Key Takeaways

• Body-focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) are repetitive pulling, picking, biting, or scraping of the hair, skin, nails, lips, or cheeks. If this sounds familiar for you or someone you love, let them know that they can get help. One helpful resource is the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. Here's a link: https://www.bfrb.org/what-are-bfrbs
• BFRBs are not self-harm. BFRBs are not self-harm. They're the brain's attempt to self-soothe and return to a state of calm. That distinction matters because the treatment is different.
• A mental health professional who specializes in BFRBs is the right first call. And for some, a wearable device can help bridge the gap between unconscious habit and conscious awareness.
• Dance with your challenges. Don't fight them. Meeting a health condition or any hard thing with curiosity rather than resistance changes what's possible.
• Stress doesn't cause cancer, but it does matter. There's no direct causal link between stress and cancer, but chronic stress affects sleep, immunity, and daily choices in ways that add up.
• Shame thrives in silence. Aneela hid her condition for over 20 years. What finally shifted things was driven by awareness, then connection, then community.

Connect with Aneela and learn more about her story and BFRB

• Pre-order her book, "Aneela, Where Are Your Eyebrows?"
• Link to Habit Aware. A Keen bracelet might be a helpful device.

You can follow and/or get in touch with Archelle by

• Subscribing to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠ArcHealth newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Following Archelle on

• ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Facebook

#MentalHealth #Trichotillomania #BFRB #HealthAdvocacy #PatientAdvocacy #WomensHealth #BreastCancerAwareness #ListenToYourBody #MindBodyConnection #SpeakUpForYourHealth

In this episode, former healthcare executive Noel Rihm shares her 25-year battle with alcoholism and the realization that changed everything: alcohol wasn’t the problem — it was the solution to deeper pain. This conversation will challenge how you think about addiction, sobriety, and your own relationship with alcohol.

Key Takeaways

• Being high functioning doesn't mean you're okay. High performers are especially good at masking serious struggle. If you've ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, that question itself is worth paying attention to.

• For some people, alcohol isn't the problem. It's the treatment. If alcohol is being used to manage anxiety, trauma, or emotional pain, addressing the drinking alone may not be enough.

• There is no one size fits all approach to recovery. If a treatment intervention isn't working, it doesn't mean you've failed. It may mean the treatment isn't right for you. Also, the motivation for real change has to come from within. You can support someone, but you cannot force them to heal before they're ready.

• Addiction doesn't just affect the individual. It affects everyone around them. Living with or working alongside someone with addiction can create its own form of stress and trauma. Healing often needs to extend beyond just the individual.

To Learn More About Noel and Kaleidoscope:

• Read Noel's book, Sober With A Twist
• Learn about the services that Kaleidoscope provides: https://kaleidoscope68.org/

You can follow and/or get in touch with Archelle by

Subscribing to the ⁠⁠⁠ArcHealth newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Following Archelle on

• ⁠Substack⁠
• ⁠Instagram⁠
• ⁠Facebook

Health policy analyst Paul Keckley, PhD has spent 45 years studying the U.S. healthcare system. Then he became a patient. When he was diagnosed with a 95% coronary artery blockage, he made a decision that shocked everyone around him: he chose to have his quadruple bypass at Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina — a facility with four safety citations and mounting community outrage over its for-profit owner, HCA. He wanted to experience the hospital firsthand and assess the criticism himself.

What he found was the full spectrum of American hospital care — fragmented, understaffed, and in moments, exceptional. And after living it from the inside, his biggest takeaway wasn't about the hospital. It was about us.

Key Takeaways:

• Research your surgeon independently. Try to find data on their outcomes, meet them in person, and ask the tough questions.
• Own your own medical records. Know how to use the portal for every health system where you receive care so your records are always at your fingertips.
• Expect the hospital to get you through surgery. Expect the rest to be on you. Coordination of care after discharge between hospitals, specialists, and rehab programs is where the system routinely falls short. Plan for that gap.
• Build your support system before you need it. Caregiver support is critical.
• Learn how to be a patient. Paul's biggest takeaway after 45 years is that personal accountability is the most under leveraged force in American healthcare, and we never teach it. Start now.

Links:

To connect with Paul, I highly recommend subscribing to The Keckley Report, a weekly in-depth analysis and updates on industry trends and insights. 

To connect with Archelle, you can

• Subscribe to the ⁠⁠⁠ArcHealth newsletter⁠⁠⁠
• Follow Archelle on Substack⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, and Facebook

Dr. Seth Serxner, a leading expert in health literacy and workplace wellness, went from running six miles a day to fighting his way back from a devastating crash and life-threatening injuries.

In this episode of Speak Up For Your Health, Seth and I talk about what happens when a wellness expert becomes the patient—why self-advocacy matters, what recovery really takes, and whether it truly takes a crisis to change your health.

Kay Takeaways

• You have to advocate for yourself, even if you're receiving great care. Details matter and care is complicated. And, when you're really sick, you may not be in a position to process information or make decisions clearly. So have an advocate, someone who can ask questions and think on your behalf.
• Speak up about whether you're truly ready to be discharged. Just because the medical team says you're ready doesn't always mean that you are. Being ready means you have a clear plan regarding who your medical team will be when you get home, what support you'll need from family or caregivers, and knowing what equipment you may need at home to be safe.
• Be adherent to your treatment plan. Don't blindly following medical advice, but if a plan makes sense to you, then you own it. Recovery often depends on what you do after you leave the hospital.
• Real behavior change starts with purpose. Finding your purpose is often as simple as answering the question, "why should I even bother?" Surround that purpose with connection and a positive outlook.

Links

Seth's book: The Wellbeing Effect: Bite-Sized Practices for Busy People to Lead Happier, Healthier Lives

Seth's podcast: :Health Literacy 2.0 Podcast

Connect with Archelle

Subscribe to the ⁠ArcHealth newsletter⁠

Follow ⁠Archelle's Substack

Instagram Archelle_GeorgiouMD

Key Takeaways

• Breastfeeding has benefits — but the decision belongs to the mother. Breast milk provides important nutritional advantages for babies, but each mom should decide if she wants to breastfeed and how long she wants to continue based on what is right for her. No judgement.
• Breastfeeding is hard — and pumping can be even harder. Breast pumps rely almost entirely on suction, while nursing a baby involves many other cues — warmth, touch, pressure, and emotional connection — that help the body release milk. Technology supporting pumping hasn’t kept pace with what we know about how breastfeeding actually works.

