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Imagine your credentials as a physician being misused, making it impossible for you to work. Dr. Leah Houston went through this identity theft nightmare. This experience led her to start HPEC, a decentralized autonomous organization of practicing physicians—essentially a digital physician guild. Dr. Houston, an emergency medicine physician turned pioneer in digital identity security for doctors, speaks with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen on this episode about how she turned crisis into innovation and resilience. They discuss physicians' staggering administrative challenges, the nuances of digital identity management, the burdensome credentialing process, and the importance of safeguarding one's medical credentials.   In this episode, you'll learn: Identity Management in Healthcare: Dr. Leah Houston shares her personal experience with Medicare and Medicaid identity fraud, shedding light on the often overlooked issue of identity management and credentialing in the medical field. She explains how administrative burdens can persist well beyond medical school and residency, impacting your ability to practice medicine. Innovation and Technological Solutions: Discover how Dr. Houston turned her challenges into a groundbreaking solution by developing a decentralized identity management system. This tool not only simplifies the credentialing process but also enhances security, allowing physicians to hold and share pre-verified data effortlessly. Exploring New Career Avenues: Our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, emphasizes the importance of networking and exploring opportunities outside traditional medical pathways. If you're keen on innovation or startup environments, take Dr. Houston's advice to heart: immerse yourself in tech, reach out to industry leaders, and even consider internships to broaden your horizons and make an impact in the evolving healthcare landscape.   Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Introduction to The Prospective Doctor podcast with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen and special guest Dr. Leah Houston 02:04 Impact of Medicare/Medicaid identity fraud on her ability to work 04:40 The burdensome nature of the current system 06:02 Introducing a digital wallet for doctors to hold pre-verified credentials 08:18 Importance of networking and collaboration with tech innovators 11:05 Encouraging students to have confidence in their problem-solving abilities 16:45 Importance of showing genuine interest and offering tangible help to emerging startups 18:50 Importance of fair contracts and seeking legal advice.   Where you can find Dr. Houston:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahhoustonmd/  More on HPEC: https://www.hpec.io/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com/   You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach

Burnout is real, and it's more than just stress—it's an occupational phenomenon. Dr. Svetlana Chamoun, a cardiologist and Founder and President of CardioSeeds and host of the CardioSeeds Podcast joins Dr. Erkeda DeRouen to speak about burnout prevention and how it's directly related to heart health and chronic disease.  Dr. Chamoun is dedicated to shedding light on the mental health challenges that medical students and professionals face. Her acclaimed book Resilience in Scrubs and the upcoming Women Physician Survival Guide showcase her commitment to reducing burnout in the healthcare sector.  Join the conversation as they discuss strategies for managing stress and burnout, from setting personal boundaries and engaging in fulfilling hobbies to building robust support networks. Discover how Cardioseeds is making a difference with its innovative wellness programs and why lifestyle medicine and resilience training should be integral parts of medical education.    In this episode, you'll learn to: Prioritize Your Mental Health: Dr. Svetlana Chamoun and Dr. Erkeda DeRouen delve into the significance of addressing mental health in the medical field. They spotlight the Doctor Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Protection Act, which encourages medical professionals to seek mental health help without fear of repercussions. Remember, your well-being is just as critical as your patients'. Embrace Personal Wellness: Discover strategies for maintaining mental wellness amid the demanding medical environment. From setting boundaries and engaging in hobbies to building a supportive network and aligning with your core values, these tips will help you stay mentally fit and ready to conquer the medical world. Combat Burnout: Dr. Chamoun shares insightful tips on recognizing and tackling burnout. Learn about symptoms like chronic fatigue, insomnia, and emotional detachment, and explore proactive measures like lifestyle medicine, resilience training, and mindfulness to set yourself up for a rewarding and sustainable medical career.   Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Dr. Erkeda DeRouen introduces the Prospective Doctor podcast with guest Dr. Svetlana Chamoun 02:01 Dr. Chamoun on her journey through medical training and how burnout impacted her personal and professional life 06:31 On the pervasive issue of mental health struggles in the medical field  10:01 Align professional life with personal values by setting boundaries between work and personal life to maintain mental wellness 15:01 Insight into Dr. Chamoun's book "Resilience in Scrubs" and organization, Cardioseeds, which offers wellness programs for medical trainees 20:01 How burnout affects female healthcare professionals differently due to various factors such as cultural biases and the "double shift" phenomenon 25:01 Differentiating between stress and burnout, with a focus on how chronic, unresolved work-related stress leads to burnout 30:01 Lifestyle interventions and how to incorporate them into daily routines 35:01 Highlighting the role of leadership in creating supportive environments and addressing toxic workplaces   Where you can find Dr. Chamoun:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cardioseeds/ More on CardioSeeds: https://cardioseeds.com/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com/   You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach

In this episode, host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen chats with Dr. Chiamaka Okorie, a recent graduate of Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. Dr. Okorie brings a unique perspective as an international student who excelled in the US system, acing the MCAT and building an impressive portfolio. Dr. Okorie shares practical advice for aspiring dermatologists, but her insights extend far beyond a single specialty. Tune in to learn about exploring career paths early, the power of networking, and the importance of self-advocacy. They'll delve into crafting a standout application, the value of passion-driven research, and the importance of building your support system. In this episode, you'll learn: Depths of Dermatology: Dr. Chiamaka Okorie advises aspiring dermatologists to jump into the field early and seek guidance from professionals to build a competitive portfolio Self-Advocacy is Key: Both Dr. Chiamaka Okorie and our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, emphasize the importance of actively showcasing your achievements and interests. Building Your Personal Board of Directors: Proactively reaching out to professionals and leveraging digital platforms can provide invaluable guidance and support in your medical journey, from medical school decisions to career development. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the Prospective Doctor [02:01] Introduction to Dr. Chiamaka Okorie [02:43] Navigating getting into a US medical school for international students [04:16] - Tips for building a competitive portfolio early on, including the power of mentorship and networking [10:36] Dr. Okorie's advice on fully committing to the desired specialty, including advocacy tips and strategies for standing out [15:14] The importance of research in building your portfolio [19:44] Building your network on LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media platforms [21:00] The competitive specialty of dermatology [28:37] Advocating for yourself in medical school   Where you can find Dr. Okorie:  Email: chiamakaokoriemd@gmail.com  Twitter: @AmakaOkorieMed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiamakaokorie/   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com/   You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach  

“Why wait for change when you can create it yourself?” was the driving question that inspired Dr. Kim Tranquada to explore the innovative world where telehealth meets global health disparities. Dr. Kim Tranquada, passionately known as” Dr.  T”, is an emergency physician with over 25 years of diverse experience, ranging from academic institutions to the VA healthcare system. Currently, she's pioneering the Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World, an international telehealth initiative aimed at bridging the global healthcare workforce gap. She spoke with host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about how telehealth can help healthcare professionals provide essential services from anywhere in the world, the importance of stepping out of traditional medical roles and embracing innovative approaches to healthcare. In this episode, you'll learn the importance of: Embracing Innovation: Leverage technology and think creatively to address global healthcare challenges, like using telehealth to bridge workforce gaps. Value of Global Health Experience: Gain exposure to different healthcare systems and needs worldwide to broaden your impact and understanding of global health. Empowering Your Medical Career: Take ownership of your career path, be visible, and create change within or outside traditional medical roles to make a meaningful impact.   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction [00:27] Meet Dr. T [02:36] The mission of Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World [06:36] Joining the initiative [09:35] Impacting communities that need it [14:19] The doctor deficit [16:54] Innovating in the telehealth space [21:24] How would a global telehealth rotation change medicine? [23:53] Rotation opportunities for med students   You can find Dr. Tranquada on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-tranquada-md-facep-faaem-899349259/  Learn more about Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World: https://haew.org/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com/   You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach

“It's important to tune into yourself and really figure out what is it that you want. Being open to the possibilities and proactive about your career can lead you to unexpected and fulfilling paths.” Dr. Nishi Bhopal, a Board Certified Integrative Psychiatrist and Sleep Physician, delves into the diverse and often unexpected paths that a medical career can take with host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen. Dr. Nishi Bhopal shares her personal journey, detailing her transition from internal medicine to psychiatry, and the internal and external obstacles she faced along the way. Dr. Bhopal's story is a testament to the importance of staying true to one's interests and instincts despite the pressures and expectations of the medical profession. This episode focuses on the broader aspects of medical careers, including the integration of holistic and integrative medicine into practice, the role of telehealth, and the exciting possibilities that lie in medical entrepreneurship and education through digital platforms.   In this episode, you'll learn: Strategies for switching residencies during and after match The importance of resilience in the face of professional challenges, such as confronting the stereotypes within medical fields Why a significant paradigm shift from acute care to a more preventative approach in healthcare is needed   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:24] Meet Dr. Nishi Bhopal  [02:09] The Big Switch: Internal Medicine to Psychiatry [03:34] The Importance of  an Open Mind [05:09] Obstacles on the Path Forward [08:48] Exploring New Horizons in Medicine [11:31] The Value of Knowing Yourself [14:35] Integrating Holistic Medicine into Practice  [20:08] Cultural Differences in Healthcare [23:26] Connecting with Dr. Bhopal   Resources: You can find Dr. Bhopal on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IntraBalance  You can find Dr. Bhopal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nishibhopal/  Learn more about Pacific Integrative Psychiatry: https://pacificintegrativepsych.com/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com/   You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach

"It doesn't matter how busy you are in life. If you don't make your intimate partner a priority, then they might as well not even be in a relationship.” Dr. Kate Mangona speaks the truth about relationships with Dr. DeRouen in this episode of Prospective Doctor.  Dr. Mangona is a pediatric radiologist passionate about marriage and intimacy coaching. She also hosts the podcast Love Lab MD and brings a unique perspective, having personally encountered the challenges of balancing relationships while pursuing her medical career and supporting her husband's journey into medicine.  They discuss the art of relationship management amid the grueling medical training schedule. She shares practical tips on clear communication, setting priorities, and creative ways to maintain intimacy—even when you're miles apart. Whether you're single, dating, or married with kids, she offers strategies to ensure your career and personal life thrive. In this episode, you'll learn: Balancing a demanding medical career and personal relationships involves clear communication and prioritizing your partner. Maintaining chemistry and proximity is key. FaceTime dinners and disconnect times help keep your relationships strong.  Immersing yourself in relationship literature, podcasts, or even hiring a relationship coach can provide invaluable insights into avoiding the high divorce rates seen among medical professionals.   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:35] Introduction to Dr Kate Mangona [03:00] Managing Expectations and Guilt when balancing a busy medical career and relationships [04:45] Scheduling quality time with partners on a calendar [07:17] Long-distance relationships while studying medicine [10:20] Establishing rituals for a healthy relationship [14:11] Misconceptions about Medical Relationships [16:47] Radiologists and Relationships [21:16] Avoiding high divorce rates among physicians [24:14] Final advice for medical students   Resources: You can find Dr. Mangona on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-mangona-35719a20/  More about Love Lab MD: https://www.lovelabmd.com/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach   Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach   

