Talk With A Doc

We’re diving into a topic that affects, or will affect, each and every one of us: adult immunizations.

It’s easy to associate vaccinations with childhood—those memories of lining up nervously in the school gymnasium or going to our pediatrician before the school year starts, waiting for that little jab in the arm. But guess what? Immunizations aren’t just for kids! Just like we maintain our cars to prevent breakdowns, we need to maintain our immune systems to prevent health hiccups as we age. And vaccines are the ultimate tune-up.

But remembering which vaccines we need as adults and when we need them can be difficult. So, let’s take a crash course on getting your immune system up to date, no matter your age! Because when you get vaccinated, you’re not only safeguarding yourself but also those around you—the kiddos, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system in your community. 

Jennifer Semenza is joined by Dr. Robert Lichfield, a Family Practice Specialist who affiliates with Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, are laying out all of the information you need to make sure you're immunizations are up to date! 

Imagine receiving a phone call that changes your life forever. For many women, discovering they carry the BRCA-1 gene mutation is just that—a life-altering moment filled with difficult decisions and emotional challenges. 
We are honored to share the story of Brette Borow, who bravely faced this journey and emerged stronger on the other side.

Mary Renouf speaks with Brette and they take us through her experience of discovering the BRCA-1 gene mutation, the tough choices she had to make regarding her health, and her path to recovery. We delve into the emotional rollercoaster she experienced, focusing on her mental health at each stage—from the initial shock and anxiety to finding support and resilience.

If you’re someone looking for more information on the BRCA-1 gene, breast cancer or support services, please visit the Breast Cancer Programs page at the Providence Cancer Institute website.

Every year, millions of people suffer from colds and the flu, leading to missed workdays, school absences, and, in severe cases, hospitalization. But did you know that vaccinations can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick? 
Host Jennifer Semenza speaks with Dr. Robert Lichfield, a doctor of family medicine from the Providence Urgent Care Center in Spokane and we explore how vaccines work, the benefits of getting vaccinated, and what you can do to protect yourself and your community.

So, grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of vaccinations and how they can help you prevent cold and flu.

For more information and resources on cold and flu season and flu vaccines, visit Providence.

En el episodio de hoy, el presentador invitado, el Dr. Carlos Rodríguez, especialista en medicina interna de Little Company of Mary y la Dra. Lorena González, cirujana de mamas de City of Hope, hablan sobre la salud de los senos, la genética del cáncer de mama y lo que puede hacer en su vida para ser más astuta que el cáncer de mama.

In today's episode guest host Dr. Carlos Rodriguez, Internal Medicine Specialist at Little Company of Mary and Dr. Lorena Gonzalez, Breast Surgeon at City of Hope discuss breast health, the genetics of breast cancer and what you can do your life to outsmart breast cancer.

Previously recorded as a Her Health episode in January 2023.

Today, we’re exploring a groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Our focus is on pulsed field ablation (PFA), an innovative technique that’s changing the game in cardiac care.
Jennifer Semenza is joined by Dr. Sandeep Sharma, a cardiologist from Everett, Washington to discuss this important treatment.

So, let’s get started and uncover the exciting possibilities of pulsed field ablation in the fight against atrial fibrillation.

Two cutting-edge treatments that are revolutionizing the landscape of prostate cancer care are focal therapy and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), 

Jennifer Semenza is joined by Dr. Mehran Movassaghi, a urologist from the Providence Specialty Medical Group in Santa Monica, California. He shares insights on how these treatments work, their benefits, and what patients can expect. 
Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or just curious about the latest in medical technology, this episode is packed with valuable information you won’t want to miss.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s get started on this journey to better understanding prostate cancer treatments and the promising future they hold.

For more information and resources:
Providence Specialty Medical Group

More episodes on prostate health:
His Health: Let's Talk Advancements in Prostate Cancer Care
His Health: Prostate Cancer
His Health: Enlarged Prostate

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that's very true in the case of sun exposure and skin cancer.

Jennifer Semenza, is joined by Dr. Kenneth Grossman, nationally recognized oncologist for his work in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. In this episode we're talking about how best to protect yourself from too much sun, no matter the season, and what potential damage is if you do get over exposed.  

So, grab your sunscreen, hat and shades, and let's dive in!

In this episode, we aim to bring the conversation around mental health and suicide prevention out of the darkness and into the light. Let’s dismantle the myths, misconceptions and hushed whispers surrounding suicide and replace judgment with understanding. Because when we talk openly about suicide, we’re not just breaking down stigma, we’re building bridges towards hope and making an impact on those around us that might be suffering.

Host Jennifer Semenza is joined by Anna Nguyen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the Behavioral Health and Primary Care Integration program for Providence St. Joseph Mission Heritage Medical Group. Anna specializes in suicide prevention and she’s here to help us navigate our way through this difficult but extremely important topic.

If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available. Call, text, or chat 988 to speak to a trained crisis counselor offering support 24/7/365. #SuicidePreventionMonth

For more information and resources, visit:
Work2BeWell Crisis Lines
Well Being Trust Mental Health Resources
Resources for Survivors of Suicide Loss – Suicide Prevention Resource Center (sprc.org)
National Alliance on Mental Illness-Crisis Resources and Toolkit

In this Wellness Brief, we’re diving into the enigma wrapped in a riddle, wrapped in a persistent cough: Long COVID. We’re shining a light on this mystery of a virus and filling you in on what we know now about Long COVID compared to what we thought we understood a couple of years ago. 

Host Jennifer Semenza speaks with Dr. Katherine Tuttle, a doctor of nephrology, Providence’s executive director of research for the Inland Northwest in Spokane, Washington, and is the recipient of the 2023 John P. Peters Award—the most prestigious award given out by the American Society of Nephrology, about what else we need to learn and if there is hope for those still suffering.

So, sit back for a quick listen on the marathon of malaise-Long COVID.

And for more information and resources, search Providence COVID Recovery Clinic or by calling Providence Virtual Support Clinic at 971-326-8718, Option 3.

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!