• Innovation is finally beginning to address that gap.
  Momease is translating that research into a device designed to bring some of those tactile cues into the pumping experience.
• There are practical strategies moms who are breast feeding can try right now. Adding warmth with a hot compress, gentle breast massage, and staying well hydrated can help stimulate milk flow and may improve pumping results.
• Breastfeeding can affect mental health — and that deserves attention.
  One condition that more women are beginning to recognize is dysphoric milk ejection reflex (or D-MER) — a sudden wave of negative emotions that can occur when milk is released. It’s a physiologic reflex, not a personal failing. Moms should be aware of how they’re feeling and talk to their doctor if they have this experience.
• Taking care of the mother matters too. A mother’s physical comfort, emotional wellbeing, and sense of support are important. Supporting moms ultimately supports babies, too.

To Learn More About Momease:

• Check out the website: https://www.momeasesolutions.com/pumping-bra
• If you are breastfeeding/pumping and want to be a tester, you can apply by using this linking here 

You can follow and/or get in touch with Archelle by

Subscribing to the ⁠⁠ArcHealth newsletter⁠⁠

Following Archelle on

• Substack
• Instagram
• Facebook

#Breastfeeding #WomensHealth #BreastPump #NewMomLife #Postpartum

In this episode, we explore Eva Minkoff’s delayed diagnosis, the reality of invisible illness, and the emotional toll of not being seen in the healthcare system.

Eva shares her journey to being diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that causes chronic joint pain, dislocations, and fatigue. Her symptoms began when she was a young ballet dancer. But for nearly two decades, she lived in diagnostic limbo — receiving partial answers, normal test results, and, at times, skepticism from both clinicians and family members.

The lessons from this episode go beyond one rare condition:

• Answers matter — even when they’re not good news.

• If you feel dismissed, it’s okay to keep looking.

• Being believed can be as powerful as being diagnosed.

• Live by your own owner’s manual — and teach your children to do the same.

How to follow Eva Minkoff:

• Instagram: @Life_Of_Eves
• LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/evalana
• Website:  https://boldbeing.co/

Connect with Archelle

In this deeply personal and illuminating episode, physician and gastroenterologist Dr. Mandy Powell shares her family’s experience with Medical Aid in Dying (MAID)—also known as Medical Assistance in Dying—through the lens of being both a daughter and a doctor who was in the room when it happened.

Mandy recounts the story of her father, Dr. Ron Gruber, a prominent plastic surgeon in the San Francisco Bay Area, whose second battle with metastatic bladder cancer led him to carefully choose how—and when—his life would end. After a rapid decline marked by repeated hospitalizations and worsening quality of life, Ron elected to pursue MAID under California’s End of Life Option Act.

Over the course of four extraordinary days, Mandy and her family experienced what she describes as a “living funeral”—a time filled with phone calls to lifelong friends, shared memories, and honest goodbyes. On the final morning, Mandy was present as her father self-administered the prescribed medication, offering a rare, first-person account of what Medical Aid in Dying actually looks like in real life.

This conversation offers a humane, clear-eyed look at an end-of-life option that is legal in California, 11 other states, and the District of Columbia, and one that more families and clinicians are beginning to talk about openly.

Resources about Medical Aid in Dying, including educational materials from Death With Dignity, are linked in the show notes.

Links/Resources

• Death with Dignity
• Advance Directives - forms by state (free by AARP)

Connect with Archelle

• Subscribe to the ArcHealth newsletter
• Follow Archelle's Substack

Amber’s daughter, Willow, was diagnosed at age two with Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency (MSD), an ultra-rare, progressive genetic condition with no known treatment. Instead of stopping there, Amber spent the next seven years learning the science, raising funds, and advocating relentlessly to support research that could one day change the outcome for other children.

Documentary filmmaker Patrick O’Connor followed Amber and her family throughout that journey, capturing what happens when parents are forced to become advocates, fundraisers, and drivers of medical research.

Together, they discuss the emotional moment Amber learned her efforts helped move MSD research to the point where the National Institutes of Health selected it for a pilot gene-therapy program—a milestone filled with both hope and heartbreak.

Key Takeaways

The key takeaways from this episode extend well beyond Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency and may be especially helpful for parents caring for a child with a serious rare or chronic illness:

• Being told “there’s nothing we can do” doesn’t have to be the end of the conversation. Asking questions and seeking options is not denial—it’s loving your child.

• You don’t need to be a clinician or a scientist to advocate for your child.
Asking the right questions opened doors she didn’t know existed.

• Many experts want to help—sometimes you just have to reach out.
Access to scientists and research often starts with a direct email and the willingness to follow up if the first message goes unanswered.

• Not every intervention that is possible is the right one. Recognize when a treatment may be serving the parent, not the child.

• Death is not the enemy. Suffering is. Choosing comfort, dignity, or less intervention can be just as loving and courageous as pursuing treatment.

This is an extraordinary story, but the reality it reflects is one that far too many families live every day. I hope parents listening walk away knowing that their voice matters, their questions matter, and their advocacy matters.

Links & Resources

🎬 The Zebra and the Bear documentary
https://www.thezebraandthebear.com/

🧬 United MSD Foundation (founded by Amber Olsen)
https://www.unitedmsd.org/

In this episode, Archelle talks to Nina Goodheart, a medical device executive who leads work in heart valve disease. Despite her own expertise, Nina’s own mother had her symptoms brushed off by a physician—simply because they didn’t look “typical.” That experience became a turning point.

In their conversation, Archelle and Nina unpack why heart disease looks different in women, how decades of research and device design have prioritized men, and why knowing your symptoms isn’t enough—you also need to know which heart tests to ask about. They also discuss how to push back when you’re told “you’re fine,” and why bringing someone with you to appointments can change outcomes.

The conversation explores the Letter to My Mother initiative—a powerful reminder that conversations within families can save lives—and why advocating for yourself or a loved one may be the most important health skill of all.

If you’ve ever felt dismissed in a doctor’s office, or wondered whether you should ask more questions, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Women and men are not biologically the same. For decades, medications and devices have been largely designed for men, tested in men, and then apply to women as an afterthought. That is beginning to change.
• Conversations save lives. The Letter to My Mother campaign may have started at Medtronic, but it doesn't have to stop there. It's a simple, way to start a conversation that many families and many women avoid. I'd encourage you to sit down with a pen and paper and write a letter to your mother or to a woman in your life that you love.
• Being informed about heart disease isn't enough. You have to speak up. It is important to know your symptoms and "know your numbers", but you also need to know the tests and then ask about them. Ask about an EKG, an echocardiogram. Ask whether more intensive or longer-term monitoring makes sense for you. Push back, ask why, and then ask again. And if you need to, take someone with you.

