Hartford HealthCare Podcast

In this episode, Steve Coates welcomes psychologists Dr. Laura Saunders and Dr. Derek Fenwick, both from the Hartford HealthCare's Center for Gender Health.They discuss the needs of those seeking medical gender transition, and the value of providing access to coordinated care in a welcoming environment for this population. If you, or someone you know, would like to learn more about Hartford HealthCare's Center for Gender Health, be sure to check the links in this episode's notes. Don't forget to rate and share More Life and follow us to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search "Hartford HealthCare" on your favorite podcast platform.The Center for Gender Health132 Jefferson St., Hartford(inside the Community Health Center)860.545.7009Laura.Saunders@hhchealth.orgClick for Referrals

Veteran's Day is Friday, November 11. In this episode, we celebrate those who have and who currently serve and the special skill set they bring to their civilian roles. Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Keith Grant, APRN, vice president of operations for the Hartford Region and United States Air Force reservist.Keith also served as Hartford HeathCare's senior system director of infection prevention throughout the pandemic. Once COVID-19 hit Connecticut, Keith became one of the trusted voices and faces that would update the state regularly through the crisis. His expertise and leadership skills helped both his colleagues and the general public navigate through very uncertain times. Check this episode's links to learn more about Keith Grant, COVID 19 vaccines and resources and Hartford HealthCare's partnership with Jamaica. Follow More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform.Watch: Keith Grant - We Stand TogetherRead: Hartford HealthCare Celebrates Special Partnership with the Jamaican Health ConsulateHartford HealthCare: COVID 19 Vaccines and resources

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Laura Bailey, vice president of Patient Care Services at Hartford Hospital. It's been almost three years since the onset of the pandemic and Laura gives us important perspective looking back - where we are now – and what the future looks like for healthcare workers, their patients and the general public. Laura also addresses the current nursing shortage – how Baby Boomer retirement is affecting the numbers and how new hiring and recruitment efforts are helping.  Learn more about nursing careers at Hartford HealthCare at HHCCareers.org.Follow More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform. 

Welcome to More Life. In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coats welcomes Angel Rentas. Angel is an APRN who works at Hartford HealthCare's Heart & Vascular Institute EP Lab at Hartford Hospital. He's also a professional stand-up comedian!Angel has a great story about breaking on to the comedy scene in the 80's - which is no easy task - and how his career in healthcare came to be. He also talks about his family's journey from Puerto Rico to mainland America and how comedy helped him with that sometimes-difficult transition. Check the links in this episode's notes to learn more about Angel. Subscribe to More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform. Angel Rentas featured in the Hartford CourantAngel Rentas stand-up comedy

In this episode of More Life, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates digs into the topic of hoarding with Dr. David Tolin, medical director of the Anxiety Disorders Center at the Institute of Living, part of the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network.Hoarding disorder is surprisingly common and can range from tolerable to hazardous and can make the person suffering, or the people around them, miserable.Dr. Tolin helps us identify the difference between messy and hoarding and sheds some light on how a genetic predisposition, previous life event, or even impaired cognitive function may contribute to the disorder. Who is Dr. Tolin?Dr. David Tolin is the author of over 200 scientific journal articles, as well as the books Doing CBT: A Comprehensive Guide to Working with Behaviors, Thoughts, and Emotions, Buried in Treasures: Help for Compulsive Acquiring, Saving, and Hoarding and Face Your Fears: A Proven Plan to Beat Anxiety, Panic, Phobias, and Obsessions.Dr. Tolin has been featured on the reality TV series “Hoarders,” “The OCD Project,” and “My Shopping Addiction,” and has been a recurrent guest on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “The Dr. Oz Show.”Learn more about compulsive hoardingHoarding Disorder ResearchThe Anxiety Disorders Center at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living is conducting a study investigating changes in brain functioning after treatment in people with Hoarding Disorder.Learn more

Welcome to a special 3-part series of Hartford HealthCare's More Life that will focus on how different generations engage on  various healthcare topics.Hosted by Tina Varona, director of Media Relations on the Hartford HealthCare content strategy team, and administrative graduate intern Levell Williams - a health equity scholar at the Brown University School of Public Health in Rhode Island.The idea behind the series: identify the “generation gap” in various health-related topics while Tina and Levell share their own, unique experiences representing Generation X and Gen Z.  The goal:  to “bridge that gap” through a lively discussion with Hartford HealthCare experts to educate audience members of all age groups.In episode three, Tina and Levell get very honest about the physical, emotional and social generation gap when it comes to COVID-19. Their guest, Keith Grant, APRN, is Senior System Director of Infection Prevention for Hartford HealthCare and has been on the front line, helping every generation navigate this pandemic from the start. Listen to the other episodes in this series:Episode 1 with Dr. Laura SaundersEpisode 2 with Dr. Godfrey PearlsonWatch: Keith Grant featured on  NBC CTKeith Grant Recognized as Local Hero for All, including People of Color

