Public Health Out Loud

Rhode Island’s healthcare shortage, workforce gaps, and other challenges affect access to care for all who live here. But a movement has been underway for some time to ensure the State has a steady supply of dedicated, well-trained, and highly skilled workers. In this episode, Rick Brooks, director of Health Workforce Transformation at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, talks about current initiatives and the importance of having a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of the communities - and individuals - whom they serve. 

Viruses like Ebola, hantavirus, and measles are common in today’s news, and can be a cause for concern, especially during large events like the FIFA World Cup. As thousands of spectators travel to Rhode Island and other nearby states this month, should biothreats - or even bioterrorism -  be on our radar?  In this episode, Dr. Charles McKay, a retired physician trained in emergency medicine and medical toxicology talks about biological threats and gives practical information on how we can all be better prepared in our communities. 

Drowning is a leading cause of death in childhood, especially for children age 1 to 4. But prevention measures are needed at all ages. In this episode, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Specialist, Rebecca Wingerter and Executive Director of Stages of Freedom, Ray Rickman talk about water safety measures, the disparities that exist among Black and low income people, and the skills everyone should know that could save a life. 

In this episode, Yale School of Public Health’s Dean, Dr. Megan Ranney, talks about what the data show and what can potentially be done to address gun violence and mass shootings. Even here in Rhode Island, gun violence has made recent headlines. In December, an armed suspect killed two students at Brown University and wounded nine others. In February, an armed shooter killed two and injured three others before turning the gun on themselves at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket. But prevention is about more than making legislation. 

A new, independent film coming to Rhode Island this weekend. The Chaplain and the Doctor follows ICU physician, palliative care doctor, and filmmaker, Jessica Zitter, and her collaboration with a hospital chaplain named Betty Clark. The film explores how compassion, curiosity, and interdisciplinary collaboration can transform the care of patients and families during some of the hardest moments of their lives. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Zitter talks about her film, her experience, and a new kind of care - one that honors the diverse backgrounds of patients, and the most human needs we all share.  

When Rhode Island voted to legalize cannabis use for adults in 2022, it signaled a shift in public attitudes toward the drug. But as cannabis becomes more widely used, health and safety risks like impaired driving can be a serious concern. Make no mistake – driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous no matter the substance. However, studies have shown that cannabis may not be perceived in the same light as alcohol or other drugs. In this episode, Mark Schieldrop, of AAA Northeast, talks about the data surrounding cannabis and driving, as well as a program that AAA has spearheaded to shift gears in the perception of risk among young people.

They're in our air, our water, and even our bodies! Microplastics are tiny - even microscopic - but their impact on our health and our environment is anything but. University of Rhode Island’s, Dr. Vinka Craver joins Public Health Out Loud for this season six premiere to share some horrifying truths about microplastics in our world. Learn more about the Socio-ecological Impact of Microplastics in Coastal Ecosystems Project.

Bullying is a major public health issue that can have a long-term impact on health and development. Unfortunately, despite its seriousness, the issue is common and widespread. About one in five high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past year. More than one in six high school students reported being bullied online or electronically.  In this episode, Stephanie Pagliarini, a school psychologist working hard to change the social norms among young students at the George J. West Elementary School in Providence, and Maria Garcia, School Psychology Practicum graduate student at Rhode Island College, share information and some real-world advice for parents and caregivers. 

There’s no doubt that donating blood can save lives. But winter is one of the most difficult times of year to collect enough blood products. Holiday schedules, seasonal illnesses, and the recent extreme weather means that the folks over at the Rhode Island Blood Center (RIBC) are scrambling to meet patient needs.  In this episode, RIBC Vice President of Operations, Hunter Shaffer talks about the current shortage, challenges to maintaining the supply, and how we can all do our part. For more information visit ribc.org and download the Rhode Island Blood Center App.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing our culture and the way we live our lives in so many ways.  While we may not understand its full potential yet, we do know it can, and in many ways has already revolutionized many industries and fields of study. In this episode, Dr. Atin Jindal, assistant professor of medicine and director of medical informatics at Brown University joins Dr. Philip Chan for a fascinating discussion on how AI technology is being used to improve health, what the future may look like in this area, potential challenges, and more. 

It’s called “hygiene insecurity” and while you may not be aware of it, there is an overwhelming need for hygiene products in the state. An estimated 38% of Rhode Island families struggle to afford hygiene products, and 2 in 5 individuals struggle to purchase menstruation products. Amenity Aid, Rhode Island’s only hygiene bank, would like to eliminate this problem. In this episode, the organization’s Founder and Executive Director, Liz Duggan and Board Chair, James Rajotte talk about how they accomplish their mission. 