Links

Learn more about heart valve disease: https://www.medtronic.com/en-us/l/patients/conditions/heart-valve-disease.html

Medtronic Survey on Women & Heart Disease: https://news.medtronic.com/2025-05-07-New-survey-1-in-3-women-have-not-talked-to-their-doctor-about-heart-health,-the-1-killer-of-women

Connect with Archelle:

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠ #HeartHealth #WomenEmpowerment #CardiovascularHealth #HeartDisease #HealthAwareness #WomenInHealth #SelfCare #Medtronic #AdvocateForYourself

Lauren Makler, founder and CEO of Cofertility, set out to change both sides of that equation.

In this episode, Lauren shares her own fertility journey and how it led her to found Cofertility – a company that makes egg freezing more accessible and egg donation more ethical and human. She talks about the process of egg freezing, the emotional aspects of egg donation, and the importance of women and men being proactive, not reactive about their reproductive health. Whether you’re a woman considering egg freezing as a way to protect your future options—or you’re exploring egg donation as a path to parenthood—this conversation will help you understand your choices.

Key Takeaways

• Egg freezing gives women more control over their relationships, their careers, and their futures.
• Success varies. Freezing your eggs provides options, not guarantees.
  According to the Mayo Clinic, the chances of getting pregnant from frozen eggs range from 30% to 60%. Egg freezing should be viewed as empowerment—not insurance.
• Egg donation is a lifelong decision. It requires thoughtful consideration of the physical, emotional, financial, and legal aspects. Cofertility’s approach includes psychological evaluation, legal counseling, and opportunities for donors to make informed, intentional choices.
• Fertility is a shared responsibility. Men can improve the quality of their sperm in about 60 days with healthier lifestyle choices.

Links

Learn more about Cofertility: https://www.cofertility.com/

Connect with Archelle:

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠ #EggFreezing #EggDonation #FertilityOptions #WomensHealth #FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #IVFSupport

Key Takeaways:

• Start with generics always. Generics are typically the most affordable medication option. Ask your doctor for the generic version of the medication they're recommending. If there isn't one, ask them to prescribe a therapeutic equivalent. This is a drug that's chemically different, but in the same class and works in a similar way.
• Do your homework BEFORE you go to the pharmacy. Regardless of whether your prescription is for a generic or brand name drug, take 10 minutes before you get to the pharmacy counter to figure out whether paying cash or using insurance will be cheaper. Steps to take:

1. Check the app you use for all your health information and navigate to the "Pharmacy", "Prescriptions", or "Medication" section to see if there is the option of comparing prices.
2. Look up the cash price on a site like GoodRx or WellRx. These sites show you the discounted cash price at local pharmacies and sometimes that price is lower than using insurance.
3. If you decide to use your insurance for a brand name drug, check for a manufacturer copay coupon by typing into Google: [drug name} + "manufacturer copay coupon". Use link that goes directly to the manufacturer and look for a tab labeled "Savings", "Support", or "Patient Assistance."
4. If you don't find anything online, call the manufacturer at their 1-800-NUMBER and ask whether they offer a copay program for your specific medication.

With healthcare costs skyrocketing for everyone as we go into 2026, I hope these tips help you save a little money on the medications you're taking.

Links:

Miriam Paramore on LinkedIn:

RxUtility: https://rxutility.com/

GoodRx: GoodRx⁠

WellRx: WellRx⁠

Connect with Archelle:

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#SaveOnMeds #CheaperPrescriptions #DrugSavingsTips #MedicationCosts #PrescriptionSavings #HealthTips #SpeakUpForYourHealth #HealthcareFounders #Innovation

Key Takeaways

• PTSD doesn't only affect people on the battlefield. Trauma can come from many places including the slow buildup of chronic stress.
• Recognize when you're not okay. It can be hard to see your own pain, especially when you've been living with it for a long time. Often, the bravest (and hardest) step toward healing is acknowledging that something isn't right and that you need help.
• Find purpose and celebrate progress. Purpose gives meaning to pain and acknowledging small victories along the way builds confidence, hope, and resilience.
• Build community. Healing often happens when you're surrounded by people who understand what you've been through.
• Find and cherish your mentors. People who believe in you can reignite your self-belief.
• Forgive yourself. It's one of the hardest and most healing things you can do.

London Calling Row: This is where you can donate to Bryan's 2026 trans-Atlantic crossing and/or support veterans: https://londoncallingrow.com/captain-bryan/

Connect with Archelle:

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PTSD #VeteranStories #HealingJourney #Resilience #SpeakUpForYourHealth

Key Takeaways:

1. If your child/teenager is in sports..any sport...focus on prevention.

• Follow the Rule of Three —no athlete should ever be alone with a coach. This applies to both in-person and remote interactions, including phone and text ! There should either be 2 coaches and an athlete or 2 athletes and a coach in all interactions.
• Have open, age-appropriate conversations about boundaries and make sure both your child and their coach understand them.
• Trust YOUR gut and empower your child or teenager to trust THEIRS. If something feels off, it probably is.

2. Learn to recognize grooming. It often starts small with blurring of boundaries: some favoritism, gifts, a little extra attention. It can feel flattering… until it’s not.

3. If you discover abuse or inappropriate behavior, make sure your child is safe — both physically and emotionally - then find an advocate. This can be an attorney, a counselor, or another parent who can help you navigate think through next steps.

4. Be prepared for a long journey. Healing takes time. Law enforcement is essential — but it’s also emotionally difficult. So, be ready for tough questions, and know that your child will need ongoing support.

5. Learn more. Visit WeRideTogether.today — to find resources, videos, and stories that can help you recognize risk and protect the athletes you love.

Links:

• #We Ride Together: https://www.weridetogether.today/

• US Attorney's Office (District of Oregon) Press Release summarizing sentencing of Kehring's abuser: https://www.justice.gov/usao-or/pr/former-olympic-equestrian-sentenced-federal-prison-sexually-abusing-minor-student

Connect with Archelle:

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

Key Takeaways:

• Consider chiropractic care if you have back or neck pain—it’s a legitimate option for many people.

• Do your homework. Ask friends for recommendations, review websites for exaggerated claims, and check your state’s chiropractic board for any disciplinary actions.

• Be your own advocate. Know your diagnosis, your treatment plan, and expected results. If you’re not improving, seek a second opinion.

Key Takeaways: Parents: If you think something isn’t quite right with your child, don’t wait. Build a relationship with a pediatrician, talk with other parents, get a second opinion, and follow the science.

Timing matters: The earlier the diagnosis and intervention, the better. Prior to age 4, is best since a child’s brain has more plasticity.

