5-Minute Clinical Update and Grand Rounds with Dr. Thomas McGinn

CommonSpirit Health hosted a Grand Rounds session discussing updates in hypertension diagnosis and management. Speakers:Kavita Chawla, MD, FACP, MHA, CRC, Medical Director, Value Based Arrangements and Provider Engagement, Director, Evidence-Based Medicine Dissemination and Implementation, Department of Primary Care, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health — Kirkland Medical PavilionDebra Rockman, RN, MBA, CPHRM, CPHQ, System Vice President — Ambulatory Quality, CommonSpirit HealthModerator:Gary Greensweig, DO, FAAFP,  National Primary Care Service Line Leader, CommonSpirit Health

CommonSpirit Health hosted a Grand Rounds session discussing pediatric antimicrobial stewardship guidelines for upper respiratory infections.Speakers:Michael Dudas, MD, Chief, VMMC Pediatrics, Deputy Chief, VMMC Primary Care, Chair, CommonSpirit Pediatric CollaborativeLilia Parra-Roide, MD, Chair, Pediatrics, Professor of Pediatrics, Creighton University School of MedicineScott Piazza, DO, Medical Director of Informatics for Pacific Central Coast Health Centers, Adjunct Faculty for the Marian Family Medicine Residency Program, Chair, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Marian Regional Medical CenterClaire Swartwood, PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP, Clinical Pharmacist — Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Department of Pharmacy, Mountain RegionKenneth Foerster, MD, MBA, Senior Regional Medical Director, Prompt Care, Urgent Care, COHE, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthModerator:Ankita Sagar, MD, MPH, FACP, FAMWA, System Vice President, Clinical Transformation and Well-Being, CommonSpirit Health

Speakers:Mital Patel, MD, Director of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Dignity Health Cancer Institute at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical CenterRonald Gagliano, MD, System Vice President, Oncology Service Line, Physician Executive and Chairman, Department of Surgery, Dignity Health Medical Group ArizonaModeratorAnkita Sagar, MD, MPH, FACP, FAMWA, System Vice President, Clinical Transformation and Well-Being

Learning Objectives:By completion of this program, attendees will be able to:Review publications from 2025 that influence the practice of hospital medicine.Apply an updated understanding of recent data to common clinical scenarios.Identify and apply a new clinical practice related to recent evidence-based updates.Speakers:Stephanie Sherman, MD, Associate Program Director and Academic Hospitalist, Baylor College of MedicineZaven Sargsyan, MD, Associate Professor, Hospital Medicine, Baylor College of MedicineModerator:Thomas Frederickson, MD, FACP, SFHM, MBA, System VP Hospital Medicine Operations

Learning Objectives:By completion of this program, attendees will be able to:InpatientIdentify the latest diabetes wearable devices and their approach to inpatient use.Determine the approach to perioperative management of diabetes medications.Recognize and manage endocrinopathies from use of immune checkpoint inhibitors.OutpatientIdentify candidates for Type 1 Diabetes antibody screening and the significance of early detection for disease-modifying therapies.Formulate a comorbidity screening strategy for patients with Type 2 Diabetes, focusing on Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) evaluation.Appropriately screen patients with hypertension for primary hyperaldosteronism, accurately interpret lab results, and identify common medication interferences that may impact diagnostic testing.Speakers:Jennifer Bernard, MD, Medical Director Endocrinology, St. Anthony Hospital, Medical Director of Specialty Services, Common Spirit Denver MetroRani Kulkarni, MD, Medical Director, Comprehensive Diabetes Care Program, Saint Joseph Medical Center (Tacoma, WA), Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthModerator:Thomas Frederickson, MD, FACP, SFHM, MBA, System VP Hospital Medicine Operations

The landscape of hypertension management is evolving, and the 2025 guidelines offer significant updates since their 2017 predecessors. Our new video provides a concise overview of these changes, covering critical areas from detection and evaluation to new treatment strategies. We delve into updated measurement recommendations, the emphasis on primary aldosteronism screening, and revised treatment targets. This informative resource is designed to help you understand the latest insights and implications for patient care.Guests: Dr. McGinn, Dr. Sagar, and  Dr. Kavita Chawla, Director of EBM Education, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthGuidelines:  https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/HYP.0000000000000249

