Primary Medicine Podcast

Dear listeners, Today’s guest is Dr. Alan Cohen, a pediatric neurosurgeon whose career has spanned more than four decades at some of the world’s most respected institutions, including Boston Children’s Hospital and Johns Hopkins. Throughout his career, Dr. Cohen has cared for children facing some of the most serious neurological conditions imaginable and has guided countless families through life-altering diagnoses, difficult decisions, and moments of profound uncertainty. In his new memoir, Comfort Always: Healing in the Age of Technology, Dr. Cohen reflects on a question that sits at the heart of modern healthcare: as medicine becomes increasingly sophisticated, efficient, and data-driven, what happens to the human connection that patients need most? Drawing from deeply personal stories from the operating room and bedside, Dr. Cohen explores the difference between treating disease and truly healing patients, the emotional burden physicians carry, and why empathy remains one of medicine’s most powerful tools. Today we’ll discuss what modern healthcare is gaining through technology, what it may be losing, and how clinicians can preserve compassion, trust, and humanity in an increasingly digital world. Here is link to his publications and if you wish to buy Comfort Always: Healing in the Age of Technology Listen to the full podcast episode here. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 121: Can Medicine Stay Human in the Age of AI with Dr Alan Cohen appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Plastics are everywhere—and so is the confusion surrounding them. In this episode, we sit down with Chris DeArmitt, independent scientist, materials expert, and founder of the Plastics Research Council. Known for his rigorous, evidence-first approach, Chris has spent years analyzing peer-reviewed research to better understand the real impact of plastics and microplastics on human health and the environment. Together, we unpack some of the most common misconceptions driving public concern today. Are microplastics truly harming our health, or is the science still evolving? Why has plastics become such a misunderstood topic—and what can healthcare professionals learn from this when communicating risk to patients? We also explore the realities of recycling, the challenges and opportunities of building a circular economy, and how well-intentioned policies can sometimes miss the mark. Throughout the conversation, Chris offers a grounded, science-based perspective that cuts through sensationalism and focuses on what actually improves environmental and health outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for clinicians, healthcare leaders, and anyone looking to make more informed, practical decisions about sustainability. Listen to the full podcast episode here. Connect with Chris: website | LinkedIn | email Link to Shattering the Plastics Illusion Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 120: Microplastics, Myths, and Medicine. What the Evidence Really Says with Chris DeArmitt. appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, Today’s episode is a deeply moving conversation about grief, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going after unimaginable loss. We’re joined by Marcia Earhart — certified life, grief, and trauma coach, educator, mental health first responder, and founder of The Sterling Rose Sanctuary. But beyond her professional work, Marcia brings something even more powerful to this conversation: lived experience. After the loss of both of her sons, alongside chronic illness and significant family trauma, Marcia found herself navigating what she calls the “garden of grief.” In this episode, she shares what it truly looks like to live inside grief — not just emotionally, but physically and spiritually — and how her faith became an anchor in the midst of profound suffering. We explore the meaning behind her book, Gripping Grace in the Garden of Grief, and the idea of “gripping grace” — holding on to something steady when everything else feels like it’s falling apart. Marcia also opens up about the process of writing through pain, and how that journey helped transform her grief into purpose. Through her work with The Sterling Rose Sanctuary, Marcia now supports others facing loss, creating a space for honesty, compassion, and healing. She shares what people often misunderstand about grief, how healing really unfolds, and what it looks like to move from simply surviving to beginning to live again. This is a conversation for anyone who has experienced loss — or who wants to better understand how to show up for someone who has. If you or someone you love is carrying grief, this episode is a reminder: you are not alone. Listen to the full podcast episode here. Link to The Sterling Rose Sanctuary Link to Gripping Grace in the Garden of Grief Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 119: Marcia Earhart on Grief, Faith, and Healing appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we take a closer look at the growing role of AI chatbots in healthcare—and the risks that come with them. Dr. Christie Bergerson, biomedical engineer and AI expert at ECRI, joins us to unpack how tools like ChatGPT are being used by both patients and clinicians. From drafting clinical notes to answering medical questions, these technologies are already shaping care in meaningful ways—but not always safely. We explore why AI chatbots can be particularly risky in healthcare, including their tendency to sound confident even when they’re wrong, and how that differs from traditional clinical decision support tools. Dr. Bergerson also discusses the rise of patients turning to AI for medical advice, the potential impact on patient safety, and where clinicians should draw the line when using these tools in practice. The conversation also dives into regulation, highlighting the important differences between general-purpose AI tools and regulated medical devices, and why that distinction matters. Dr. Bergerson shares real-world examples of misuse, the role of bias in AI systems, and what healthcare organizations need to consider when building governance frameworks. Finally, we discuss practical guidance for clinicians who want to explore AI responsibly, and what the future of AI chatbot integration in healthcare might look like over the next five years. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to understand not just what AI can do in healthcare—but what it should do. AI chatbots are rapidly making their way into healthcare—from patients seeking medical advice to clinicians drafting notes and summarizing research. But with that opportunity comes real risk. In our latest episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Christie Bergerson (with ECRI), a biomedical engineer and AI safety expert, to unpack what’s actually happening on the ground with tools like ChatGPT—and where things can go wrong. We explore:• Why AI chatbots can sound convincing even when they’re wrong• The growing trend of patients turning to AI before seeing a doctor• Where AI can safely support clinicians—and where it crosses the line• The difference between regulated medical AI and general-purpose tools• What healthcare organizations need to have in place before adopting AI This is a practical, grounded conversation for clinicians, healthcare leaders, and anyone trying to navigate AI responsibly in medicine. Listen now and join the conversation on what safe AI adoption should look like. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 118: When AI Gets It Wrong – The Risks of Healthcare Chatbots with Dr. Christie Bergerson appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we sit down with Tom Swales—physiotherapist, performance expert, and founder of the Advanced Movement Therapist Certification. Tom shares lessons from more than two decades working with elite athletes and everyday patients, and reflects on how a life-threatening infection in 2023 transformed his perspective on resilience, recovery, and patient care. We explore how his AMT approach integrates strength training with rehabilitation, why movement literacy matters for all patients—not just athletes—and where integrated performance medicine is headed. A thoughtful, practical conversation about bouncing back, redefining performance, and building more human-centered care. Let’s dive right in! Listen to the podcast here. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 117: Tom Swales on AMT, Performance, Wellness and Personal Growth appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, Dr. Dimitre speaks with Sharmeen Aqueel, founder and CEO of Lyvvora, a Lending-as-a-Service platform built specifically for healthcare clinics and pharmacies. With a background in enterprise tech, Sharmeen shares how she identified a hidden but urgent problem in primary care: outdated, opaque financing that holds back even thriving clinics. Together, they explore how Lyvvora is helping practices across Canada access fast, fair, and flexible capital—without the paperwork headache. From real-world success stories to insights on the post-COVID financial landscape, this conversation sheds light on how better financial tools can empower clinicians to focus on what really matters: patient care. Let’s dive right in! Listen to the podcast here. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 116: Unlocking Growth – Smarter Financing for Clinics with Lyvvora’s Sharmeen Aqueel appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, What if a molecule could help you live longer and feel better doing it? In this episode, I’m joined by scientist and entrepreneur Chris Burres, founder of MyVitalC, to explore ESS60—a powerful antioxidant that could reshape how we think about aging and vitality. We break down the science, bust a few myths, and share real steps you can take today to support a longer, healthier life. Let’s dive right in! Listen to the podcast here. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 115: Can We Hack Aging? The Science of ESS60 with Chris Burres appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, family physician Dr. Rory Sullivan joins us to explore the intersection of medicine and storytelling. We discuss how his clinical experience shaped his debut novel Waking on the Ground, the realities of publishing while practicing, and what’s next on his creative path. A must-listen for anyone curious about narrative medicine and the art of balancing creativity with clinical life. Website – https://roryosullivan.caBook – https://roryosullivan.ca/eamon-rourke/Narrative Medicine workshop – https://narrativebasedmedicine.ca/offering/from-page-to-publication/ Let’s dive right in! Listen to the podcast here. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 114: Waking on the Ground Dr. Rory Sullivan Journey into Narrative Medicine appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, Dr. Dimitre Ranev sits down with Dr. Yatin Chadha — known to many from the Beyond MD podcast. This time, he joins us to discuss his newest venture: two practical online radiology courses designed to help clinicians build confidence in CT head interpretation. We cover what inspired these courses, how he created them, and how primary care, emergency, internal medicine, and trainee clinicians can use them in daily practice. We also touch on what it takes to build an online course in medicine and our thoughts on the future of medical education. Let’s dive in! Listen to the Podcast Episode here Courses:1. CT Head Basics – Ruling Out Neurosurgical Emergencieshttps://beyondradiology.thinkific.com/courses/ct-head-interpretation-course 2. CT Head Basics – Artifact or Pathology?https://beyondradiology.thinkific.com/courses/master-ct-head-interpretation-course Website: https://www.beyondmd.ca/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yatin-chadha/ Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 113: Radiology for Clinicians Dr Yatin Chadha’s New Teaching Journey appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we tackle a critical but often overlooked topic in healthcare—physician practice financial health. Host Dr. Kevin is joined by Matt Seefeld, CEO of MedEvolve and a nationally recognized expert in healthcare revenue cycle optimization. With over 20 years of consulting experience, Matt shares how technology, AI, and automation are revolutionizing billing, staffing, and operational efficiency in medical practices. Whether you’re a physician-owner, clinic manager, or simply curious about the business side of healthcare, this episode offers valuable insights into running a financially sustainable practice. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 112: Matt Seefeld on Physician Practice Financial Health appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we explore the rapidly growing and often misunderstood world of male enhancement procedures. Joined by Dr. Joel Pash — anaesthesiologist, Stanford faculty member, and co-founder of The Upsize Clinic — we dive into the latest techniques, the surge in patient demand, and the critical need for safe, evidence-based practices. Dr. Pash shares insights on what’s driving this trend, the risks of poorly performed procedures, and how clinicians can access proper training to better support their patients. Please visit Dr. Pash US and Canadian websites as well as his Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 111: Novel Male Enhancement & Safety with Dr. Joel Pash appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, On this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we speak with Dr. Sarah Nasir, a dual board-certified family physician and addiction medicine specialist, about her innovative, holistic approach to treating addiction. From leading a methadone clinic to founding Zenara Care and Transcendant You, Dr. Nasir shares how blending evidence-based care with whole-person healing can transform recovery—especially in underserved communities. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 110: Healing the Whole Person Dr. Sarah Nasir on Holistic Approaches to Addiction Care appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, Dr. Dimitre speaks with Dr. Jeff, a board-certified neurological surgeon and founder of ReCELLebrate, about an exciting frontier in healthcare—natural killer (NK) cell-derived exosome therapy. Dr. Jeff shares his journey from virology research to pioneering anti-aging treatments, and dives into how exosomes are being explored to boost traditional cancer therapies, prevent disease, and even slow aging. Tune in for a deep dive into this innovative blend of immunotherapy, cancer care, and regenerative medicine. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 109: Dr. Jeff on NK Cell Exosome Therapy for Cancer Care and Longevity appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, This week on the Primary Medicine Podcast, we’re joined by Todd Minerson, Country Director for Movember Canada and a global leader in men’s health advocacy. Since 2003, Movember has raised over $1.6 billion worldwide to support initiatives in men’s mental health, prostate and testicular cancer, and overall wellbeing. Todd brings a wealth of experience in community leadership and social change, including his past work with the White Ribbon Campaign and youth homelessness in Toronto. In this episode, Todd shares how Movember’s Canadian initiatives are breaking down barriers and starting critical conversations around men’s health. We dive into creative engagement strategies, the newly released national Men’s Health report, and how data and partnerships are driving impactful change. Whether you’re new to the movement or a longtime supporter, this conversation offers valuable insights into how we can all help change the face of men’s health. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 108: Movember and the Mission for Men’s Health A Conversation with Todd Minerson appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. John Oliffe, a renowned expert in men’s health promotion and Professor at the University of British Columbia. As the founder of UBC’s Men’s Health Research program and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair, Dr. Oliffe has led groundbreaking studies on how masculinity impacts men’s health behaviours, illness management, and overall wellbeing. With over $44 million in funding and 450+ publications, his work spans prostate cancer, smoking cessation, mental health, and suicide prevention—helping shape policies and clinical practices across Canada. We explore the newly released national report on men’s health in Canada, co-authored by Dr. Oliffe, to uncover why many men delay seeking medical care and the gendered barriers they face—particularly in marginalized communities. He shares insights on how a national men’s health strategy and initiatives like a Canada-wide Men’s Health Centre could radically improve outcomes. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, policymaker, or simply curious about men’s health, this episode offers timely, actionable perspectives. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 107: Rethinking Men’s Health Dr. John Oliffe on Barriers and Building a National Strategy appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the Primary Medicine Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Sam Gharbi—clinician, educator, and health tech innovator—to discuss the rapid growth of Arya Health, one of Canada’s fastest-growing EMRs. Dr. Gharbi shares how Arya is transforming physician workflows with AI tools like AI Scribe, eFaxTriage and Co-Pilot, and we explore its recent milestones and its potential as a game-changer for physician sustainability and retention. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 106: Building the Future of EMRs with Dr. Sam Gharbi on Arya Health and AI Innovation appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome back to the Primary Medicine Podcast! Today’s guest is Ron Richard, a true healthcare innovator with over 35 years of experience in respiratory, pulmonary, and sleep medicine. From launching over 40 medical products and holding 15 patents to working with industry leaders like ResMed and Qualcomm, Ron has helped shape the future of patient care. He’s also a creative force—an author, musician, and entrepreneur. In this episode, we dive into his journey, the hurdles clinicians face when innovating, and practical tips for bringing new medical ideas to market. If you are interested in more Canadian Medical Podcast content check Feedspots Top 10 https://bit.ly/3E66Wst Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 105: From Bedside to Breakthrough: Ron Richard on Innovation and Invention appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome to the Primary Medicine Podcast! Today, we’re exploring a groundbreaking approach to chronic pain—one that challenges the idea that all persistent pain stems from injury or disease. Our guest, Dr. David Clarke, President of the Association for Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms (ATNS), specializes in stress-related, brain-generated conditions and helps patients overcome pain without drugs or surgery. We’ll discuss how stress and trauma can manifest as physical symptoms, the science behind neuroplastic pain, and evidence-based strategies for lasting relief. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 104: Rewiring Chronic Pain, The Science of Neuroplastic Healing with Dr. David Clarke appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Today, we’re diving into the critical topic of enhancing interoperability in Canadian health care with an exceptional guest, Dr. Rashaad Bhyat. Dr. Bhyat is a family physician, digital health expert, and Senior Clinician Leader at Canada Health Infoway, a federally funded, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing digital health solutions across Canada. Canada Health Infoway is on a mission to create a more connected and efficient health care system by accelerating the adoption of innovative technologies like electronic health records and e-prescribing services. Interoperability—seamless and secure sharing of health information across the system—is a key component of this mission, helping to improve access to care and enhance the patient experience. Dr. Bhyat brings over a decade of expertise in health informatics, health policy, and digital transformation. A respected voice in the field, he’s been featured in media outlets like the CBC and Toronto Star and has shared his insights at national and international conferences. In this episode, we’ll explore the importance of interoperability in health care, how it’s being addressed across Canada, and what it means for patients, providers, and the future of digital health innovation. Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation about how enhancing interoperability can make health care more connected, efficient, and patient-focused for all Canadians. Let’s get started! Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 103: Dr. Rashaad Bhyat from Canada Health Infoway on tackling Health Care Interoperability appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome back to the Primary Medicine Podcast! Today, we’re diving into the world of healthcare technology and innovation with a guest who has been a driving force in transforming digital health across Canada. Mike Checkley is the President of QHR Technologies, the company behind Accuro EMR—one of the leading electronic medical record systems used by healthcare providers nationwide. With over two decades of experience, Mike has a unique journey through technology and healthcare, from his early days in software programming to shaping QHR’s mission to improve patient care through innovative digital solutions. In today’s episode, we’ll explore Mike’s career path, the evolution of QHR and Accuro, and his perspectives on the future of healthcare technology. We’ll also dig into the exciting, sometimes challenging role that artificial intelligence is starting to play in electronic medical records, and how AI could reshape the way we deliver and experience healthcare. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of medicine, there’s a lot to look forward to in today’s discussion. Let’s dive in! Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 102: Mike Checkley, President of Accuro, on EMRs, AI, and the Future of Digital Health appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome to the Primary Medicine Podcast. Today, we’re spotlighting Quilt In-Home Care, an innovative company founded by Blake Cheeseman and Peter Kotzeff, born from a personal experience with Peter’s grandmother and Blake’s mother during the pandemic. They faced the challenge many families do: finding high-quality, reliable in-home care. So they created Quilt to improve the in-home care experience for seniors and their families. Quilt’s mission is simple yet profound—help people grow old wherever they want to. With a vision that puts technology and compassion at the forefront, Quilt aim is to make it easier than ever for families to connect with the right caregivers while empowering those caregivers with flexibility and support. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 101: Revolutionizing Home Care with Quilt appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome to today’s podcast, where we have the pleasure of speaking with Rima Sehgal, a dedicated mental health professional with over three decades of experience. Rima’s journey in psychotherapy has been marked by her unwavering passion for empowering clients to regain control and confidence in their lives.As the founder of TherapySupports, Rima has expanded her practice by bringing together a talented team of psychotherapists in Toronto, Ontario. This diverse and experienced team is dedicated to offering virtual psychotherapy services that are convenient, accessible, and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs.Join us as we explore the world of virtual psychotherapy, the benefits of online sessions, and how TherapySupports is making mental health care more accessible to people across Ontario. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 100: Rima Sehgal(PhD, RP), founder of TherapySupports, on the benefits of virtual psychotherapy appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Join us on the Primary Medicine Podcast as we explore the dynamic world of healthcare technology with Dr. Jonathan Baktari, CEO of e7 Health, eNational Testing and US Drug Test Centers. Discover how his companies are revolutionising patient care through innovation and software, and why they are a recognized leader in the healthcare tech industry. Dive into a conversation with Dr. Baktari, a national business thought leader and opinion writer, as we discuss the digital future of health and wellness. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 99: Dr. Jonathan Baktari on medical innovation and digital health appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode we will be again exploring the intersection of medicine and technology. Today, we’re introducing Dr. Amjed Kadhim-Saleh, or Dr AJ, a dedicated family physician and innovator from Toronto. Dr AJ, a University of Ottawa alumnus and University of Toronto-trained family doctor, manages a diverse patient base and strives for efficiency in practice. He’s also the brain behind Pippen, an AI-powered tool designed to enhance doctor-patient interactions and reduce administrative strain for physicians. Join us as we delve into Dr AJ’s journey and the transformative potential of Pippen in the healthcare industry. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 98: Dr. Kadhim-Saleh on Pippen a cutting-edge AI physician assistant appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, On today’s episode we will be talking to Dr. Sasha High, an Internist and Obesity Medicine Physician, who has leveraged her extensive medical training and board certification in Obesity Medicine to lead the High Metabolic Clinic in Ontario. She’s also the creator of Best Weight, a prominent medical weight loss coaching program for women, focusing on sustainable weight loss through cognitive behavioural coaching, nutrition counseling, and medical treatment. Additionally, Dr. High shares her expertise as an international speaker, social media educator, and host of the High on Life podcast. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre The post Episode 97: Dr. Sasha High on the importance of psychological care in Obesity Management appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Tune in for an informative conversation with Dr. Benjamin Caplan, expert on #CannabisMedicine, founder of #CEDClinic and author of The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook. He shares his vast knowledge and experience on #CannabisScience. Listen to the Podcast Episode here! SPOTIFY: https://spoti.fi/3JUy5hiAPPLE PODCASTS: https://apple.co/3UC913y Link to Dr. Caplan’s activities: https://benjamincaplan.com/linksAnd to the book: https://amzn.to/3WYxWkF The post Episode 96: Dr. Benjamin Caplan on the Doctor Approved Cannabis Handbook appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Dr. Kevin Mailo is an emergency physician based out of Edmonton, Alberta. He is the founder of Physician Empowerment, an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of Canadian physicians through education in finance, practice management, wellness, and leadership. During the podcast, we have a chance to talk about his vision about the long-term wellness of the medical profession and his desire to see physicians and their families succeed personally and financially. Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here The post Podcast 95: Dr. Kevin Mailo on empowering physicians to be mentally, physically and financially healthy appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode we are talking with Dr. Megha Poddar about evidence based approach in treatment of Obesity. Dr. is an Endocrinologist and Obesity medicine specialist in Toronto, Ontario. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and an Assistant Professor (Adjunct) in the Department of Medicine at McMaster University. Dr. Poddar serves as the Medical Director of the Medical Weight Management Centre of Canada (MWMCC) and the Clinical Director of the LMC Weight Management Program. As a lead author and co-author, she has contributed to various resources on obesity education, including the McMaster textbook of internal medicine and the 2020 Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines. She is dedicated to mentoring healthcare providers in obesity management and clinical development, both nationally and globally, and is a passionate advocate for patients living with obesity. Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here The post Podcast 94: Dr. Megha Poddar on Obesity appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode we are talking to Dr. Puneet Seth about his predictions about advancements on AI in primary care in 2024. These advancements will impact administrative staff, patients, clinicians, medical students and the entire novel medical ecosystem. Dr. Seth is a medical doctor and technologist, recognized for pioneering digital health tools and advancing AI in healthcare. He led InputHealth as President and CMO, developing the Collaborative Health Record, and later contributed to AI integration at TELUS Health. Currently, he advises health AI startups, engages in teaching, conducts clinical research and writes about the intersection of AI and medicine. Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here The post Podcast 93: Dr. Puneet Seth on AI in Primary Care in 2024 appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, On today’s podcast we talk to Marc-David Munk, a Canadian/American emergency physician and healthcare executive. Over the past decade, he has held leadership roles at various nontraditional healthcare delivery organizations in the US and abroad. He began his career as a professor of emergency medicine and as the medical director for the Qatari national ambulance service. He later became a senior executive at high-performing physician groups in the US and abroad. He is also the author the the upcoming book Urgent Calls From Distant Places about his experience as an air ambulance physician with the Flying Doctors. Hope you enjoy! Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here The post Podcast 92: Dr. Munk and Urgent Calls From Distant Places appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