Autism isn’t necessarily abnormal—it’s different. We all have different gifts and strengths. Those of us who are neurotypical may be the ones left behind if we don’t recognize and embrace those differences.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Every child and every family needs a plan that’s tailored to them. The goal isn’t to “fix” autism—it’s to help each child reach their full potential.

Links:

Fraser Website: https://www.fraser.org/

Online Autism Screening tool: https://embrace-autism.com/raads-r/ Connect with Archelle

ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠

Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareAccess #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #speakupforyourhealth #PatientJourney #HealthcareStories #autism #ASD #autismspectrumdisorder #neurodivergence #Fraser #developmentalchallenge #parenting

Key Takeaways

Mental health and substance abuse are often root causes.
These struggles can destabilize jobs, housing, and relationships—and without support, can quickly spiral into homelessness. People experiencing homelessness are “just like us.” They want to be seen, known, and called by name, and often, they are just as wary or afraid of us as we might be of them If you wonder how to help, start small.

Hope often begins with a meal.
Offering a Ticket of Hope from Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities invites someone to have a hot meal and take a first step toward support. Here's a link: https://www.ugmtc.org/toh/ If you don’t live in the Twin Cities, go on line to see how you can support a shelter in your area.

Community has a role to play. Homelessness is not just an individual problem—it’s a community problem. From healthcare providers to neighbors, businesses to families, we all share responsibility for supporting the most vulnerable and building pathways out of homelessness

Links:

• Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities: https://www.ugmtc.org/
• CDC Statistics on homelessness: https://www.cdc.gov/homelessness-and-health/about/index.html

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareAccess #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #speakupforyourhealth #PatientJourney #HealthcareStories #homelessness #socialdeterminants #uniongospelmission #philanthropy .

Key Takeaways

·       Core strength matters. The muscles in your abdomen, back, hips, and pelvis all work together to stabilize your spine. Yoga or pilates are a great option – but if you already have back pain, start by consulting with a physical therapist.

·       Pain is personal. Everyone has a different threshold. Ultimately, only you can decide how much pain you’re willing to live with before pursuing surgery.

·       Crowdsource to finding the right surgeon. There are no central registries that show compare surgeons results. Word of mouth and personal recommendations are the best tools you have. Ask as many people as you can who their surgeon was and how their experience was.  You’ll often find the same one or two names rising to the top.

AND…

·       Don’t ignore reflux symptoms. Since Bob is a world expert on GERD, he shared a story where heartburn was mistaken for cardiac chest pain. If you have reflux symptoms or heartburn, don’t self-diagnose or rely on over-the-counter medications. See your doctor and get evaluated.

Links:

Here's Dr. Ganz' impressive bio: https://www.mngi.com/provider/robert-ganz-md-masgehttps://www.mngi.com/provider/robert-ganz-md-masge

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #BackPain #HealthcareAccess #BackSurgery #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #Sciatica #speakupforyourhealth #GERD #gastroesophagealreflux #heartburn ##MedicalHumor #PatientJourney #HealthcareStories #PostureMatters #CoreStrength #DoctorAsPatient

Key Takeaways: Focus on the Blue Zones pillars: eat a mostly plant-based diet, move naturally throughout your day, cultivate the right outlook, and connect with others.

Your friends’ habits are contagious: Surround yourself with a “tribe” that inspires you to make healthy food choices, move more, laugh more, and live more.

Channel your inner Thomas Jefferson: During a meal, keep one conversation going around the table. Ask a meaningful question and truly listen. It’s a simple way to create connection and community.

Live by the 75% rule: You don’t have to be perfect 100% of the time. Enjoy a splurge now and then—just don’t do make it the norm.

It’s never too late to start: The best time was 20 years ago; the next best time is today.

Links:

All of Dan's books/cookbooks: https://www.thebluezonesstore.com/pages/blue-zones-books

Live to 100 Netflix Documentary: https://www.netflix.com/search?q=live%20to%20100&jbv=81214929

How to host a Jeffersonian dinner: https://fabricegrinda.com/how-to-host-an-intellectual-dialoging-dinner/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #LifestyleMedicine #HealthcareAccess #bluezones #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #longevity #speakupforyourhealth #healthylifestyle #icaria #ikaria

In this inspiring conversation, Alana shares how she learned to manage her diabetes independently, how technology has helped her—and her parents—feel safe and in control. Most importantly, she reflects on how her diagnosis sparked something bigger: compassion, confidence, and a calling to lead.

For any parent raising a child with a chronic illness, this episode is a must-listen. Alana proves that a diagnosis doesn’t have to limit your child—it can fuel their purpose, their independence, and their power.

To Learn More About From Girl to Great

Website: https://fromgirltogreat.com/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthSystemNavigation #HealthcareAccess #Caregivers #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #Type1Diabetes #healthcarestories #Diabetes #speakupforyourhealth #chronicillness

Key Takeaways:

Be specific about your symptoms. Clinicians will ask where your symptoms are located, what makes them better or worse, and how they started. Think through those answers ahead of time.

Use visuals to communicate. If you have something visible—like swelling, a rash, or a limp—take a photo or record a video. These can provide invaluable information and help your provider reach a diagnosis more quickly.

Play your part in healing. Having a great doctor is important—but a patient has responsibility and is an important part of the team.

It’s okay to cry. Sometimes, being stoic can actually be a barrier to getting the care you need. Make sure your doctor knows what you’re going through.

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthSystemNavigation #HealthcareAccess #Caregivers #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #ankleinjury #ankleligamentrepair #SportsInjury #OrthopedicJourney #healthcarestories #speakupforyourhealth

In this episode, Susan speaks candidly about the emotional toll of facing a limited future: the grief, the impact on her career, and the fear of leaving her children too soon. But she also shares how she’s choosing to live the rest of her life—however long that may be—with intention.

Her practical advice is essential for anyone navigating medical care. She explains how to speed up the scheduling of scans, tests, and specialist appointments, and offers a unique dual perspective—as both surgeon and patient—on how to collaborate with doctors when making treatment decisions.

This is a conversation about resilience, radical honesty, and the fierce will to keep living, even when the future is uncertain.

Key Takeaways

Be Persistent: You can often speed up test and appointment scheduling by calling every other morning to check for cancellations—especially during bad weather, when patients are more likely to cancel. Be kind to schedulers; it makes a difference.

Know Your Limits: Ask every question you need to understand your diagnosis and treatment—but also trust the expertise of doctors, nurses, and specialists who’ve seen more than you have.

Practice Gratitude: Spend just five minutes a day—or even per week—writing down who and what you're grateful for. It’s a powerful mindset shift, and online resources can help you build the habit.

