The Patient Physician

The Patient Physician

By Johanna Nuding, Paul Smith, Chris FullbrightBusinessMedicineHealth & FitnessMental HealthCareers
Download on the App Store

The Patient Physician episodes

  • The Nomadic Pediatrician: Finding Freedom Through Unconventional Paths

    This Patient Physician podcast features Dr. Trevor Cabrera, known as 'The Nomadic Pediatrician.' Dr. Cabrera shares his unique journey from medical school to becoming a locum tenens physician, eventually pursuing a neonatal-perinatal medicine fellowship. Touching on themes of culinary medicine, honing communication, taking gap years, and the value of experiencing discomfort for personal growth, Dr. Cabrera provides a fresh perspective on finding depth through travel and cultural exploration. We also explore how Trevor paid off $350k+ in student loans in three years to achieve financial freedom and medical autonomy. Don't miss this enriching conversation filled with wisdom, storytelling, and practical advice for young physicians contemplating their career paths.

    MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Trevor Cabrera - The Nomadic Pediatrician 

    Born and raised in Roseville, California, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree (with a Minor in Health Care and Social Issues) from the University of California, San Diego. Driven by a love for languages and global exploration, he moved to Florence, Italy after college to earn his Certification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

    Trevor attended Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, where he earned his MD and cultivated a strong interest in Culinary Medicine—an emerging field focused on using food and nutrition as tools for improving health. He went on to complete his residency in General Pediatrics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, where he was drawn to the high-stakes, emotionally complex environments of Pediatric Oncology, the Pediatric ICU, Emergency Medicine, and Neonatology.

    Unsure of which subspecialty to pursue, and eager to grow both personally and professionally, Trevor chose to work as a full-time Locum Tenens physician—a traveling doctor who steps into temporary roles across a variety of healthcare settings. This lifestyle allowed him to deepen his medical skills while exploring diverse approaches to pediatric care across the U.S.

    In 2023, Trevor returned to formal training to pursue a Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship, reaffirming his commitment to one of the most critical and rewarding fields within pediatrics. Through his ongoing journey, he shares insights and experiences on his blog as The Nomadic Pediatrician, blending storytelling, clinical wisdom, and a global perspective on modern medicine.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Welcome to The Patient Physician

    00:34 Introducing Dr. Trevor Cabrera

    01:07 Dr. Cabrera's Background and Education

    01:39 Journey into Medicine and Culinary Medicine

    02:35 Experiences in Medical School and Residency

    03:19 The Nomadic Pediatrician and Personal Insights

    04:35 Inspiration and Family Influence

    08:51 Medical Training and Specializations

    18:44 Culinary Medicine and Its Impact

    30:33 Freedom in Medicine and Avoiding Burnout

    36:11 Choosing Neonatology: A Personal Journey

    36:48 Breaking Free from the Matrix: A New Perspective

    37:22 Navigating the Challenges of COVID-19

    39:02 The Struggles and Triumphs of Locum Tenens

    42:27 Finding Inspiration in Shawshank Redemption

    43:55 The Importance of Storytelling in Medicine

    55:07 The Journey to Financial Freedom

    58:40 The Decision to Pursue Fellowship

    01:03:22 The Role of Communication in Neonatology

    01:03:51 Advice for Young Physicians

    01:07:31 The Meaning of The Patient Physician

    01:10:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr 12 min
  • From Medicine to Memoir: The Story of Dr. Rob Wolf

    In this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' meet Dr. Rob Wolf, a distinguished neuroradiologist, author, and Jewish historian. As a third-generation Hungarian doctor, Rob reflects on the challenges and rewards of a medical career while underscoring themes of resilience, redemption, and fighting antisemitism. In Not a Real Enemy: The True Story of a Hungarian Jewish Man’s Fight for Freedom, Dr. Wolf tells the story of his grandparents and his father, Ervin Wolf. This discussion explores his parents' escape from Nazi persecution and life in communist Hungary, Dr. Wolf's extensive medical career, and his motivations for writing the book. If you're feeling burnout get inspired to share your story, pursue creative outlets, and value your time and community.