On today’s podcast, we will be talking to Dr. Stephen Sharpe, a fellow family physician and the Medical Director of Aroga Health, one of the fastest growing Lifestyle Medicine Clinics in Canada. There is no longer any serious doubt that daily habits and actions profoundly affect health and quality of life. This concept is supported by literally thousands of research articles and incorporated in multiple evidence-based guidelines for the prevention and/or treatment of chronic metabolic diseases. The study of how habits and actions affect both prevention and treatment of diseases has coalesced around the concept of “lifestyle medicine.” Lifestyle medicine interventions include nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep hygiene, social support, and smoking cessation. Given the current climate around health care, this outcome-driven approach is vital for the future of both patients and health caregivers. Enjoy! Dr. Dimitre Access the podcast episode here! The post Podcast 91: Dr. Stephen Sharpe of Aroga Health appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, On today’s podcast we talk to Dr. Luke Napier, the founder of Virtual Hallway. Virtual Hallway (virtualhallway.ca) is a platform that bridges the gap between primary care providers and specialists, making peer-to-peer phone call consultations swift and efficient via their innovative platform modelled after the traditional “hallway consult”. This digital solution saves time for both physicians and patients while enhancing healthcare outcomes.  It is being used robustly in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island health authorities and is now available in Ontario. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Access the podcast episode here! The post Podcast 90: What is Virtual Hallway? appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In this episode of the primary medicine podcast, we will talk about the benefits of intermittent fasting and the alternative fasting mimicking diet with the CEO of L-Nutra, Dr. Joseph Antoun. Fasting is a popular dietary strategy that involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. It has been shown to have various positive effects on the body, such as improving blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, enhancing brain function, and promoting weight loss. We will discuss how it works, what are the different types of fasting protocols, and how to implement them safely and effectively including using a fasting mimicking strategy. Stay tuned for an informative and engaging conversation with Dr. Antoun, a leading authority on dietary and metabolic health. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Access the podcast episode here! The post Podcast 89: Dr. Joseph Antoun on Benefits of Fasting appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Please join us for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at organ transplants and what it’s like to work as a lung transplant physician confronted with critical decisions on a daily basis.  Our guest is transplant consultant Dr. David Weill, who is the former Director of the Center for Advanced Lung Disease and the Lung Transplant Program at Stanford. He’s also the author of a gripping memoir entitled, “Exhale: Hope, Healing and A Life in Transplant”.  His website is https://davidweillmd.com/about/. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Access the podcast episode here! The post Podcast 88: Dr. Weill on Organ Transplants appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, In today’s bonus episode we talk to Michael Dutra, the CEO of Michael Dutra Estate Planning and Insurance, about Disability Insurance. This is perhaps the most important insurance policy for professionals during their working careers. During our discussion, we will go over the basics and we will cover the policy itself as well as key riders. If you are interested in a more in depth follow up on the topic feel free to contact Michael at https://michaeldutra.ca/. Also make sure to listen to the recent beyond MD podcast on the topic. Cheers, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 87: Michael Dutra a few words on Disability Insurance appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, On today’s podcast, we will explore the latest developments and applications of generative artificial intelligence in the field of medicine. In this episode, we will talk to the Chief Medical Director of Innovation at TELUS Health, Dr. Puneet Seth. Dr Seth is a leader and a practitioner of generative AI in improving healthcare for both patients and healthcare practitioners. We will discuss what generative is AI, what its currently capable of, and how it can be used practically used by doctors to enhance their practice, their mental health, and their patients experience.  We will also address some of the ethical and social implications of using generative AI in medicine, and how to ensure its safety and reliability. Stay tuned for this fascinating conversation with Dr. Seth. Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 86: Dr. Seth on Generative AI in Medicine appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Welcome back to the Primary Medicine Podcast. In this episode, we will talk about sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT, for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. SLIT is a form of allergy treatment that involves placing allergen extracts under the tongue to gradually desensitize the immune system. We will discuss how SLIT works, what are its benefits and risks, and who can benefit from it. Stay tuned for an informative and engaging conversation with our guest expert, Dr. Mannan Shah, a board-certified allergist and immunologist and also co-creator on Wyndyl, an innovative company that offers personalized SLIT delivered directly to patients. Enjoy! Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 85: Dr. Mannan Shah on sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We are lucky to have Dr. Kevin back on the podcast. Micro and macroscopic hematurea are common incidental findings in primary care. They are often of a bening nature, but it is important to have a thorough method  in investigating their differential so as not to miss rare but serious causes of bleeding in the urinary tract. Dr. Kevin and Dr. Dimitre go over an updated approach to this condition. Happy Learning, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 84: Dr. Kevin on Micro and Macroscopic Hematurea appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Approximately 25% of all women diagnosed with breast cancer will require a mastectomy. Breast reconstruction is a currently underutilised (less than 50%) option for these patients that provides psychological, social, emotional, and functional improvements, including improved psychological health, self-esteem, sexuality, and body image. To cover this topic, we are very lucky to have Dr. Jordan Frey as a guest on the podcast today. Dr. Frey is a plastic surgeon based in Buffalo, New York. He also runs the Prudent Plastic Surgeon blog where he shares his financial journey and helps full time physicians to achieve financial security. Happy Learning, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 83: Dr. Jordan Frey on Breast Reconstruction Surgery appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Every day, more than 600 people in Canada are diagnosed with cancer and more than 200 die from it. It is very likely that everyone of you has in one way or another had experience with it. It is thus important that both healthcare professionals and the general population are informed about this horrible disease.    I am thus very honoured to have Dr. David J. Stewart on the podcast today. Dr. Stewart is a veteran medical oncologist with over 40 years of experience in the field and as a researcher both in Canada and the United States. He is currently a Professor of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. He is also the author of “A Short Primer On Why Cancer Still Sucks”, an excellent book that tackles the big questions for patients and for doctors. Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! The post Podcast 82: Dr. David Stewart on Why Cancer Still Sucks appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, Having healthcare led by people with a deep understanding of the nature and challenges of clinical work is a key component of a resilient healthcare system. Yet leadership is a challenging skill that is rarely, if ever, nurtured and encouraged in physicians. We are thus fortunate today to have Dr. Malcolm Ogborn (https://www.optimisticdoc.com/) talk to us about Physician Leadership. Dr. Ogborn is a professional physician coach and leadership development consultant with a special focus in partnering with early career leaders and leaders working in remote and rural areas. He is also the Vice Chair of the Canadian Physician Coaches Network. He has worked for thirty-eight years in leadership positions in clinical care, research, and academics. He coaches with individual professionals and organisations in the areas of Emotional Intelligence, career development, conflict management, and leadership.  He has also recently published Sudden Leadership: A Survival Guide for Physicians, an excellent resource for any physician aspiring to a leadership role. Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre Listen to the podcast here! Posted on 20/06/2022 by Dr. Dimitre The post Podcast 81: Dr. Malcom Ogborn on Physician Leadership appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We’re very excited to share that our national conference on wealth creation for physicians resumes this year! Physician Empowerment is returning to Toronto June 3 to 5 with Canada’s top MD voices in the field: https://www.physempowerment.ca/live Beyond attending in person, we’ve got a great livestream option and all registrants enjoy unlimited access to the recordings. Use promo code RANEV to enjoy $150 off. Now onto our latest release… I’m interviewing my co-host, emergency physician, Dr. Kevin Mailo on approaches to assessing and managing falls in the elderly.  In summary, falls are the leading cause of injury-related visits to emergency departments in North America and the primary etiology of accidental deaths in persons over the age of 65 years. Outpatient evaluation of a patient who has fallen includes a focused history with an emphasis on medications (Beers Criteria), a directed physical examination and simple tests of postural control and overall physical function. Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of the fall and can return the patient to baseline function. Sincerely, Listen to the podcast here! Posted on 14/05/2022 by Dr. Dimitre The post Podcast 80: Dr. Mailo on Falls in the Elderly appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We are lucky to have Dr. Vu Kiet Tran back on the podcast. Dr. Tran is an Emergency, Family Medicine, and Long-term Care physician with over 20 years of clinical experience in Canada. He has vast clinical knowledge in elderly care and is currently running a facility with over 200 residents.   A 2020 survey from Better Aging Canada estimated that about 30% of patients over 50 years of age have been using cannabis since it was legalised, most of them for medical reasons. Of the 70% who were not using cannabis, about half were interested in trying it in the future.  It is thus important to have a clear, science-focused picture of cannabis and its medical properties.   Dr. Tran and Dr. Dimitre address this in a thorough, evidence-based discussion. Please visit the membership page!  