Keep Living: Focus on what matters most. Make a new bucket list, teach your kids the life skills they’ll need, and don’t hold back on hugs, kisses, and meaningful moments.

Here's how you can connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠

• Being the CEO of your own care
• Knowing "what you don’t know” is a key to effective advocacy
• Overcoming the hidden burden of stigma
• Feeling dismissed by your provider-and what to do about it
• Demanding your patient rights
• Accessing women's healthcare services
• Selecting the BEST advocate when you can't advocate for yourself

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠

#CareCoordination #PatientAdvocacy #HealthTech #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #HealthSystemNavigation #HealthcareAccess #Caregivers #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #FutureOfHealthcare #LeadershipInHealthcare #womenshealth #healthstigma #stigma

Walter shares how those challenges led him to invest in Pager Health, a company originally co-founded by one of Uber’s creators, and how a pivotal moment during a board meeting inspired a complete shift in Pager’s approach. Now, as CEO, Walter is leading the charge to reduce what he calls the “friction” in healthcare—making it easier for patients to access, understand, and follow through on their care.

Key Takeaways:

Whether your health plan uses Pager or not, Archelle shares practical steps you can take to coordinate your own care more effectively which include:

· Download your health system’s portal app. Having 24/7 access to your medical records is a game-changer. And studies show that if you download the portal app to your smartphone, you're much more likely to use it regularly.

· Explore your health insurer’s online tools. Most of us don’t read our health plan’s enrollment packet at the beginning of the year. But if you head to your insurer’s website and look for the “Member Resources” section, you’ll often find helpful tools and services to guide you through the system.

·  Request a case manager. Many health plans have nurses on staff whose sole job is to coordinate care—especially for members with chronic conditions. They usually reach out based on your medical claims data, but you don’t have to wait. You can call and ask to be connected to a case manager who can help you stay on top of your care.

Links

Get more information about Pager Health: ⁠https://www.pagerhealth.com/

More insight on Walter Jin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walterjin/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠
• Email: ⁠⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#CareCoordination #PatientAdvocacy #HealthTech #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #HealthSystemNavigation #HealthcareAccess #Caregivers #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #FutureOfHealthcare #LeadershipInHealthcare

In this episode of Speak Up For Your Health, Dr. Archelle Georgiou sits down with John Brownlee, serial entrepreneur and CEO of Vidscrip. His drive to improve patient understanding stems from a deeply personal place—watching his own mother struggle to recall her doctor’s instructions. With Vidscrip, he's closing the gap between what doctors say and what patients actually remember.

You’ll learn:

• How to ask better, clearer questions—and why no question is “dumb”

• How to use tools like ChatGPT or Gemini—not to get medical answers, but to prepare smarter questions

• How platforms like Vidscrip are helping clinicians communicate more clearly and consistently

Key Takeaways

• Be self-aware about your own health literacy. Even highly educated, highly literate individuals can struggle with fully understanding their medical condition and choices well enough to be able to make a fully informed decision.

• Make sure you have all your questions answered. Read the patient education materials you get from your provider; watch your doctor's videos if they use VidScrip. And if you still have questions, they are not dumb questions. Your healthcare provider would rather have you ask questions rather than having to cancel your surgery or not follow through on your treatment plan.
• ChatGPT and Gemini AI are great free online resources to help you prepare for a medical appointment. John didn't suggest using these tools to get answers to your questions, but to help you determine what questions to ask.
• Effectively using ChatGPT or Gemini AI depends on creating a good prompt. Here's a prompt you can use to generate a list of good questions to help guide your appointment

PROMPT

"I have an upcoming appointment with a doctor to discuss (FILL IN CONDITION OR PROCEDURE). Please suggest the questions I should ask to make sure that I a) understand my condition, b) know my alternatives, c) understand the risks and benefits of each alternative, d) make sure I respect my preferences and priorities and e) know to do on my end to make sure I have a good outcome."

Links

Get more information about vidscrip: https://studio.vidscrip.com/carenavigation/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠
• Email: ⁠SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com⁠
• Instagram:  ⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠
• Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways

• Keep a detailed journal. Writing things down, your observations, conversations, and gut instincts become a powerful source of truth, can help spot inconsistencies among doctors, and becomes a source of data when advocating.

• Learn to listen to your gut instincts. Your "gut feeling" is a gift. When something doesn't feel right, it often isn't.

• Model advocacy. Advocacy isn't something we're born knowing how to do. It's something we learn by example.

• Find the superpower. Disabilities and challenges don't define limits. They reveal hidden strengths. Our job is to help uncover them in others and in ourselves.

• Invest in faith. Faith, inner peace, and believing in something greater than ourselves can be just as powerful in helping us heal and thrive over the long term.

Links

You can read about Dawn Carpenter's insights on Financial Longevity

• https://milkeninstitute.org/experts/dawn-m-carpenter

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#adoption #faith #social investing #journaling #healing

Key Takeaways

• Infertility is more common and more complex than many realize. In the U.S., over 400,000 cycles of assisted reproductive technology are performed each year that result in less than 100,000 live births. Pursuing infertility interventions is a journey.

• You can do everything right and still not have control over the outcome. Brittany has followed medical advice, tracked her cycle, changed her lifestyle, and pursued multiple treatments. Sometimes biology doesn't cooperate. And that's not a reflection of effort or worth.

• Being proactive doesn't mean pushing nonstop. Part of Brittany's strength is knowing when to pause. Her decision to step back, even temporarily, is an act of self-care, not giving up.

• Telling your story can be part of the healing. By speaking out, Brittany is helping break the silence around infertility. And in doing so, she's helping others feel less alone.

Links

Follow Brittany on Social Media:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanyrunck/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brittanyrunck

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#fertility #miscarriage #pregnancy journey #womens health #family planning #IVF #IUI #motherhood #reproductive health

Key Takeaway

• Access credible health news, whether it's on TV, online, or in print.
• Rely on information that's science-based – vetted by clinical professionals and experts,
• Even when the source is credible, read beyond the headlines. The devil is always in the details.

Links

GMA3: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/author/gma3

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#GoodMorningAmerica #catherinemckenzie #healthnews #ABCnews #publichealth #medicalreporting #jenniferashton #dariensutton

Key Takeaways

Don't ignore persistent symptoms. If you have fever, vomiting, or other concerning signs for more than 2 days, get medical care.

Medications should always be on the suspect list. Adverse drug reactions don't always show up as a rash. They are great imitators of disease and may involve any organ system and without a rash.

