Doc Talk with Monument Health

It's May, which means it's Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and we're bringing back one of our most important episodes. This is a replay of Episode 92.Dr. Christopher Gasbarre, a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, joins us to talk about skin cancer, how to protect yourself, and the Mohs procedure, a highly effective technique for removing skin cancer. If you missed it the first time around, now's a good time to catch up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke J. Hushagen, M.D., Internal Medicine Physician at Mt. Rushmore Road Clinic debuts on the Doc Talk podcast to discuss the Rapid City Medical Center Merger with Monument Health. Dr. Hushagen has an established practice in Rapid City and he intends to make the transition as smooth as possible for his patients. He’s eager to continue collaborating with local colleagues while having the continuity of care that working with Monument Health can provide.Listen in to hear Dr. Hushagen’s take on why this is a positive change for patients, who will still get the best care possible.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cervical cancer often goes undetected simply because the patient had never been screened before. Keely Ulmer, M.D., Gynecologic Oncologist at Monument Health's Cancer Care Institute is aiming to change that, especially for rural and native people. Dr. Ulmer joins Mark Houston to talk about what kinds of cancer are most common for women and how she’s working towards improving access to care. Increasing HPV vaccination rates and removing systemic barriers that prevent access reduce cancer deaths dramatically. With these goals in mind, Dr. Ulmer joined the Walking Forward program which aims to help rural get people screened for cancers, especially cervical cancer.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you are hospitalized, it’s likely that a Hospitalist will be the “quarterback” physician of your care team. Matthew Werpy, D.O., is a Hospitalist andMedical Director for Hospital Medicine at Rapid City and Spearfish Hospitals. In this episode, Dr. Werpy shares his background and training. He outlines how the relatively recent specialty of hospitalist came to be and how they function at Monument Health. As the fastest growing specialty in the United States, hospitalists must have a broad medical knowledge so they can treat any number of the illnesses they encounter. This is especially important in rural areas because of the comparative lack of specialists. Hospitalists must also be able to gain the trust of a patient quickly through individual connection, especially with those who may be unfamiliar with the recent introduction of these physicians to inpatient care. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Doc Talk, Chaston Ellis, D.O., Psychiatrist at Behavioral Health in Rapid City, speaks on Monument Health’s efforts to increase access to psychiatric treatment and mental health care in the Black Hills. Dr. Ellis shares a bit about his background and motivations for pursuing psychiatry and gives perspective on how social media might be complicating anxiety disorders, while simultaneously helping to destigmatize mental health care. The most important message Dr. Ellis would like to share is that mental health care is now more accessible in the area than it has ever been before and that simply showing up and staying optimistic is one of the biggest steps you can take toward improvement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Palliative care is always available,” says Jennifer Eitingon, M.D., fellowship-trained Palliative Care Physician at Home Health and Hospice in Rapid City. Dr. Eitingon joins host Mark Houston to explain how palliative care is a specialty and not just a part of hospice care. In treating patients experiencing life-limiting conditions, Dr. Eitingon helps to improve quality of life through pain management, psychosocial support and advanced directives. Dr. Eitingon details why she switched her medical focus from surgery to palliative care and how patients’ spiritual and ethical beliefs must be considered in her work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alan Langnas, D.O., Chief, Division of Transplant Surgery at Nebraska Medicine, discusses how his transplant team serves patients across a multi-state region that includes the Black Hills. Major medical advances like improvements in organ‑preservation technology and First-Person legislation have helped make organ donation safer and more reliable. However, there remains a need for organ donation.Dr. Langnas describes the Nebraska Medicine/Monument Health partnership and how it improves access by allowing patients in the Black Hills to receive advanced transplant care close to home. He emphasizes the program’s focus on personalized, state‑of‑the‑art care, strong communication and a compassionate patient experience throughout the transplant journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some Primary Care Physicians are trained specifically in Pediatrics to treat babies and kids; some are trained in Family Medicine to treat adolescents and adults. Med-Peds doctors like Marissa Copas Weaver, M.D., an Internal Medicine - Pediatrics Physician and Eammon Grosek, M.D., a Primary Care and Internal Medicine Physician, both of Rapid City Clinic, Flormann Street, have specific training to care for all ages, including babies.  