"Medicine is just the beginning, not the destination," says Dr. Charnetta Williams in an eye-opening discussion that shatters the conventional path of clinical practice in medicine. Her journey from the front lines of an Ebola response to a trailblazer in public health proves that a medical degree can be the key to doors you never even noticed were there.  In this episode, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen is joined by Dr. Charnetta Williams, a seasoned professional who transitioned from the rigorous world of clinical medicine to the dynamic field of public health. With experiences ranging from direct patient care to shaping national health policies, Dr. Williams embodies the versatility and impact that medical professionals can achieve beyond traditional roles. Dr. Williams and Dr. DeRouen explore the unpredictable yet rewarding career paths in epidemiology, the importance of work-life balance, and the impact of mentorship and representation in healthcare. Dr. Williams also highlights her inspiring work outside the healthcare system, providing education and support to women during the postpartum period. This conversation could very well redefine how you view your future in medicine. In this episode, you'll learn: How to Navigate Medical Career Changes: Explore multiple aspects of the medical field, and don't be afraid of less conventional routes that resonate with your evolving interests and passions. How to Leverage Fellowships: Learn more about CDC fellowships and how to strategically plan clinical rotations to broaden your medical horizons. Understanding Work-Life Challenges within the Medical Profession: The importance of self-care and developing a support network.    Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:32] Introduction to Dr. Charnetta Williams [08:22] Skills that transfer well into other industries [11:29] CDC Fellowship and work with the Ebola outbreak [15:07] Student planning and taking advantage of flexibility [16:28] Work-Life Balance and Representing Diversity [20:27] Dr. Williams As An Author [24:44] Advocating for Postpartum Support [29:09] Connecting with Dr. Williams   Resources: You can find Dr. Williams on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charnetta-williams-md-826192267  More about Dr. Williams's  book: https://pictureperfectreads.com/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at www.prospectivedoctor.com.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach   Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach   

Dr. Sujin Lee, an immigrant from Seoul, Korea, initially moved to the United States to pursue a music career. After obtaining her degree, life had a different plan for her: marriage, motherhood, and a surprising yet fulfilling pivot to the medical field.  In this episode, Dr. Lee speaks with Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about this journey, the challenges, and the triumphs of changing careers, balancing life as a medical student with being a mother, and the advantages of entering medicine from a non-traditional background. Her insights are not just motivational but are also peppered with practical advice for anyone fearing they might be too far along one path to venture onto another.  Dr. Lee's story offers encouragement and a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for ourselves is to follow our heart, even if it leads us down an unexpected path. This episode is a testament to the notion that it's never too late to recalibrate your career toward your passions. In this episode, you'll learn: Switching Tracks Can Lead to Success: A non-traditional path can not only be possible but also incredibly fulfilling in medicine. Embrace your unique background—whether in arts, humanities, or another field—as it may offer you valuable insights and a distinctive advantage in your medical career. How to Embrace Life Beyond Medicine: Dr. Lee's multifaceted career journey underscores the importance of versatility in medicine and opens up a panorama of possibilities outside the typical patient care settings. Advocating for System Change: Dr. Lee feels the American healthcare system, particularly the complexities involving insurance authorizations and their impact on patient care can be vastly improved by focusing more on an efficient and patient-centered healthcare system.   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the Prospective Doctor  [00:41] Introduction to Dr. Sujin Lee [02:57} Transition from music to medicine [04:00} Challenges she faced being an older medical student, and a mother [04:42] The value of diverse backgrounds in medicine [07:00] Juggling multiple roles as a clinician, researcher, and educator [10:10] Beyond clinical practice; Dr. Lee's legal & coaching roles [15:34] Changing the American Healthcare System by reducing bureaucratic hurdles [19:18] Final thoughts on perseverance and how to contact Dr. Lee   Resources: You can find Dr. Lee on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sujin-lee-48360a6b/  Learn more about Dr. Lee's Coaching: https://www.sujinleemd.com/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach  

Navigating the Medical School Admissions process is a different journey for everyone, and with the process constantly changing, the road to becoming a physician is not always easy.  Luckily, Dr. Emil Chuck, Director of Advising Services at the Health Professional Student Association and Editorial Board Member of the Student Doctor Network is an invaluable resource. In this episode of Prospective Doctor, Dr. Chuck sits down with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen to discuss how he and his organization provide aspiring health professionals the insights they need to navigate the intricate pathways of healthcare education and practice. With his background in cell biology and extensive experience in healthcare and academic realms, Dr. Chuck highlights the ever-evolving landscape of medical school admissions, the intricacies of situational judgment tests, like Casper and AAMC's new assessment tools, as well as the crucial role of mentorship and networking in building a successful medical career.    In this episode, you'll learn: Understanding the Admissions Landscape:  Dr. Chuck offers valuable perspectives on how a research background can significantly influence your medical school application process, while also emphasizing the critical need for self-awareness about your motivations and potential impact in healthcare. Strong Networks Are Crucial: Both Dr. Chuck and our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, discussed the importance of building robust support systems through mentorship and organizations. These networks can be vital in your journey toward a successful career in medicine. Navigating SJTs: Dr. Chuck sheds light on the relatively new situational judgment tests, including the Casper and AAMC's preview exam, highlighting the evolving challenges and the importance of staying informed about their use in medical program selections.   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:13] Introduction to Dr. Emil Chuck [02:44] About the Student Doctor Network and HPSA [04:57] How waitlists are managed [06:25] The evolution of the admissions process [08:41] Figuring out your why [10:30] Advice on finding mentors and champions [16:41] Situational Judgement Tests  [26:01] Connecting with Dr. Chuck and the HPSA   Resources: You can find Dr. Chuck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/etchuck  Learn more about Health Professional Student Association: https://www.hpsa.org/  Publications and Reports from HPSA: https://www.hpsa.org/programs/publications-and-reports/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach

While everyone's journey into medicine is unique, it may not be unconventional. But those are the ones that bring an incredibly fresh perspective on carving one's own path. Dr. Kate Arnold, an OBGYN Hospitalist, Laborist, and co-founder of FemInnovation is one of those unconventional paths. Having started as a psychology major with no science background, she ventured into medicine a bit later than her peers, navigated through a post-baccalaureate pre-med program, and engaged with Alzheimer's patients before pursuing medical school at Georgetown. Her multifaceted career, including stints in academia, federally qualified health centers, and now in femtech, along with her personal life of adopting three children during her fourth year of medical school, provides a wealth of inspiration and guidance for both traditional and non-traditional medical students.  In this episode, Dr. Arnold not only speaks with Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about her journey into medicine but also the intersection between health tech and FemTech and the role of technology in medicine.   In this episode, you'll learn: Career Flexibility: Medicine's beauty lies in its adaptability to life's changes. Learn how Dr. Arnold transitioned from a psychology major to an OBGYN, embraced family life by adopting three kids during med school, and transitioned into Femtech. The Impact of Femtech: Dr. Arnold illuminates the crucial need for physicians' involvement in Femtech to ensure accuracy and prevent the exacerbation of health disparities. Parenthood & Medicine: A candid discussion on adopting and raising children during medical training, offering honest insights into the challenges and triumphs of dual roles as a parent and doctor.   [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [00:53] Introduction to Dr. Kate Arnold [01:58] Dr. Arnold's role as a laborist [04:21] The Intersection of Dr. Arnold's Work and Family Life [12:40] Fem Tech and Health Tech [16:52] Risks in Health Tech [19:59] Healthcare Mindset vs. Tech Mindset [23:24] What Dr. Arnold Wishes She Knew Before She Started Medicine [26:00] Parting Words Resources: You can find Dr. Arnold on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecarnoldmdmba/  Learn more about FemInnovation: https://www.linkedin.com/company/feminnovation/    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach  Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MedSchoolCoach   

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen is joined by Dr. Jia Ng. She is a board-certified nephrologist and epidemiologist and today, she talks about the world of research for medical students. Dr. Jia describes the opportunities and procedures  she encountered from doing research, as well as the conditions they need to be in for them to thrive in the field. [00:28] Introduction of Dr. Jia Ng [01:35] Transitioning and Opportunities in Research [03:18] Recommendation for Research Pursual [06:41] Importance of Research in Residency [11:51] Dr. Jia: Why the US over Australia? [15:47] How to Get Involved in Research Research Dr. Jia mentions that Research is more complex than students and experts should perceive. According to her, research is a field that not only takes on the basic know-hows of medicine, but also the data driving the knowledge that caters to how medicine works along the evolution of society. Research allows the industry to adapt new knowledge for medical practitioners to not only develop new medicines, but also the overall medical healthcare system application. These applications include the in and out flow of patient care from medications to consultations and prescriptions. For students who are interested to take up research, it's important to note that they will be tasked on training with groups and mentors, working on large amounts of data that can be published in order to help a certain medical field in terms of innovative solutions to customer-friendly applications. Paving Your Own Path Medical students will have the opportunity to pave their own path in the field of research. The field may seem simple, but the avenue students take to be where they want to be may be more complex than they think. The key to having control over the path you want in the field of research is working around the knowledge that you are familiar with. Familiarity comes in the form of how well you know the healthcare system within a certain area and region or the connections you have with that set location as well. While it's important not to look at it as a race, getting where you need to be in the industry takes time, and that is inevitable. You can connect more with Dr. Ng through her website and YouTube channel.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor or https://somedocs.com/. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/somedocspublic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somedocs/

