The Modern Urologist

In this episode, Dr. Paul Sieber and Ashley Rentisky, PA-C, are joined by Dr. Evan Goldfischer, past president of LUGPA, to address the underutilization of germline and tumor (somatic) testing somatic testing in prostate cancer management. They will discuss challenges practices face in integrating genetic testing into clinical workflows and offer strategies for overcoming barriers. Tune in for expert insights and actionable advice that can transform prostate cancer care! Send us a text

Dr. Paul Sieber and co-host Ashleigh Renitsky, Oncology PA, are joined by Dr. Morris from Urology Associates of Nashville to discuss how clinical guidelines have driven increased awareness of germline and somatic mutations in prostate cancer. They discuss how germline and somatic testing can help personalize treatment strategies and share real world case studies. The conversation also encourages the need for continued education in this rapidly advancing field and adoption of genetic testing in urology. Send us a text

In the second episode of our miniseries, Precision Oncology and Prostate Cancer: The New Standard of Care, Dr. Paul Sieber and Ashleigh Renitsky, Oncology PA, will break down the different types of genetic and molecular tests—including gene expression, germline, somatic, and circulating tumor DNA tests—discuss which patients qualify for each, and explore how to implement streamlined testing protocols in their practice to ensure their patients are receiving the standard of care. They'll also cover the critical role of genetic counselors in helping patients understand their test results and make informed treatment decisions.Whether you're a provider, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, this podcast will provide valuable insights to help integrate genetic testing into your practice.Learn more at Prolaris.comSend us a text

Send us a textThe Modern Urologist Podcast has launched a new miniseries, Precision Oncology and Prostate Cancer: The New Standard of Care, hosted by Dr. Paul Sieber and Ashleigh Renitsky, Oncology PA. This series will focus on the evolving role of genetic testing in prostate cancer care and its impact on personalized patient treatment plans.Episode #1 - Genetic testing basicsThe first installment will provide an overview of genetic testing, highlighting the difference between germline and somatic testing, and their implications for personalized treatment. This episode emphasizes the importance of integrating streamlined testing protocols into clinical practice, understanding test results to tailor therapies for patients, and leveraging genetic counselors. 

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Richardson from Wichita Urology and Dr. Ben Lowentritt from Chesapeake Urology discuss the integration and utilization of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) in urology practices, particularly within advanced prostate cancer (APC) clinics. Dr. Lowentritt explains the benefits of using APPs to address physician shortages, increase efficiency, and more. 

Dr. Tim Richardson from Wichita Urology and Dr. Jonathan Henderson from Arkansas Urology discuss the use and benefits of Prolaris testing in prostate cancer management. Dr. Henderson elaborates on how Prolaris aids in decision-making for his prostate cancer patients, highlighting its role in reducing overtreatment and undertreatment. 

Dr. Tim Richardson from Wichita Urology interviews Dr. Scott Sellinger, the current president - elect of the Large Urology Group Practice Association (LUGPA). They discuss LUGPA's history, current status, and future goals. Initially founded to support large independent urology practices, LUGPA now includes any independent urology practice. Dr. Sellinger also highlights the challenges facing independent urology practices. *Episode was filmed 11/23 

In this episode of The Modern Urologist, Dr. Mark Edney is joined by Dr. Paul Sieber, a urologist from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to discuss the use of genetic testing in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Dr. Sieber emphasizes the importance of hereditary cancer testing, as well as tissue-based biomarkers like Prolaris®, in determining the best treatment plans for this prostate cancer patients.

On this episode of TMU we're diving deep into the rapidly evolving landscape of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment with special guest, Dr. Adam Cole, a board-certified pathologist. Dr. Cole will discuss the traditional Gleason grading system, the limitations of pathology, and how incorporating genetic markers can improve patient outcomes.  Dr. Cole will touch on the importance of genetic testing in guiding treatment plans, and the potential use of artificial intelligence shaping the future of pathology.

In this episode of TMU we have the pleasure of being joined by two urology experts, Dr. Ravi Rajan, Urologist, and Dr. William Ding, Radiation Oncologist, as they discuss topics ranging from genetic testing in prostate cancer for personalized treatment plans to the importance of collaboration between urologists and radiation oncologists. Our guests highlight the significance of effective communication and seamless integration within the treatment team. They also  shed light on the consequences of lack of collaboration and how it can impacts patient care and satisfaction. Listen along as they share valuable insights and practical tips for improving communication and collaboration between these specialties.

Join our panel of experts, Dr. Neal Shore, Dr. Ben Lowentritt, Dr. Ted Schaefer, and Dr. Jonathan Tward, as they discuss the various components and utility of a full workup for localized prostate cancer. They explore the importance of germline testing and how it has significant implications for personalized treatment choices. They will also discuss and examine the use of traditional biomarkers like PSA, PSA density, kinetics, and the Gleason grade system, as well as newer advancements in molecular markers and the potential use of artificial intelligence. Tune in as our experts share their insights, experiences, and expectations for the future of prostate cancer care.