In this episode, the doctors explain their specific training and why being a Med-Peds physician is slightly different than the typical Family Medicine provider. They touch on the few things that are outside of their scope of practice and the importance of trust between a Med-Peds doctor and the families that they treat. Tune in to learn more about this rare and interesting combination of skills and find out why Dr. Copas Weaver or Dr. Grosek might be the right fit for your family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know that there are around 100 different surgeries for bunions? In this informative, interactive episode, recorded live at the Matthews Art Center in Spearfish, Colin Zdenek, DPM, FACFAS, fellowship-trained Foot and Ankle Surgeon and Podiatrist at Spearfish Clinic, North 10th Street, discusses why bunions happen and how finding the right kind of shoe can be one of the most helpful treatments.Ankle instability and arthritis, which can be caused by a history of sprained ankles, are treatable with physical therapy and sometimes with steroid injections. However, the solution for older patients may be a total ankle-replacement (implant or fusion) procedure, called arthroscopy. Dr. Zdenek talks through what the procedure entails and how long the recovery takes. “The time to get surgery is when you stop doing the things you enjoy doing,” says Dr. Zdenek.Dr. Zdenek also covers flat feet and how to identify it in kids, who are usually unaware that they have it and so, overcompensate for it. Since it is a deformity, basic treatments are usually orthotics and management strategies. If pain persists, however, surgery is an option. Other topics include plantar fasciitis, fibroma and the best way to keep your feet free of pain and healthy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joint longevity is important. Fortunately, there are things we can do to keep our joints healthy well into the late stages of life. In this episode, recorded live at Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo, David Woodard, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon at Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City, says that good cartilage health and preservation usually mean maintaining a healthy weight and consistent physical activity, such as daily walks or swims. Dr. Woodard discusses the effectiveness of supplements and braces and gives insight on how long to wait before making an appointment when you suspect an injury. An important piece of advice he offers is to seek help to make big changes, especially when it comes to trying to lose weight or increase your exercise frequency and intensity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spider veins and varicose veins are common. However, they can be problematic and cause pain or discomfort. Recorded live in front of an audience at Matthews Opera House in Spearfish, Nicholas Czosnyka, M.D., General Surgeon at Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, explains poor vein outflow, or venous insufficiency and how that relates to varicose veins. He gives tips on when to seek treatment and clarifies the pros and cons of the different kinds of interventions, such as compression stockings or procedures, like sclerotherapy, phlebectomy and vein ablation.Dr. Czosnyka details how the procedures work and the goal of having them done. For example, symptoms and appearance of varicose veins can be improved, especially in severe cases. However, the issue cannot usually be entirely prevented or removed; improved blood flow is the priority. Dr. Czosnyka also relates expectations for healing, success rates and recurrence of varicose veins after a procedure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special, interactive Doc Talk event recorded live in front of an audience at The Monument in Rapid City in honor of Valve Disease Awareness Day. Joseph Tuma, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, Interventional Cardiologist at Heart and Vascular Institute leads a discussion in which guests and audience members alike share stories of their Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedures.Don’t miss out on one of our most unique and informative Doc Talks yet.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at a special Heart Month Event at Rapid City Hospital, Luis Hernandez, M.D., FACC, Cardiologist atthe Heart and Vascular Institute and Medical Director of the Advanced Heart Failure program speaks with Renea, a patient who received a heart and kidney transplant just under a year ago.  Renee recounts what led up to Dr. Hernandez’s recommendation for a heart transplant and what happened between that time and when she underwent the procedure. She also explains how her family helped to convince her to undergo the transplant and what she experienced during recovery.Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from a patient who has experienced a life-saving procedure and is grateful for the results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live in front of an audience at the famous Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo in Rapid City. Joseph Tuma, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, Interventional Cardiologist at Heart and Vascular Institute, joins Mark Houston for a fascinating conversation regarding peripheral vascular disease, which is when cholesterol builds up in arteries other than those that are in the heart. Knowing the symptoms and early detection is crucial. Among those particularly at risk are people who smoke, who have high blood pressure or who have diabetes. Dr. Tuma lists common symptoms, like wounds that won’t heal, and claudication, which is cramping pain from walking that gets better when you rest. Dr. Tuma also covers a subtype of peripheral vascular disease, such as when there are weak spots in the arteries that begin to dilate, called aneurysmal disease, and some recent advancements in cardiovascular treatments that the HVI team has implemented. If you’re showing symptoms, Dr. Tuma also gives suggestions of how to work with your primary care provider to get screened and the kinds of tests and equipment used to detect peripheral vascular disease and other associated conditions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Within their subspecialty of electrophysiology, Kelly Brandsted, CNP, and Rebecca Bierle, CNP, both of the Heart and Vascular Institute in Rapid City, see many heart disease patients. It is an under-reported fact that heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S. Symptoms can present differently in women than in men, which can lead to heart events being misdiagnosed. Kelly and Rebecca cover surprising factors such as how mental illness and even complications during pregnancy can have a dramatic influence on risk and how such biological signs are sometimes easily dismissed. Increased awareness about misperceptions empowers you with the knowledge needed to understand steps you can take to prevent heart disease. Listen with a loved one in celebration of National Wear Red Day on February 6. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you suffer from the mental, physical and emotionally challenging problem of restless leg syndrome (RLS), you are not alone. Catherine Fernandez Aristy, M.D., fellowship-trained Family Sleep Medicine Physician and Jessica Hutchinson, CNP, both of Monument Health Neurology and Rehabilitation in Rapid City speak with interim host Leslie Hopton about the most common sensory motor-related sleep disorder. A frustrating and uncontrollable need to move your legs, RLS is often a symptom of another sleep disorder or even iron deficiency. Dr. Fernandez and Jessica list possible symptoms that could lead to a diagnosis, discuss evaluation considerations, such as sleep studies and give treatment options as they pertain to sleep disorders. There are also cardiovascular consequences to untreated RLS, including high blood pressure and heart arrhythmia to consider. Lifestyle modifications can help, though prescription and over the counter medicines often have unhelpful side effects.Listen or watch and find out how getting better sleep can help you to cope with restless leg syndrome. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You may be ligament lax; that doesn’t mean you’re abnormal.” Eric Krohn, D.O., Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Codi Grable, PT, CLT, Physical Therapist, both of Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City join interim host Leslie Hopton to inform you about ligament laxity.Also known as hypermobility (and not to be confused with flexibility) ligament laxity can be genetic. Dr. Krohn and Codi outline techniques for testing ligament laxity, such as Beighton score, and signs that you may be suffering from it, including pain and recurrent injuries. Hypermobility can be related to bony deformity and so it’s important to know when to seek intervention and what possible treatments exist. Both members of the Hip Preservation Institute, Dr. Krohn and Codi detail how they collaborate to treat hypermobility and how “pehab” — or physical therapy before surgical procedures — helps optimize the results and ease fears a patient may have about recovery. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luis Hernandez, M.D., FACC, fellowship-trained Cardiologist and Medical Director of the Advanced Heart Failure Program at Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute, gives insight on how devices like defibrillators, pacemakers and pulmonary pressure sensors manage heart failure and help prevent hospital readmissions. He also outlines the importance of medication and patient monitoring in improving heart failure outcomes. Dr. Hernandez brings plenty of visual aides in this episode so be sure to check out the video version on YouTube! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Best Of from 2025, Mark sits down with Kenneth Milligan, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, and Eric Krohn, D.O., Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Monument Health Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City while they share their vision in starting the Hip Preservation Institute. Typically only available in larger metropolitan areas, the Hip Preservation Institutes team brings much needed and highly specialized hip care to the Black Hills and the surrounding region with the goal of preventing long-term hip deterioration to patients through early intervention, monitoring and minimally-invasive surgery, when required. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holidays can make healthy habits feel impossible. Between packed schedules, comfort food, and family pressure, it’s easy to feel like staying on track just isn’t realistic.In this live Doc Talk episode, the Weight Management Clinic team in Spearfish shares practical, judgment-free advice for navigating the holiday season without guilt or perfectionism. They talk honestly about food pressure, portion control, alcohol, winter exercise, and why consistency matters more than “starting over” in January.The conversation also tackles big questions around intermittent fasting, weight loss medications, postmenopausal weight changes, and why the number on the scale doesn’t tell the whole story.If you’re looking for realistic strategies, encouragement, and a healthier mindset this holiday season, this episode meets you right where you are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Doc Talk, I'm your host, Mark Houston. This month, we’re celebrating the Best of 2025 and revisiting some of our most informative and popular episodes from the past year. This week it's Episode 151 with Dr. Leslie Van Dyne.As a Trauma Surgeon and Critical Care Specialist at Rapid City Hospital, Leslie Van Dyne, M.D. shares her unique perspective on caring for patients in a rural area known for outdoor adventure and seasonal risks. Dr. Van Dyne explains the differences between trauma surgery and emergency medicine, discusses caring for critical patients in the ICU and relates how activities like ATV riding, horseback riding and summer tourism impact the trauma cases she sees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Doc Talk, I'm your host, Mark Houston. This month, we’re celebrating the Best of 2025 and revisiting some of our most informative and popular episodes from the past year. This week it’s Episode 152: Finding Talent with Sarah Blenner and Joanna Wiseman of the Monument Health Talent Acquisition TeamSarah and Joanna are responsible for filling all of the non-Physician jobs at