In this myth-busting ‘5-Minute Check In’ episode, Dr. Thomas McGinn, Dr. Ankita Sagar, and Brooke Burgess break down the evidence behind the most popular health topics trending on social media — helping you separate fact from fiction in just a few minutes.Topics discussed: Myth or fact: Does "cold plunging" reduce inflammation and support recovery? Studies/Articles: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11778651/https://www.sciencefriday.com/segments/cold-plunge-health/Myth or fact: Does raw milk support immune health and gut health? Studies/Articles:  NIH: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/high-h5n1-influenza-levels-found-mice-given-raw-milk-infected-dairy-cowsNEJM: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2405495   Guests:  Ankita Sagar, MD, System Vice President, Clinical Transformation and Well-Being, and Brooke Burgess, System Director, Clinical Communications

Learning Objectives:By completion of this program, attendees will be able to:Evaluate VTE risk factors in medical patients and apply appropriate prophylaxis strategies.Develop a management plan for VTE prophylaxis in post-surgical patients, including considerations for bleeding risk.Analyze VTE prophylaxis recommendations specific to neurosurgical and orthopedic populations.Apply VTE prevention strategies in trauma patients while considering contraindications and optimal dosing.Speaker:Thomas Vendegna, MD, CMO, Central Coast, California MarketModerator:John Morelli, MD, System Vice President, Acute Care Clinical Service Line, Physician EnterprisePanelists:Christian Chiavetta, DO, FACOI, FACP, SFHM, Medical Director, Northridge Hospital Medical CenterRuby Skinner, MD, FACS, CMO, Community Hospital of San BernardinoWilliam Wang, MD, DrPH, CPE, CMO, Glendale Memorial Hospital and Southern California MarketWyndham Strodtbeck, MD, System Vice President, Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Physician Enterprise

 Here are the links to our favorite podcasts of 2025:AI and evidence-based medicine: YouTube | PodcastFall Prevention & Cardiovascular Training: YouTube | PodcastBest practices for type 2 diabetes mellitus management: YouTube | PodcastFall Update: YouTube PodcastPlain English Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plain-english-with-derek-thompson/id1594471023Hark! Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hark-the-stories-behind-our-favorite-christmas-carols/id1595835931Radio lab: https://radiolab.org/Crime Junkie: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crime-junkie/id1322200189 

Discussion on antibiotic prescribing, including a deeper dive in urgent care and pediatric settingsReview of a new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine looking at antibiotic, glucocorticoid, and opioid prescribing in urgent cares and opportunities to reduce medication overuseHow CommonSpirit is working with Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) to implement evidence-based strategies for improving antibiotic prescribing practicesGuest: Dr. Michael DudasPediatrician, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthChair, CommonSpirit Health Pediatric Collaborative

Myth or fact: One form of fall prevention intervention is superior to all others.Do you know which intervention reigns supreme? In this episode we explore diverse therapies and a recent systematic review and meta-analysis.Myth or fact: Comparing running vs. weightlifting. Is there one single "best" training regimen for weight loss and mitigating cardiovascular disease? Dr. McGinn and Dr. Sagar compare the evidence and effectiveness of aerobic, resistance, and combined training.Studies: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1616338 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0210292

On Friday, Oct. 17, the Physician Enterprise hosted a Grand Rounds session discussing evidence-based updates for respiratory immunization clinical guidelines. We also have this additional resource available related to fall viruses and immunizations:5-Minute Check In: Fall Viruses and Vaccinationshttps://youtu.be/PowPADYqzGA?si=x_G3XJY_335rcdW2

Thomas McGinn, MD, MPH, SEVP, Chief Physician Executive Officer and guests Dr. Ankita Sagar, System VP for Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, and Dr. Hana El Sahly, Professor Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine discuss the upcoming fall virus season, including a look at vaccine guidance and recommendations for flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease.

