2017 when he was diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis—a progressive disease that hampers the heart’s ability to pump effectively. This often under-diagnosed condition deserves significant attention, prompting Providence to launch this new center to support early detection, research, and treatment.

With NBA legend Michael Jordan donating $1 million in support – along with donations from many patients and leaders in entertainment, sports and business – the center aims to improve healthcare equity, particularly as cardiac amyloidosis disproportionately affects the Black community.

Tune in as our panel of experts shines a light on this vital health issue and the new initiatives at the Howard "H" White Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis.

To learn more about the Howard "H" White Center for the Cardiac Amyloidosis, visit: Providence Heart Institute: Howard White Center

As the colder months approach, many of us are bracing for the inevitable wave of colds and flu. But did you know that with the right care and treatment, you can significantly reduce the severity and duration of these illnesses? 
Jennifer Semenza and Dr. Robert Lichfield, a doctor of family medicine from the Providence Urgent Care Center in Spokane, explore the best practices for managing cold and flu symptoms, from effective home remedies to when it’s time to see a healthcare professional. 

So, whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, find relief from symptoms, or simply stay informed, this episode is packed with information you won’t want to miss. 

For more information and resources for cold and flu season visit: Providence Cold + Flu Resources 

In this episode of Talk With a Doc, host Mary Renouf sits down with licensed family and marriage counselor Anna Nguyen to tackle a timely topic: how to agree to disagree and get along with people who hold differing views. As we gather around the holiday table, tensions can run high, especially with the current political climate making headlines daily

Anna Nguyen shares practical tips and strategies to keep the peace and foster understanding, even when opinions clash. With the holiday season upon us and political debates heating up faster than a Thanksgiving turkey, this episode couldn't be more relevant. So, grab a cup of cocoa, put on your favorite holiday sweater, and join us for a conversation that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.  

Did you know that over 88 million American adults have pre-diabetes, but more than 84% of them don’t even know it? 
And here’s a shocker: Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed with healthy lifestyle changes. 

Host Jennifer Semenza is joined by Stephanie Tarry Yoo, a registered dietician nutritionist and diabetes educator who affiliates with Providence Swedish Edmonds Hospital in Edmonds, WA. 

Whether you’re looking to prevent, manage, or simply understand these conditions, we’ve got you covered. So, grab a healthy snack and join us as we unravel the mysteries of blood sugar, diabetes myths and share tips to keep you on the path to wellness.

For more information and resources:
If anyone listening would like to engage in learning more about diabetes, ask your Primary Care Physician for a referral for Diabetes Self Management Education and Support and have it sent to their local Diabetes Education Program.  

Patients can call their insurance to be sure which diabetes education programs they are contracted with for best coverage.

To find a diabetes education program near you (with a referral from the medical provider managing their diabetes to schedule an appointment): Find an Accredited Diabetes Education Program

Diabetes Prevention:  

CDC Diabetes Prevention Website:  Prediabetes – Your Chance to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes | Diabetes | CDC

Diabetes Prevention Program locator: Find a Lifestyle Change Program | National Diabetes Prevention Program | CDC

Living With Diabetes:

American Diabetes Association:  Living With Diabetes | ADA

Diabetes Food Hub for recipes and meal planning:  Diabetes-Friendly Recipes | American Diabetes Association

Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists: 

American Heart Association (since diabetes and heart disease are closely linked):  What is Diabetes? | American Heart Association

Diabetes Distress: Diabetes Distress Assessment & Resource Center

Every year, the cold and flu season brings with it a wave of illness that can disrupt our daily lives. But did you know that simple hygiene practices and healthy habits can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick

Jennifer Semenza speaks with Dr. Robert Lichfield, a doctor of family medicine from the Providence Urgent Care Center in Spokane. In this episode, we’ll explore the best strategies to keep those pesky viruses at bay.

So, whether you’re a parent looking to keep your family healthy, a professional wanting to avoid sick days, or just someone who wants to stay well this season, this episode has important information you won’t want to miss. 

Grab your favorite cozy drink, get comfortable, and let’s learn how to stay healthy together!

For more information and resources for cold and flu season visit: Providence Cold + Flu Resources

In today's episode host Brette Borow and Dr. Marla Anderson, Medical Director of Surgical Breast Oncology Mission Hospital California are talking about breast cancer and breast cancer surgery. In this episode you will hear about the types of breast cancer, screening and treatment options and what to expect with both.

What you eat is so important for your overall health, but did you know it can also influencer your chances of getting cancer? Making healthy food choices can reduce the risk of getting certain types of cancer. Brette Borow and Kailey Proctor, Oncology Dietician are here today to talk to you about the ways you can incorporate foods into your diet to improve your overall health!