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Sarah Nasir, an osteopathic physician specializing in family medicine and sub-specializing in addiction medicine. In this episode, they talk about how medical students can cope with and navigate academic struggles in a far-from-perfect medical education system.  [00:00] Introduction [04:01] Coping With Academic Struggles [11:15] Navigating Your Journey in Medicine [17:56] Academic Bullying [21:14] What Dr. Nasir Would Change About the Medical Education System [33:13] Parting Words How Can Medical Students Cope With Academic Struggles? The medical process is so arduous that no matter who enters it does not come out unscathed. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, allow yourself some grace and give yourself some love. If you are overwhelmed, don't hesitate to ask for help. Remind yourself of your greatness and progress when things get difficult, because every doctor has been through the same struggle.  You can find Dr. Nasir on Facebook and Instagram.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Mike Tang, an adult and child psychiatrist, addiction medicine doctor, paediatrician, and Vice President of Integrated Care at Cityblock Health. In this episode, they talk about how you can get additional certifications with addiction medicine and the importance of technology in the improvement of health across all social factors. [00:00] Introduction [07:51] Additional Certifications [09:55] Addiction Medicine [12:03] Tech to Decrease Disparities and Social Determinants of Health [15:23] What Dr. Tang Wishes He Knew As He Entered Medicine [19:47] What Dr. Tang Would Change About the Healthcare System [22:56] Parting Words Additional Certifications in Addiction Medicine Addiction and substance use disorders are a huge driver of disparities. Plenty of risk factors that drive poverty, inequality, racism, and decreased access to care can also increase the risk for substance use. By creating more just and better systems as well as addressing addiction, substance use, and recovery, we have an opportunity to improve care in our society. Addiction is present across all specialties and certifications through the American Board of Preventative Medicine and being able to layer that additional knowledge and latest science is very helpful. Utilizing Tech to Decrease Disparities At the end of the day, tech in medicine is still all about the relationship between the provider, the provider team, and the patients. Predictive analytics and AI help determine who will be needing care to help predict and provide preventative care before someone ends up in the emergency room or the inpatient room unnecessarily. You can reach out to Dr. Tang through his e-mail and LinkedIn.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. April Renee Ruffin. In this episode, they talk about everything you need to know about mentorship and finding the right mentor at the early stages of your medical career. [00:00] Introduction [03:54] The Importance of Mentorship [09:30] How Do You Find a Mentor? [13:33] How Many Mentors Should You Get? [18:47] Dr. Ruffin's Advice For Those Starting Out in Medicine [20:39] Parting Words The Importance of Mentorship There's existing literature that suggests how students excel academically and have higher graduation rates when they have a mentor no matter what grade they're in. Mentors even help with promotions, sponsorships, and other career development. But beyond that, mentors also help you grow as a person. It helps you learn new skills, identify gaps in your own skill sets, and develop new ones. Mentees eventually become mentors and are able to keep that cycle going, mastering a certain level of expertise and being able to share that knowledge to someone else. For graduate and medical students looking to find a mentor, first start with the community that you have around you. For undergrads on the other hand, you can look to certain professors that you may have a good relationship with, and even organizations. Look their bios up online and don't be afraid to say hello and set an appointment. If you don't have any organizations you can reach out to, you can take advantage of different clubs and organizations that have partnerships or affiliations with the school who can offer support and assistance. Harnessing the power of social media and finding your interest groups are also a plus. You can find Dr. Ruffin on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Thomas Campanella, a healthcare executive-in-residence at Baldwin Wallace, healthcare consultant, and former healthcare attorney. They talk everything about rural health: the challenges, initiatives, and technology involved to help improve it.  [00:00] Introduction [03:00] Challenges Facing Rural Health [07:06] Initiatives for Rural Health [11:37] The Healthcare System, Legislature, and Technology [15:52] What Dr. Campanella Would Change About the Healthcare System [18:01] Parting Thoughts   Challenges in Rural Health Looking at the major cities from a population standpoint, most of America is in rural areas. In Ohio where Dr. Campanella is from, 80/88 counties are in rural areas. Health care in those areas is neglected compared to the major cities. There are challenges in major cities, however, there is a need to redirect resources to the rural areas as well. The aging population is over 65% in rural America. You can find Dr. Campanella on LinkedIn and send him an e-mail.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Bradley Block, a general adult and pediatric ENT and host of “The Physician's Guide to Doctoring” podcast. They talk about what every medical school should incorporate into their curriculum, the importance of patient-doctor communication, and what they think of the US healthcare system. [00:00] Introduction [07:19] Three Things That Every Medical School Should Incorporate [11:28] Patient-Doctor Communication [14:55] What Dr. Block Would Change About the Healthcare System [20:00] Parting Thoughts   What Medical Schools Should Incorporate According to Dr. Block, the three things that medical schools should incorporate into their curriculum is the importance of communication, such as sitting down with a family physician, shadowing them for the day, and reflecting on what skills each student needs to optimize each of those interactions, second is learning the skills of persuasion, and the last one would be habit development. Patient-Doctor Communication For Dr. Block, communication skills can definitely be developed, but there is a need to be methodical about it. Ask yourself, “What is it you need to work on to be an effective communicator?”, and then you work on it in your own life by being present and being undistracted. You can find Dr. Block on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Threads and listen to his podcast The Physician's Guide to Doctoring Podcast.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Adaira Landry, an emergency medicine physician, author, and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. They talk about the impact and importance of advocating for diversity and mentorship, the power of networking, and how to create equitable spaces in the medical field. [00:00] Introduction [04:24] Advocating for Diversity, Mentorship, and the Power of Networking [10:43] Imposter Syndrome, Decreasing Bias, and Creating Equitable Spaces [20:33] Going After What You Want and Asking Questions [28:23] What Dr. Landry Would Change About the Healthcare System [30:51] Parting Thoughts   What is Imposter Syndrome? The original paper on Imposter Syndrome was published in 1973 by two white female psychologists where they looked at women, mostly white, mid-career, doing phenomenal work, and being recognized by their peers, but felt like they were fraudulent despite being in a positive environment. However, for Dr. Landry, she feels like people in her community recognize their own potential and know that there is a lot they can offer, but no one is welcoming them. It's not imposter syndrome, but a feeling of being unseen, unheard, unwelcome, and unsupported. Networking and Nurturing Relationships How do you nurture relationships and go back to them and feel like it's a safe space? First is to know that these relationships are bi-directional; you can't just take and you also have to offer. Secondly, own your relationships and putting all the logistics on your plate such as meetings and even Zoom meetings. Lastly is to pace your asks and the amount of time you're asking of someone. Preorder Dr. Adaira Landry's book “MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact”, which comes out on April 16, through Amazon or Barnes and Noble. You can reach out to her through Instagram and Twitter.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Joe Greer, a hepatologist gastroenterologist. They talk about dealing with social inequality and social justice in the medical system as well as how we can integrate social justice into our educational system. [00:00] Introduction [13:22] First Generation Medical Students [14:44] Dealing with Social Inequality in Medicine [20:32] Social Justice in Education [26:55] Dr. Greer's Advice for Medical Students [28:29] Parting Thoughts   How to Deal with Social Inequality in Medicine Dr. Greer's advocacy centers around treating every individual with the utmost respect. When he started his career working with the homeless, he immediately thought to himself, “I couldn't survive here. What makes these individuals so special that they can?”. There are too many injustices and according to Dr. Greer, what we need to do is advocate and defend those that are left behind. Doctors are blessed by being able to become professionals and are in a position where they can make change. We have the science and medical professionals should apply it equitably and in a way that makes the U.S. the healthiest country in the world. Social Justice in the Education System Dr. Greer was one of the first to have a curriculum on social justice and improving health equity, or rather, how social justice runs through the veins of the entire curriculum. He incorporates social justice in the education at Roseman University through curriculums and programs that focus on education for all family members belonging in racial minorities across the U.S. as well as programs for opioid and stimulant use disorder pregnant women to ensure that a mother and child stays together. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Christina Gomez, a GI medical oncologist at Banner MD Anderson in Phoenix, Arizona. They talk about how doctors can best break bad news to their patients as well as her journey to writing her book, “Stopped in My Tracks”. [00:00] Introduction [06:08] Advice For Giving Bad News [10:14] “Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients' Quotes” [19:08] Sharing Quotes and Support Groups [21:07] What Dr. Gomez Would Change About US Healthcare [23:07] Parting Thoughts  How Dr. Gomez Wrote “Stopped in My Tracks” “I got all the pain, but she got all the suffering.” These were the words that touched Dr. Gomez and drove her to write her book “Stopped in My Tracks”, a collection of words and quotes from her patients under her care. Doctors are trained to send messages to their patients, both good and bad, and they pray that they can deliver them well. But instead of jotting down pearls of knowledge like how she was trained in med school, she started jotting down her patients' words instead, which would literally stop her in her tracks. She would then ask her patients to pause, repeat their words, and she would write it down on any piece of paper she could find. Thus, her book was born. Dr. Gomez's Advice for Giving Bad News Dr. Gomez has two pieces advice when it comes to giving bad news to their patients. First, is that patients want to know. She learned throughout her career that patients always want to know their diagnosis and will always ask about it. As a med student, she thought that patients wouldn't want to know more details about their diagnosis, such as how studies might say that they only have 18 months, or that the new drug can only buy two months compared to the placebo or the standard of care. It should always be a doctor's honour and privilege to deliver these bad news to the patients. Secondly, silence is powerful and loud and is a way to communicate with patients, especially learning how to practice our pauses. After all, our silence can and is able to heal. Get Dr. Christina Gomez's book “Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients' Quotes” at Itasca and Amazon, and reach out to her through her website.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Shivani Shah, a 4th year paediatric neurology resident at Duke University in North Carolina. They talk about her app Foreverrx, dating and socializing in the medical industry, and how you can build your own app. [00:00] Introduction [03:51] How Foreverrx Started [09:25] Resources for Building an App or a Business [12:13] What Dr. Shih Would Change About US Healthcare [14:45] Parting Thoughts  How Foreverrx Was Born Dr. Shih founded Foreverrx with her brother during the COVID-19 pandemic and is a dating and social networking platform for all healthcare professionals as a way to create a community in the healthcare field for romantic and platonic connections, because finding connections for both are so important especially during the hardest days of training.  How to Build an App Dr. Shih cites her and her brother's MBA degrees as helpful components to building their business as well as having a software developer and Dr. Shih's passion for coding to help maintain the app. The resources are readily available everywhere, so the most important thing in creating your app is to know your “why”. Your “why” is what sustains you through everything and in all aspects of your life and if you are in harmony with your “why”, you eventually get on the path you're supposed to be on. Learn more about ForeverRx through Instagram and their official website.