Join us for an in depth discussion on AI and evidence-based medicine using insights from a recent BMJ study on computer-aided detection in the diagnosis of polyps in adult patients.Guests: - Farid Foroutan, PhD, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto- Ankita Sagar, System VP for Clinical Standards and Variation ReductionDiscussion includes: - The importance of validating AI against the evidence - Living clinical practice guidelines - Guardrails on applying AI to the bedside

Learning Objectives:Understand and analyze the key challenges facing healthcare systems in addressing the needs of an aging population with increasing rates of chronic and advanced illnesses.Describe the intersection of age-friendly care, geriatric and palliative care principles, and their synergistic application in improving the quality of life for individuals with multiple medical conditions.Identify strategies for implementing a more integrated and compassionate age friendly care approach that addresses the medical, functional, emotional, and social well-being of both patients and their family caregivers.Speaker:Maria Torroella Carney, MD, FACP, Professor, Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research; Chief, Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, Northwell Health; Associate Professor, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/NorthwellModerator:Gary Greensweig, DO, FAAFP, System SVP/Chief Physician Executive, Physician Enterprise; Interim Chief Medical & Quality Officer (CMQO)Panelists:Barbara Martin, PhD, ACNP-BC, MPH, System Senior VP of Advanced PracticePrentice Lipsey, President & CEO, Senior Living & Transitional Care, CommonSpirit Health

Learning Objectives:- Describe the 4M’s and recognize how to implement them in clinical practice- Distinguish between robust and frail individuals- Build inpatient and outpatient treatment plans based on mobility and frailty using the 4M’sSpeakers:- Mary Spivey, MD, CHI Health Internal Medicine- Kimberly Kudron, MPT, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, CHI Health- Priscilla James, ARNP, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health- Michael Perlovsky, MD, Market Medical Director, Hospital Medicine, Mountain Region- Leah Wulfekoetter, MSN, MBA, RN, Nursing Director at Saint Elizabeth Medical Center, CHI Health

Guest: Dr. Rajan K. Merchant, Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology Specialist, Dignity Health Woodland ClinicNeffy is the first FDA approved nasal spray epinephrine drug, providing needle-free alternative to EpiPens and similar medicinesOmalizumab for the treatment of multiple food allergies (References: NEJM article)Palforzia and oral immunotherapy for peanut allergies (References: https://evidence.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/EVIDoa2300145) 

In this episode, Dr. Thomas McGinn and guest expert Dr. Nezar Falluji discuss a new NEJM publication that explores the approaches for patients with symptomatic severe tricuspid regurgitation, comparing the outcomes and adverse events of transcatheter replacement to medical therapy.Guest: Dr. Nezar Falluji, Interventional CardiologistSystem Physician Vice President, CommonSpirit Health National Cardiovascular Service LineArticle discussed: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2401918?query=WB&cid=NEJM%20Weekend%20Briefing,%20January%2011,%202025%20DM2381304_NEJM_Non_Subscriber&bid=-1550043199

New article in JAMA asks the age-old question: Are routine EKGs in asymptomatic healthy adults helpful? Dr. McGinn and guest experts review the evidence and latest guidelines. Guests:Dr. Ankita SagarSystem Vice President for Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, Physician EnterpriseAssociate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Creighton UniversityDr. Gary GreensweigSystem Senior Vice President and Interim Chief Medical & Quality Officer (CMQO), CommonSpirit HealthStudies referenced: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2820721?guestAccessKey%3Db122716f-826f-4a09-82cb-e32aa6fa0f43%26&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1733927688755673&usg=AOvVaw39iMVRrJYFLIVN1EdHa6mlGuidelines referenced:https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/cardiovascular-disease-risk-screening-with-electrocardiographyhttps://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/clinical-recommendations/all-clinical-recommendations/cw-ekg.html

This Grand Rounds session discusses delirium among older adults, the first in a series of age-friendly initiative sessions discussing the care approach for aging patients.Moderators:John Morelli, MD, System VP Acute Care Clinical Service LineThomas Frederickson, MD, FACP, SFHM, MBA, System VP Hospital Medicine OperationsSpeaker:Rajesh Tampi, MD, MS, DFAPA, DFAAGP, Professor and Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, Creighton University School of MedicinePanelists:Nikhil Seth, MD, Assistant Professor, Baylor College of MedicineConnor Rowan, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist with Geriatric Expertise, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