Alcohol is the most used substance among adults in the United States despite being known to cause cancer, liver disease, cardiomyopathy, and more.  Approximately 600 people die in Rhode Island every year from excessive alcohol use. In this episode, Linda Mahoney, associate director for the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals and Emily Ledingham, senior alcohol epidemiologist at the Rhode Island Department of Health talk about what people need to know and where to find help when it's needed.  

The holidays are upon us but respiratory viruses like COVID-19, Flu, and RSV don’t make great gifts. In this episode, Dr. Suzanne Bornschein, State Epidemiologist at the Rhode Island Department of Health, shares the best ways to keep viruses from spreading to our friends, to our loved ones, and in our communities. For more information and data, visit health.ri.gov/respiratoryviruses. 

While much of the national conversation about overdose focuses on younger populations, a new campaign spearheaded by our state health and behavioral health agencies aims to prevent drug overdose deaths among middle-aged and older Rhode Islanders. In this episode, Steven Boudreau, director of equity and engagement and the public information officer at the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging and Linda Mahoney, associate director for the RI Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals join Dr. Chan to explain that "No Matter Why You Use," help and resources are available in Rhode Island.

It’s not easy for adults and adolescents to know where to find accurate and trusted sexual and reproductive health information. In this episode, Karin Wetherill, co-director of Rhode Island Healthy Schools Coalition joins us to talk about a new app that might just make the learning process a little easier. It’s called “RIght to Know” and it connects young people and caregivers with the facts about their sexual and reproductive health. RIght To Know is available on the Google Play and Apple App Stores or by visiting righttoknowapp.com.For free promotional materials, visit righttoknowapp.com/aboutTo request a presentation or community event, please contact [email protected]

There’s been a lot of talk about Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, in the news – specifically the claim that there is a link between this over-the-counter pain reliever and Autism. In this episode, Dr. Yvette Yatchmink, formerly the clinical director of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, shares what we know from the data and what it means for pregnant people.

Animal-assisted therapy - what is it and how effective is it in a therapeutic setting? In this episode, Kerri Lynch, Director of Occupational Therapy at Butler Hospital and Susan Parker, President and Founder of Paws From the Heart Pet Therapy share what they know based on their years of experience working with these unique and highly-trained pets. 

Problem gambling - it's on the rise here in Rhode Island but it's not just happening at the casino or the racetrack. Online forms like sports betting have become a powerful draw for many. How does one know when it’s become a problem? What are the warning signs? In this episode, Dr. Samantha Rosenthal, a professor of Health Science at Johnson & Wales University and Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology at Brown School of Public Health joins Dr. Chan to talk about what to look out for, who is most at risk, and much more. 

September is suicide prevention month. It’s a time to raise awareness, dispel stigma, and take action around this urgent mental health issue. In this episode, the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's  Area Director, Kerrie Constant and Board Chair, Keely Taylor talk about how we can best look out for each other and take steps to prevent suicide in our communities.  To learn more about the work of AFSP, visit afsp.org.For Rhode Island based suicide prevention resources, visit Preventsuicideri.org.

After losing his son to cancer five years ago, Dr. George Beauregard, a twenty-year internal medicine physician and life-long resident of Massachusetts, used his grief to spread an important message. In this episode he joins Dr. Philip Chan to talk about his new book, “Reservations for Nine: A Doctor's Family Confronts Cancer,” as well as important advice on prevention and symptoms that should not be ignored. To learn more about Dr. Beauregard's book, visit www.georgebeauregard.com

August is National Breastfeeding Month – a time to celebrate and bring awareness to breastfeeding. In this episode, Mary Catherine or “MC” Curran, a WIC lactation consultant and nutritionist at Hasbro Children’s Hospital and RIDOH’s own Dr. Olutosin Ojugbele, a pediatrician at Hasbro Children's Hospital and assistant professor of pediatrics at Brown University’s Warren Alpert School of Medicine  talk about why breastmilk is the perfect nutrition, how support is key to success, and how the Rhode Island is taking part in this annual observance.

It's National Health Center Week - a time to recognize and celebrate the role of health centers in our communities. These nonprofit clinics provide affordable, high-quality care to more than 200,000 Rhode Islanders. At a time when primary care is at a critical shortage in Rhode Island, the community health center model may be just what the doctor ordered. In this episode, Dr. Elena Kwetkowski, chief medical officer at Comprehensive Community Action Program in Coventry and Karen LaChapelle, medical director and nurse practitioner at Tri County Community Action Agency in Johnston fill us in on their critical work and how funding challenges and low reimbursement rates may hinder their ability to serve.  