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Sejal Desai, a family medicine physician with over 20 years of experience with a board certification in obesity medicine. They discuss how medical students can navigate their med school journeys and the feeling of burnout, work-life balance, and the three things she wished   [00:00] Introduction [03:19] A Med Student's Life Journey [05:44] Navigating Burnout [11:44] Three Things Dr. Desai Wishes She Knew Before Starting Out [17:45] Is Work-Life Balance Possible? [21:04] What Dr. Desai Would Change About US Healthcare [22:47] Parting Thoughts  Navigating Burnout Dr. Desai dislikes the word “burnout” especially in medicine where physicians are just simply told what to do. She believes that it's important for med students to take some time, focus on themselves, and figure out what it is that they really want. She cites Jay Shetty, a motivational speaker, and the concept of “dharma” as an important learning, which is all about figuring out our place in the world and using our gifts to make a better place. From this, it's important for medical students to take some time and re-evaluate their where and why to help them navigate their eventual path and career. Dr. Desai's Advice in Retrospect Dr. Desai shares three things she wished she knew before starting out her career as a family medicine physician: first is that bedside manners matter more than grades. Grades are important, but they are not everything, especially when patients care more about how attentive and honest doctors are and not what grade they got in medical school. Secondly, medicine is not just about helping patients but also administrative work such as documentation, labs, and imaging to name a few. Managing your time according to this is crucial to prevent being overworked and overwhelmed. Lastly, she realized how big of a role lifestyle plays in disease. Almost all diseases are related to four things: nutrition, physical activity, quality of sleep, and stress levels. If we learn and fix this early in life, we can fix a lot of health problems in the long run. Work-Life Balance Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Desai believes that work-life balance is achievable. She suggests paying attention to three important things when it comes to work-life balance. First is communicating well and setting expectations with colleagues on time and schedules, second is delegating tasks, and the last one is scheduling the downtime such as personal hobbies and self-care. Reach out to Dr. Sejal Desai via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and her website for more details about her work.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Susan Baumgaertel, an internal medicine physician with 30 years of experience and founder of MenopauseMenu and myMDadvocate. They discuss menopause lessons for medical students, things everybody should know about menopause, and why men need to know about menopause too.   [00:00] Introduction [02:20] Menopause - The Forgotten Branch of Medicine [02:51] How Students Can Learn to Work with Women in Menopause [06:27] The Benefits of Listening to Your Patients [07:10] How to Educate Patients About the Different Stages of Menopause [09:16] Ways to Ask For More Time From Your Doctor [11:36] Dr. Baumgaertel's Book - The Menopause Menu [16:14] Men Need to Know About Menopause Too [19:39] What Dr. Baumgaertel Would Change About US Healthcare [22:10] Parting Thoughts  Menopause is More Than Hot Flashes Dr. Baumgaertel emphasizes that menopause is often seen through a narrow lens, focusing solely on hot flashes. However, she challenges this narrative, urging us to recognize the multifaceted aspects of menopause that impact every woman uniquely. From this conversation, it's very clear that understanding menopause goes beyond just one medical discipline. It involves everything from primary care, OB/GYN, cardiology, dermatology, rheumatology, neurology, and more.  Dr. Baumgaertel stresses the importance of a multifactorial approach when caring for menopausal patients. Each woman's experience is unique, and healthcare professionals must be receptive and attentive to their patients' needs. Yes, commonalities exist, but not every woman experiences menopause in the same way. In fact, some women don't experience menopausal symptoms at all.  Advocating for Yourself: Sending Agendas Dr. Baumgaertel encourages women to advocate for themselves by setting the agenda during medical appointments. Sometimes an hour-long doctor's appointment is not enough, and it's okay to ask your doctor for more time. By addressing specific concerns and communicating them ahead of time, patients can ensure that their healthcare providers allocate the necessary time to discuss crucial aspects of menopause. Menopause is a stressful time and you need all the support you can get.  The Menopause Menu Book: A Resource for All Dr. Susan introduces her book, "The Menopause Menu: From Hot Flashes to Delicious Dishes, A Symptom-Driven Nourishing Guide to Mastering Menopause." Combining practical advice with a visually engaging format, the book is designed to reach a broad audience, including men seeking to support their partners. According to Dr. Baumgaertel, women in their late 30s to early 60s need accurate information on the entire menopausal journey. The Menopause Menu provides helpful, science-based advice, presented with a unique blend of personal narrative and holistic support. The chapters are easy to read and are paired with 16 simple recipes. Grab a copy of Dr. Baumgaertel's book The Menopause Menu on Amazon and reach out to her via LinkedIn, YouTube, and her Website for more details about her work.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Uché Blackstock, an American emergency physician and former associate professor of emergency medicine at the New York University School of Medicine. They discuss the Flexner Report, the need for diversity in healthcare, and the deep inequities that still exist in the U.S. healthcare system. [00:00] Introduction [01:45] Why Dr. Blackstock Chose to Pursue Medicine [04:21] The Racial Health Inequities in America Today [07:34] Dr. Blackstock's Inspiration For Writing a Book on Health Inequities  [09:19] What is the Flexner Report?  [12:13] The Need Diversity in Healthcare [15:15] All the Things They Don't Teach in Med School [18:34] Things That Could Potentially Improve American Healthcare [22:50] Giving Women and People of Color a Voice  [24:09] Advice for Aspiring Physicians  [25:10] Parting Thoughts  Navigating Unconventional Paths in Medicine Dr. Blackstock talks about the benefits of following the unconventional path on your journey to medicine. Your journey will not be a straight line, so it's okay to break away from traditional molds and find unique ways to contribute to the healthcare system. Dr. Blackstock shares pivotal moments in her career, from leaving academic medicine to starting her own company and becoming an MSNBC medical contributor. Her story serves as a testament to the diverse paths available to physicians and the impact they can have outside traditional roles. Health Equity and Why It Matters Research has shown time and again that a more diverse physician workforce may lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. According to Dr. Blackstock, this can only be possible if we make a concerted effort to increase representation of diverse racial and ethnic groups among trainee physicians. Reflecting on her experiences, Dr. Blackstock emphasizes the systemic barriers faced by Black physicians. She sheds light on historical factors, such as the Flexner Report, that contribute to the current underrepresentation of Black physicians. In the chapter, "All the Things They Didn't Teach Me," Dr. Blackstock discusses the need for a revamped medical curriculum. She advocates for integrated learning on health disparities, anti-racism, and social determinants of health.  Grab a copy of Dr. Blackstock's book Legacy on Amazon and reach out to her via Twitter, Instagram, and her Website for more details about his work.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Amit Pandey, an Internal Medicine Hospitalist with SRS Medical Group in San Diego, California. They discuss all you need to know about the life of a physician, the benefits of being adaptable to change, and why every physician remembers their first code blue.  [00:00] Introduction [01:45] Who is Dr. Amit Pandey [03:56] The Life of a Physician  [06:19] Memorable Moments in Dr. Pandey's Career [09:20] Do You Remember Your First Code Blue? [12:15] What Dr. Pandey Wishes He Knew Before Becoming a Physician [15:45] The Benefits of Being Adaptable and Open to Change [17:40] What Dr. Pandey Would Do Different If He Could Go Back in Time [21:15] Parting Thoughts  The Pre-Med Paradox Dr. Pandey recently penned a book titled "The Pre-Med Paradox: What You Need to Know About the Life of a Physician." The book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the medical journey, from pre-med through residency, and becoming a physician. He shares the motivation for writing the book and how it can serve as a pseudo-mentor for students, offering practical insights into the experiential component of life in medicine. Memorable Moments in Medicine Dr. Pandey shares his most memorable experiences as a physician, highlighting one moment that will stick with him for the rest of his life—the first time he ran a code blue. This life-and-death situation became a pivotal experience, showcasing the high-stakes nature of hospital medicine and the collaboration involved in resuscitating a patient. Reflecting on the Medical Journey Valuable advice for those considering a career in medicine: be adaptable and open to change. According to Dr. Pandey, the journey to medicine is not a straight line. Your passions will change and so will your dreams. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the diversity within the medical field, both in terms of practitioners and career opportunities. He encourages aspiring doctors to explore various roles, specialties, and to keep an open mind throughout their medical journey. As a soon-to-be physician, focus not only on academics but also on exploring opportunities, having a balanced life-work routine, and embracing the ever-changing nature of your career. Grab a copy of Dr. Pandey's book on Amazon and reach out to him via Instagram and his Website for more details about his work.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Bryan Carmody, a pediatric nephrologist at Eastern Virginia Medical School. They discuss the value of standardized test scores, the ultra-competitive nature of the residency admissions process, and the benefits of having an open mind in your journey to medicine.  [00:00] Introduction [01:37] Who is Dr. Bryan Carmody [02:54] The Benefits of Having an Open Mind in Your Journey to Medicine [05:52] All You Need to Know About the USMLE Selection Process [07:50] Why Residency Matching is Becoming More Competitive [11:01] Residency Match Explained  [13:59] Addressing the Pediatric Subspecialty Shortage [16:15] What Dr. Carmody Would Change About Healthcare [18:34] Parting Thoughts  Pivoting Specialties: Your Pediatrician's Tale You probably already know this, but your medical journey is not linear. You might end up pursuing a career different from what you thought you'd do. Dr. Carmody made an unexpected shift from internal medicine to pediatrics. He emphasizes the importance of staying open-minded during rotations and allowing yourself to discover new passions. As an aspiring physician, you must be open to the fact that your journey can take unexpected but fulfilling turns. So, approach rotation with a mind of curiosity. Addressing Pediatric Subspecialty Shortages Dr. Carmody discusses the shortages in certain fields like pediatric nephrology. He shares concerns about the workforce not keeping pace with retirements, raising questions about future care models. The recent shortages underline why we need to inspire the next generation to pursue these critical specialties. The conversation becomes a call to action, emphasizing the urgency of addressing shortages in pediatric subspecialties. Dr. Carmody discusses potential solutions, including inspiring and supporting you to choose these specialties and adapting care models to ensure continued excellence in pediatric care. Why Residency Matching is Becoming More Competitive  The residency matching process is becoming more competitive by the year. The USMLE has undergone what Dr. Carmody refers to as "scope creep." This term highlights the expansion and intensification of exam expectations over the years. In the early 1990s, the USMLE mean score stood at 200. Fast forward to the present day, and the median score has surged to approximately 250. This substantial increase of 50 points is not something to be ignored. To put this into perspective, the worst test-takers in today's environment outperform the average test-taker from the 1990s. Even the very best test-takers from that era are average in today's ultra-competitive landscape. So what is driving this upward trend, and is this trend good or bad? Despite the perception of increased competitiveness, the number of available residency positions relative to the number of graduating US MD students is more favorable than in recent memory. In the most recent cycle, there were approximately 1.9 residency positions available for every graduating US MD student. When factoring in US DO students, this number remains favorable at 1.38 residency positions per student. This proves that the match process is not all doom and gloom after all. You still have a more than favorable chance to get into the program of your dreams.  You can reach Dr. Carmody on YouTube, Twitter, and his Website for more details about her work. Check out the six-part series on residency matching here - YouTube   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson, a board-certified pediatrician and founder of Cary Cares Parenting LLC. They discuss the benefits of knowing your learning style, what you need to know about a neuroscience career, and how to build a fulfilling life outside medicine.  [00:00] Introduction [01:37] Who is Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson? [02:26] Dr. Cary-Thompson's Journey to Medicine [06:45] The Benefits of Knowing the Type of Learner You Are [09:20] Why Dr. Cary-Thompson Chose a Career in Neuroscience [15:46] Family Issues and Taking Care of Her Grandmother [20:13] Things Dr. Cary-Thompson Wished She Knew About the Medical Profession [24:49] It's Okay to Ask For Help [27:49] Why You Need to be Strategic About What You Do Post-Residency [31:20] The Inspiration Behind Dr. Cary-Thompson Book The Fine Print [35:10] Parting Thoughts  Living Life Outside Medicine Dr. Cary-Thompson starts the conversation by emphasizing the importance of embracing life beyond the confines of medicine. We live in a world where the white coat often defines a physician's identity. However, life is more than that. As a physician, it's in your best interest to recognize that being a physician is just one piece of the puzzle. Life, with its myriad experiences and roles, continues alongside the demanding profession. As a board-certified pediatrician, small business owner, parenting coach, mother, and wife, Dr. Cary-Thompson wears multiple hats, acknowledging that each role contributes to the rich tapestry of her identity.  