    MEET OUR GUEST: DR. ROBERT J. WOLF

    ROBERT WOLF, M.D. is a neuroradiologist who attended the University of Michigan Medical School and completed his training at Brown and Yale Universities. He grew up in a suburb of Detroit as the only child of Ervin and Judit Wolf. Their stories of escape from communist Hungary, and his father’s tragic history of escaping the Nazis twice but losing his own parents, inspired Robert to document his parents’ tales and share those stories with Jewish groups, history aficionados, and biography lovers throughout the United States, Europe, and elsewhere. In Not a Real Enemy Robert shares his family saga—and the forgotten history of the nearly half million Hungarian Jews who were deported and killed during the Holocaust—through an epic and inspiring tale of daring escapes, terrifying oppression, tragedy, and triumph.

    Connect with Dr. Rob:

    • Email [email protected]
    • LinkedIn at RobertJWolfMD
    • Twitter @RobertJWolfMD
    • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/robertjwolfmd/
    • Book: Not a Real Enemy (available wherever books are sold)

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:47 Meet Dr. Robert J. Wolf

    02:37 Dr. Wolf's Medical Journey

    04:55 Burnout and Transition

    10:13 Family Influence and Early Life

    17:31 The Writing of 'Not a Real Enemy'

    24:47 The Escape and Its Aftermath

    26:15 Parental Influence and Identity

    28:02 Holocaust Reflections and Burnout

    30:38 Public Reactions

    32:24 Legacy and Family Pride

    34:48 The Importance of History

    37:00 Creative Outlets for Physicians

    42:29 Holocaust Stories and Forced Labor Camps

    46:43 The Patient Physician Perspective

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    52 min
  • Strategic Real Estate Investments for Medical Professionals

    Ryan McCullough from Partners Real Estate joins us for this episode of 'The Patient Physician' podcast. Specializing in medical office transactions, Ryan's experience shines as he discusses the nuances of this niche commercial real estate market. The conversation delves into key medical real estate investment aspects, including managing lease terms, dealing with the nuances of triple net leases, and strategizing for future growth. Ryan also touches on market trends, opportunities, and the crucial role of involving a proficient team early on in real estate planning for physicians. Ryan's insights serve as a reminder that while real estate can be lucrative, it requires careful planning and expertise. Whether aiming for practice independence or considering real estate as part of a retirement strategy, don't miss this conversation.

    MEET OUR GUEST: Ryan McCullough, Partners Real Estate - Medical Investment Specialist - [email protected]

    Ryan started his commercial real estate career in 2016 and specializes in medical office. His client-first focus and tenacious work ethic helped him close over 150 transactions for approximately half a billion dollars. Ryan believes the key to his success is focusing on building long-term relationships by truly understanding his clients’ needs and objectives and staying true to what is in their best interest.

    As business quickly reached capacity, Ryan co-founded the Medical Investment Group. A team of likeminded individuals who strive to provide the highest quality representation for property owners throughout Texas. As Partners became an independent national brand in 2022, the Medical Investment Group leads the charge for growing a national investment sales team focused on medical office.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:40 Introducing Ryan McCullough

    00:58 Ryan's Journey into Real Estate

    03:05 The Medical Investment Group at Partners Real Estate

    05:27 Market Trends and Opportunities

    07:20 Surgery Centers: A Hot Investment

    10:25 Challenges and Strategies in Medical Real Estate

    14:00 The Importance of Early Involvement

    16:37 Navigating Lease Terms and Sales

    20:04 Concessions and Lease Terms

    20:42 The Importance of Cap Rates in Real Estate

    22:05 Triple Net Leases Explained

    23:27 Case Study: Successful Real Estate Investment

    26:53 The 1031 Exchange Strategy

    30:47 Risks and Considerations in Medical Real Estate

    33:13 The Dental Real Estate Market

    34:49 Current Trends in Medical Construction

    37:29 Final Thoughts and Advice for Physicians

     

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    39 min
  • Managing Medical Student Loans and the Changing Medical School Debt Landscape

    In this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' we delve into the challenges and intricacies of managing medical student loans and the changing medical school debt landscape with Joe McGrath from GradFin. Explore the average debt burden of medical students, effective repayment strategies, and the complexities of programs like PSLF and income-driven repayment (IDR). Joe McGrath provides insights into the current state of student loan policies, the impact of recent executive orders, and the benefits of GradFin's concierge service. Whether you're a pre-med student, in residency, or a practicing physician, this episode offers valuable guidance on managing student loan debt.

    MEET OUR GUEST: Joe McGrath is a senior business development associate at GradFin, where he provides guidance on applying for, refinancing, and forgiving student loans. He offers valuable insights into the student loan marketplace and helps individuals navigate the complexities of student loans. Email Joe for a free one-on-one consultation: [email protected] | Connect with Joe on LinkedIn. | https://gradfin.com/

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction - The Financial Burden of Medical Education 

    00:54 Guest Introduction: Joe McGrath from GradFin 

    01:33 Understanding Student Loan Repayment 

    03:36 Current State of Student Loan Debt 

    05:04 Income-Driven Repayment Plans Explained 

    08:11 The SAVE Program and Its Challenges 

    10:04 Navigating Repayment Options 

    19:51 Refinancing Student Loans 

    25:49 Paying Off Student Loans Early 

    26:12 Understanding Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) 

    26:42 Challenges with PSLF and Government Programs 

    29:36 Impact of COVID-19 on Loan Forgiveness 

    30:17 Navigating the SAVE Program and IBR Plan 

    36:32 GradFin's Membership and Services 

    43:16 Preparing for a Consultation with GradFin 

    46:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min
  • Medical Malpractice Demystified: Insights from Aegis CEO Jennifer Wiggins

    Jennifer Wiggins, founder and CEO of Aegis Malpractice Solutions joins this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' broadcasting live from the 2025 ACGME Conference in Nashville, TN. We explore the intricacies of medical malpractice insurance. Jennifer breaks down common misconceptions and explains the importance of having the right coverage for both new and seasoned healthcare providers. The conversation covers the potential impact of AI and technology on malpractice claims, the significance of state-specific regulations, and the benefits of working with a specialized insurance broker. And Jennifer shares valuable tips on navigating the complexities of malpractice insurance, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and periodic policy reviews. This episode is a must-listen for physicians looking to safeguard their professional practice.

    MEET OUR GUEST: Jennifer Wiggins, founder and CEO, Aegis Malpractice Solutions

    Jennifer Wiggins started Aegis Malpractice Solutions in 2018 after 16 years working for one of the nation’s largest malpractice insurance carriers. Her goal: Demystify medmal with straightforward, transparent insights so clients can choose the best coverage for their practices. Aegis is one of the only agencies in the country specializing in medical malpractice insurance, and Jennifer has risen to the top of her game thanks to her exhaustive industry knowledge and tireless customer service. In Jennifer’s own weekly podcast, 'Malpractice Insights,' she shares actionable tips to help doctors stay protected and practice good medicine every day. Every episode is short and sweet. Jennifer loves to talk about all things medmal, and she’s eager to share her trademark clarity and breezy (yet comprehensive) knowledge with you.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:40 Meet Jennifer Wiggins, CEO of Aegis Malpractice Solutions

    01:20 Understanding Malpractice Insurance

    06:23 The Importance of Tail Insurance and Supplemental Policies

    08:47 Special Considerations for Different Medical Practices

    11:49 The Role of a Malpractice Broker

    16:12 The Impact of Specialty on Malpractice Insurance

    17:45 The Importance of Regular Policy Reviews

    23:08 Understanding Malpractice Caps

    23:46 Factors Influencing Insurance Rates

    24:24 Best States for Malpractice Insurance

    25:57 Qualifying for Coverage

    28:00 Impact of AI and Robotics on Malpractice

    32:48 Market Conditions and Policy Renewals

    36:18 Challenges in Obtaining Coverage

    42:42 Specialized Policies for Subspecialties

    44:23 Final Thoughts

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    47 min
  • Embracing Change: Hormones, Healthy Aging, and Career

    This episode of The Patient Physician Podcast was recorded live from the 2025 ACGME Conference in Nashville, TN. Friend of the show, Dr. Michele Blackwell, shares her journey in the medical field and her expertise in hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Blackwell delves into the challenges and triumphs of balancing a demanding career with personal wellness, improving quality of life as we age, the benefits and drawbacks of bioidentical hormone therapy, and the importance of continual learning and adaptation in medicine. The conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the critical need for self-compassion and resilience among medical professionals. 

    MEET OUR GUEST: MICHELE BLACKWELL, M.D. FACOG

    Dr. Michele Blackwell is Board Certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, currently practicing general Gynecology after retiring from the practice of Obstetrics in 2013. She has been in practice since 1998, working in an academic environment for the first 10 years of her career before transitioning to private practice in 2009. She now focuses on providing more individualized healthcare for both women and men as they age and experience the hormonal changes associated with aging.

    Dr. Blackwell is fascinated by the aging human body, the ways to improve quality of life as we age, and the prevention of diseases. With this in mind, hormonal imbalances can occur as early as the third decade of life. She is constantly studying and learning to improve women's and men's quality of life.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician Podcast

    00:30 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest, Dr. Michele Blackwell

    00:50 Dr. Michele Blackwell's Journey in Medicine

    03:00 Transition from Academic Setting to Private Practice

    04:45 Challenges and Changes in Private Practice

    08:35 Specializing in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

    11:34 Balancing Family and Career

    14:04 Navigating Perimenopause and Hormone Therapy

    26:18 Validating Symptoms and Emotional Support

    26:56 Impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy

    28:44 Fitness and Strength Training for Women

    31:06 Nutrition and Protein Intake

    35:17 The Role of GLP-1 Medications

    37:09 Challenges in Hormone Therapy Education

    40:58 Future of Hormone Therapy and Virtual Services

    45:06 Men's Hormone Therapy and Final Thoughts

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49 min
  • Live From ACGME: Bridging Wellness and Medical Education

    This episode of 'The Patient Physician' features brief interviews recorded from the 2025 ACGME conference exploring meaning in medicine. Participating attendees included program directors, administrators, doctors, educators, and their support staff, who discussed initiatives that promote community engagement and holistic healthcare, the integration of culinary medicine into training programs, and the impact of AI on medical practice. In their own voice, each emphasizes the importance of human connection in the medical field, the evolving role of wellness support, and the future of medicine amidst technological advancements. And they reflect on how these changes influence the development and education of future physicians, underscoring the crucial balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.

    ACGME Annual Educational Conference 2025 in Nashville, TN - Over three days, more than 5,000 participants gathered for the world’s largest graduate medical education (GME) event to collaborate, innovate, and inspire. With the theme of Meaning in Medicine, the conference highlighted the importance of sustaining purpose and joy in the work of health care professionals.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:38 Finding Meaning in Medicine

    01:46 Community Outreach Initiatives

    03:51 Challenges and Solutions in Medical Education

    05:30 Innovative Approaches in Residency Programs

    09:16 Leadership and Wellness in Medicine

    14:08 Future of Medicine

    20:02 Personal Reflections and Experiences

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min
  • Breaking the Mold: Dr. Georgeanne Freeman's Path to Concierge Medicine

    In this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' meet Dr. Georgeanne Freeman, a family medicine physician known as the 'Downtown Doctor' in Austin, Texas. Dr. Freeman shares her journey from practicing in rural America to establishing a concierge practice in Austin. She discusses her diverse experiences, including overcoming professional and personal challenges while working in rural Appalachia and the impact of life coaching. Dr. Freeman also elaborates on her transition away from traditional insurance models, underscoring the benefits of direct patient care and preventative medicine. Her story emphasizes the importance of holistic wellness and reclaiming physician autonomy. 

    MEET OUR GUEST: DR. GEORGEANNE FREEMAN

    Board-certified in family medicine, Dr. Freeman has worked in emergency rooms, hospitals, and clinics. She is also trained in bio-identical hormones and botox and juvederm cosmetic procedures. As a country doctor, she learned much about medicine and made house calls. A favorite memory of Dr. Freeman is delivering flu shots on horseback with insulated saddlebags to an elderly couple who lived nearby.

    Freeman Medical Clinic in downtown Austin, TX, offers a full spectrum of care. You can find services from ADHD evaluation and treatment to well-women and well-men exams. In addition, the clinic provides walk-in urgent care and even makes house calls. A particularly popular treatment is IV hydration (www.hippohydrate.com) - a custom mix of vitamins, electrolytes, medication, and IV fluids for migraine headaches, athletes, and those seeking optimal health.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician 

    00:42 Meet Dr. Georgeanne Freeman 

    01:15 Dr. Freeman's Journey in Rural Medicine 

    02:43 Experiences and Challenges in Rural Practice 

    12:22 Transition to Austin and Personal Struggles 

    18:00 Starting a Concierge Practice in Austin 

    23:59 The Future of Healthcare and Insurance 

    31:31 The Reality of Insurance and Negotiation 

    32:05 Facing Catastrophic Events Without Insurance 

    36:59 The Future of Medicine: A New Approach 

    39:30 Preventive Medicine and Insurance 

    44:03 Transitioning to a Concierge Practice 

    47:29 Embracing Change and Personal Growth 

    51:29 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 

    57:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr 2 min
  • Coaching for Change: The Developing Doctor

    This episode of 'The Patient Physician' tackles the common theme of overwhelming stress and lack of non-medical education among physicians and the power of coaching for change. Dr. Ben Reinking, a board-certified general pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist, has layered in professional coaching to assist both learning and seasoned physicians through his program, The Developing Doctor. "Dr. Ben" shares his journey from medical training to facing professional burnout and how coaching helped him develop a positive mindset and new skills. He elaborates on the role of a coach in assisting physicians to thrive through small, impactful changes. Dr. Ben emphasizes the importance of a supportive and forward-looking approach. The episode provides valuable advice on burnout prevention, achieving work-life harmony, and redefining success through personal and professional development.

    MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Ben Reinking 

    Dr. Ben Reinking is a board certified General Pediatrician and Pediatric Cardiologist. He is also a Master Certified Physician Development Coach and member of the International Coaching Federation. His clinical interests include general pediatric cardiology, echocardiography, fetal cardiology, and the care of patients with single ventricle congenital heart disease.

    Dr. Reinking has served in many different roles at his institution including Medical Director of Pediatric Echocardiography, Medical Director of Clinical Pediatric Cardiology, Associate Fellowship Program Director, Fellowship Program Director, and Faculty Director of a medical student learning Community. In addition, he has been a formal and informal mentor to medical students, residents, fellows, and new faculty. Learn more about his coaching practice, The Developing Doctor, here.

    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:38 Common Challenges Faced by Physicians

    02:52 Introducing Dr. Ben Reinking

    03:28 Dr. Reinking's Journey to Coaching

    06:40 The Impact of Coaching on Physicians

    14:17 Developing Doctor: Helping Physicians Thrive

    25:48 The Weight of Expectations

    26:56 Coaching Programs and Their Benefits

    28:41 Preventing Burnout as a Coach

    30:12 Challenges in Coaching and Client Relationships

    33:54 Empowering Physicians to Thrive

    37:17 Transitioning from Training to Practice

    40:55 The Ripple Effect of Coaching

    44:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min
  • Fusing East and West: Transforming Modern Medicine

    In this enriching episode of The Patient Physician, meet Dr. Amy Matecki, a doctor and expert in both Chinese and Western Medicine. Dr. Matecki delves into her inspiring journey from China to the US, highlighting her dual training and the challenges of merging different medical philosophies. She discusses integrating Eastern practices like acupuncture into Western Medicine and how this fusion can transform healthcare from a sick care model to wellness care. This conversation addresses various issues, including physician burnout, the financial pressures of medical practice, and time management, as well as the importance of physician wellness programs. Dr. Matecki shares touching patient stories, the acceptance of integrative medicine, and the promising future of collaborative medical practices. The episode underscores the need for meaningful physician-patient relationships, a crucial aspect that Dr. Matecki believes is at the heart of effective healthcare, and the continuing education for future healthcare providers.

    MEET OUR GUEST: DR. AMY MATECKI

    Dr. Amy (Ying Li) Matecki graduated from Qingdao Medical College in 1989 and moved to California from China in 1994. She has been licensed to practice Medicine in California since 2002 and completed her Internal Medicine Residency as Chief Resident at Highland Hospital, Alameda Health System, a UCSF affiliate, in 2004. 

    In addition to serving in the public hospital, Dr. Matecki joined Alta Bates Summit Medical Center (ABSMC) Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2004, where she started a community hospital-based acupuncture program to bridge Eastern and Western Medicine. She has been the Medical Director of Integrative Medicine at ABSMC since 2008. She received her degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from ACCHS in 2009. Integrating Chinese Medicine into conventional oncology practice, Dr. Matecki and her team of medical oncologists and doctors of Chinese Medicine not only provide clinical care but also present and publish their findings on safety from using acupuncture and integrative medicine to reduce pain, nausea, and anxiety that frequently accompanies conventional cancer treatments. In many case-level observations, Dr. Matecki and her team note that integrating Chinese Medicine may enhance cancer patients' quality of life. 

    Dr. Matecki was a Faculty Attending Physician in the Department of Medicine Residency at Highland Hospital from 2004 to 2019 and Chief of the Integrative Medicine Division from 2014 to 2019. She and her colleagues from Western Medicine and Chinese Medicine created a 'hospital privilege' policy for licensed acupuncturists in 2011. They designed policies, procedures, and training methods for acupuncturists to join the medical staff in providing inpatient acupuncture services at the hospital. The program ran from 2011-2019. 

    Dr. Matecki's pioneering spirit led her to co-found the nonprofit International Center for Integrative Medicine (ICIM) in 2010. Under the umbrella of ICIM, she played a key role in creating the first Chinese Medicine Residency in a US academic public teaching hospital from 2016 to 2019. Graduates from this residency program are now able to work in mainstream academic teaching hospitals' inpatient care and outpatient medical centers, a testament to Dr. Matecki's innovative approach to integrative medicine. 

    Dr. Matecki was the principal investigator (PI) for acupuncture research for chronic post-chemotherapy fatigue in collaboration with Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. She presented her study on the safety of acupuncture for patients with lymphedema at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Breast Cancer Symposium in October 2009. Dr. Matecki was a co-investigator on the first Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved acupuncture study in a public hospital that studied acupuncture feasibility for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients; the study appeared in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (JACM) in 2017. She is the current PI for a Chinese herbal medicine research project at ABSMC. 

    Dr. Matecki and her team pioneered the first Sutter Bay Hospital Integrative Medicine Traditional Chinese Medicine Residency training program at ABSMC in 2023. Dr. Matecki is an Adjunct Clinical Faculty at Stanford Health Care, an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) member, and a House delegate for the California Medical Association (CMA). Dr Matecki currently serves on the California Acupuncture Board, first appointed by Governor Brown in 2016, reappointed by Brown in 2017 and Governor Gavin Newsom in 2021. She served as the California Acupuncture Board President from 2017-2021. She continues working on policy and safety guidelines for hospital-based Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine practice with a team of physicians, nursing staff, acupuncturists, multidisciplinary health care providers, and hospital administrators.


    TIME STAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

    00:53 Meet Dr. Amy Matecki

    03:39 Dr. Matecki's Journey and Achievements

    09:32 Challenges and Cultural Differences in Medical Training

    12:42 Integrating Eastern and Western Medicine

    18:40 The Reality of Private Practice

    27:07 Navigating the Healthcare System

    35:46 Navigating Pain Medication Challenges

    40:58 Integrative Medicine Success Stories

    41:23 Overcoming Skepticism in Integrative Medicine

    45:51 Building a Collaborative Healthcare Team

    52:52 Future Directions and Challenges in Integrative Medicine

    57:13 The Role of Physicians in Patient Care

    59:39 Promoting Integrative Medicine and Physician Well-being

    Please email questions or show ideas to [email protected].

    Connect with Us on Social:

    • FACEBOOK
    • LINKEDIN
    • YOUTUBE
    • INSTAGRAM @physiciansRS

    The Patient Physician has been named Top 10 for physician-focused podcasts!


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr 12 min

About The Patient Physician

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to The Patient Physician, a space for doctors to explore their physical, mental, and financial wellness. Your peers and industry leaders will destigmatize institutional…