Oral steroids are powerful, but risky. They should never be the automatic go-to. If your doctor prescribes steroids, ask about alternatives and make sure there's a clear plan to taper off.

Links

GMA3: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/author/gma3

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#arthritis #jointpain #sulfadrugs #drugallergy #GoodMorningAmerica #patientcare #patientadvocacy #prednisone

Key Takeaways

• Recognize Red Flags: Watch for behaviors that may indicate a need for evaluation, such as:
• Difficulty adjusting after 6–8 weeks in a new environment
• Inability to clearly communicate needs
• Lack of responsiveness to safety cues
• CDC Developmental Milestones
• Share Concerns Early: If you notice red flags, communicate with the school team. Providing information can enhance the quality of the educational assessment.
• Understand the Difference: An educational diagnosis is not the same as a medical diagnosis, and having a medical diagnosis does not automatically qualify a child for educational services.
• Focus on the Child, Not the Label: Use person-first language (e.g., "a child with a disability" instead of "a disabled child") to emphasize the individual, not the disability.

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#special education #child development #parenting #neurodiversity #early childhood education #special needs children #autism spectrum disorder

Key Takeaways:

• Sepsis is serious. Early signs include shaking chills, rapid heart rate, and lightheadedness. Don’t hesitate to seek urgent care.
• Your medical history matters. Even minor procedures weeks prior can be critical to diagnosis.
• UTIs require attention. Symptoms like pain or frequent urination shouldn’t be ignored, especially for men.
• Advocate for yourself. If antibiotics don’t work within 3–4 days, ask for an infectious disease consultation.

Links

Dr. Peter Bornstein's Blog: https://peterbornstein.substack.com/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

#sepsis #infectious disease #healthcarecommunication, #patientcare #self-care #prostate biopsy #healthcarepodcast

Key Takeaways:

1. Don’t Ignore Subtle Changes: Pay attention to small signs—they often signal bigger problems. While pain is an obvious warning, the absence of it doesn’t mean all is well. Conditions like worsening kidney function, high blood pressure, or glaucoma often progress silently. Early detection can make all the difference.
2. Make Treatment Plans Work for You: Adhering to a treatment plan is essential, but it also needs to fit your lifestyle. If it doesn’t, speak up! Simple adjustments—like changing medications, reducing doses, or modifying the schedule—can make it easier to stay on track without compromising effectiveness.
3. Honor the Angels in Your Life: Caregivers are the the angels – the unsung heroes – who often put their own needs aside to support your recovery. While your health is your journey, remember that you’re not in it alone. Appreciate the angels in your corner who walk this path with you.

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways: A Recipe for Navigating Your Prior Authorization

Step 1: Have 5-7 days of patience.

Step 2: After 5-7 days, call your doctor’s and verify that the prior authorization was submitted. Make sure all the info is correct.

Step 3: Call customer service and ask for the status of the request. If they don’t have an answer, get a commitment on when they will follow up. Mention your intention to contact the Attorney General's Office

Step 4: Escalate if there is no follow up within the time promised. Options (you can do all 3)

·     Call the Health Insurance Company CEO and request a referral to the Expedited Appeal Unit

·     Contact the Human Resources Department of your employer

·     Submit a complaint to the Attorney General’s office in your state. Here's a link for the AG in each state: https://projects.propublica.org/claimfile/

Don't Forget:

Keep your calm and be rationale. You’ll get more accomplished that way.

If your doctor believes that the medical test or procedure you need is urgent or emergent….don’t wait for the prior authorization. Get the medical care you need and if its denied, you can appeal it later.

Links:

Attorney General Offices in each state State: https://projects.propublica.org/claimfile/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways: When women get treatment and relief from menopause-related symptoms, we can live our best life.

 ·     Speak up. Tyour doctor if you are having symptoms that you think are menopause-related.

·     There are hormonal, non-hormonal and lifestyle approaches that can help give you relief. If you don’t have access to a doctor who is knowledgeable and comfortable with prescribing all the options, Midi Health is a virtual option to consider. Here is a link: https://www.joinmidi.com/

·     Hormone replacement therapy is safe and effective for most women who are suffering with menopause related symptoms. Don’t allow the scary misinformation about HRT from 2002 keep you from exploring this as a treatment option.

Links:

Midi Health: https://www.joinmidi.com/

Connect with Archelle

• ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways:

• Do your homework. Be clear about what question you are asking. Make sure that you get answers to the issue or questions giving you the most angst.
• See an expert. Don’t just see ANY doctor for a 2nd opinion. Select a doctor who is more experienced than the first in treating patients with YOUR condition.
• Be loyal to yourself..and your health…not your doctor. If you have more trust and better communication with the doctor offering a 2nd opinion…it is okay to switch your care. You owe it to yourself to get the best care for you.

Links:

The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic: https://www.clinicbyclevelandclinic.com/

Connect with Archelle

• Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter
• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: advocacy often includes addressing more than medical needs

·     Establish a relationship with the hospital or health systems case managers and social workers.

·     Expand your own definition of advocacy. Legal and financial advocacy can unlock additional benefits.

·     Be open to guardianship. While it is a last resort, guardianship may be the best option when advocating for someone with a serious or catastrophic

illness.

Share your story with Archelle

Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways

• Men are risk for osteoporosis. It is not just a women's disease.
• Be proactive: Routine screening for osteoporosis is not recommended for men. So, men with a family history of osteoporosis and/or fractures after minor trauma should proactively request a bone density text, call a DEXA scan
• Always (always) request a copy of a healthcare denial letter. Don't just accept a verbal communication. Insurance companies are required to put every denial in writing and include the contractual reason for the denial.

Share your story with Archelle

Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways:

• See a specialist. While you should generally start with your primary care physician, see a specialist if they aren't sure about your diagnosis or if your symptoms are getting worse despite treatment.
• Self-refer to a specialist (if your PCP doesn't want to refer you). Today, most health insurance plans don't require a referral. So if your PCP doesn't recommend seeing someone else, self-refer. And if that specialist doesn't arrive at a definitive diagnosis, make an appointment with a specialist with different expertise.
• Keep a journal. Write down the details about your symptoms. The details matter because a complex diagnosis is like a big puzzle, and the smallest detail can be the missing piece of information that helps the physician suspect an obscure condition.

Share your story with Archelle

Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: Avoid Regret

• Voice your preferences and priorities. You don't need to be a doctor or a healthcare professional, but you need to know enough about your condition and the alternatives to make informed decisions.
• Be realistic about the tradeoffs between different decisions. Talk about them with your physician and your family. Deliberating out loud is an effective way to make sure you fully understand the risks and benefits of different alternatives.
• Read the consent form. Really read it. Make sure it includes 4 key elements: purpose of the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives. For elective surgery, ask for the medical consent form at your pre-op visit so that you can review at home it without feeling rushed to sign it.