There has been a lot of talk about cannabis in the news lately and some people question whether cannabis is the answer to a wide variety of health conditions, including pregnancy-related morning sickness, anxiety, and sleep disorders. But what should you know about cannabis products if you are planning a family? In this episode, Dr. Mara Coyle, a neonatologist at Women & Infants Hospital and professor of pediatrics at the Warren Alpert Medical School, joins Dr. Chan to share some of her clinical experience and research-based insight into the effects of cannabis on babies, both during, and after pregnancy.

Every community has its own story. These stories are shaped by it’s residents, as well as policies and systems that influence community well-being. Comparing data by neighborhood or zip code, can not only help tell that story, but can also help shape policies that better serve those communities. In this episode, RIDOH's Michelle Wilson, chief of the Health Equity Institute and JoAnna House, a manger on the COVID Data Team join Dr. Chan to give specific examples of why data is critically important, especially when it comes to health equity. Resources: Rhode Island COVID-19 Tiers Data Brief

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by men and boys. In this episode, Dr. Samantha Rosenthal, a professor of Health Science at Johnson & Wales University and adjunct professor of Epidemiology at Brown School of Public Health joins Dr. Chan to talk about why encouraging men to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed is so important. 

While there are studies that show cannabis may be useful in alleviating pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with certain medical conditions, some doctors and researchers are seeing a rise in unexpected and serious health problems linked to its use – including cannabis use disorder, cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, and even psychosis. In this episode, Dr. Rachel Wightman, an emergency physician who has been at the forefront of treating patients affected by these conditions joins Dr. Philip Chan to help us understand these emerging issues. 

Palliative and hospice care can both have a huge impact on one’s quality of life  during serious illness. How do these types of care differ and when are they important? In this episode, Dr. Chan sits down with Diana Franchitto and Dr. Jennifer Ritzau of HopeHealth, a nonprofit palliative and hospice care organization in Rhode Island, to answer these questions and more. 

May is Older American’s Month and a good time to think about our needs as we age and those of the older adults in our communities. In this episode, Deb Burton, a social gerontologist and executive director of RI Elder Info joins Dr. Chan to  highlight some important considerations that everyone should be thinking about. Her message is clear: regardless of age, planning in advance is key. 

Children often face a wide range of struggles like social challenges, difficulties at school, substance use, and so much more. As any parent or caregiver knows, helping a child can be overwhelming at times. Where can one turn for help?  In this episode, Ashley Gingerella O’Shea, director of strategic communications at Rhode Island’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services joins Dr. Philip Chan to discuss a new and much-needed resource to help parents navigate children’s behavioral health.  For parents and caregivers, please visit kids.ri.gov/behavioral-health for information to guide you in finding support, resources, and answers to many of your questions.

Sexual violence affects 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men nationally - and it can happen anywhere, usually by someone you know. In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, RIDOH’s Dr. Staci Fischer, medical director and chief administrative officer for the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline and Angela Kemp,  prevention coordinator for RIDOH's Violence and Injury Prevention Program join Dr. Philip Chan to talk about the types of sexual assault, what you need to know in general, and even how to handle it somewhere you may not expect - in the care of a healthcare professional. This episode of Public Health Out Loud covers topics related to sexual violence that some listeners may find difficult to listen to. Listeners are encouraged to reach out to the RI Victims of Crime Helpline for support and advocacy as needed at: 1-800-494-8100 or helplineri.com.

March is National Sleep Awareness Month. Sleep is a precious commodity when there is a newborn in the home - but did you know that HOW an infant sleeps is very important to their safety? In this episode, RIDOH’s Chief of the Safe Sleep Program, Margo Katz joins Dr. Philip Chan to talk about what parents and caregivers need to know to keep babies healthy during their slumber. 

Alexandra Dowding and her family nearly died from a silent killer - carbon monoxide. The odorless, invisible gas made them very sick and forced them out of their West Warwick home. In this episode, Dowding joins Dr. Philip Chan, along with Jason Rhodes, RIDOH's Chief of the Center for Emergency Medical Services to talk about what you need to know and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning. 

In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Philip Chan talks about measles with Dr. Suzanne Bornschein, RIDOH's infectious disease state epidemiologist. From recent outbreaks to risk factors and symptoms, download and listen to find out the best and safest way to protect yourself. 