Welcome to a special 3-part series of Hartford HealthCare's More Life that will focus on how different generations engage on  various healthcare topics.Hosted by Tina Varona, director of Media Relations on the Hartford HealthCare content strategy team, and administrative graduate intern Levell Williams - a health equity scholar at the Brown University School of Public Health in Rhode Island.The idea behind the series: identify the “generation gap” in various health-related topics while Tina and Levell share their own, unique experiences representing Generation X and Gen Z.  The goal:  to “bridge that gap” through a lively discussion with Hartford HealthCare experts to educate audience members of all age groups.In episode two, Tina and Levell explore the generational use of marijuana – who likes it, and why – medicinal or recreational?  Their guest, Dr. Godfrey Pearlson of the Olin Neuropsychiatry Center at the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital, is also the author of Weed Science, and he has some fascinating insight. Listen to the other episodes in this series:Episode 1 with Dr. Laura SaundersEpisode 3 with Keith Grant, APRN

Welcome to a special 3-part series of Hartford HealthCare's More Life that will focus on how different generations engage on  various healthcare topics.Hosted by Tina Varona, director of Media Relations on the Hartford HealthCare content strategy team, and administrative graduate intern Levell Williams - a health equity scholar at the Brown University School of Public Health in Rhode Island.The idea behind the series: identify the “generation gap” in various health-related topics while Tina and Levell share their own, unique experiences representing Generation X and Gen Z.  The goal:  to “bridge that gap” through a lively discussion with Hartford HealthCare experts to educate audience members of all age groups.In episode one, Tina and Levell explore the generational shift in social media with special guest Dr. Laura Saunders, Psychologist at Hartford Hospital's Institute of Living.You've been listening to the first episode in a special 3-part series on More Life, focusing on how members of different generational age groups engage various health care topics.Listen to the other episodes in this series:Episode 2 with Dr. Godfrey PearlsonEpisode 3 with Keith Grant, APRNLearn more about the Institute of LivingWatch more from Dr. Laura Saunders:Taking a Break from Social MediaHow Social Media Affects Teens

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Dr. Amir Masoud, Co-Medical Director of the Hartford HealthCare Nuerogastroenterology & Motility Center.What is IBS? What is GERD? Dr. Masoud answers these questions and more. He explains the function of motility - and describes the important interplay between our brain and our gut. Check the links in this episode's notes to learn more about Dr. Masoud and the Neurogastroenterology & Motility Center.Follow More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform. Thanks for listening to More Life.VISIT: Hartford HealthCare Nuerogastroenterology & Motility CenterWATCH: Meet Dr. Amir Masoud 

This important episode is a must-share and could save a life this holiday weekend – or at any time of the year. Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Dr. Jonathan Gates, chief of trauma at Hartford Hospital.Dr. Gates gives us a rare perspective from behind-the-scenes of a Level 1 trauma center. He also shares some of the chaos and seamless coordination he experienced during the Boston Marathon bombings and the Haitian earthquake in 2010.Closer to home, Dr. Gates and Hartford HealthCare have joined forces with the Connecticut Department of Transportation for “Not One More” – a campaign designed to prevent the trauma that can result from impaired driving due to alcohol and drugs. He sees the devastating effects every day. It's an undeniable problem that peaks during the July 4th holiday.He is asking for Connecticut drivers to pledge that they won't have that one additional drink or smoke that will put them and others at risk. His story is a compelling one.  Please, explore and share the links in this episode's notes to “Not One More” with the ones you love. There are some impressive videos and resources there that are guaranteed to make us all think twice about “Not One More.”  Videos, TV spots, resources and more: Will you sign the pledge? Visit NotOneMore.org.Follow More Life to be notified every time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.

Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks to Hartford, Connecticut Mayor Luke Bronin. They cover some critical challenges U.S. cities are all facing including violence, COVID recovery and how health equity plays an important part in each of these issues.Mayor Bronin, who recently recovered from COVID himself, shares some important lessons learned in being tasked with leading his city through the pandemic. He also talks about leveraging key partnerships with hospitals, health systems, community and faith organizations and the impact that can have on individuals and the city at large.DominGO! Hartford, which will temporarily transform a few miles of Hartford's city streets into car-free public spaces this summer, is one of the mayor's prime examples of how we are connecting our communities and creating new places for safe, neighborhood fun and healthy activities for all ages and abilities.Follow More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform. Related links and episodesBackus Hospital Helps A City Park Rise From RubbleEquity in Healthcare Delivery ConferenceSupplier Diversity Summit Builds Partnerships with Minority and Women-Owned BusinessesListen: The Racial Divide: Acknowledging and addressing disparities in healthcare

In recognition of the 200th anniversary of Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living (IOL) this year, Hartford HealthCare has partnered with the Connecticut Historical Society to present Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health.   This special podcast series will take us through the history of mental health treatment in Connecticut, and behind the scenes of the IOL, the first psychiatric hospital in the history of Connecticut and the third in the nation.The journey of mental health care through the 19th and 20th century is a fascinating one. The IOL played a significant role in fundamentally changing approaches to mental health – blazing a trail of moral, ethical treatment for others to follow.In episode three, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks to Dr. Javeed Sukhera, chair of psychiatry at the Institute of Living and chief of the Department of Phychiatry at Harford Hospital.They discuss the current state and rising need of quality mental health access in the U.S., how the IOL has historically pivoted to meet the needs of any given era, and they also look at a future filled with new possibilities in the field of mental health treatment. Check the links in this episode's notes to listen to episodes one and two which feature the Connecticut Historical Society's exhibit and a fascinating conversation with Dr. Hank Schwartz. Be sure to follow Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform where more episodes focusing on the IOL's history, present and future will publish throughout the year. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.The Evolution of Mental Health Care: 200 years at Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living: Episode One: featuring the Connecticut Historical SocietyEpisode Two: featuring Dr. Hank SchwartzLearn more about Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living Learn more about Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health Presented by Hartford HealthCare Institute of Living

Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates and Dr. Jared Bieniek, medical director of Men's Health at Hartford HealthCare's Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute, get into some very important topics for men – any anyone who loves them.While vasectomy is a sensitive topic, is it really a good option for birth control? And more importantly for some, is it reversable, and is it covered by insurance? Dr. Bieniek has answers.In addition to overall men's health, Steve and Dr. Bieniek also get into Zero Prostate. It's a movement to create Generation Zero – the first generation of men free from prostate cancer. Hartford HealthCare and Tallwood have partnered with Zero Prostate Cancer, a national organization, to raise funds for research with a Zero Prostate 5k family run scheduled for June 12 in Hartford.More about the Zero Prostate 5K:Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute is hosting a ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk, as part of a nationwide series of Run/Walks designed to attract patients, survivors, family members, friends, medical professionals, and athletes who come together as a community to raise awareness about prostate cancer and save lives. Races will finish inside Dunkin Donuts Park, home of the Hartford Yard Goats.Registration is free to take part in the 5K run/walk or Kids Superhero Dash for Dad. Official Chip timing and T-shirts are optional. The proceeds raised from this event will be shared among national and local organizations who share the mission to end prostate cancer by supporting research, education and treatment for the uninsured.Imagine the impact to families and loved ones if men are diagnosed and treated early, vastly improving their odds of living longer, healthier lives because WE brought awareness.

In this special Mother's Day edition of More Life, we are joined by Hartford Hospital's Jennifer Dowe, patient education manager for Women's Health Services, and Mary Marshall-Crimm, a family nurse practitioner, lactation consultant and the manager of the lactation program at the hospital.They help to take us through the amazing journey of becoming a mom, from prenatal education to labor and delivery, breastfeeding, taking baby home - and beyond. Jen and Mary describe some of the amazing resources now available to expectant and new parents including support groups, virtual classes and social media connections. Be sure to explore some of the great programs and pages discussed in this episode:HH Special Deliveries Childbirth Center (Facebook) – Open to the publicHHC Breastfeeding support group (Facebook) – Private groupFourth Trimester and Postpartum Wellness class - Open to the publicHartford HealthCare Parent Education classes - Open to the publicWebinar: What New Grandparents Should Know - Open to the publicRegister for the weekly Breastfeeding Support Group HERERelated More Life podcast episodes:Midwifery: Back to the basics of birthingCall the Hartford Hospital Lactation Center to schedule a phone consultation; virtual consultation or in person consultation: 860.972.2428Call the Hispanic Health Council for follow up by a peer counselor: 860.527.0856More breastbeeding resources:La Leche League of CT Breastfeeding USA  

