Better Health Now

Join Dr. Leor Arbel, Cullman Regional Medical Group's newest urologist, as she causes of blood in urine, also known as hematuria. Hematuria can indicate conditions like infection, stones, or even cancer. Dr. Arbel explains the importance of evaluation, what patients can expect during the diagnostic process, and how early detection can make a difference.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Adam Crisologo, anesthesiologist at Cullman Regional, walks us through what patients can expect when it comes to anesthesia before, during, and after a procedure or surgery. From the different types of anesthesia to what happens in the operating room, Dr. Crisologo breaks it down so patients know what to expect and feel more confident going into their procedure. 

Bringing home a newborn can be so exciting, but it also comes with lots of questions. In this episode, Cullman Regional Medical Group pediatrician Chris Dodd, MD, PhD shares helpful guidance for new parents navigating those first few months, from choosing a pediatrician to managing common sleep and feeding challenges. He also covers essential infant safety tips and discusses how Cullman Regional is continuing to invest in healthcare services for women and children in our community.

In Episode 25 of Better Health Now, OB-GYN physician and gynecologic surgeon Dr. Lance Justice talks with us about the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. He explains how this advanced technology enhances the precision of gynecological surgeries, while giving patients the benefits of smaller incisions, less discomfort, and a quicker recovery. Dr. Justice also shares what it means to offer this advanced capability locally—and how Cullman Regional continues to invest in technology and talent for better healthcare in our region.

Join us on Better Health Now as we welcome Katie Basch, ONP-C, one of only four Certified Orthopedic Nurse Practitioners in Alabama. Katie shares insights into her unique role in orthopedic care, explaining what she can do as an ONP-C and how her specialized training benefits her patients.

Sleep is essential to overall health, yet many people struggle with getting quality rest. In this episode, sleep medicine specialist Desiree Washburn joins us to discuss the benefits of a good night's sleep, the signs that you might need a sleep study, and how sleep disorders can impact your health. She breaks down common symptoms like snoring, fatigue, and difficulty staying asleep and explains the personalized solutions available to help you rest better.

In this episode of Better Health Now, we sit down with Dr. Blake Tennant, a psychiatrist with Cullman Regional Medical Group who is leading the hospital's participation in Vital Alabama's Zero Suicide Project. Dr. Tennant explains how the initiative is being implemented at Cullman Regional and the benefits for patients and the community.For more information about the Zero Suicide Project, please visit:https://vitalalabama.com/ https://zerosuicide.edc.org/ 

In this episode of Better Health Now, we sit down with Dr. Connor Ojard, an orthopedic surgeon at Cullman Regional Medical Group, to discuss all things shoulder health. Dr. Ojard breaks down common misconceptions about shoulder and joint health, explains how arthritis impacts the shoulder joint, and shares ways younger adults can protect their shoulders to delay or avoid surgery.

Join us as experts from Cullman Regional's Bariatric Center of Excellence walk us through every step of the weight loss surgery—from the initial consult to surgery day. Our team is here to support you with expert care and personalized guidance. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery or just curious about the process, this episode offers insights to help you take the next step.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Chris Dodd, a pediatrician with Cullman Regional Medical Group, explains common seasonal respiratory illnesses in children. He discusses how to recognize symptoms, when to seek care, and tips for managing your child's health during peak seasons. Tune in to stay informed and keep your family healthy!

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Greg Thompson breaks down the difference between endoscopies and colonoscopies, why regular colonoscopy screenings are so important for early detection, and what to expect if you're scheduled for one. Whether you're preparing for a procedure or curious about how these screenings can save lives, Dr. Thompson provides clear, reassuring information to help you feel confident about your digestive health journey.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. D'Lisa Bitterly takes us behind the scenes of Cullman Regional's Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center. Learn how our surgeons and other wound care providers take care of patients and how specialized centers like ours go beyond what a primary care clinic can offer. Dr. Bitterly also shares exciting news about the center's expansion, including the addition of more beds to better serve our community. Tune in to discover how advanced wound care can make a life-changing difference for patients.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Darryle Bullard, a pulmonologist at Cullman Regional Medical Group, to discuss the serious and often underestimated illness—pneumonia. Dr. Bullard sheds light on why more than 1 million people are hospitalized with pneumonia each year and what factors may increase susceptibility. Learn how you can protect yourself and loved ones with a better understanding of pneumonia and what steps you can take to strengthen respiratory health.

In this episode, Dr. Greg Thompson, a general surgeon at Cullman Regional Medical Group, helps us better understand the da Vinci robot, a groundbreaking tool transforming surgical care. Discover the remarkable benefits of robotic surgery that contribute to a smoother patient experience including faster and easier recovery from abdominal surgery. Tune in to learn how robotic surgery is reshaping the future of healthcare at Cullman Regional!