"Diagnosed: An Insiders Guide For Your Healthcare Journey" by Cris Ross and Ed Marx is now available on Amazon!

Share your story with Archelle

Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways

Look for early, subtle changes in personality and decision-making. Use this moment to quietly but actively put plans in place for your loved one and start checking in on them more frequently.

Make sure that healthcare power of attorney documents are signed and accessible. Instead of naming co-decision-makers, it's best to designate a one individual as primary with an alternate in case the primary is unavailable. This helps avoid delays and complexities in making urgent care decisions.

Use technology to help keep your loved one safe. Here's a list of ideas with links:

• Amazon's Echo Show: This has all the features of a traditional Alexa and has the added benefit of video. This let me "drop in" to see my mom and talk to her without requiring that she know how to use the technology.
• Blink Mini-Cameras: Buy multiple devices and put them in strategic locations. Make sure to buy the data storage plan so that you can review and store clips.
• Medical/Safety Alert systems can include a pendant or a smart watch.

Have realistic conversations about "aging in place". Discuss the medical, financial, physical and social implications for everyone who is impacted: the aging individual AND the caregiver(s) who assumes responsibility. Everyone's quality of life matters.

Process for identifying an assisted living:

• Week 1: Do online research to identify all the facilities in the area. Read independent reviews.
• Week 2: Create a list of important criteria and conduct phone interviews.
• Week 3: Visit 4-6 locations.
• Week 4: Schedule an extended visit and have a meal at 1-2 locations that seem like the best fit.

MANY thanks to Cathy Wurzer for guest hosting this interview. Cathy has a passion for aging and end of life issues. Learn more about her organization, End in Mind. You can also hear/see Cathy at:

• MPR's Morning Edition
• Minnesota Now, Cathy's own podcast on MPR
• TPT's Almanac

Share your story with Archelle

Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways:

Electroconvulsive therapy, ECT, works faster and better than medication for severe depression. If you or someone you love has severe depression or treatment resistant depression, ask the psychiatrist about ECT as an alternative treatment.

If someone close to you attempts to take their life, don't blame yourself. It's highly unlikely that you could have done something to prevent it.

Consider buying long -term health insurance, regardless of your current health status. You're not too young. It can help you afford the non-medical care and services you need to navigate a serious illness or the effects of aging.

If you need mental health help or support, Call or text 988; National Suicide Hotline

Share your story with Archelle

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: Don't Be Silent. Get Help For Menopause

• Get help for your symptoms before they disrupt your mood, your sleep, your job, and your relationships.
• Communicate with your partner. You are in this together.
• Know the facts about hormone replacement therapy before deciding whether or not you want to try it.
• Get support from your family, friends, and your employer if necessary. You don't have to be silent. Here's a link to Tracy's support group on Facebook: Are You There, God? It's Me, Menopause.

Share your story with Archelle

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways

• Lean on family and friends for advocacy support.
• Be specific about the diagnosis you're most concerned about. Ask: "Has every (reasonable) test been done to make sure I don't have ________?"
• If a healthcare professional refuses to do any tests, labs, or x-rays, demand that they document your request and their denial in the electronic health record.

Get in touch with Archelle

• Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com
• Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: Know Your Rights Under the 21st Century Cures Act

Examples of Information Blocking

• Requesting lab, xray or biopsy results and being told, "Wait for your next visit so the doctor can discuss it with you."
• Lack of access to the clinical notes written about you in the office or hospital by your doctor, specialists or other ancillary providers (ie physical therapist, social work)
• Charging excessive fees for access to your medical records. Tip: Request digital/electronic access to information because the "reasonable" cost for paper requests can get pricey.
• Delay or refusal to transfer of medical records to another doctor/specialist/provider

What To Do If You Think Information Blocking Is Happening To You

• Know how to log in to your healthcare portal
• Sign any forms required for sharing/transferring information
• Mention your right to information under the 21st Centure Cures Act.
• Contact the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to report potential information blocking. Use the OIG Hotline via the web at https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/index.asp or by phone at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).

How to get in touch with Archelle

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

 Key takeaways:

·     You are ALWAYS more than your diagnosis. Don’t refer to yourself as a "cancer patient" or "diabetic." You are a person with cancer or someone who has diabetes.

·     Tell your story. When you are with a medical provider, share something interesting about yourself – a work project, a hobby, something fun you did recently.

·     Invite a friend or a family member to your visits. They can amplify your story.

·     Role-play before medical visits to help you visualize how various treatment alternatives will unfold and identify questions that you might not have thought about.

Links:

• See Eyenga Bokamba’s work: https://www.eyengabokambapaintings.com/
• To get in touch with Archelle:

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways: Use Non-Violent Communication Techniques

4 Steps of Non-Violent Communication

• Describe objective observations.
• Express how you feel.
• State your needs.
• Make a request.

More on techniques and worksheets: https://positivepsychology.com/non-violent-communication/

Links:

• More on Dr. Karen Lawson: https://www.ihwcproductions.com/
• Get in touch with Archelle

Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways

·     Get educated about your medical condition. Don’t just rely on what the doctor explains in the office.

·     Get a 2nd opinion (and 3rd and 4th ones if necessary) if you have ANY question about your diagnosis or treatment plan. The physicians you choose should be in a different practice so they offer a completely objective opinion regarding your care.

·     Tap into your network of family, friends and colleagues to find other patients with a similar medical condition. Zoom in on the doctors whose name keeps coming up, and then do online research to check their credentials and read patient reviews.

·     Getting in to see specialists can be slow. If you want to get in sooner….get yourself on a waiting list, get to know the office staff, and keep calling back. And, of course, be pleasant.

Links

Article about waiting times: https://www.wsj.com/health/wellness/doctor-visits-appointments-frustration-1c88eb9a

Get in touch with Archelle

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

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Dr. Herman Williams survived a cardiac arrest when he was 31. But being an orthopedic surgeon was no longer possible. He had to create and advocate for a different future for himself. Herman shares his story and talks about the biggest barrier he had to overcome to live a life he never dreamed of. 

Takeaways: Plan A is not the only option. Here's how to embrace Plan B.