In recognition of the 200th anniversary of Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living (IOL) this year, Hartford HealthCare has partnered with the Connecticut Historical Society to present Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health. This special podcast series will take us through the history of mental health treatment in Connecticut, and behind the scenes of the IOL, the first psychiatric hospital in the history of Connecticut and the third in the nation.The journey of mental health care through the 19th and 20th century is a fascinating one. The IOL played a significant role in fundamentally changing approaches to mental health – blazing a trail of moral, ethical treatment for others to follow.In episode two, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks to Dr. Harold "Hank" Schwartz,  psychiatrist-in-chief emeritus at the Institute of Living.They take us back to the state of mental health in 1822. A time when those with mental illness were treated like prisoners, or worse. The field was on the cusp of much-needed change, which began in Europe. That change would soon reach the American shores and would be spearheaded by Eli Todd, a physician in Farmington, Connecticut, and who served as the first director of the Institute of Living.Check the links in this episode's notes to listen to episode one featuring the Connecticut Historical Society's Director of Exhibitions Ben Gammell, and Research Historian Karen Li Miller describing the “Common Struggle” exhibit which is now open at the Connecticut Historical Society.Be sure to follow Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform where more episodes focusing on the IOL's history, present and future will publish throughout the year. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.The Evolution of Mental Health Care: 200 years at Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living:Episode OneLearn more about Hartford HealthCare's Institute of LivingLearn more about Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health Presented by Hartford HealthCare Institute of Living

Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Mui Mui  Hin-McCormick, Clinical director of Adult Residential Services with Rushford, part of the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network.The topic: The Model Minority Myth - which is an assumption made, most commonly with Asian-Americans, that they are smart, successful, good with subjects like math and science, polite and law-abiding.While that might sound flattering, this stereotype not only ignores the diversity in the Asian-American culture, but it positions the community as not needing resources and programs to help them.The goal: To equip people to ask for help when they need it, whether it's teachers in school or colleagues in the workplace. It's an important and ongoing journey to awareness. You can subscribe to More Life and be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform and hit follow.Related articles:Unrealistic Expectations on Asian Americans: the ‘Model Minority Myth'Related episode:Health Equity: Examining the past, present and future

In this episode, originally published in March of 2021, Steve Coates talks with Dr. Jeffrey Nestler, Hartford Hospital Chief of Gastroenterology and Medical Co-Director of the Digestive Health Center, about the current colonoscopy recommendations, advances made in preventing, detecting and treating colon cancer, the pros and cons of home test kits – and even dreaded colonoscopy prep. For more information or to schedule your colonoscopy, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/ColonoscopyBe sure to share this episode with anyone in your life over the age of 45 or who may have a family history of colon cancer.Subscribe or follow More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.Related articles:Former Red Sox Pitcher Jim Corsi: ‘Don't Be Stupid. Get a Colonoscopy'Prep! Colonoscopies Just Got Younger: New Screening Recommendations Start at Age 45

The Hartford HealthCare (HHC) Ayer Neuroscience Institute Headache Center and the internationally-recognized Migraine Research Foundation (MRF) recently announced an official, permanent collaboration. In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with the Headache Center's medical director Dr. Brian Grosberg who explains how this one-of-a-kind program is advancing research and treatment in the field of headaches. Check the notes in this episode to learn more about the Headache Center, their research, services and upcoming programs and classes. Or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/Headache. Subscribe or follow Hartford HealthCare's More Life to be notified each time a new episode drops. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform. Related articleHartford HealthCare, Migraine Research Foundation Announce Collaboration Related episodesSplitting Headaches: Episode 1 with Dr. Nicole GillSplitting Headaches: Episode 2 with Dr. Joe CasalyHartford HealthCare programs and classesView or search by category

A lucky online sports bettor from Connecticut recently made national news by turning a $20 bet into $579,000 after guessing exact final scores of last Sunday's NFL championship games. Key word: Lucky.Betting on sports is nothing new, but legalized online sports betting is new to Connecticut and we're being bombarded with ads tempting us with all sorts of winning scenarios. These once-in-a-lifetime wins are fun to dream about, online bettors have more than money at stake - their odds of developing an unhealthy habit are pretty good. In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coats welcomes Dr. J. Craig Allen Vice President of Addiction Services at Hartford HealthCare's Behavioral Health Network, and Laura Zappieri, an addiction and substance abuse counselor in Glastonbury, Connecticut. They discuss some of the pitfalls of online sports betting and how the normalization of gambling, especially for young minds, could be putting us at real risk.We'd love you to share this episode and subscribe to More Life for more episodes on a wide range of important topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.Related article:The Risks of Legalized Sports Gambling: Is The State Prepared?Easy Access to Sports Gambling Could Cause ProblemsBehavioral Health NetworkGamblers Anonymous