Imagine if there was a way to help create supportive, stigma-free environments for people living with substance use and mental health conditions, especially in the workplace. The Rhode Island Recovery-Friendly Workplace Initiative aims to do just that. Jeffrey Wolfsberg, program director for the Recovery-Friendly Workplace Program at the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities, & Hospitals (BHDDH) joins Dr. Philip Chan in this episode to talk about how the initiative not only supports the workforce but can also boost a business's bottom line. 

In this episode, Jonathan Lucero McKinney, a physician assistant at Care New England Medical Group’s Internal Medicine Center in Pawtucket, Rhode Island and co-host of the Outloud YouTube channel, joins Dr. Philip Chan to discuss the Rhode Island Department of Health's PrEP Champions Network.  The network helps connect people with PrEP - a medication that can help prevent the spread of HIV. Download and listen to find out how anyone in the state can find a participating PrEP Champions Network clinic near them to access this medication, as well as trusted, stigma-free, sexual healthcare. 

January is Radon Awareness Month - a time to call attention to the dangers of this silent killer. What is radon and how common is it?  How do you know if you have radon lurking in your home? In this episode, Alex Yelle, an industrial hygienist for RIDOH's Radon and Asbestos Control Programs joins Dr. Chan to answer these questions and talk about how you can protect yourself and your family. 

It's a new year and many people are setting resolutions for better health. If you are looking to make time for weight loss, healthier eating, physical activity, and even prevention and management of chronic diseases like Diabetes – then you won't want to miss this episode. Download and listen as Erica Hanson, the Rhode Island Department of Health's Community Health Network manager and Ana Almeida-DoRosário, community outreach coordinator at the Brown University Health, Community Health Institute join Dr. Philip Chan to discuss the no and low-cost resources available to help with a new you, in the new year. 

RIDOH Oral Health Program Dental Director, Dr. Samuel Zwetchkenbaum joins Dr. Philip Chan in this episode to talk about a subject that’s gotten some recent media attention – fluoride. Why is it added to some public water systems and how does it benefit oral health? While there has been quite a lot of discussion following the release of a major study on fluoride in drinking water, Dr. Zwetchkenbaum shares what he knows on the subject and sets the record straight. 

November 21st is the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout, an annual event that encourages people to quit smoking or reduce their tobacco and nicotine use for at least 24 hours to live a healthier life and reduce their cancer risk. Ámbar Delgado, Manager of Advocacy at Tobacco Free RI Statewide Network, talks about why reducing tobacco and nicotine use should still be on our radar and highlights the resources available to all Rhode Islanders who want to quit. 

Every landlord in Rhode Island is now required by law to register their residential rental properties in a new Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH)-managed database, which was launched in September. RIDOH’s Deputy Director, Seema Dixit joins us to answer your questions about the Rental Registry. Why does this registry exist and what is required? What happens if a property owner doesn't register? How can landlords obtain the required lead certificate? Download and listen to get answers to these questions and more. 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Often referred to as intimate partner violence, it affects roughly 48 percent  - nearly half- of all women and about 41 percent of all men at least once in their lifetime.  In this episode, Dr. Chan is joined by Dr. Cynthia Roberts, senior evaluator from the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Dr. Samantha Rosenthal, a professor of health science at Johnson & Wales University and adjunct professor of epidemiology at Brown School of Public Health, for a conversation about how data are used to understand some of the causes of intimate partner violence, effective prevention strategies, and the importance of raising awareness.If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the 24-hour Rhode Island statewide helpline at 1-800-494-8100 or visit RICADV.org and click on the “Need Help” tab. Additional Resources: Pregnancy-Associated Violence in Rhode Island: The Data LandscapeRIDOH's Violence and Injury Prevention Program

September is Suicide Prevention Month. It’s an important time to remember lives lost and acknowledge the huge impact suicide has had on our communities. It’s also a time to bring awareness to the suicide prevention efforts in Rhode Island. In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Chan is joined by the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Area Director, Kerrie Constant and Board Chair, Keely Taylor. They share their own personal experiences and discuss how everyone can have a role in preventing suicide. Additional resources: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – If you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide; experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis; or are in emotional distress, you can call or text 988 or chat with 988 at 988lifeline.org. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7. BH Link’s mission is to ensure all Rhode Islanders 18+ experiencing mental health and substance use crises receive the appropriate services they need as quickly as possible in an environment that supports their recovery. Call 401-414-LINK (5465) or visit their 24/7 triage center at 975 Waterman Ave., East Providence, RI.Bradley Hospital’s Kids’ Link -. Kids’ Link is a behavioral health triage service and referral network. The program is offered in collaboration with Gateway Healthcare, Lifespan, Hasbro Children's Hospital and Bradley Hospital. Kids’ Link RI is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help triage children and youth in need of mental health services and refer them to treatment providers. 1-855-543-5465Parent Coach RI is a free 30-day text messaging service that provides parents/caregivers with helpful tips and information to support the youth in their lives through mental and behavioral challenges. tinyurl.com/3fekw78wPreventSuicideRI.org for additional state and national resources, training opportunities, and suicide data. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention  focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide through prevention programs, public education, fundraising for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those who have lost someone to suicide. 