Monument Health. Let’s find out how they approach the tall task of keeping over 1,200 spots filled while still remaining selective in an extremely competitive industry.Are you looking for a new career at a great place to work? Visit monument.health/careers to find a health care role that’s right for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many people go into the holiday season feeling a heaviness they can't quite explain. Lead-Deadwood Hospital and Clinic’s Erin Adkins, CSW, QMHP-PIP, Mental Health Counselor, and Mandi Leiti, PMHNP-BC, a Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatric and mental health, return to discuss winter mental health. They explain why January often brings the biggest wave of people seeking help, how to navigate holiday gatherings when you're already struggling and the difference between winter blues and seasonal affective disorder. The duo offer practical advice on managing financial stress during the holidays, dealing with grief when facing the first season without a loved one and recognizing when it's time to seek professional help. They also discuss how simple steps like getting morning sunlight can make a real difference. If you're feeling the weight of the season, this conversation offers valuable guidance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Non-Invasive Cardiologist Stephen Wasemiller, M.D., at the Heart and Vascular Institute in Rapid City defines the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and the roles they play in keeping your heart healthy. He also explores the connection between mental health, social isolation and the role of spiritual well-being and advocates for compassionate care and open communication to improve heart health and quality of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining host Mark Houston is Chad Storch, M.D., MPH, Occupational Medicine at Rapid City Clinic, Mount Rushmore Road. Dr. Storch shares his experiences of caring for sailors and marines aboard the USS Oak Hill and overseeing the health of over 1,500 aviators and air traffic controllers as Aviation Medicine Department Head at Naval Air Station Whiting Field. He also breaks down the importance of FAA physicals, what it takes to keep airmen safe to fly and discusses his work as a Civil Surgeon performing immigration medical examinations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you've spent years caring for the men and women who serve our country, you learn a thing or two about trust and community. Joshua Larson, M.D., Family Medicine Physician at Box Elder Clinic, joins host Mark Houston to discuss life as a military doctor, what drew him to Family Medicine and how his journey from the military to Monument Health has helped shape care in Box Elder and the surrounding communities. Dr. Larson dives into his time serving as a doctor in the Air Force, his time serving in Türkiye and how he landed at Ellsworth Air Force Base. He shares what he loves most about working in family medicine and the importance of building a trusting relationship with your primary care doctor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mandi Leite, a Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychiatric and mental health at Lead-Deadwood Hospital and Erin Adkins a Certified Social Worker at Lead-Deadwood Clinic join Mark Houston to talk about providing mental health and counseling services to the area. They discuss their individual approaches to treatment and how they collaborate together. Much like Lead and Deadwood themselves, medication and therapy can be thought of as interlinked. Listen in as Mandi and Erin describe how they encounter and treat the wide spectrum of mental health symptoms as part of the emerging whole-person model of care. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When athletes take the field, there's more happening behind the scenes than most fans realize. In this episode recorded live at a South Dakota Mines football pregame, Joseph Humpherys, D.O., FAAOS, Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Joint Preservation at Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City shares what it takes to keep college athletes healthy and performing at their best. His approach goes beyond treating injuries; it includes nutrition support, mental health services and strength conditioning. Dr. Humpherys discusses the importance of having physicians on the sidelines, recent advances in injury prevention and the tests recovering athletes must pass before they can resume competing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Popping an antacid might work for occasional heartburn. For many people though, acid reflux is a daily battle that affects sleep, diet and quality of life. Ali Zakaria, M.D., Gastroenterologist and Pial Hope, D.O., General Surgeon, both of Rapid City Hospital, discuss why gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may require more than over-the-counter solutions. The duo explains the cause of chronic symptoms and elaborate on their collaborative approach to diagnosis and treatment. They explore advanced care options including transoral fundoplication and robotic surgery, address concerns about long-term medication use and explain why proper diagnosis is crucial before any intervention. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Doc Talk Live! at The Matthews Art Center, Wesley Badger, M.D., general surgeon at Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, discusses two very different cancers and why early detection matters. Dr. Badger explains why colon cancer screening now starts at 45 years old and why colonoscopy remains the standard for prevention. He also addresses the rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger people and the lifestyle factors driving this trend. Dr. Badger also covers thyroid cancer, explaining why it behaves differently than most cancers and why screening recommendations differ dramatically between these two conditions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and diagnoses are happening at younger ages than ever before. In this episode, Ashlea Semmens, M.D., General Surgeon, Breast Surgical Oncologist and Medical Director of the Breast Surgery program at Rapid City Hospital, sits down to discuss what every woman needs to know about breast cancer awareness, detection and treatment. She explains why self-awareness matters, breaks what happens after an abnormal mammogram and clears up common myths about screenings. Dr. Semmens also addresses the emotional toll of diagnosis, the resources available locally for patients undergoing treatment and why no two breast cancers are treated the same. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's no magic pill for heart health, but there is something almost as simple: walking. In this special episode recorded on location at American Heart Association Black Hills Heart Walk on Sept. 6, Stephen Wasemiller, M.D., Non-invasive Cardiologist at Heart and Vascular Institute in Rapid City, joins host Mark Houston for a conversation on the move. Dr. Wasemiller explains how walking protects your cardiovascular system, improves mental health and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Whether you're just starting out or looking to stay motivated, heart health doesn't have to be complicated; any movement is better than none. Sometimes the best medicine is putting one foot in front of the other. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) means encountering life-changing challenges, but it doesn't have to define your future. Jannine Purcell, CNP, Gastroenterology, discusses how IBD affects young adults in their 20s and 30s, often disrupting major life milestones. Jannine explains the difference between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and why team-based care is essential. She shares inspiring success stories of patients who've achieved deep remission and provides insight into why close follow-up and patient education are crucial for helping young people reclaim their quality of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eating should be simple. However, for people with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE), swallowing can feel difficult or even scary. In this episode, Issam Turk, M.D., Gastroenterologist at Monument Health Gastroenterology, returns to discuss this increasingly common condition that many people don't even realize they have. Dr. Turk explains why difficulty swallowing should never be considered normal and shares that he usually diagnoses two to five new cases every week. He discusses the emergency situations that often lead to diagnosis, why early detection is crucial and explores treatment options, which range from dietary changes to a breakthrough medication that has shown remarkable success rates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your liver works around the clock, but chances are you rarely think about this vital organ until something goes wrong. In this episode of Doc Talk, Chantel Holz, CNP from Monument Health Gastroenterology, breaks down what you need to know about liver health and why it should be on your radar. She discusses the rise in metabolic associated liver disease and how symptoms of this condition can be missed. Chantel shares insights on new non-invasive screening methods and promising treatments while addressing the misinformation circulating on social media about liver detox supplements.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hans Nelson, Director of the Monument Health Foundation, and Patrick Tibbles, M.D., Vice Chair of Emergency Medicine and Medical Director of the Foundation, discuss how philanthropic support helps elevate health care in the Black Hills. From events like the Golden Guitars Gala to critical projects in cancer care, hospice and pediatric services, they explore how donor contributions directly impact patient care, equipment upgrades and support for both patients and caregivers alike. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Misinformation can spread quickly, especially when it comes to health care. Lately, some cancer patients have been asking about the use of Ivermectin, a drug designed to treat parasites, as a potential cancer treatment. Bayan Al-Share, M.D., Oncologist at Monument Health Cancer Care Institute, joins host Mark Houston to address where this idea came from, what the science actually says and how to evaluate sources of medical information. Dr. Al-Share also shares how she handles these conversations in the exam room and what patients should know before considering alternative therapies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we share the second in an ongoing series of Doc Talk Live! episodes recorded in front of an audience at the Matthews Opera House and Art Center in Spearfish. Loren Jones, M.D., Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon at Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, discusses sleep apnea and answers questions from the crowd. Dr. Jones shares his expertise on treatments for sleep apnea, focusing on Inspire Therapy, an exciting alternative to C-PAP machines.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What goes into staffing all of the many roles at a hospital? Sarah Blenner, Director of Talent Resourcing and Joanna Wiseman, Talent Acquisition and Marketing Specialist are responsible for filling all of the non-Physician jobs at Monument Health. Find out how they approach the tall task of keeping over 1,200 spots filled while still remaining selective in an extremely competitive industry.  Looking for a new career at a great place to work? Go to monument.health/careers and find the health care role that’s right for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a Trauma Surgeon and Critical Care Specialist at Rapid City Hospital, Leslie Van Dyne, M.D. shares her unique perspective on caring for patients in a rural area known for outdoor adventure and seasonal risks. Dr. Van Dyne explains the differences between trauma surgery and emergency medicine, discusses caring for critical patients in the ICU and relates how activities like ATV riding, horseback riding and summer tourism impact the trauma cases she sees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Vital Conversations: A Doc Talk Community Series, the host becomes the subject. Stephen Tamang, M.D., reflects on his conversations with local leaders and what he took away from their discussions about homelessness, mental health and housing in the Black Hills. He shares behind-the-scenes insights from the series, what surprised him most and how the experience shaped his run for city council. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a born and raised local and, now a Physician, Joy Mueller, M.D., Family Medicine and Primary Care Monument Health Sturgis Clinic, has seen more than a few Sturgis Motorcycle Rallies. In this episode of Doc Talk, Dr. Mueller describes the different ways the staff in Sturgis prepares in advance for the influx of cases at their Emergency Department, Same Day Clinic and Hospital. She reveals some common injuries she treats and how she still manages to enjoy the Rally, despite her busy caseload as a doctor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Vital Conversations, a Doc Talk Community Series, Stephen Tamang, M.D. sits down with Mark Harlow, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon and Lead Physician at Oyate Health Center. They unpack health disparities in Native American communities, the challenges of homelessness and how Oyate's growth is transforming care through innovation, education and compassion.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this enlivened conversation, Eric Krohn, D.O., Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Monument Health Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City, explains what drew him to medicine in general and Orthopedics specifically, and how he fits into the spectrum of health care for kids. He also details some of the common conditions he sees, such as club foot and toe-walking, and how they are treated. If you’re a parent or guardian that often wonders if your child’s injury may need a surgeon’s attention, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Vital Conversations, a Doc Talk Community Series, Stephen Tamang, M.D. talks with Charity Doyle, CEO of OneHeart: A Place for Healing and Hope. The duo discuss the origin and evolution of One Heart, an innovative campus built to lift people out of crisis by addressing stability, brain health and community connection. From housing to healing, it's a story of bold ideas and lasting impact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we share the first in an ongoing series of Doc Talk Live! episodes recorded in front of an audience at the Matthews Opera House and Art Center in Spearfish. Andrew VanOsdol, M.D., fellowship-trained Bariatric Surgeon at Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, discusses obesity and surgical weight loss and answers questions from the crowd. Dr. VanOsdol shares his expertise on GLP-1 medicines like Ozempic and gives general advice on weight management, particularly as you age. Want to attend a recording? Join us for our next Doc Talk Live! at the Matthews Opera House and Art Center July 21, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. Our guest, Loren Jones, M.D., Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor at Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, will discuss treatments and solutions for people suffering from sleep apnea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Vital Conversations: A Doc Talk Community Series, Stephen Tamang, M.D. talks with Monument Health President and CEO, Paulette Davidson about the future of Health Care in Western South Dakota. From insurance barriers and Medicaid concerns, AI in medicine and Native American health disparities. This is a candid and thoughtful look at how leadership, innovation and compassion shape community care.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Huot, M.D., Director of Pain Management, Pain Specialist, Anesthesiologist and Chief of Staff of Rapid City Hospital reveals the responsibilities of a hospital Chief of Staff. Referencing Rapid City Hospital’s vast improvement in safety ratings, Dr. Huot provides insight on his approach to leadership and reflects on how he has made an impact during his tenure. He also gives historical details and legal reasons for why the position of Chief of Staff came to be important, how the position is chosen at Monument Health and the learning curve that comes along with accepting the role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a conversation between Dr. Stephen Tamang, Monument Health physician and Director of Addiction Medicine and Community Health Services—and Brian Mueller, the Pennington County Sheriff. They go deep into the role the Sheriff’s Office plays in shaping public policy, tackling controversial topics ranging from magnet services to ICE enforcement. They take a hard look at homelessness, exploring the services available in our community, the gaps that still exist, and what real solutions might look like. Expect an unfiltered, thought-provoking discussion about the intersection of law enforcement, public health, and the systems that shape our community’s most pressing challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lawnmowers, snakes and the sun, oh my! Tamra Lemley, M.D, board-certified Pediatrician and Kyle Lemley, M.D., a fellowship-trained Pediatric Critical Care Specialist and Pediatrician, both of Monument Health Children’s at Rapid City Hospital, spotlight some important kid summer safety concerns including lawnmower injuries, snake and spider bites and the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They also share what it’s like being a doctor who is married to a doctor. An essential listen for parents of kids growing up in the Black Hills. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.