In this episode of More Life, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates sits down with Dr. J. Craig Allen, Vice President of Addiction Services for Hartford HealthCare's Behavioral Health Network. They discuss the recent tragedy in which a 13-year-old died from a fentanyl overdose at his school in Hartford, Connecticut. The pandemic and societal stressors are putting our children, and others, at more risk than ever before. Dr. Allen provides some critical warnings we all need to be aware of to help us get a handle on the dangerous and sometimes deadly pandemic of substance abuse. Subscribe to More Life for more episodes on a wide range of important topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform. PREVENTION IN OUR SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY NARCAN AND FENTANYLJoin Zoom Meeting: https://hartfordhealthcare.zoom. us/j/94287578002Meeting ID: 942 8757 8002One tap mobile  +16468769923,,94287578002# US (New York) +13017158592,,94287578002# US (Washington DC)Browse more events by category Hartford HealthCare Classes and EventsRelated Article CDC: Connecticut Opioid Deaths in 2020 Spike Almost 15 Percent to 1,359

In this episode you'll meet Loreli Jenkins, an 80-year-old who was suffering from severe tremors that were taking a toll on her quality of life.Dr. Patrick Senatus, Medical Director of the Deep Brain Stimulation Program for the Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute, treated Loreli with Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS, a surgical procedure that helped free Loreli from decades of medication and maintain her independence – tremor free. Learn more about Deep Brain Stimulation at HartfordHealthCare.org/DBS. Be sure to subscribe to Hartford HealthCare's More Life podcast for more episodes on a wide range of important health topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.Join one of our FREE virtual webinarsWebinar: Understanding Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)Watch Dr. SenatusNeurosurgeon Dr. Patrick Senatus talks about deep brain stimulation as a way to treat Parkinson's disease and answers questions from our Facebook audience.Related articlesNow, Deep Brain Stimulation to Prevent Epileptic SeizuresWhy Deep Brain Stimulation ‘Life-Altering' for Some Parkinson's Patients

In recognition of the 200th anniversary of the Institute of Living (IOL) this year, Hartford HealthCare has partnered with the Connecticut Historical Society to present Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health. This special podcast series will take us through the history of mental health treatment in Connecticut, and behind the scenes of the IOL, the first psychiatric hospital in the history of Connecticut and the third in the nation.The IOL played a significant role in fundamentally changing approaches to mental health – blazing a trail of moral, ethical treatment for others to follow.In episode one, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks to the Connecticut Historical Society's Director of Exhibitions Ben Gammell, and Research Historian Karen Li Miller about the exhibit which is now open at the Connecticut Historical Society.Be sure to follow Hartford HealthCare on your favorite podcast platform where more episodes focusing on the IOL's history, present and future will publish throughout the year.Learn more about Hartford HealthCare's Institute of LivingLearn more about Common Struggle, Individual Experience: An Exhibition About Mental Health Presented by Hartford HealthCare Institute of Living

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of Hartford  HealthCare's 2021 holiday TV commercial which was shot in Connecticut and focuses on the gift of vaccination.  Steve Coates' guests are Helayne Lightstone, senior director of branding Hartford HealthCare,  and Reem Nouh, senior vice president of healthcare marketing at Adams & Knight, Hartford HealthCare's creative partner.They give us their unique perspective - which describes their partnership and how their teams successfully take a simple idea from its inception through to the end result - a powerful 30 second TV spot – one that not only evokes emotion but achieves every advertiser's goal – encouraging viewers like us to take action. Watch Hartford HealthCare's 2021 holiday TV spot here or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/brand You can follow and share Hartford HealthCare's More Life podcast for more episodes on a wide range of fascinating topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform. You'll be notified every time a new episode drops.

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Dr. James O'Dea, Vice President of Hartford HealthCare's Behavioral Health Network, about some difficult vaccination conversations some of us may be having with friends and family while trying to plan for the holidays.Vaccinated or not, Dr. O'Dea helps us understand both points of view and has some very valuable conversation tips and pointers, regardless of which group you might fall into.Learn more about current Covid variants and statistics, as well as access to vaccines and boosters, at HartfordHealthCare.org/Covid.Be sure to follow and share the Hartford HealthCare podcast for episodes covering a wide range of important health topics. Just search “Hartford HeathCare” on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Dr. James O'Dea, Vice President of Hartford HealthCare's Behavioral Health Network, about how the past few years – living in a pandemic environment simmering with isolation and social disruption - is putting our youth under great stress – and potentially at great risk. Here's Steve Coates.Dr. O'Dea helps us to identify red flags we all need to be watching for. Please check the links in this episode for important resources and support – for parents, for youth, and for anyone who may either feel at risk or know someone who might be.Also, be sure to follow and share Hartford HealthCare's podcast for more episodes on a wide range of health topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite platform.Related article:These Red flags Missed Prior to Michigan School ShootingFind resources and learn more:Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network