Implementing SDOH/Health-Related Social Needs Screening and Management in Ambulatory Care. Our speaker for the session is Kevin Fiori, MD, MPH, MS, FAAP, from Montefiore Einstein, a premier academic health system known as a pioneer in the space and one of the largest value-based providers for health-related social needs assessment and value-based whole-person care.Panelist:Corey Karlin-Zysman, MD, Chief of the Physician EnterpriseBarbara J. Martin, PhD, ACNP-BC, MPH, System Senior Vice President, Advanced PracticeLearning Objectives:- Summarize current evidence, guidance and rationale for health-related social needs (HRSN) screening in clinical practice.- Describe lessons learned from Montefiore Health System's experience implementing and scaling HRSN screening and navigation support.- Identify future directions for integrating HRSN screening and support in health care delivery.

Physician Enterprise Grand Rounds session discussing best practices for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Management.Our speakers for the session are Mandeep Bajaj, MBBS, Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs and a Professor in the Department of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and Avin P. Pothuloori, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Creighton University School of Medicine.PanelistDebra Rockman, RN, MBA, System Vice President of Ambulatory Quality, CommonSpirit Health

Guest: Dr. Hana El Sahly, Professor, Kyle and Josephine Morrow Chair, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Unit, Baylor College of MedicineDiscuss the latest updates and clinical implications of Bird Flu/H5N1 and the measles outbreak. Bird flu/H5N1- Overview- Infection rates- Risk of transmission to humans- Prevention- Surveillance Measles- Overview- Outbreak status compared to prior years- Infection rates- Vaccine recommendationsResources: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2414610https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/vaccine-considerations/index.html

Our speaker for the session is Summer Peregrin, PharmD, Ambulatory Clinical Pharmacist at Dignity Health Medical Group — Arizona, and one of the authors of the Opioid Toolkit for CommonSpirit Health.Learning ObjectivesReview the current state of the opioid epidemicRecognize signs and symptoms of a potential opioid overdoseBuild greater understanding of naloxone and its use to treat an opioid overdoseSummarize best practices in emergency response to an opioid overdosePanelistsShawna Sharp, RN, System Director Clinical Transformation, Physician EnterpriseMarijka Grey, MD, MBA, FACP, System Vice President Ambulatory Transformation & Innovation, Physician Enterprise

Our speaker for the session is Justin Reynolds, MD, the Medical Director of Liver Transplant and Chief of Hepatology at the St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Learning Objectives:Provide updates to the current landscape of steatotic (fatty) liver disease, including recent nomenclature changes.Learn about treatment options for individuals with MASLD/MASH including when to refer to specialty care.Discuss the epidemic of MASLD/NAFLD, as well as the increasing burden of MASH/NASH.Learn methods to assess individuals for at-risk MASH, emphasizing non-invasive tests and their role in clinical care.

In this episode of the 5-Minute Check In with Dr. Thomas McGinn, our myth-busting team takes on two popular topics submitted by our providers: 5G radiation: Whether you are near a cell phone tower or holding a cell phone too close to your head, is 5G radiation harmful?Vitamin D: this supplement is marketed as a cure all for preventing falls, fractures, and even dementia. Should patients be routinely screened if they have no indication for deficiency? Watch as we compare popular beliefs to the latest evidence. Links: 5G Radiation  https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/cell-phones-fact-sheet#is-the-radiation-from-cell-phones-harmfulhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/radiation-exposure/cellular-phone-towers.htmlhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35350069/  Vitamin Dhttps://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/vitamin-d-deficiency-screeninghttps://www.acpjournals.org/doi/full/10.7326/M14-1659?download=true&journalCode=aim  

Hear from three of our Physician Enterprise Academic Excellence Award Winners as they share their award winning papers for 10 minutes, before breaking into a panel discussion/Q&A.Una Lee, MDUrology Physician LeadVirginia Mason Franciscan HealthCategory: Practice Innovation Paper Title: Creating an Extraordinary Experience for Women Undergoing Cystoscopy: A Patient-Centered Approach to Process ImprovementRachel Bond, MD, FACCSystem Director, Women's Heart Health Dignity Health in ArizonaCreighton University School of MedicineCategory: Health Equity Research Paper Title: Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Women: The Impact of Race and Ethnicity: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart AssociationAnne Kennard, DOAssociate Program Director, OB/GYN ResidencyChief, Integrative and Lifestyle MedicineMarian Regional Medical Center, Santa Maria CACategory: Medical Humanities    Paper Title: Contemplative medicine: A practical approach to "Well-Being 2.0" in medicine

In this episode of the 5-Minute Check In with Dr. Thomas McGinn, Infectious Disease expert Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan joins us for an update on the winter virus season.Topics Discussed:InfluenzaCOVID-19RSVPneumoniaDisease X*Guest: Renuga Vivekanandan, MD, Infectious Disease Expert, Division VP and CMO Physician Enterprise - Midwest, Professor, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Creighton University School of Medicine*Disease X was identified as malaria after this recording. Learn more:https://www.cbsnews.com/news/congo-mystery-disease-identified-severe-malaria-deaths-women-children/

In this episode our myth-busting team discusses the use of PRN antihypertensive medication in hospitalized patients without hypertensive emergencies.Watch as we compare popular beliefs to the latest evidence:Studies referenced: https://doi.org/10.1161%2FHYPERTENSIONAHA.121.17279https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.3007Guests: Dr. Ankita Sagar and Dr. Thomas Frederickson, System VP Hospital Medicine, CommonSpirit Health and Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, Creighton University School of Medicine. 

Osteoporosis significantly impacts morbidity and mortality in the U.S., with approximately 12.3 million adults (USPSTF) in the United States aged 50 and over expected to be living with the disease. Osteoporotic fractures result in severe consequences such as functional impairment, chronic pain, reduced quality of life, and loss of independence. Furthermore, the clinical and economic burden of osteoporosis is substantial, with annual costs projected to be $25.3 billion by 2025 (AJMC).The U.S. Preventative Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening and treatment of osteoporosis in adults. Accordingly, CommonSpirit Health, Physician Enterprise has adopted the evidence based guidelines of professional societies, including American College of Physicians (ACP), American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), and Endocrine Society, on screening and treatment to prevent osteoporotic fractures. Speakers:Kavita Chawla, MD, MHA, FACP, Primary Care Physician, Kirkland Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthBryan C Jiang, MD, Internal Medicine Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TexasPanelist:Anne Wright, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, System Director Advanced Practice Ambulatory Care, CommonSpirit Health

Topics covered: - Defining antimicrobial stewardship- New randomized clinical trial looking at how stewardship prompts improve antibiotic selection for pneumonia- Resources and how CommonSpirit Health is taking action and addressing this important topicGuest expert: Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan, Infectious Disease Expert, Division VP and CMO Physician Enterprise - Midwest, Professor, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Creighton University School of Medicine

Infectious Disease expert Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan joins us for a preview of what to expect this season. Topics covered:- Viruses- Influenza- COVID-19- RSV- West Nile- MPox - VaccinesGuest: Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan, infectious Disease expert and Division VP and CMO Physician Enterprise - Midwest, Professor, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Creighton University School of Medicine.

Back by popular demand, our mythbusting team takes looks at two new health topics making headlines and compares popular beliefs to the latest evidence: Is exercise as effective as other treatments to help depression?Meta-analysis:  https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-075847Do tattoos cause lymphoma?Study: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00228-1/fulltextPlus a discussion on correlation vs. causation Guest: Dr. Ankita SagarSystem Vice President for Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, Physician Enterprise and Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Creighton University Previous Myth-Busting EpisodesAre full body, preventative scans helpful or harmful for healthy individuals?https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/15388164Fasting and Statins: Do statins cause muscle aches and is it necessary to fast before labs?https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/13919434Water Consumption and Vegetarian Diets: How much water do we really need and are vegetarian or vegan diets truly healthy?https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/14691788

Components of social connection are associated with mortality, but research examining their independent and combined effects in the same dataset is lacking. That has now changed thanks to a recent study published in BMC Medicine. We're joined by the primary author of that study to discuss the results and to get his perspective on social connectivity, loneliness and isolation and the impact on mortality. Discussed:Subjective and objective types of social connectionAnalysis of more than 458,000 participants with full data from the UK Biobank cohort linked to mortality registersWhat types of loneliness and social isolation are linked to a higher risk of death Potential implications for screeningGuest: study author and Clinical Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow Dr. Hamish Foster References: Study: https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-023-03055-7 Surgeon General Advisory: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdfSurgeon General Report on Social Connection: www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-social-connection-general.pdf

Back by popular demand, the latest myth-busting episode of the 5-Minute Check In with Dr. McGinn takes a closer look at another popular and controversial topic: Are full body, preventative scans helpful or harmful for healthy individuals?Watch as we separate fact from fiction and compare popular beliefs to the evidence. Previous Myth-Busting EpisodesMyth-Busting — Fasting and Statins  Do statins cause muscle aches and is it necessary to fast before labs?https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/episodes/13919434-5-minute-check-in-mythbusting-headlines-and-common-misconceptionsMyth-busting - Water Consumption and Vegetarian DietsHow much water do we really need and are vegetarian or vegan diets truly healthy?https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/episodes/14691788-health-myth-or-fact-comparing-clinical-beliefs-to-the-evidence-episode-2

Learning Objectives (and corresponding articles): Identify medications best avoided by older adults in most circumstances or specific clinical scenarios (JAGS)Discern the benefits, harms, and efficacy of different smoking cessation pharmacotherapies and e‐cigarettes (Annals of Internal Medicine)Evaluate the effectiveness, harms, and benefits of newer diabetic medications on mortality, cardiovascular and renal outcomes (Cochrane Review)Understand the utilization of eGFRcr versus eGFR based on creatinine and cystatin C levels (eGFRcr-cys) in older adults (Annals of Internal Medicine)Quantify trends in racial/ethnic disparities in TB incidence among U.S.-born persons (Annals of Internal Medicine)Recognize the well-being and turnover rates of physicians and nurses as well as actionable factors on adverse clinician outcomes (JAMA)The benefits of puppies: https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2023-97081-001.htmlPresenter:Ankita Sagar, MD, MPH, FACP, System Vice President, Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at Creighton University School of MedicineGuests:Barbara Martin, PhD, System Senior Vice President, Advanced PracticeCorey Karlin Zysman, MD, System Senior Vice President, Physician Enterprise, Arizona and Nevada

Learning Objectives:-Review the history and flawed assumptions in the use of race and how race-specific PFT reference equations might lead to health disparities.-Understand the evidence behind the recommendation to use race-neutral reference equations.-Review the quantitative impact of switching from race-specific to race-neutral reference equations.-Assess the many remaining gaps in our understanding of how to use pulmonary function tests to improve health.Speakers:Nirav Bhakta, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care at the University of California, San FranciscoDr. Bhakta is a national thought leader and Vice-chair of the American Thoracic Society Pulmonary Function Testing Committee. Dr. Bhakta co-chaired the ATS workshop on race and PFTs that led to the publication of the 2023 ATS Statement.Panelists:Thomas R. Vendegna, MD, Pulmonology and Critical Care, CMO French Hospital Medical Center (Facilitator)Jeff Sippel, MD, Critical Care Medicine, UC HealthRobert Wiebe, MD, CMO, CommonSpirit HealthSuchitra Pilli, MD, Interventional Pulmonology and Critical Care, Medical Director for Respiratory Therapy, CHI Health Omaha, Assistant Professor, Creighton UniversityGary Greensweig, DO, Chief Physician Executive, Physician Enterprise, CommonSpirit HealthAnkita Sagar, MD, System Vice President, Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, Physician Enterprise, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at Creighton University School of Medicine

First-of-its-kind medication shows promise for liver disease patientsMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is estimated to affect nearly one-quarter of adults in the United States. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a form of MASLD that can cause liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It is one of the most common reasons why patients need liver transplants.The FDA recently granted accelerated approval to resmetirom, the first medication to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis. Prior to the FDA approval, there were no approved drugs to treat this diseaseIn this 5-minute check in, we review the promising phase 3 data from a randomized trial that led to FDA approval including the results, the implications for patient care, and the potential to transform the landscape of NASH managementGuest: Dr. Justin Reynolds, Associate Professor, Creighton University School of Medicine, Gastroenterologist and Transplant Hepatologist, St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center Transplant Center in Phoenix, Arizona.Study: https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2309000

This special session will explore the transformative impact of gene therapy for sickle cell disease. The session includes the firsthand perspective of Ms. Victoria Gray.  Ms. Gray is the first patient in the United States to undergo revolutionary CRISPR treatment for Sickle Cell Disease. After decades of pain and struggle, Ms. Gray's CRISPR procedure has not only modified her affected cells, she has not needed any transfusions and has not experienced any pain attacks.  In addition to Ms. Gray's story, the session will provide a brief update on gene therapy and treatment of Sickle Cell Disease. The session faculty will also discuss the ethical considerations surrounding patient selection, cost of gene therapy, and policies currently in place/needed for ensuring equitable access.The session is meant to be an introduction to the implications the gene therapy revolution may have on individuals, health care organizations, and the broader landscape of health care delivery in the United States.Watch our recent 5-Minute Check In about Sickle Cell Disease: https://youtu.be/clUcAR_tPbw?si=cW6Df4i6_S0bnbOa

As part of our ongoing commitment to advancing health equity and evidence-based medicine, CommonSpirit Health has been leading the way in adjusting the use of race and ethnicity in various clinical calculators, first with eGFR and now with pulmonary function tests. In this 5-minute check in, we take a look at:The history and flawed assumptions in the use of race and how race-specific PFT reference equations lead to health disparity including misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.Updated recommendations from the American Thoracic Society (ATS) to remove the use of race in the evaluation and interpretation of spirometry in favor of race-neutral equations. The application of race-neutral GLI equations on clinical decision-making and overall impact on patient outcomes.The next steps CommonSpirit is taking to transition the equation to race-neutral. Supporting articles:https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/full/10.1164/rccm.202302-0310SThttps://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M23-2960Guest: Dr. Thomas Vendegna, Pulmonologist and Critical Care and CMO French Hospital Medical Center

This is our 50th episode! Thanks to everyone that has participated as a guest or has watched our videos.In this episode of the 5-Minute Check In with Dr. McGinn, we take a closer look at CommonSpirit Health's updated breast cancer screening guidelines.Topics discussed in this episode include:- Reviewing screening best practices on risk stratification for breast cancer into average, intermediate, and high risk- Screening recommendations - Integrating the criteria into the process of care- Screening approach for patients with high density breast tissueThe episode also includes discussion of the ways in which CommonSpirit is leveraging technology to identify patients eligible for breast cancer screening.Guests:Ankita Sagar, MPH, FACP, System Vice President, Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction, Physician EnterpriseDr. Jessica Croley, Medical Oncologist, Co-lead OCI Breast Clinical Council, CHI St. JosephWatch other cancer screening videos here:Cancer Screening Overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VESsQ...Lung Cancer Screening: https://youtu.be/5czY2s3PblY?si=KdhYG...Colorectal Cancer Screening: https://youtu.be/CxJbXdGQCQU?si=88oIn...

Learning Objectives:- Differentiate between usual care, palliative care, and hospice care- Identify patients who may benefit from palliative care or hospice- Discuss outcome data supporting early palliative care intervention- Describe opportunities for integrating palliative care into the management of the patient with serious illnessSpeakers:Dr. Paige Farinholt, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, CHI St. Luke's Health; Assistant Professor Hematology and Oncology, Baylor College of MedicineDr. Mark Beiter, Palliative Medicine, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthPanelists:Sara Powers, NP, Adult Health Wound Care and Palliative Medicine, Mercy Regional Medical CenterDr. Anne C. RossignoDr. Gary Greensweig, Chief Physician Executive, Physician Enterprise

Learning Objectives:- Discuss the barriers and the necessary resources required for successful rapid up-titration of GDMT - Recognize the appropriate timing for referral of patients with advanced heart failure for percutaneous/surgical intervention- Understand indications/contraindications for HF patients requiring advanced therapies (i.e., transplant or mechanical circulatory support)- Recognize the current advanced non-medical therapy available for heart failure patients- Anticipate future advancements in non-medical therapy on the brink of mainstreamSpeakers:Selma Mohammed, MBBS, Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology, CHI HealthKenneth Liao, MD, PhD, FACS, Professor and Chief, Cardiothoracic Transplantation and Circulatory Support, Baylor College of MedicinePanelists:Andrew Civitello, MD, FACC, Associate Professor, Cardiology, Medical Director, Heart Transplant Program, Baylor College of MedicineAlexis Edward Shafii, MD, FACS, Associate Professor of Surgery, Cardiothoracic Transplant and Circulatory Support, Baylor of Medicine