From Academic Hurdles to Personal Growth The journey to becoming a physician is rarely linear. Dr. Cary-Thompson reflects on her academic challenges, particularly with organic chemistry, offering vulnerable insights into the hurdles she faced. From being a valedictorian with high expectations to encountering struggles in college, she shares the valuable lesson of perseverance and the need to adapt to different learning styles. Navigating the Evolving Healthcare Landscape The medical world is changing. To stay relevant and have a more fulfilling career, you need to stay informed about these changes. Dr. Cary-Thompson emphasizes the importance of awareness, not just about medical advancements but also about evolving patient care paradigms and technology integration. Her insights into the changing face of healthcare serve as a wake-up call for future physicians. Unfortunately, medical education is still not equipping physicians with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of their profession. So, it's up to you to educate yourself and be part of the change you want to see.  You can reach Dr. Cary-Thompson on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and her Website for more details about her work.  The Fine Print: Between the Lines of Parenting, Children, and Relationship-Building by Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Scott Becker, the Founder of Becker's Healthcare, a leading healthcare media company that offers news, analysis, and guidance relating to the healthcare industry. They discuss the trending topics in American healthcare, the benefits of having hobbies outside of medicine, and the significant problems with the U.S. healthcare system.  [00:00] Introducing Scott Becker  [02:44] The Journey to Launching Becker's Healthcare [04:50] What You Must Do to Succeed in Your Journey to Medicine [07:38] Don't Let Medicine Define Who You Are [09:48] The Hottest Topics in Healthcare Right Now [13:37] What Scott Would Change About Healthcare [16:37] The Big Gap in the American Healthcare System [19:52] Parting Thoughts The Journey to Medicine Medicine is one of the most challenging yet rewarding career paths in the world. And although the journey is not always a straight line, Scott reveals the three mindsets that will help you become the very best at what you do.   1. Be Clear About Where You're Going  Be clear about your destination. Your journey to medicine needs a GPS. Having a general sense of where you're headed in your medical career provides a guiding light, steering your decisions and actions. 2. Your First Job is Not Your Last Job Always remember your first job won't be your last. Don't stress too much about having the perfect first job straight out of med school. The journey to use medicine is like a marathon, and your initial job is merely the starting line.  3. Have Hobbies Outside of Medicine According to Scott, the only way to become the best at what you do is to become a physician and something else. Being a doctor is essential, but it's equally as important to explore other things that define you. The physicians who burn out build their lives sorely around seeing patients. The solution lies in realizing that your medical career is not just about medicine; it's about creating a fulfilling life within and beyond the realm of clinics and hospitals. The 3 Big Problems Plaguing American Healthcare There are numerous problems plaguing the American healthcare system. According to Scott, they are all born from three primary issues. 1. The Math Problem There is a huge imbalance of numbers in the American healthcare system. The American population is rapidly growing, yet the number of medical professionals remains the same. According to Scott, we are a country of about 330 million people with approximately 1,070,000 doctors. The imbalance in supply and demand in healthcare is a substantial concern. The shortage of physicians is the number one reason our country struggles to provide adequate healthcare services to the ever-expanding population. 2. The Thinking Problem Although physicians are generally considered intelligent, we still face a thinking problem. Healthcare, according to Becker, requires a multifaceted strategy that acknowledges the complexity of the issues at hand. Rather than seeking singular solutions, the industry must adopt a comprehensive mindset that integrates various facets – from technology advancements to the thoughtful inclusion of human caregivers.  3. The Power Problem American healthcare has a power problem - the disproportionate influence wielded by major players, such as United, Aetna, Cigna, and the former Anthem Blue Cross (now Elevate). The dominance of these major players creates an inherent power imbalance, as healthcare systems and providers find themselves dwarfed in size and influence. This power dynamic introduces challenges in decision-making, resource allocation, and overall system functionality, posing a substantial hurdle to achieving a balanced and equitable healthcare landscape. You can reach Scott Becker on LinkedIn and check his Website for more details about his work.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Gina Blocker, an emergency medicine physician and CEO of Dash Health, Houston's premier concierge mobile urgent care service. They discuss the future of emergency medicine, the unique challenges for women in medicine, and how to build a strong relationship with your patients.  [00:00] Introducing Dr. Gina Blocker [01:22] Why Dr. Blocker Took the Military Medicine Route [04:59] Dr. Blocker's Journey to Emergency Medicine [07:30] Advice For Medical Students on the Journey to Becoming a Physician [09:58] The Unique Challenges Plaguing Women in Medicine [15:07] Launching Houston's Premier Concierge Mobile Urgent Care Service [18:05] The Evolution of Emergency Medicine [19:20] What Dr. Blocker Would Change About Healthcare [21:35] Parting Thoughts How to Build a Strong Relationship with Your Patients Healthcare is changing. Gone are the days when patients did not have relationships with their doctors. Today, the patient-doctor relationship is crucial to the overall care experience. Dr. Blocker believes the most important part of building this relationship is taking time to know your patients. Address the patient as an individual, as opposed to a medical condition. Your goal is to get your patients to open up to you about things they'd never be comfortable sharing with anyone else. Do this successfully, and you'll find a lot of your medical diagnoses will come from patients telling you the truth about what they're going through.  Why Emergency Medicine? If you love making a difference in emergencies, emergency medicine is for you. Dr. Blocker shares how, to excel in emergency medicine, you need to be the kind of physician who loves immediate impact, connecting with patients, and thriving in the chaos of an emergency room. You will care for a whole host of patients- some healthy, some sick, some very alive, and some unconscious. Expect to see patients in their most vulnerable and terrified states. But the pressure will be worth it since you'll make a difference in people's lives.  Advice to Medical Students on the Journey to Becoming a Physician Let your journey to becoming a physician change you. Let it impact how you live your life, but never let it become your everything. Become the very best at what you do, but have a life outside of medicine. According to Dr. Blocker, the best physicians live and breathe medicine. But they always make time for hobbies and passions that have nothing to do with patient care. Your hobbies are the things that make you whole. So don't lose them chasing a title that will make you miserable and burnt out. You can reach Dr. Blocker on Instagram, Email and Website for more details about her work.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr Dallas Reed, the Division Chief of Genetics and Director of Perinatal Genetics at Tufts Medical Center. They discuss all you need to know about genetics and becoming a geneticist, why health equity is important in medicine, and the future of genetic research.  [00:00] Introducing Dr. Dallas Reed [01:22] Why Dr. Reed Chose to Pursue Medical Genetics [06:24] Career Pathways in the Field of Genetics [08:20] The Three Types of Genetic Laboratories [11:40] Advice for Students Interested in Genetics [13:32] Health Equity and Why It's Important  [16:31] The Genetics of Cancer [18:01] Why We Need More Community Partnerships For Genetic Research [19:20] What Dr. Reed Would Change About Healthcare [23:00] Navigating the Politics of Medicine [25:50] Parting Thoughts How Dr. Reed Became a Geneticist Dr. Reed's journey into genetics began with a deeply personal experience within her own family. Her brother was born prematurely with a life-threatening chromosomal abnormality. He died at four months, and this event, though marked by tragedy, became the catalyst for Dr. Reed's lifelong commitment to genetics. Inspired by a desire to understand and help families facing similar situations, she embarked on a journey to become a geneticist--one of only ten black medical geneticists in the country. How to Build a Career in Genetics Would you like a career in the field of genetics? A geneticist is a specialist who studies genetic traits in biological systems in plants, animals, and humans. According to Dr. Reed, there are endless opportunities available in this field, from research and laboratory roles to patient-facing positions. Dr. Reed encourages students to explore combined residency and fellowship programs, tailoring their journey to their specific interests. Practical strategies, including reaching out to professionals, leveraging social networks, and exploring internship programs, are keys to navigating the exciting world of genetics.  The Case for Health Equity in Genetics Dr. Reed is a strong advocate for health equity in genetics. She addresses the technical challenges patients of non-Caucasian backgrounds face, particularly in interpreting genetic test results. By bringing attention to the need for a diversified reference genome, Dr. Reed aims to eliminate uncertainties that may arise due to genetic variations specific to certain ethnicities. Additionally, Dr. Reed underscores the importance of standard practices in cancer genetics, advocating for equal access to genetic testing and referrals for all cancer patients, regardless of their racial or ethnic background. Her commitment to building trust between researchers and communities echoes a broader call for inclusivity and outreach efforts.  You can reach Dr. Reed on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Email for more details about her work.    Mentioned in This Episode: Genetics training programs: http://www.abmgg.org/pages/training_options.shtml http://www.abmgg.org/pages/training_accredprog.shtml American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) https://www.acmg.net/ (FREE STUDENT MEMBERSHIP https://www.acmg.net/ACMG/Membership/Join_ACMG/ACMG/Membership/Join_ACMG.aspx?hkey=a3f4704c-acc9-48fd-9c66-125b58c6b492) American Society of Human Genetics (https://www.ashg.org/membership/join-or-renew/) International Society of Prenatal Diagnosis (https://www.ispdhome.org/ISPD/Membership/Become_a_Member/ISPD/Membership/Membership_Types.aspx?hkey=36020091-c4cf-41a5-8865-70d5b7186f36 Training grants: https://www.acmgfoundation.org/ACMGF/Awards-We-Offer/Training-Awards-Fellowships/ACMGF/Awards/Training-Awards-Fellowships.aspx   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Brett Riggins, a speaker, author, investor, and founder of Connect Home Buyers and Physician Wealth Systems. They discuss the benefits of having a great mindset in medicine, why physicians should learn about real estate investing, and how to surround yourself with the right people.  [00:00] Introducing Brett Riggins [03:32] Brett's Journey to Real Estate [05:59] Why You Need to Have a Basic Understanding of Real Estate [08:46] The Mindset You Need to Succeed as a Physician [11:35] Are You Taking Advantage of All the Opportunities in Your Life? [16:32] Change "I Cannot" to "How Can I" [18:37] To Succeed, Surround Yourself With The Right People [20:20] What Brett Would Change About Healthcare [24:30] Insurance and Why We Must Restructure the Healthcare System [26:58] Be Proactive, Not Reactive [28:09] Parting Thoughts The Mindset You Need to Succeed as a Physician You need a great mindset to succeed in all aspects of life, not just medicine. As a physician, especially early in your career, you'll face demanding situations, complex cases, and endless sleepless nights. Your resilience will be tested, but a strong mindset will keep you going. So, instead of burying yourself deep in books, make time to develop a flexible and open mindset. This will allow you to embrace change, be more resilient and stay at the forefront of your field. According to Brett, having the right mindset can be the difference between surviving and thriving as a physician. With a great mindset, you can turn obstacles into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones. Take Advantage of Every Opportunity in Life In life, you will get lots of good opportunities. You will take some, and you will miss some. The key is to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible. The more opportunities you take, the better because sometimes, one opportunity can mean the difference between a mediocre life and an extraordinary one. Brett believes the first and probably most important step in taking advantage of every opportunity is saying yes more often. Not all opportunities are great. But saying yes a lot more ensures you don't miss out on the good ones. The best things in your life will happen because you said yes to something. Otherwise, your situation will stay the same. You can reach Brett Riggins through his LinkedIn account: Linkedin.com/Brettriggins. Check out his websites, Connect Home Buyers and Physician Wealth Systems, for more details about his work.    Mentioned in This Episode: How to Get Rich as Doctor by Brett Riggins The Richest Man In Babylon by George S Clason  To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.    You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