In this episode, Dr. Morgan Martin, a board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Seidel Martin Plastic Surgery in Cullman, explains the different options breast cancer patients have when it comes to reconstructive surgery. She shares crucial information on when and why breast cancer patients should consider reconstruction surgery and how laws are in place to ensure insurance coverage. Join us for an in-depth look at breast reconstruction and breast cancer patient empowerment.

In this episode, Dr. William Smith, Chief Medical Officer at Cullman Regional, helps us understand the role of hospitalist physicians who specialize in taking care of patients while they are in the hospital. Hear about how a dedicated hospitalist program benefits patients by providing consistent and expert care from familiar faces. 

Join us as we chat with Judy Grissom from the Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation! Founded in 2013, this remarkable organization is dedicated to improving the lives of local cancer patients by providing crucial financial support during their treatment. Judy shares insights into how the Foundation assists patients with basic living expenses and details the exciting events they host, including the upcoming Little Pink Dress event on October 1. Don't miss out on learning about how Bosom Buddies is impacting our community and how you can support efforts to continue the good work being done. 

In this episode, we're excited to introduce pediatrician Dr. John Licata, one of the newest additions to Cullman Regional Medical Group's pediatric team. Whether you're expecting a new baby or navigating the challenges of parenthood, Dr. Licata offers valuable insights and tips on child nutrition and wellness.

In the tenth episode of "Better Health Now," we sit down with Dr. Bailey Meherg, a general surgeon with Cullman Regional Medical Group. As a mom of young children and a physician, Dr. Meherg shares her expert advice on prioritizing health for women, and tips for maintaining wellness despite the demands of everyday life. Plus, learn about the various surgeries Dr. Meherg performs day to day, highlighting the importance of women's health and the advanced care available here at Cullman Regional.

Join us in this episode of Better Health Now as we welcome Dr. Victoria Clay, an interventional pain physician with Cullman Regional Medical Group. Dr. Clay shares her expert insights on managing spine and joint pain through targeted interventional methods. Learn how her innovative approach provides effective pain relief and improves patients' quality of life. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about advanced pain management techniques!

In this episode of Better Health Now, we welcome Dr. Britt who serves as Co-medical Director for Cullman Regional Hospice. Dr. Britt takes us through what hospice care truly entails and debunks common misconceptions. She also shares what a typical day looks like for Cullman Regional's hospice team, and how they personalize care to meet the unique needs of each patient and their families. Join us for a heartfelt and informative conversation about the compassionate world of hospice care.

Mako robotic-arm assisted joint replacement surgery has become the gold standard in orthopedic care. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Stephen Gould with Cullman Regional Medical Group Orthopedics & Sports Medicine shares how it's transforming knee and hip replacement procedures. Dr. Gould also shares his insights on the vital role of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining joint health and preventing the need for surgical intervention.

From your first prenatal visit to delivery, Lauren Stone, CRNP talks about what to expect when you are expecting. Hear about milestones, testing, and patient education during prenatal care. Lauren Stone, CRNP is a board-certified Women's Healthcare Nurse Practitioner at Cullman Regional Medical Group OB-GYN Clinic.

Dr. Matthew Young explains how lithotripsy, a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for painful kidney stones, can help patients. Dr. Young is a board certified urologist and a member of Cullman Regional Medical Group. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and followed with a urology residency and general surgery internship at the Medical University of South Carolina and Charleston.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a treatment for men and women with problems related to the pelvic floor. This highly specialized therapy includes exercises that can help relieve symptoms like pain, discomfort, and disruptions to your quality of life.  Kayla is a member of the Cullman Regional Therapy Services team and earned a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of South Alabama in 2018. She treats a variety of orthopedic conditions and she is working towards a Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification (PRPC) from the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.

Please join us and OB-GYN Physician Dr. Lance Justice as we discuss how he cares for patients experiencing menopause symptoms. You can subscribe to the Better Health now podcast wherever you listen, follow us on Youtube @cullmanregionalmedicalcenter for the full length video, or visit the Cullman Regional Facebook page to stay up to date with new episodes as they are released.

Please join us and Dr. Joseph Forester, DO as we discuss his work as an Allergist & Immunologist at Cullman Regional in Cullman, AL. Dr. Forester specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of allergic disorders, asthma, and primary immunodeficiencies for patients of all ages. You can subscribe to the Better Health now podcast wherever you listen, follow us on Youtube @cullmanregionalmedicalcenter for the full length video, or visit the Cullman Regional Facebook page to stay up to date with new episodes as they are released.