In this special episode of the Hartford HealthCare podcast, we take you to today's Hartford HealthCare media briefing, Nov. 29, 2021, where experts discuss the new Covid - Omicron variant which appears to be emerging on the world stage. They address Covid fatigue, the potential efficacy of current testing, vaccines and treatment toward the new variant, as well as current Covid statistics in the state of Connecticut. For the latest information on Covid statistics and access to vaccination and testing, go to Hartford HealthCare.org/Covid. Be sure to follow and share the Hartford HealthCare podcast for the latest news on a number of important health topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare" on your favorite podcast platform.Related article:Five Things to Know About the Omicron Varianthttps://healthnewshub.org/five-things-to-know-about-the-omicron-variant/ Watch the press briefing:https://fb.watch/9ANAu4DfzE/

In this special episode of the Hartford HealthCare podcast, Steve Coates talks to Hartford HealthCare's Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Ulysses Wu. Dr. Wu gives us the straight up facts on some key, current COVID vaccine data including booster recommendations, eligibility and efficacy rates of those boosters, and vaccination safety in the next category of eligibility - younger children, aged 5 to 11. Learn moreTo learn more about the most current COVID science, eligibility and access to vaccines and testing - and more – go to HartfordHealthCare.org/Covid. Stay informedFollow the Hartford HealthCare podcast to stay informed with the latest information on COVID and other important health topics. Just search “Hartford HealthCare” on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode we take listeners beyond breast cancer screening to what happens next – what if they find something?Our guest, Dr. Elizabeth Stirling Craig, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Hartford HealthCare's Cancer Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut.Dr. Craig specializes in microsurgery - the next level of breast reconstructive surgery. This procedure, using the patient's own tissue, results in a breast that resembles the natural breast as closely as possible in shape, size, and position.Schedule your mammogramDownload our Free Mammography GuideLearn more about the Breast Health CenterListen to our podcast episode about nerve blockingBlocking Pain: A game-changer for spine surgery patientsExplore our free educational webinars:Classes & Events                

Our guest is Dr. Godfrey Pearlson, director of Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center, which is part of the Hartford HealthCare Institute of Living. Dr. Pearlson is also the author of “Weed Science: Cannabis Controversies and Challenges” which takes a deep dive into what we really know about marijuana.  They discuss the recent legalization of recreational cannabis in the state of Connecticut. What do we stand to gain, in the form of recreation and revenue – or – what do we stand to lose, in respect to potential recreational risk?The Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center (NRC) is a clinical neuroscience research facility that was established in 2001. The Olin NRC's mission is to conduct neuroscience research of psychiatric illnesses and rapidly translate that research into new and effective treatments.Read this article featuring Dr. PearlsonIt's ‘Weed Science': Here's a Blueprint for Safe Marijuana Use

This is an important epidsode to share with the men in your life. September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. How does it start? How does it grow? And who's at risk? The prostate is the walnut-sized gland in men, located just below the bladder. Prostate cancer is marked by an uncontrolled (malignant) growth of cells in the prostate gland. Hartford HealthCare's Jocelyn Maminta talks with Dr. David Ahlborn, a urologist with Tallwood Urology and Kidney Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center. They discuss the risks and causes of prostate cancer and the latest advances on screening and treatment, including a recently launched multidisciplinary virtual visit program where patients can meet with all of their doctors together.Watch the Facebook Live interview here and follow our page.Share the health!Check out our recent episodes here and don't forget to follow and share the health!More about a prostate cancer diagnosisLearn more about prostate cancer and the new virtual visit options for prostate cancer patients. Join a FREE webinarYou can join a number of free webinars offered by Hartford HealthCare about prostate cancer, in English and Spanish, and on a wide range of other topics. Related articlesThe Care Gap Between Black and White Men With Prostate CancerProstate Cancer and Robotic Surgery: 20 Years, and 5,000 Surgeries, Later

The most recent statistics show as many as 400 reported deaths by suicide of physicians in just one year - and that was before the pandemic. In this special episode, Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates explores the topic of wellness amongst healthcare workers during an extraordinary time. Steve's guests are:Dr. John Santopietro, Physician-in-Chief at the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health NetworkDr. Faiqa Cheema, Director of Transplant Infectious  & Assistant Director of General Infectious Disease at Hartford HospitalDr. Listy Thomas, an Emergency Medicine Specialist, at St. Vincent's Medical Center National Suicide Prevention LifelineIf you or someone you know needs someone to reach out to call 800.273.8255, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.TALK (8255), or 911 immediately.Hartford HealthCare's Behavioral Health Network is a national leader in the Zero Suicide Initiative. 