In this episode, which premiered on 10/31/2023, I talked with Erkeda DeRouen (MD) about her passion for merging the humanistic aspect of medicine with the new field of emerging technology. Erkeda shared her experience working in a healthtech startup company in the early days of telemedicine, going into full time business for herself as a healthcare consultant, and her non-profit leadership role in helping women & non-binary adults learn software development skills. Erkeda and I also talked at length about her thoughts on emerging technology's ability to improve healthcare for all and how she plans to revolutionize health care with community, collaboration, and cybernetics through The Pace Makerz organization. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!   KEEP IN TOUCH

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Aubrey Grant, a trailblazing clinical sports cardiologist and co-founder of Equity Commons. They discuss the rising cases of cardiac arrest among athletes and how medics can tackle implicit bias in healthcare.  [00:45] Introducing Dr. Aubrey Grant [03:50] The Journey to Medicine [05:28] Sudden Cardiac Arrest Among Athletes [07:35] Why We All Need to Learn Basic CPR [08:52] Bias Training at Equity Commons [13:54] Be Open to Trying New Things  [16:50] The Benefits of Having a Personal Board of Directors [20:55] What Dr. Grant Would Change About Healthcare [22:49] Advice For Medical Students on Addressing Implicit Bias [26:44] Parting Thoughts Implicit Bias in Healthcare The medical profession aims to provide equal treatment for all patients. Unfortunately, disparities will always exist. We all come from different cultural backgrounds, and we all carry biases. Implicit biases are the ones people are unaware of. You may think you're treating everyone equally, but your implicit bias may cause unconscious negative actions towards a particular group of people. According to Dr. Grant, everybody is susceptible to these biases. Among physicians, implicit biases may contribute to healthcare disparities and produce different medical outcomes for people along the lines of gender, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background.  The Rising Cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Among Athletes The ever-rising cases of cardiac arrest among athletes are alarming. Athletes are often at the epitome of health and fitness, so you'd expect them to have no heart problems. But the truth is, even the most finely-tuned athletes are not immune to sudden cardiac arrest.  The big question is, why is this happening? Dr. Grant is convinced there's no single answer, as various factors are in play. The good news is that there is still hope. And it all starts with everybody learning basic CPR, particularly in Black and Brown communities. CPR is not just a life-saving skill for medical professionals. It's that one superpower that everybody must possess. Learning it can mean the difference between life and death.  You can reach Dr. Aubrey Grant through her Instagram account: @aubjgrantmd and LinkedIn Aubrey J. Grant M.D. Check out his website for more details about his work and implicit bias.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Gary Epler, an internationally-known Harvard Medical School professor and the CEO of Epler Health. They talk about Dr. Epler's discovery of Bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia, and lessons medical students can take away from his journey. [01:00] Introducing Dr. Gary Epler [04:31] Go to Medical School for the Right Reasons [10:16] Discovering Epler's Pneumonia [15:58] Innovation in Medicine [22:38] Think from the Heart Dr. Gary Epler's Medical Journey The decision to go into medicine is going to be different for each person. Dr. Epler was inspired to become a physician so he can improve patients' lives. His journey had a rough start, with his application rejected by several medical schools. But with enough perseverance, he was able to enter Tulane University's School of Medicine. The life of a medical student is full of challenges, but Dr. Epler faced those head on because he was eager to learn.  During his pulmonary critical care training, Dr. Epler took up an interest in bronchitis obliterans. He examined dozens of cases and found abnormalities in the x-rays. After convincing his professor for months, they discovered bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia and published their findings in the New England Journal of Medicine. Be Your True Self in Medicine Going into medicine for external reasons is not wrong, but internal motivation will better inspire you to provide the best care possible. Dedicated physicians prioritize patients' well-being, even if it means experiencing inconvenience. When we think about ourselves less, the more authentic we can be in our interactions with other people. We become free to innovate and explore creative solutions that will help medicine progress even further.  You can reach Dr. Gary Epler through his email at garyepler@gmail.com. Check out his website for more details about his work and podcast.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Ruth Arumala, a board certified OB-GYN and cosmetic surgeon. They talk about advocating for women's health and tips to get through the first few years of med school.  [00:45] Introducing Dr. Ruth Arumala [01:46] How to Advocate for Women's Health [07:04] Pretty in Pink Podcast [11:59] Tips for Adjusting to Med School [22:01] What Dr. Arumala Would Change About Healthcare Advocating for Women's Healthcare Physicians can better advocate for women's health by seeing patients in their entirety, not just as body parts. In any specialty, doctors need to look out for the whole person. Majority of the time, women receive excellent healthcare only when they are pregnant. Young girls feel confused about the changes in their body while older women feel discarded after menopause. Women typically take on a caregiving role. So when they are healthy and supported, the rest of the population will be too.  Tips for Starting Your Medical Journey In everything you do, always remember why you started. Write down your why and remind yourself of it on a daily basis. Your reasons for going into medicine cannot be superficial, they have to be meaningful to help get you through this long journey. It should motivate you to push on despite the challenges.  Stay focused on what you have to do. Envision your end goal and then do things that will help you achieve that. It's important to keep your mind sharp by continuously learning. There will be a lot of distractions along the way. To succeed, you need to be able to resist those. Taking breaks is important, but don't sacrifice your dream for a few fleeting moments of fun.  You can reach Dr. Ruth Arumala through her Instagram accounts: @i.am.dr.arumala and @noblexdrarumala. Check out her website for more details about her work and podcast.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Megan Osborn, the Associate Dean for Students at UC Irvine School of Medicine. They talk about how students can excel in medical school and in their clinical years.  [00:55] Introducing Dr. Megan Osborn [01:45] The Advantages of Taking a Gap Year [04:21] Qualities of a Successful Applicant [07:28] Thriving in Medical School [13:11] Transitioning to the Clinical Years [18:10] What Dr. Osbon Would Change About Medical Education Should You Take a Gap Year? It's hard to make up for a low GPA, so students should focus on academics while in school. Taking a gap year or two is beneficial so you can build your resume with clinical experiences and other activities. Applying to medical school during a gap year allows you to focus on the process while strengthening your resume. Gap years provide the perfect opportunity for you to explore and figure out what you truly want.  How to Thrive in Medical School Humility is a quality that can certainly help medical students thrive. Accepted applicants are all brilliant, which makes the learning environment feel competitive. Getting a below average score does not mean that you are a failure.  Medical school is about lifelong learning, not high grades. As such, students may need to develop better study habits that can help them absorb and retain information better. Getting a tutor or asking for help can allow you to study more efficiently, while allowing you to make time for wellness or hobbies outside of medicine.  Preparing for Clinical Rotations During the first and second years of medical school, the curriculum has been designed to prepare students for the Step 1 and Step 2 exams. However, the clinical years are different. Students will need to be responsible for their own learning as they complete their rotations. To help you prepare for Shelf Exams, make an outline or list of topics to cover during each rotation. Didactics and review questions are good additional sources of learning, but they should not be your main resource.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Wojtek Dolkowski, the co-founder and CEO of MEDtube. They talk about MEDtube as a learning resource and the best way for students to use the platform.  [01:06] What is MEDtube? [07:16] Learning on MEDtube [12:04] How to access MEDtube About MEDtube MEDtube is a social e-learning platform for physicians and healthcare professionals. The images, videos, courses, and documents are uploaded by physicians, clinicians, and other field experts. Anonymous posts are not permitted, to guarantee the credibility of the resources. Each piece of content is carefully curated to make sure it is scientifically sound.  MEDtube for Medical Students and Learners Educators have already started using the platform in their lectures and have recommended it to their students. The clinical cases on MEDtube can be used for homework, additional learning, or even as discussion points. Students can also use the MEDtube platform to help them anticipate how clinical rotations will go.  Join MEDtube for Free Go to medtube.net and sign up for a free account. Once you become a physician or a medical professional, you can provide your NPI number to upgrade your account and have access to additional features. Check out the MEDtube website to browse their library of 25,000+ clinical cases.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Andrea O'Brien, the Director of Residential Admissions at A.T. Still University. They talk about communicating your why in medical school applications and the mistakes to avoid. [00:57] Introducing Andrea O'Brien [02:27] Ways to Stand Out as a Med School Applicant  [08:21] Med School Application Mistakes [17:25] A.T. Still University's Waitlist System [19:09] When to Submit Your Medical School Application [22:51] What Andrea O'Brien Would Change About Healthcare Know Your Why for Pursuing Medicine Medicine is a difficult profession, so schools would like to see your authenticity and passion come through your application. Accumulating experience over the long term can really set you apart from other applicants. Medical schools want to see that you've been preparing for it not just in the last few months. Community service and cultural competency are also things you want to highlight in your resume. “Know Your Why” by Simon Sinek is a book that can help you communicate your motive for pursuing medicine.  Avoid These Mistakes in Your Med School Application Choose schools where you're going to feel most comfortable and supported. Align your own goals to the school's mission. If you have encountered a challenging situation which affected your application, be sure to address it. The admissions committee notices any unusual changes and would appreciate an explanation.  Another mistake to avoid is rushing to submit your application. Take all the time you need to build a strong resume. Rejected or waitlisted students would do well to follow any feedback and advice given to improve their application.  Best Time to Apply for Medical School As a general rule, it is always better to submit your application sooner rather than later. Applications that are severely lacking may be rejected immediately. It's wise to let the school know if you're retaking the MCAT so they can wait for your new score. Submitting your application at the very end of the cycle would be disadvantageous because by then, most slots would already be filled. Late August or early September are ideal times to apply for medical school.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dimple Patel, the Associate Dean of Admissions at the University of Minnesota Medical School. They talk about the deliberation process for accepting applicants into medical school. [01:04] Introducing Dimple Patel [01:46] How Medical Schools Deliberate [07:18] Showcase Your Core Competencies [09:41] Tips for Waitlisted Applicants [13:17] What Dimple Patel Would Change About Healthcare Transparency in Medical Schools' Admissions Process When applicants are rejected, they often feel like they're not qualified to become medical students. In reality, there are a lot of factors that affect admissions. For example, the University of Minnesota Medical School allocates 80% of its slots for Minnesota residents, and the remaining 20% for non-residents. As a result, non-resident applicants face much stiffer competition.  Each school will have its own criteria and mission that will influence their deliberation process. Applicants would be able to increase their chances of acceptance if they can demonstrate how their personal values align with the institution's own goals.     