• See a therapist. This is especially important if you have depression, anxiety or PTSD. But, even if you don’t, having a few sessions with a therapist – or a coach – can help you re-imagine your future.
• Acknowledge your fear. If fear is holding you back from moving on …tell your doctor. They can't read your mind so be straightforward: “I am really REALLY scared and here’s what I am afraid of”. They will hear you and depending on the situation, they might suggest additional testing, medication adjustment, or recommend extra monitoring to help put you at ease.
• Friends and family are a lifeline. Appreciate and accept support from those who are closest to you. But also – remember – that YOUR medical condition has an impact on them because being a caregiver – whether its emotional or physical – take a toll.

Links:

• Read more about Dr. Herman Williams story in his book, "Clear Living the Life You Never Dreamed Of."

Get in touch with Archelle

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

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Key Takeaways

• Use every living moment wisely. Even if you're getting aggressive treatment and have hope that cancer treatment will be successful, take advantage of all the time you have. Address the details that give you comfort and control; this will eventually decrease the burden on your family.
• Hospice is not something to be afraid of. Studies have shown that patients in hospice actually live longer than those with a similar diagnosis who don't receive hospice care. Unfortunately, over 1/2 of all patients are only in hospice for 17 days or less because patients are referred so late in their illness.

Get in touch with Archelle

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaways:

• Erase a FAULT mindset. Yes, obesity is complex…but it's not someone's fault. Shaming and blaming yourself – or others – simply makes it worse. This bias is embedded in our society, but you have control of your own mindset.
• Ask for consent. Robyn talked about the importance of clinicians asking permission from patients before talking to them about their weight. But, asking for consent also applies when you approach a friend, a sibling, a parent, a spouse, or even your child who is struggling with weight or body image issues. Ask their permission and be ready to accept and respect “no” as an answer.

Links:

More about Dr Robyn Pashby: www.healthpsychologypartners.com

Robyn's Instagram: @robynpashbyphd

Get in touch with Archelle

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Links

Survey of medical school deans and obesity education: https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s12909-020-1925-z.pdf

NYT Article, "One Size Fits All…." https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/12/health/weight-loss-obesity.html?auth=login-google1tap&login=google1tap

Mediflix Documentary: https://www.mediflix.com/topics/obesity-weight/video/heartfelt-unraveling-the-link-between-obesity-and-heart-disease-e2

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

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Links

Email: speakupforyourhealth@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Links: 

https://www.who.int/news/item/15-02-2018-individualized-supportive-care-key-to-positive-childbirth-experience-says-who

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/02/approaches-to-limit-intervention-during-labor-and-birth

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Key Takeaway: Weigh in.

• Weigh in with information. Know the statistics on your specific cancer. Compare data on the risks and benefits of each treatment option, including the option of doing nothing.
• Weigh in after knowing all the alternatives, including clinical trial alternatives.
• Weigh in with insight and support from a patient care community. An online community is usually the easiest way to connect with people who share your health condition. 

Links: 

Clinical Trials: https://clinicaltrials.gov/

Rebel Health: https://susannahfox.com/rebel-health/

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Key Takeaway:

• Keep advocating throughout the entire hospital stay. While doctors, nurses, and hospital staff try really hard to get things right, oversights and mistakes happen.
• When necessary, escalate. Calmly but persistently ask questions, demand answers and actions. If you ruffle some feathers, it's okay. 
• Losing trust in the medical care being delivered is stressful for everyone. Take action to get things back on track. Sometimes the only option is to transfer to another hospital. 

Links: 

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: Plan, Do, Act

• Get CPR certified. Studies consistently show that people who live in communities with higher rates of CPR certification have higher rates of survival after out of hospital cardiac arrest.
• Complete an Advanced Directive before you ever need one. In fact, everyone over the age of 18 should have one because bad things can unfortunately happen at any age. 
• Know your loved one's medical history and the medications they're on. It could save their life. 

Links: 

HospitalCompare: https://hospitalcompare.io/

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Key Takeaway: Escalate

• You have a right to all your medical records including immediate access to your test results. The 21st Century Cures Act requires that patients have immediate electronic availability to nearly all test results, medication lists, and clinical notes.
• Don't use an urgent care as a substitute for having a primary care physician. While urgent care clinics are great for simple problems like sore throats and urinary tract infections, establishing a relationship with a regular doctor will assure some continuity.
• Contracts between your health insurer and in-network providers often prohibit the provider from requiring up-front payment. 

Links

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Key Takeaway: Be clear about your priorities

• Select a doctor who is on your team: highly experienced but also be able to hear you and respects your priorities.
• Get a second opinion if your symptoms are getting progressively worse or if your doctor's level of urgency doesn't match yours or if you simply aren't connecting with your physician.
• Be accountable to your part of the treatment plan. Recovery is a shared responsibility between a patient and their providers. 

Links

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Key Takeaway: Sometimes Less Medical Care Is More

• Adverse drug events cause approximately 1.3 million emergency department visits each year. (CDC) Over 1/2 are completely avoidable. 

• Think about whether symptoms are due to a lifestyle change: a new detergent, a different pillow, a switch in your exercise routine. 

• Ask your doctor how long it'll take for you to start seeing an improvement after starting treatment.  Layering on a 2nd treatment before the 1st one has a chance to work can create clinical confusion.

Links: 

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Key Takeaway: Know the WHY

• Record conversations with your doctors, PAs, and nurses practitioners - especially if you are in a situation where you are seeing multiple providers and feeling overwhelmed. 
• Articulate your priorities. They can be financial, social, physical, cultural, spiritual. Only YOU can do this because priorities are personal.
• Do your homework when facing a medical decision instead of getting paralyzed by choices. Have your questions ready and demand to know the WHY behind each answer.

Links

10-10-10 Rule for Decision-Making was developed by Suzy Welch. Here is a video of Welch explaining this process. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu-Rj2xdhyM

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Key Takeaway: Confront arrogance.

If anger is the trigger for finding your voice, try to quickly turn that anger into preparing for your medical visits.

• Know WHY. If your healthcare provider wants to order a test, a procedure or medication, just ask: “What is the diagnosis that you are treating/confirming?” 
• Doctors can’t read your mind. Speak up at your visit so they know what you are feeling.

Links to resources mentioned in the episode:

51% of Americans don’t ask their doctor questions about their health https://www.patientpoint.com/news/survey-patients-want-education-technology

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Key Takeaway: See Something…Say Something
•  Advocacy starts with knowledge. Ask your doctor 3-5 good questions…and make sure they get answered.
•   Always always(!) consider the risk of any procedure or medication. Also consider the risk of NOT doing the procedure or taking the medication.
•  If you notice something that may be a mistake…speak up.

Links to resources mentioned in the episode
Dr. Georgiou’s Book: Healthcare Choices: 5 Steps to Getting the Medical Care You Want and Need

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health
WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/