Sarah Najamy is a certified nurse midwife with Circle of Life Midwifery in Shelton, Connecticut, and helped to design the one-of-a-kind midwifery birthing program at Hartford HealthCare's St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Related links:Read or listen! Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared ResponsibilityWatch! Meet Sarah Najamy and tour the midwifery suites at St. Vincent's Medical Center

Dr. Sterling Craig, a plastic surgeon and micro-vascular surgeon with the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut, explores a recent phenomenon of sorts - post-lockdown cosmetic surgery. What's behind the Zoom Boom, and what to avoid if you're considering a surgical procedure for yourself. Learn more about cosmetic surgery at St. Vincent's Medical CenterStVincents.org/CosmeticSurgeryWatch Dr. Craig on WTNH News 8Surgeon Explains Why More People May Be Undergoing Plastic Surgery 

Dr. Eglis Bogdanovics, a Hartford Healthcare Medical Group  endocrinologist with the Diabetes Center at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, discusses the different paths taken with managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes, some alarming risks of not treating diabetes and the all important access to care. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this episode, be sure to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Find a Doctor that's right for you and your family.Learn more about Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism at hartfordhealthcaremedicalgroup.org

It's World Breastfeeding Week and in this episode features two experts on the topic. Kara Giroux, a Lactation Consultant and Community Education Coordinator with Hartford HealthCare at Backus Hospital in Willimantic, CT,  and Sarah Quadrato a Nurse Educator with Women's Health Services at Hartford HospitalWorld Breastfeeding Week Event at Hartford HospitalWednesday, August 4: 11:30am-1pmOutdoor event | Open to publicMore information: kara.giroux@hhchealth.orgImportant links:Hartford HealthCare & Connecticut Children's AllianceE-learning and childbirth educationHartford HealthCare Facebook Breastfeeding Support GroupArticle: What's a Baby-Friendly Hospital? Ask a Breastfeeding MotherNew AHA Study: Breastfeeding in the First Days of Life Is Associated With Lower Blood Pressure at 3 Years of Age

Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks with Dr. David Bendor, Clinical Coordinator of the Young Adult Medical Track at Hartford HealthCare's Institute of Living.They discuss the challenges faced by youth with a dual diagnosis of behavioral and physical health conditions, and the most effective strategies to manage this unique situation - for both the patient and their families. The Young Adult Medical Track is taking referrals at 860.545.7008. To learn more and to meet the team, go to InstituteOfLiving.org/YoungAdultMedical Related topic: When Medical Illness Causes Mental Health Problems in Youths

Dr. Anthony Alessi and his daughter, Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa are both part of the Sports Neurology Program at Hartford HealthCare’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute. This father daughter team share a passion for boxing and MMA  – that is - the fight to make these sports safer and protect the fighters from serious brain injury. They’ll take you ringside and describe what they are looking for in the fighters that might compel them to end the fight. Check the links below for more compelling stories about the risk of traumatic brain injury in fighters and what is being done to better protect them. More links:Podcast: MMA Guidance from a Black Belt PhysicianArticle: Boxing Study Shows The Bigger They Are, The Harder It Is On The Brain

Steve Coates welcomes Dr. Joseph Wagner, Chief of Urology and Director of Robotic Surgery at Hartford Hospital. This month marks the 20th anniversary of FDA approval for robotic prostatectomy and Dr. Wagner was one of the first in the nation to perform this groundbreaking procedure. He’ll take us back to what that was like for him and for the patient – and he’ll also describe how this technology has changed over the past two decades.Learn more about Robotic Surgery at Hartford HealthCare's Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute

Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates talks to Dr. Bharat Narapareddy, a neuropsychiatrist at the Institute of Living, part of the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network. He’s also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Dr. Narapareddy is part of a collaborative research team who recently published a study on brain changes in professional fighters based on weight class. He helps us better understand the effect repeated blows to the head have on brain structure and function over time.

Steve Coates talks Hartford HealthCare’s Bone & Joint Institute’s Stefanie Bourassa, Director of Physical Therapy, and Nicole LaVette, a Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery APRN with the Institute’s Women’s Sports Health Program.  They discuss REDS, or Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome, which is the result of insufficient caloric intake associated with excessive energy expenditure. Consequences of this low-energy condition can have many physical and psychological impacts that affect performance. The BJI women’s sports health program is on the leading edge of identifying and treating REDs with a holistic approach. The phone number for musculoskeletal health triage is 860.972.5945. To learn more about Hartford HealthCare’s Bone & Joint Institute, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/BJI.

Dr. Vijay Yanamadala, a neurosurgeon with the Ayer Neuroscience Institute’s Spine Wellness Center in Westport, Connecticut, joins us to discuss spine deformities such as scoliosis, advances in spine surgery, and how taking a non-surgical or holistic approach is benefiting so many who are living with a spine deformity or suffering from back or neck pain. Join one of Dr. Yanamadala’s FREE webinars:Webinar: Understanding Your Neck and Back PainWebinar: Understanding Scoliosis and Spinal Deformity

Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates talks Dr. Amy Sanders, Director of Hartford HealthCare’s Memory Care Center. They explore the affects the COVID era may be having on our brains and topics most of us can relate to including brain fog, stress-related memory loss, and what we can all be doing to stave off age-related memory loss. Here’s Steve Coates.If you would like to learn more about services offered at Hartford HealthCare’s Memory Care Center, go to www.HartfordHealthCare.org/MemoryCare  

Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates talks with Dr. Jeffrey Nestler, Hartford Hospital Chief of Gastroenterology and Medical Co-Director of the Digestive Health Center. They discuss new colonoscopy recommendations, advances made in preventing, detecting and treating colon cancer, the pros and cons of home test kits – and even dreaded colonoscopy prep. Here’s Steve Coates.For more information or to schedule your screening, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/services and choose Digestive Health.

Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates talks with Sarah Lewis, Vice President of Health Equity at Hartford HealthCare, and Dr. John Santopietro, Physician-in-Chief of the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network, to discuss the urgency of addressing health equity, why it’s important, particularly within our Black and Hispanic communities, vaccine hesitancy, and efforts underway to ensure diversity and inclusion within Hartford HealthCare and the communities it serves.For more information and resources about health equity and the vaccine, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/vaccine

Hartford HealthCare's Steve Coates talks to Dr. Subramani Seetharama, medical director of the Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network. They will explore what’s being called “long hauler syndrome” which finds many COVID-19 patients struggling with various symptoms - long after the virus itself clears, and how Hartford HealthCare’s COVID Recovery Center and Rehabilitation Network can help. Learn more about COVID-19 testing, vaccines, resources and moreSubscribe, rate and share the Hartford HealthCare podcast

Keith Grant, Senior System Director of Infection Prevention at Hartford HealthCare, talks about some positive trends we are seeing right now in the state of Connecticut, which include lower COVID and flu numbers overall and fewer cases of cluster spreading. He also provides some encouraging data about vaccine efficacy against new COVID variants, and vaccine brand options we should all consider. More resources and links:For those who are eligible for the COVID vaccineView current COVID stats and resourcesSubscribe to the Hartford HealthCare podcast

Featured guest: LeaAnn Blanchard, a social worker and executive director at Hartford HealthCare's The Orchards at Southington, a residential and assisted living community for senior citizens in Southington, Connecticut.Isolation in the midst of a pandemic touches every one of us in one way or another. Learn about those most at risk and how we can help each other to connect and ease loneliness.Additional Hartford HealthCare support services and links discussed in this episode:The Center for Healthy AgingVirtual Dementia Caregivers Support GroupVaccine information and resourcesHHC Independence at HomeCommunity Care Center hotline 1.833.621.0600

In this episode, Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates talks with Dr. Kelly McGonigle, an OBGYN, Resident at Hartford Hospital, Dr. Stephanie Bakaysa, an attending OBGYN at Hartford Hospital, and Dr. Adam Borgida, Chief of OBGYN at Hartford Hospital. They discuss COVID-19 vaccine options for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Dr. McGonigle is 24 weeks pregnant and Dr. Bakaysa is breastfeeding. Both have received the vaccine. For more resources and vaccine information, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/Vaccine.

Hartford HealthCare’s Jocelyn Maminta talks with Dr. Jurate Ivanaviciene, an infectious disease specialist at Hartford HealthCare’s St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut. They discuss current COVID facts and figures, the new strain, and the vaccine: Who should get it and who should not? Potential side effects - and some of the myths circulating about vaccines currently be administered in the U.S.For more vaccine information and resources, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/vaccine

In this special episode, Hartford HealthCare’s Steve Coates sits down with Dr. Sam Pope, ICU medical director at Hartford Hospital and pulmonologist with the Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. They discuss the science and many aspects of the COVID-19 vaccine including safety, potential side effects, efficacy and even the prospects of alternate uses for similar vaccines. For more information about the vaccine news and resources, go to HartfordHealthCare.org/vaccine

In this special edition of the Hartford HealthCare podcast, Steve Coates talks with Eric Arlia, senior director of systems pharmacy for Hartford HealthCare, to update us on the approval, delivery and safety of the first COVID-19 vaccine considered for U.S. distribution.You will learn about the extensive planning and preparation underway for phase 1: Vaccination of front line healthcare workers and the most vulnerable population in our communities. Learn more about Hartford HealthCare and the COVID-19 vaccine.