Attributes of Good Medical School Applicants Different medical schools will differ in the core competencies they're looking for. But generally, critical thinking, socio-cultural humility, and an orientation towards service are great attributes. In your application, prove that you possess those qualities by citing your experiences. It's also helpful to share any changes and learning outcomes that you've gained. This will provide the admissions team with further insight into who you are.  Tips for Waitlisted and Rejected Applicants If you have not been granted an interview, review your application again. Maybe you can improve how you present your learning outcomes or other core competencies. Include stories of how you overcame challenges in life or when your values were tested. If you have been denied after an interview, it may just be a matter of brushing up on your communication skills.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Deanna Hughes, the Director of Admissions at A.T. Still University. They talk about building a competitive medical school application and the faux pas to avoid. [01:01] Introducing Deanna Hughes [02:51] How Competitive are Medical School Applications? [06:02] Strengthen Your Med School Application [12:27] What NOT to Do in Your Application [15:23] What Deanna Hughes Would Change About Healthcare Limited Admissions into Medical School At A.T. Still University, the most number of applicants they've received is from 8,000 students. However, they only have 150 available slots. The admissions process is very competitive, so most students would do well to start preparing as early as high school or college. Non-traditional applicants are also encouraged to apply, as medical schools also value diversity. How to Build a Strong Portfolio Each medical school has its own unique mission statement. Before anything else, students should choose schools that align with their own values and mission. Pre-meds can start to build a competitive resume by shadowing both MD and DO physicians. Getting letters of recommendation from both doctors is advantageous. Being a member or leader in pre-med organizations is also great for your portfolio. In addition to clinical work, community service makes for a well-rounded application. All these experiences and extracurricular activities are important, but don't forget to keep an eye on your grades.  Mistakes to Avoid in Your Application Students might think that mentioning faculty members or staff can give them a leg up in admissions, but it actually has the opposite effect. Name dropping is generally frowned upon. Another practice that might hurt your application is gushing about a school's location instead of the school itself and its values. What you want to highlight is how aligned you are with your chosen school's values and mission statement, making you the perfect fit in their environment.     To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Love Nafi, a family medicine physician and an award winning filmmaker. They talk about cultivating creativity in medicine to honor every individual's authentic self. [01:12] Introducing Dr. Love Nafi [04:07] Keeping Creativity Alive in Medicine [07:02] Dr. Nafi's Latest Film “Crown” [12:16] Healthcare in Media [14:56] What Dr. Nafi Would Change About Healthcare Cultivating Creativity in Medicine In the journey to becoming a physician, it's important to remain true to who you are. Don't give up your passions outside of medicine. Instead, make an effort to keep your creativity alive. It may be as simple as visiting art galleries, reading books, or listening to stories. Continue to make time for things that make you happy. Dr. Love Nafi's Latest Film “Crown” Crown is a 20 minute short film that was co-written and directed by Dr. Nafi and her partner. It depicts a young Black girl who struggles to style her hair for her ballet audition. The film takes its name from the “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair” (C.R.O.W.N) Act. Hair discrimination is still prevalent in different fields, even in medicine. Dr. Nafi's film aims to highlight this issue, while honoring each individual's right to express themselves authentically.  Healthcare in Social Media Patients consume all kinds of media every day. When making medical content, remember to maintain a level of professionalism and to differentiate between pop culture and verified findings. When patients open up about what they've learned online, it can be a good segue to help them access resources that are trustworthy and relevant. You can reach Dr. Love Nafi through her Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram. Check out her website and YouTube channel for more details about her films.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Arielle Egozi, an award-winning creative, strategist, and author. She is also a founding member of Women of SexTech. They talk about creating a safe space in healthcare for marginalized groups.  [00:39] Introducing Arielle Egozi [04:45] Feeling Judged from Healthcare Practitioners [10:05] Creating Safe Spaces for All Patients [18:52] What is Sex Tech? [24:17] What Arielle Would Change About Healthcare Judgment and Medical Gaslighting Arielle recalls an experience with her gynecologist. The physician asked about her sexual history, to which she responded by saying that she was not sexually active. Despite Arielle's honesty, her gynecologist kept on prodding her because she was unconvinced. Arielle felt as if her doctor had made certain assumptions about her which left her feeling ashamed. Instead of discrediting them, healthcare professionals should be empathetic to their patients because they are being vulnerable.  Why Healthcare Should Be a Safe Space for Everyone Physicians are putting patients at risk when they project their biases and beliefs onto them. Marginalized groups such as sex workers, LGBTQIA+, African Americans, and others may refuse proper treatment because they feel judged by healthcare practitioners. When we can make space for all kinds of people, everybody wins. Every patient deserves to be authentically who they are in the healthcare system. Physicians can become more culturally competent by being open to feedback and being compassionately curious about their patients. The Emerging Sex Tech Industry Sex Tech is a burgeoning field that seeks to educate and utilize sexual wellness. There are numerous applications ranging from sex toys, creative media, to AI and chatbots. What all of these have in common is that sex tech aims to understand pleasure not just for cisgender men, but for everyone. It seeks to destigmatize sexual experiences and promote diversity and inclusivity through new technology.  You can reach Arielle Egozi through her LinkedIn or Instagram. Check out her website for details about her upcoming book.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Jeffery SooHoo, the Assistant Dean of Admissions at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. They talk about how to put your best foot forward in applications and how to survive your first year in medical school. [00:47] Introducing Dr. Jeffery SooHoo [03:13] Adjusting to Medical School [09:56] Best Way to Impress Medical School Admissions  [13:16] Reapplying to Med Schools [15:05] Advice for Pre-Meds and Medical Students [16:30] What Dr. SooHoo Would Change About Healthcare The First Year of Medical School Majority of students are taken aback by how challenging medical school can be. The first year of medical school is definitely an adjustment period where you may need to adopt new study habits or learning styles. A mistake that new students make is that they don't ask for help soon enough. Teachers and peers can provide helpful resources that students can utilize. It's a time to experiment and try new things, but do so one at a time.  Increase Your Chances of Acceptance into Medical School It would be helpful to know what kinds of skills and competencies medical schools are looking for. Get to know your strengths as well so you can communicate how you best fit into the school. Remember that it's not enough to just speak about your passions. It's crucial to have experiences that showcase your interest and dedication to medicine. Impress your interviewer by talking about your experiences in a reflective and nuanced way.  Should you be waitlisted or rejected, don't fret! Have someone else take a look at and evaluate your application. Typically, the issue may lie in your paper application, your interviewing skills or your selection of schools. If there are gaps in your resume, try to remedy them so you can increase your chances of acceptance on your reapplication.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Jennifer Jeboda, a recent MD graduate who aspires to be a pediatric anesthesiologist. They talk about her adventurous journey in medicine and how she manages to keep her passion for art alive.   [00:50] Introducing Dr. Jennifer Jeboda [07:44] US Healthcare versus UK Healthcare System [10:04] Incorporating Art Into Medicine [13:08] Advice for Pre-Meds and Medical Students [15:00] What Dr. Jeboda Would Change About Medical Education Differences Between the US and UK Healthcare Systems Having experienced both during her training, Dr. Jeboda has observed that the biggest difference is that the UK healthcare system is free while the US healthcare system is not. Unsurprisingly, there is a long waitlist for patients in the United Kingdom. They try to carefully investigate the symptoms before testing patients since diagnostics can be expensive. Another difference is that the two systems do not use the same type of measurement system. Understanding Anatomy Through Art Before entering medicine, Dr. Jeboda has always been interested in different forms of art. But as she got busy, she started to focus more on illustrations and has even created a business that combines both medicine and art. She creates fun but informative anatomy worksheets and coloring pages. Having struggled with anatomy herself, Dr. Jeboda hopes that her artworks can help other students with the subject.   Prepare for the Unexpected Becoming a physician is not easy. And things can get crazier when unexpected things like rejection, natural disasters, or life changes happen. It's good to set goals for yourself and to plan for the future, but don't forget to be open to what life has in store and to explore other opportunities.   You can reach Dr. Jennifer Jeboda through her LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram. Check out her website and  Etsy shop.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Claudia Anglade, who is a board certified family physician and voice over artist. They talk about navigating shifting priorities in medicine and how to make space for new interests.  [00:55] Introducing Dr. Claudia Anglade [08:18] Exploring Interests Outside of Medicine [12:47] Have Meetings with Yourself [18:56] Choose What Makes You Happy [25:24] What Dr. Anglade Would Change About Healthcare Exploring Your Passions and Interests  As a person of multiple interests, Dr. Anglade has been involved in OBGYN, emergency medicine, and family medicine. When she got pregnant, she decided to take a break from practicing medicine. She found a job in utilization management that allowed her to work from home. Dr. Anglade has always been curious about voice acting, and so she explored this interest by joining a class. After honing her skills even further, she has been a voice over talent since 2019.  Don't Lose Yourself in Medicine Becoming a physician is a long and arduous process. Get to know yourself and your purpose for getting into medicine. Every now and then, evaluate if what you're doing still makes you happy. Sometimes priorities shift and that's okay. Acknowledge the changes and then re-align your lifestyle to your purpose. Have meetings with yourself regularly to make sure you're on the right track. Choose a school or residency program that makes you feel fulfilled. If you have something you want to pursue, take initiative to make it happen by talking to your superiors, joining a community, or simply trying it out.  You can reach Dr. Claudia Anglade through her LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or send her an email at claudia.anglade@gmail.com.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.  You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Ian Hagemann, the Assistant Dean for Admissions at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. They talk about how medical schools screen applications and the future of admissions in the advent of AI and chatbots.  [00:44] Introducing Dr. Ian Hagemann [06:46] What Happens to Your Med School Applications [13:25] Medical School Admissions & Screening Process [19:12] Preparing for Reapplication [27:18] AI and Chatbots in Medical School Applications [29:58] What Dr.Hagemann Would Change About Healthcare What Happens to Your Medical School Applications After students submit their applications, the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) verifies and converts grades into a standardized scale. Next, the completed applications are sent to the schools, which have their own reviewing process.   Generally, schools will check that each portfolio has all of the required documents. Depending on their criteria, schools will then send out secondary applications. There is typically an application fee, but students can apply to waiver programs to ease the financial burden.  Evaluating Medical School Applicants Medical schools review applicants both qualitatively and quantitatively. Know the mission and values of a school, and you can quickly figure out what they're looking for in a potential student. Once schools have determined applicants who best fit their learning environment, they will invite them for an interview.  Interview schedules vary per institution. Students who apply early have an advantage, as they will be offered interview slots first.  