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can follow an injury or infection and can affect anyone, regardless of age. There is treatment, but it's critical to act fast. In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Chan is joined by Tara Cirella, a local mom who tragically lost her daughter, Gianna, to sepsis a few years ago and Dr. Lee Polikoff, a pediatric critical care specialist at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.  He was one of the physicians in charge of Gianna’s care and is an expert on sepsis. They'll talk about understanding the signs and symptoms of sepsis and the importance of asking questions and advocating for our loved ones if there is a chance they could be suffering from sepsis. It could save a life. This is an episode you won't want to miss. 

September is National Preparedness Month. It's also the peak of the Atlantic Hurricane season! In this episode, Dr. Chan talks with Andrea Creach, from RIDOH's Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response, about how hurricanes and other weather events can impact our health, and what we can do to prepare and protect ourselves from the effects of these types of emergencies. 

National Community Health Worker Awareness Week is August 26-30, 2024 but in truth, Community Health Workers, or CHWs, could easily be celebrated all year. That's because they serve as trusted community leaders, expert problem solvers, and culturally competent subject matter experts-- often bridging the gap between their community's needs and important health or social services. In this episode, Dr. Philip Chan sits down with certified CHWs Rachel Young of the Rhode Island Alliance for Community Health Worker Employers, and Kinzel Thomas, from Family Services-RI.  As we celebrate, commemorate, and  collaborate with CHWs for National CHW Awareness Week, there's no better time to discuss the CHW profession's impact, what unique skills CHWs bring to care teams, certification, and why their roles are so important in clinical or community settings.   For more information and support, we also recommend: Video for Employers: Rhode Island CHWs ~ Your Bridge to Better HealthRhode Island Alliance for CHW Employers: ripin.org/allianceforchwemployers/Family Services-RI: familyserviceri.org/Rhode Island Department of Health, CHW Program: health.ri.gov/chwsCommunity Health Worker Association of Rhode Island: chwari.org/Caring Careers-RI: caringcareers.ri.gov/National Association of Community Health Workers: nachw.org

In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Philip Chan talks with Dr. Jerome Larkin, the new Rhode Island Department of Health Director about his background, what led him to accept this position, and a look ahead at his top priorities for the Department.  He also covers a topic that happens to be one of his specialties - ticks and the diseases they carry. 

In this episode of Public Health Out Loud we are talking about a program whose motto says it all: “We’re here for you.” The Rhode Island Department of Health's Family Visiting Program has provided prenatal support and services for infants and toddlers to improve outcomes for many years. Download and listen in as Dr. Chan is joined by Sara Remington, the Family Visiting Program Manager and Roxanne Leite, Co-chair of the Rhode Island Parent/Caregiver Advisory Council and former Family Visiting Program graduate. Together, they detail all the program has to offer, attest to its success, and share information on who qualifies for these important visits and how to get started. 

Dr. Omar Bah, a former journalist, fled his home in The Gambia when he became a wanted man for criticizing the country’s then-dictator.  Inspired by his own experience, Bah founded the Refugee Dream Center in Providence to offer post-resettlement support to other refugees in the state. He joins Dr. Chan in this episode to talk about his motivation for starting this valuable resource, and much more. What are some of the biggest hurdles facing those seeking asylum?  What services are helpful in bridging the cultural gaps? Download and listen to find out. 

You’ve probably heard about avian influenza or bird flu in the news recently, as it has made the jump to other species, like dairy cows. What is the risk to the general public? Is it safe to drink milk? In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, local experts, Dr. Suzanne Bornschein, State Epidemiologist at the Rhode Island Department of Health, and Dr. Scott Marshall, State Veterinarian at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management fill us in on what we do know about the currently circulating strains and what we can do to reduce the risk of infection. 

In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Philip Chan is joined by a guest with over 40 year's experience working to change the way we care for older adults and people with dementia. In honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, Brown University's, Dr. Vincent Mor talks about his research,  steps we can all take to improve our brain health, and more. For more information, check out The Rhode Island Department of Health's  Guide for People Living with Dementia and Their Caregivers.