Posted on 09/04/2022 by Dr. Dimitre The post Dr. Tran on Cannabis in the Elderly appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, For our latest podcast, I was fortunate enough to talk to Dr. Sam Gharbi. Dr. Gharbi is an Internal Medicine Doctor currently practising in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is an accomplished clinician, author, educator, and most importantly, an innovator and problem solver. He is also Co-Founder of the Arya EHR, a system that aims to help doctors manage their patient’s records in a simple, intuitive and efficient manner. Dr. Gharbi and I spend a good hour talking about the current issues in Healthcare, some innovative solutions to them and the future of the profession. We touch on topics such as virtual care, patient centred medical records, and AI diagnostics. Talking to Dr. Gharbi was indeed a much-needed shot of optimism given the challenges this field is facing on a daily basis in the waning months of the COVID crisis. Please visit the membership page!  Posted on 17/02/2022 by Dr. Dimitre The post Podcast 78: Dr. Gharbi on the Future of Medicine appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Metacognition is the awareness and understanding of one’s own thought process Dear Listeners, Metacognition is the process of being aware of one’s own thinking, learning, and diagnostic processes and how they can shape our decisions when it comes to patient care. This self-awareness is very important in avoiding medical error yet it is rarely developed during medical training. This podcast is meant to remedy this. Dr. Vu has a lot of experience with medical error due to his role as an auditor for the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. During this podcast, we talk about the many common cognitive biases and thinking errors that he has encountered and how they lead us astray. We conclude the discussion with multiple strategies to minimise these frequent medical errors. Please visit the membership page!  Posted on 05/12/2021 by Dr. Dimitre The post Dr. Tran on Metacognition and Minimizing Medical Error appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We are very fortunate to have Dr. Vu Kiet Tran back this month to talk about Ageism. Ageism is discriminating or stereotyping someone based on their age. It is very much prevalent in Western medical culture. It presents in insidious ways, such as the observed tendency for doctors to dismiss patients and pathologies in seniors due to old age; the severe lack of geriatric specialists in many provinces; and the fact that seniors spend less time talking to their physicians than any other age group. Dr. Tran and Dr. Dimitre conclude that being aware of our inherent ageism is the first step in combating it. If you want to learn more from Dr Tran, please visit his podcast page, and his website. Also note that we were featured on: https://blog.feedspot.com/canadian_medical_podcasts/. It is an extensive database that can help with finding new and existing podcasts. Happy Learning, Dr. Dimitre The post Dr. Tran on Ageism in Western Medicine appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We are very fortunate to have Dr. Vu Kiet Tran as a guest on our podcast this month. Dr. Tran is an emergency medicine doctor, a Life and Financial Coach to healthcare professionals, and the host of the excellent “How is my Financial Health, doc?” podcast. Dr. Tran talks about the importance of understanding that we as healthcare professionals trade our lifeforce to generate income and how ignorance of this can lead us down the painful road of professional burnout. He goes on to talk about how realizing what we can control and what we can’t control can lead to true internal wellness. If you want to learn more from Dr, Tran, please visit his podcast page and his website. Happy Learning, Dr. Dimitre  The post Dr. Tran on caring for your Lifeforce and preventing burnout appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, We are lucky to have Dr. Yatin Chada, host of the excellent  beyond the MD podcast, join us for our latest episode. Dr. Chada is a radiologist who has practised in both Canada and the US. He is a devoted father and a lifelong learner. As host of beyond the MD podcast, Dr. Chada interviews experts on topics covering insurance, finance, tax management and law. During this episode, Dr. Chada is kind enough to share his wisdom about topics ranging from disability insurance, to incorporation, to investments. Happy Learning, Dr. Dimitre The post Dr. Chadha from the beyond MD podcast appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

The bulb-like corms of C. autumnale contain colchicine, a useful drug for inflammatory conditions. Dear listeners, Colchicine has been used as an anti-inflammatory medication for centuries. The plant source of colchicine, the autumn crocus, was indeed used in Ancient Egypt as a treatment for rheumatism and swelling.  Currently, colchicine is indicated for treatment of inflammatory conditions such as gout, pericarditis, and Mediteranian fever. Based on a few recent studies, its use will likely be expanded to treat an even more common and serious inflammatory condition; cardiovascular disease. During this podcast, we will go over the evidence supporting the use of low dose, daily colchicine in both primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Posted on 10/02/2021 by Dr. Dimitre The post Podcast 73: Colchicine in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.

Dear Listeners, This month, we are very excited to bring you a preview of our upcoming conference for Physician Empowerment. This year, our focus is on personal resilience and practice management. On today’s episode, Kevin shares a remarkably refreshing view on wellness within our profession. The event is being live-streamed from beautiful Banff, Alberta from May 13 to 15. Attendees will be able to claim 16 hours of Mainpro+ certified CME. And for those who wish to do so, there will also be a limited in-person option that rigorously adheres to all public health regulations. To find out more, visit us at Physician Empowerment Sincerely, Dr. Dimitre Ranev The post Physician Empowerment: You Are More than an Empty Vessel appeared first on Primary Medicine Podcast.