In this episode of clinical mythbusting, we’re taking a look at two commonly held health beliefs and comparing them to the evidence:* Do we really need to drink so much water?* Is a vegetarian or vegan diet healthy?Watch and see what the evidence shows. See the first Mythbusting Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/13919434

In honor of March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we are taking a closer look at our updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines, including risk-based screening, engaging patients, the best approach to screening, incidence and prevalence by age group (including rising incidence with younger patients) and more.Guests: Ankita Sagar, Devi Mukkai-Krishnamurty Colorectal Surgeon, Associate Professor, Creighton University School of MedicinePlease see our other videos about cancer screening:Cancer Screening Overview: https://youtu.be/VESsQIpgwlE?si=BgzNZI1huWpUMO4zLung Cancer Screening: https://youtu.be/5czY2s3PblY?si=Obtw6adw9DxlfivF

Learning Objectives:Define the key pharmacologic therapies for HFrEH and HFpEF and describe their optimal use in specific patient populationDiscuss the barriers and the necessary resources required for successful rapid up-titration of GDMTIdentify how improvement in medical therapy influences patient outcomes, including hospitalizations, re-admissions, and mortalitySpeakers:Biykem Bozkurt, MD, PhD, Professor of Cardiology, Baylor College of MedicineSelma Mohammed, MBBS, Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology, CHI HealthPanelists:Joseph Rogers, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer, Texas Heart InstituteJessica Brown, MD, Cardiology and Heart Failure Specialist, Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Woodlands North Houston Heart CenterModerator:Reza Ardehali, MD, Ph.D., FAHA, Professor and Chief of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine

Guests: Dr. Ankita Sagar, System VP for Clinical Standards and Variation Reduction and Dr. Suchitra Pilli, Interventional Pulonologist and Critical Care, Creighton University School of MedicineDiscussed: updated lung cancer screening guidelines including the move to risk-based screening, screening criteria recommendations, integrating the criteria into the process of care, and follow-up to positive screenings. Also covered: ways in which we're leveraging technology to identify patients eligible for lung cancer screening.Related podcasts:5-Minute Check In Lung, Breast, and Colon Cancer Screening Overview: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/episodes/14402059Lung Cancer Screening Based on Risk Stratification Grand Rounds: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1903646/episodes/14144736

Learning Objectives:- Define the clinical definition of HFrEF, HFmidREF, and HFpEF- Describe the current epidemiology, economic burden, and quality standards- Explain the underlying pathophysiology of HFrEF and HFpEF with associated signs and symptomsSpeakers:Ajith P. Nair, MD, FACC, FAHA, Assistant Professor, Cardiology, Baylor College of MedicineNikolaos A. Diakos, MD, PhD, Interventional Cardiologist and Heart Failure Specialist, Texas Heart InstitutePanelists:Jessica Brown, MD, Cardiology and Heart Failure Specialist, Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Woodlands North Houston Heart CenterModerator:John A. Flynn, MD, MBA, MEd, System Senior Vice President, Physician Enterprise, CommonSpirit Health, Texas

In this 5-minute check in we're reviewing how CommonSpirit has created streamlined preventative screening algorithms for lung, breast, and colon cancer.Issues addressed include: - Updated and simplified guidelines: changes we've made using best available evidence         - Combining USPSTF and NCCN         - Why we're shifting from age- to risk-based screening- Future state: clinical decision support and embedding into the EMR- Automation: Our focus on making screening more efficient, providing the support to help ensure providers are spending their valuable time in the right placesIn the coming weeks, we will do a deep dive into each topic and guidelines.

Learning Objectives:Discuss updates in medical weight lossIdentify ongoing barriers to weight loss managementSpeakers:Layla A. Abushamat, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor, Baylor College of MedicineMahmuda Tasneem, MD, Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthPanelists:Anila Chadha, MD, Obesity Medicine Specialist, Dignity Health Medical Group — BakersfieldThu Le, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist, Dignity HealthErin Sharp, PharmD, System Director Retail Pharmacy Services, CommonSpirit Health.