Increase your Chances of Admission in Reapplications In some cases, students who have strong portfolios may have chosen incompatible schools. It would be a good idea to choose schools that are aligned with your personal values and to diversify your list. But what is true for all reapplicants is that they need to make use of the year to showcase significant growth. Rewriting your essay is not enough. Immerse yourself in opportunities that show your dedication to medicine. If you're unable to do so due to financial reasons, you must be able to articulate your story in a way that resonates with the school. Can Artificial Learning Help in Medical School Applications? Most schools do not allow students to use AI or ChatGPT to write their essays for them. However, students can seek assistance from family, friends, mentors or other devices. Artificial intelligence programs can be especially helpful in helping students generate a personalized school list. In the future, medical schools may employ the help of AI to screen applications.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Leila Amiri, Ph.D, the associate dean for admissions at Robert Lerner M.D. College of Medicine at the University of Vermont. They talk about how to address blemishes on your medical school application and how to stand out as a reapplicant. [01:01] Introducing Leila Amiri, Ph.D [02:31] Anatomy of a Successful Medical School Application [06:42] Addressing Issues in Your Med School Application [14:11] Communicate Your Personal Why  [19:53] Re-applying to Med Schools [23:16] What Leila Amiri Would Change About Healthcare Do These Before You Apply to Medical School There is no perfect timing to start applying to medical schools. Students must apply when they feel academically and emotionally ready. Becoming a physician is a long journey, you must be certain of your why. Students don't have to apply to every medical school. Instead, choose institutions that have mission statements that resonate with you. Consider learning environments that would be most conducive to your development.  Applying with Low Grades or a Disciplinary Record Academics is a big factor in medical school applications. There is a standard score in order to be admitted. If you're having trouble with poor grades, try hiring a tutor or enrolling in further education. Retaking a class will not necessarily boost your GPA. Figure out your level of mastery and then come up with a plan to improve your scores. Another blemish to address in your application may be a negative disciplinary record. An incident will not disqualify you from getting into a medical school, but you must be transparent about what happened. Highlight what you've learned from this experience.  Authenticity in Your Personal Statement During interviews, it's typical to want to please the admission committee. Instead of trying to be the ideal candidate, be yourself. No matter the outcome, being genuine will help you match into a school that is best suited to you.  The personal statement is another way to let yourself be known. Clearly state why you want to pursue medicine and mention the relevant opportunities you've had in the field. The essay should give the admissions committee a picture of who you are. Use personal analogies and provide appropriate context.  Standing Out as a Med School Reapplicant Didn't get into a medical school on your first round of applications? It's okay, this doesn't mean you're unqualified. Sometimes, schools have very limited slots to offer. Take this time instead to strengthen your application by adding more experience, research, or leadership opportunities. Don't wait for a rejection notice to start improving your résumé. Admissions committees want to see the growth you've had in between your first and second round of medical school applications.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Marissa Robinson, the initiative coordinator for Ending the HIV Epidemic under the U.S. Department of Health. They talk about how each person can make an impact on public health. [00:38] Introducing Marissa Robinson [04:41] Conducting Meaningful Research [08:33] Ending HIV for Black Women [20:13] The Stigma of HIV [23:55] Choosing a Public Health Advocacy Meaningful Research is Personal For Dr. Robinson's dissertation, she chose a topic that merged her passion for public health and her identity as Black cisgender woman. Hence, she conducted a qualitative study about black women's attitudes and perceptions about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This medicine has been proven to be 99% effective in preventing HIV transmission. Despite it being approved by the FDA in 2012, the number of Black women who have been using PrEP have not significantly increased. Dr. Robinson's findings have highlighted the need to de-stigmatize infectious diseases like HIV, so we can improve public health.  Making an Impact in Public Health There are a lot of available resources about infectious diseases such as hiv.gov and cdc.gov. Educate yourself about the latest research and talk to people about their experiences with the healthcare system. From there, you can determine how you'd like to help.  Medicine is not the only way to positively impact public health. Explore other avenues and find a niche that matches your skills and interests. This is how each of us can uniquely contribute towards better care. If you still find that medicine is your calling, all these experiences will definitely help you become a well-rounded med school candidate and physician.  You can reach Dr. Marissa Robinson through her LinkedIn, Twitter, or send her an email at drmarissarob@gmail.com.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Alexia Childress, the CEO and co-founder of the National Pre-Health Community. They talk about the founding story of the NPHC, building connections in healthcare, and  pre-med admissions. [00:37] Introducing Alexia Childress [03:20] Forming the National Pre-Health Community [07:53] NPHC 2023 Annual Conference [11:38] How to Network Online [14:45] What Alexia Would Change About Med School Applications [21:09] What Alexia Would Change About Healthcare Building Your Pre-Med Network At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of opportunities for pre-meds were canceled. There was a lot of change and uncertainty, making it tough for students to prepare for med school applications. As a response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Alexia Childress and Alejandra Bahena formed the National Pre-Health Community. Within two months, they organized a free virtual event for students interested in healthcare careers. Since its inaugural conference, the NPHC holds an annual symposium that connects aspiring healthcare professionals and provides resources to help them succeed. Building Your Pre-Med Network Networking is not limited to face to face interactions, it can also be done virtually. One of the ways to build connection is through participating in online events. Be engaged and ask questions to resource speakers. Send them emails about what you liked in their presentation. Once you've built some rapport, you can try to request to shadow them if you are ever in their area. Another way to expand your network is by joining online communities. The NPHC has a Discord channel, free resources, and scholarships that you can benefit from.   Sign up for the National Pre-Health Community's free annual conference on their website. Join their Discord community through this invite link. You can reach Alexia Childress through her LinkedIn.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor  

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Olivia Brumfield who is currently a third year student at Harvard Medical School. They talk about applying to medical schools with intention and personalizing medical education.   [00:39] Introducing Olivia Brumfield [02:20] Medical School Application Tips [10:55] Learning American Sign Language [15:06] Transition into Medical School [18:13] What Olivia Would Change About Healthcare [21:23] What Olivia Would Change About Medical Education Apply to Medical Schools with Intention Having gone through medical school applications herself, Olivia reminds students to be mindful of their mental health. Take breaks and stay connected to your why so you don't lose yourself in the process. Your passion for medicine will help you power through difficult moments.  Be selective about the med schools you're considering. Will this institution help you serve the population you want to care for? Do their values align with the kind of doctor you want to become? Save yourself the time, expense, and mental bandwidth by applying to schools that will help you reach your goals.  It's okay to take your time before you start med school applications. Be honest and evaluate if you're ready to commit to the process. Pursuing other opportunities is not a bad thing. Contrary to what other people may think, you can gain other skills that can help improve your future practice as a physician.  Reducing Barriers in Healthcare As a clerk, Olivia has seen firsthand how limited resources can affect healthcare. Patients are not able to access the care they need because of a variety of factors. Olivia wishes we can have better medical infrastructure to support patients and to reduce the financial costs of medicine to make it accessible to everyone. She also wishes to see more diversity in all areas of healthcare. If groups feel represented in medicine, it will be easier to connect and provide care for different populations.   A Well-Rounded Medical Education Olivia proposes that medical education should be a more personalized experience. If schools can tailor a program for students based on their unique values, deciding which field to go into may become easier. It would also be helpful if students can learn about the business of medicine early on so they can navigate the healthcare system with more ease.  You can reach Olivia Brumfield through her Instagram.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Adam Johnson, a general surgeon who has recently matched into a breast surgical oncology fellowship. They talk about his passion for breast oncology and how he overcame the setbacks in his medical journey. [00:58] Introducing Dr. Adam Johnson [05:22] Early Medical School Selection Program at Boston University [09:44] Medical School & USMLE Step 1 [14:55] Surgery Rotations [16:53] Failing the USMLE Step 2 [24:27] Matching into Surgery [33:21] The Power of Never Giving Up Why Breast Surgical Oncology? Dr. Johnson's family had a history of breast cancer that has afflicted his grandmother, mother, and aunt. His sister had to go through a mastectomy after finding out that she carried the BRCA1 gene. From an early age, Dr. Johnson saw and experienced the huge impact that breast cancer has on the patient and their family. As such, he is passionate about the prevention and treatment of this disease.   Despite Failure, Never Give Up Dr. Johnson's journey was full of challenges. He recalls failing a class every year in medical school. But instead of being discouraged, he changed his studying habits. When it was time to take the USMLE Step 1, he passed but his results fell short of the average score for surgery residency. Even though he was disappointed, he didn't give up. During his surgery rotation, Dr. Johnson enjoyed it so much that he felt validated to continue to pursue surgery. Some people encouraged him to consider other options since surgery was highly competitive, but he was determined to match into his chosen field. Unfortunately, he failed the USMLE Step 2. But again, this didn't stop Dr. Johnson from trying even harder. After enrolling in a prep course, he passed the USMLE Step 2. Eventually, he was able to match into a surgery residency program.  Never Say Never If you have a dream you'd like to pursue, don't let anybody talk you out of it. The important thing is to believe in yourself. Recognize your strengths, but also admit your weaknesses so you can work on them. Take care of your mental health by cultivating good relationships and self-care habits. Talking to a coach or therapist can also be very beneficial. You can reach Dr. Adam Johnson by sending an email to adamljohnsonmd@gmail.com or by reaching out on Instagram. If you are in need of support or someone to talk to about your mental health, please call the 988 Suicide and Crisis hotline or the Physician Support Line (888) 409-0141. You may also visit www.doctorlifeline.org.   To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Valentina Bonev, a board certified and fellowship trained breast surgical oncologist. They talk about how she decided on her subspecialty and how to seek out mentors in your chosen field.  [00:47] Introducing Dr. Valentina Bonev [02:37] Why Breast Surgical Oncology? [07:30] How to Make Your Application Stand Out [09:46] Finding Mentors in Medicine [15:52] Dr. Bonev's Passions Outside of Medicine [17:48] What Dr. Bonev Would Change About Healthcare Be an Exceptional Surgical Applicant  Even before residency applications start, show interest during rotations. Make your enthusiasm known by being proactive. This will surely leave a good impression. It's helpful to find a mentor who you can form a relationship with and learn from. By working closely together, they can write a letter of recommendation to endorse your strengths. Aside from this, it's also a good idea to participate in relevant research. If the paper is published or presented at a conference, all the better!  Be honest about your shortcomings and communicate what you've learned from those experiences. Lying on your application or interview is a surefire way to sabotage your chances. Another word of advice: try to maintain a good professional relationship with your colleagues because you may end up working together one day. Residency programs look for well-rounded individuals who have exposed themselves to their chosen field. How to Seek Out Mentorship Join an interest group and contact the coordinator or president. Typically, interest groups have a roster of physicians who are eager to teach. Dedicate some time to shadowing them, assisting surgeries or joining whatever opportunity comes up. By getting to know the resident and attending physicians, they can take you under their wing and show you the ins and outs. If you find that a certain specialization is not enjoyable, you can always explore other fields.    To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor. You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ProspectiveDoctor