Turn on the Lights Podcast

Community organizing empowers patients, clinicians, and providers to advocate for necessary reforms.

In this episode, Dr. Pedja Stojicic, Executive Director of People Power Health, discusses the urgent need for change in healthcare and the challenges faced by established organizations. He highlights the role of agency in health, arguing people experience better outcomes when they have control over their health future. Dr. Stojicic touches on the influence of Marshall Ganz's organizing principles, which emphasize building relationships and collective action as the foundation for change, and explains how these skills have been applied in diverse contexts, from climate change advocacy to improving healthcare policies in the U.S. He also urges listeners to consider the power of small actions in driving larger change, underscoring the importance of growing leadership and engagement within communities to create a more sustainable healthcare system.

Tune in and learn how grassroots organizing can transform healthcare and empower communities to take control of their health futures!

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Early online patient communities were pioneers in sharing personal health data to support others with similar conditions.

In this episode, Susannah Fox, anthropologist and author of Rebel Health, dives into the evolving landscape of health care, where the traditional power dynamics between patients and providers are shifting. Susannah explores the concept of co-production of care, where patients' experiences are valued as much as scientific knowledge. She highlights the rise of patient-led communities and innovations, particularly in diabetes care, where patients have hacked their devices to improve their outcomes. Susannah also discusses AI's role in health care, emphasizing the importance of integrating patient experiences into AI tools. 

Tune in and learn how patients are revolutionizing health care and shaping its future!

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Studies indicate that treating patients at home can result in lower mortality rates compared to traditional hospital care.

In this episode, Dr. Bruce Leff, a professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, discusses the transformative shift of healthcare from hospitals to home-based care. He underscores the importance of trust, patient education, and personalized care, particularly in home settings where patients feel more comfortable. Dr. Leff also explores the economic benefits and challenges of hospital-at-home care, highlighting its potential to reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and address the looming "silver tsunami" of aging adults. He highlights the growing acceptance and effectiveness of this model, supported by global studies showing improved mortality rates and patient satisfaction. Dr. Leff also stresses how hospital-at-home care has expanded to treat over 100 different conditions, showing its versatility and effectiveness across various diagnoses.

Tune in and learn how home-based care is reshaping the future of healthcare, offering a more humane and cost-effective alternative to traditional hospital settings!

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The Ukrainian medical community has shifted from emotional reactions to systematic approaches in response to the war.

In this episode, Dr. Olesya Vynnyk, coordinating medical initiatives for the World Congress of Ukraine, and Dr. Miguel Cendoroglo Neto, the CMO for Albert Einstein Jewish Hospital, focus on the challenges Ukraine's health care system faces during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Dr. Vynnyk highlights the struggle of maintaining medical care amidst bombs and corruption, and the essential role of international support and education. Dr. Cendoroglo stresses his efforts to bring resources and training to Ukrainian health care workers and help Dr. Vynnyk navigate the complexities of the situation. It’s remarkable that despite these inhuman conditions, both doctors remain optimistic for the future, calling for global solidarity and action to support Ukraine's medical community.

Tune in and learn how you can join the fight against aggression and help transform health care during times of war!

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Michelle Browder began using art at 13 to channel her energy and fight against racism, leading to her lifelong journey in activism.

In this episode, Michelle Browder, an American artist and activist known for her work in reimagining the future of gynecology and obstetrics in the US, explores the connection between art, activism, and medicine. Michelle's journey from a young fighter against racism to a renowned artist began at 13, using art to channel her energy and convey the need to dismantle racism. She discusses her plans to create a museum in Montgomery, Alabama, combining art, history, and medicine to educate and inspire future healthcare professionals, emphasizing empathy, dignity, and the need for equitable care. Collaborating with institutions like Harvard and UAB, Michelle aims to empower young women to pursue careers in healthcare despite societal barriers, expressing optimism about the future due to the dedication of young people fighting for justice and equity.

Tune in and learn about the transformative power of art in addressing historical and contemporary issues in gynecology and obstetrics!

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How accountable are we when it comes to injuries caused by medical errors?

Since this archive episode aired, patient safety remains a serious issue, with thousands of Americans dying from errors in their care. Although interest in improving patient safety has sadly waned, many are working to revive it and increase attention to the problem.

In this interview, Sue Sheridan, founder and a global leader of Patients for Patient Safety US, shares how, ever since going through family tragedies caused by medical error twice, she’s actively worked to improve and ensure patient safety across the United States. As a newborn, Sue’s son’s unattended Kernicterus caused permanent brain damage, and some years later, her husband died because of a late-stage sarcoma diagnosis that had been previously detected; after these events, she decided to make a change and share her family’s story across health care. However, patient safety has been deprioritized as there are still gaps in the system regarding data collection that can catch mistakes. With Patients for Patient Safety, Sue seeks to democratize patient safety by highlighting transparency, illustrating the magnitude of the problem, and using input from the patient community when coming up with changes or solutions.

Tune in to learn more about the importance of patient safety!

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Since this archive episode aired early in our podcast, organizations have paid off billions of dollars in medical debt, and many hospitals have stopped suing patients for small claims. However, the problem of medical debt is far from over and now is the best moment to do something about medical debt.

In this interview, Berneta Haynes, Staff Attorney with the National Consumer Law Center, talks in depth about what medical debt is, who is affected by it, why it’s a massive issue in the United States, and how to start solving this problem. In the US, getting sick or suffering an accident can lead to costly bills that trap a patient in a debt and disparity cycle when they lack money, insurance coverage, or live with a chronic condition. The National Consumer Law Center seeks to help communities of color and low-income populations by teaching them to manage their debt, handle collectors, and know their rights. Berneta explains the provisions and protections the Affordable Care Act and the No Surprises Act have to protect consumers from unfair medical bills and aggressive collections while highlighting changes and actions that improve the law, reduce debt, and expand the support umbrella across the country.

Tune in to learn more about the issue of medical debt and how to tackle it best!

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The aging population is rapidly growing, posing significant challenges for global health care systems.

In this episode, Dr. Maria Carney, Chief and Medical Director at Northwell Health, and Charles Kenney, Senior Vice President at Northwell Health, talk about the need for a health care system that supports healthy aging. Dr. Carney and Charles discuss Robert Butler's vision of alleviating older adults' suffering, advocating for better treatment, and combating ageism, while also emphasizing the need for more support for caregivers and improved home care systems to enhance the quality of life for the elderly. They stress that addressing negative stereotypes and championing the importance of geriatric medicine is crucial for preparing for the future. Dr. Carney and Charles also address potential challenges, like for-profit health care systems denying payment for essential services, and highlight the importance of political support and education in creating an inclusive, effective approach to geriatric care.

Tune in and learn how we can transform our health care system to better serve the growing aging population and support a healthier, longer-lived society!

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Patients and their families feel more empowered and regain normalcy by participating in their own care.

In this episode, Dr. Kavita Bhavan, Chief Innovation Officer at Parkland Health and an infectious disease specialist, shares how empowering patients to self-administer IV antibiotics at home has improved health care access and equity. She highlights the success of involving patients and their families in their care, addressing health disparities, and engaging the community. Dr. Bhavan discusses initiatives like using Dobutamine at home for end-stage heart failure patients, holding financial literacy fairs for kids, and improving flu vaccination rates through community health assessments. She also emphasizes the importance of trusting patients, addressing social determinants of health, and moving away from paternalistic health care models.

Tune in and learn how innovative approaches to health care delivery are significantly impacting patient empowerment and health equity!

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Disparities in patient care based on race and insurance status lead to frustration, fueling a growing movement to unionize and push for fair treatment.

In this episode, Dr. Holly Humphrey, President of the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation, explores the pressing issues facing the American health care system and the foundation's pivotal role in transforming health professional education. Dr. Humphrey shares her insights on the high costs of medical training and how it drives specialty choices, the foundation's strategic initiatives focusing on diversity, equity, and belonging, and the adaptations made during the global pandemic. She discusses the grassroots activism of residents and students addressing disparities in patient care and how the Macy Foundation supports these efforts through innovative programs and career development opportunities. Kedar, Don, and Dr. Humphrey also tackle the future of medical education, touching on the financial stress trainees face, the ethical dilemmas introduced by high finance in health care, and the revolutionary potential of artificial intelligence. Dr. Humphrey brings to light the importance of investing in human capital and preparing the workforce for the health care challenges ahead.

Join this episode to explore critical topics, and stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of health care and medical education!

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