On this episode of TMU, Dr. Mark Edney welcomes Dr. Deepak Kapoor as they dive into the world of private equity and healthcare policy. They discuss the opportunities and challenges faced by private practices in the field of Urology, and explore the topic of private equity with Dr. Kapoor's experiences as the chairman of Solaris Health. Listeners will gain insight into the differences between private equity and venture capital. Dr. Kapoor and Dr. Edney stress the importance of everyone having a voice in this thought-provoking conversation that highlights the ultimate goal of providing great patient care. 

 On this episode of TMU, we sit down with Ray Wezik, the Director of Policy and Advocacy for the American Urological Association (AUA), as we dive into the world of patient advocacy and lobbying. Ray shares his perspective as someone who works with over 75 patient advocacy organizations to leverage their voices and become better advocates together. We discuss the importance of collaboration between patient advocacy and medical professionals for effective efforts, and Ray shares insights on how networking events are bringing patients and urologists to state capitals to advocate for solutions and funding for research programs. Ray also shares valuable insights on working with regulatory agencies like CMS, and the value of determining CPT codes.

On this episode of TMU, we're joined by Nilay Gandhi, Urologist at Potomac Urology in Northern Virginia, as he shares his personal story on why he chose to pursue urology and his involvement in patient advocacy. Dr. Gandhi also discusses how incorporating genetic testing into his practice has improved patient care. Lastly, we'll cover the growing presence of advanced practice providers in urology and the need for personalized treatment options for prostate cancer patients. Tune in to learn more!

Dr. TJ Slavin, Chief Medical Officer of Myriad Genetics hosts this episode of the Modern Urologist joined by Dr. Angelo Baccala, at Lehigh Valley Health Network and Kara Cossis, PA-C, MPH, at Chesapeake Urology, to discuss genetic testing advancements in prostate cancer care to improve patient outcomes. Panelists' will dive into the rising rates of prostate cancer due to advanced diagnosis and how they have incorporated  genetic testing into their practices. *This episode of The Modern Urologists was derived from an episode of Myriad Live, a recorded open-forum webinar hosted by Dr. Thomas Slavin. The opinions and views expressed in this recording do not necessarily represent those of Myriad Genetics or its affiliates.

In this episode of The Modern Urologist, we are joined by Dr. David Levy who has done extensive research on prostate cancer nutrition and treatment. Dr. Levy will discuss measures that can be taken to decrease risk of disease such as taking supplements and vitamins. In addition, he mentions which foods to incorporate in your diet and those to avoid to possibly prevent or delay prostate cancer progression. 

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Shelby Moneer and Ali Manson with ZERO – The End of Prostate Cancer, as they discuss the education and research support ZERO provides. They will also talk through where they see the organization going.  

In the first of a two-part series, Shelby Moneer, VP of Patient Programs and Education and Ali Manson, VP of Government Relations at ZERO – The End of Prostate Cancer, join Dr. Todd Cohen to discuss their advocacy efforts to educate and support all men who are impacted by prostate cancer. They will discuss ZERO's health equity work to combat racial disparity, creating support groups for patients and their caregivers throughout the prostate cancer journey and nationwide fundraising opportunities. 

In this episode Dr. Todd Cohen is joined by Geoff McLennan, a board member of Active Surveillance Patients International (ASPI), an advocacy group created by men with prostate cancer for men with prostate cancer. When Geoff was diagnosed with localized prostate cancer he was shocked to hear he could actively watch his cancer and not undergo extensive treatment. Geoff has now been on Active Surveillance for over 10 years. Geoff will discuss his experience living with prostate cancer and ASPI's mission to educate and help ease the burden of fear and anxiety that prostate cancer patients may face. 

In this episode, two guests from Urology Austin, Jessica Stewart, VP of Business Development, and Marco Carlos, Clinical Care Director, join Dr. Cohen to discuss their elevated nurse navigation program and how they care for their prostate cancer patients. They will talk through the implementation of clinical care pathways across the entire prostate cancer spectrum, and dive into the navigator certification training they have created in their practice to reduce barriers to care.

Dr. Marc Greenstein, from Advanced Urology, joins Dr. Todd Cohen to discuss his various roles as a urologist in the community and how he decided to get into the field of Urology. Dr. Greenstein provides insight to how his practice has adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic and dives into where he sees the future of Urology going. 

In this episode, Radiation Oncologist, Jeffery Skinner from Chesapeake Urology sits down with Dr. Todd Cohen to discuss how a radiation oncologist determines the proper treatment for a prostate cancer patient. Dr. Skinner will also share his thoughts on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in conjunction with radiation treatment.

In this installment of The Modern Urologist, Dr. Todd Cohen was able to sit down with Neal Dunn, a former urologist and current Congressman of Florida's 2nd Congressional District. They will discuss his transition from a practicing urologist to a politician, along with the biggest battles and successes he has faced in this role thus far. Congressman Dunn will also talk through his involvement with the Prostate Cancer Treatment Research Act that works directly with the Department of Veteran Affairs. 

Dr. Howard Soule, Chief Scientific Officer of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, joins Dr. Todd Cohen on this episode of The Modern Urologist to discuss his involvement with the Prostate Cancer Foundation. He will also talk through the history of the foundation and where he sees them going in the future. In addition, Dr. Soule gives insight to how the foundation has raised awareness for patient communities around the world. 

In this episode, Dr. Laurence Klotz, Professor of Surgery at the University of Toronto, sits down with Dr. Todd Cohen to discuss his role in the advancement of Active Surveille in Urology. He dives into how himself and two colleagues came up with a strategy to reduce over treatment in prostate cancer patients. Dr. Klotz will also talk about the early controversy surrounding Active Surveillance and how he has dealt with patient anxiety. 

In this episode, Dr. Todd Cohen sits down with cancer survivor John Earp to talk about his journey from diagnosis to treatment and life beyond. John was diagnosed with cancer at age 46  also shares his extensive cancer history and how he eventually learned that his prostate cancer was caused by a hereditary mutation known as CHEK-2. 

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Dr. Samuel Peretsman onclinical utilization and potential benefits of using HIFU and other focal therapies in the treatment of prostate cancer. 

In the first episode of a two-part series on focal therapies, Dr. Samuel Peretsman from Urology Specialists North Carolina joins Dr. Todd Cohen to talk about his early involvement using High intensity focused Ultrasound (HIFU). Dr. Peretsman discusses in-detail the unique path he took to became an expert with this technology and how he uses it in the treatment of prostate cancer.  

In this episode, Pathologist, Dr. Adam Cole and Urologist Dr. Richard Bevan-Thomas join The Modern Urologist to discuss how improved collaboration and communication between the two specialty groups has lead to better patient risk stratification and treatment plans. Multiple patient case reviews are discussed in-detail and the use of personalized markers at the time of diagnosis are also explored.

Alan Winkler, Executive Director of Urology San Antonio shares his experience with bringing a new EHR system online. The technical challenges of building out existing clinical pathways and the steps taken internally to get the requisite physician and staff adoption are discussed in-detail. The additional value behind upgrading to a new EHR and how a practice can mitigate potential losses of productivity and increased costs are also explored. 

In this episode, Dr. Todd Cohen kicks off prostate cancer awareness month by interviewing prostate cancer survivor - Byron Sparkman. Byron shares his personal cancer journey starting at the time he learned of his elevated PSA, to getting a biopsy, and the additional steps he took to feel comfortable making a treatment decision. Byron also shares his advice for men and families that are currently going through similar experiences and how they to can make more informed healthcare decisions. 

Dr. Paul Sieber continues his conversation with Dr. Todd Cohen around managing the advanced prostate cancer patient. The use of somatic and germline testing to support decision making within the treatment algorithm are discussed. Medical management changes of positive mutation carriers and the commercial use of PARP inhibitors are also explored.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Sieber from Lancaster Urology sits down to talk about how his practice is managing advanced prostate cancer. The rise in the number of M0 prostate cancer patients and how advanced treatment protocols are being used to provide better care are discussed at length. 

Dr. Walter Rayford joins Dr. Todd Cohen to talk about the racial disparities among African American men and prostate cancer. Dr. Rayford has been extensively involved in researching discrepancies in prostate cancer disease outcomes and shares his experiences and recommendations for better educating and treating the African American patient. Dr. Rayford also talks about his work with advocacy groups and what these groups are doing to better educate and support men with prostate cancer.  

Dr. Cohen and Dr. Neal Shore continue their conversation about prioritizing patient care using personalized testing to better risk stratify and create customized treatment plans. 

In this episode, Dr. Neal Shore, with Atlantic Urology Clinics in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Medical Director at Carolina Urologic Research Center discusses how his practice continues to adapt to the current COVID-19 pandemic, specifically around the importance of patient prioritization during their recovery phase. Strategies to better decide which patients should be biopsied right away and how to prioritize treatment is discussed in detail. Dr. Shore and Dr. Todd Cohen will talk about the role biomarkers can play in controlling the patient backlog that practices will face when deciding which patient's go first with elective or non-essential surgery

Dr. Cohen continues his conversation with Urologists and CEOs Dr. Ed Cohen and Dr. David Ellis on how their respective practices continue to adapt to the current crisis. The topics of federal loan programs, personal protective equipment (PPE) and the processes behind successfully executing tele-health are discussed. 

In this episode of the COVID-19 series, Dr. David Ellis and Dr. Ed Cohen continue to share how they have further adapted their individual operations and practices to deal with the current pandemic. Both CEOs share at-length their short and long-term concerns and how they plan to manage patients once social distancing guidelines are rescinded.  

In this episode, Dr. Todd Cohen follows up on his previous conversation with Dr. David Ellis, and Dr. Ed Cohen on how these providers and their practices continue to adapt and evolve patient care amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges associated with implementing  tele-health workflows to  maintain existing patient volume is discussed at length. The future role of tele-health and what that means for Urologists going forward is also explored. 

Wayne Sotile, PhD, founder of the Sotile Center for Resilience and the Center for Physician Resilience shares some powerful ideas on how physicians and other healthcare providers can manage individual burnout. Drawing on this extensive experience, Dr. Sotile shares how physicians can become more resilient, even thrive in times of increased stress.

Dr. Cohen sits down with Dr. David Ellis from MidLantic Urology and Dr. Edward Cohen, from Genesis Healthcare to talk about the challenges of managing their day-to-day operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of digital technology, like tele-medicine is being implemented to ensure that routine urological care continues while keeping patients safe through social distancing. 

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Cooperberg, Urologist and Professor of Urology; Epidemiology & Biostatistics at UCSF talks about the parallels between breast and prostate cancer and how precision medicine in Urology is continuously evolving. The role of family history, mutation status, and the impact it is having on current and future prostate cancer treatment is explored. 

Dr. Brian Richardson, Urologist and men's health activist talks about his experience dealing with prostate cancer in his own family and how it influenced him to pursue a career in Urology. Dr. Richardson also shares his passion for men's health advocacy and how it led him to create the first fun run in Montgomery, Alabama geared towards education and awareness around men's health. 

In this episode, The Modern Urologist sits down with Dr. Angelo Baccala, Division Chief of Urology at Lehigh Valley Hospital Network to talk about his motivation for pursuing an MBA and the benefits it provides. The idea of protocols and pathways are discussed as a means to combat variation in patient care, while improving upon workflow efficiency. Dr. Baccala discusses his thoughts on the future of value-based care vs fee for service reimbursement models. 

Dr. Aaron Berger and Nurse Navigator, Kristyn Minetti join the show to discuss their experience building out and growing an advanced prostate cancer clinic. Genetic testing to personalize prostate cancer treatment, the challenges associated with family history and implications of genetic test results are discussed at length.

Dr. Mike Gambla from Central Ohio Urology Group joins The Modern Urologist to talk about his experience with private equity acquisitions (PE) in the Urology space. The idea of potential culture disruptions and other pros and cons of PE acquisitions are discussed at length. Dr. Gambla offers his own insights to any independent practice considering an acquisition. The conversation changes to the role nurse navigators play in getting patients with advanced disease states better care through second and third line therapies. The need for analytics to improve patient outcomes and forecast practice needs are also discussed.  

In this episode, The Modern Urologist sits down with E.Scot Davis, CEO of Arkansas Urology to talk about his experience creating men's health clinics and advance pathways to improve the competitive advantage of his organization. The conversation then dives into Scot's vast experience managing large group physician practices and how he developed a unique; patient-centric culture within his organization. 

In this episode, The Modern Urologist sits down at LUGPA with Dr. Jason Haffron, from Michigan Institute of Urology to talk about how his patient first mentality inspired him to develop new treatment pathways. The topic of being a young practicing urologist and how to become an influence within a well-established group practice are discussed. Treatment sequencing for advanced prostate disease is debated and how advances in treatment paradigms are leading to significant improvements in quality of life for patients. The changing demographic of the urology landscape and the need to adapt is also discussed. 

In this episode, The Modern Urologist sits down with Dr. David Morris, from Urology Associates P.C. in Tennessee to talk about the history of MRI and the impact it can have on biopsy and surgical planning. Dr. Morris further discusses societal MRI guidelines, the utilization in mainstream urology and how he personally uses this technology in his treatment of prostate cancer. The limitations of using MRI to risk stratify patients is discussedThe conversation then turns to compliance tracking and protocols as a way for urology practices to improve their active surveillance protocols and how genomic tests can help providers feel confident when placing a patient on active surveillance. 

In this episode, Dr. Cohen sits down at AACU with Dr Benjamin Lowentritt, Director of the Prostate Cancer Care Program at Chesapeake Urology to talk about his experience setting up advanced prostate cancer clinics. Dr. Lowentritt also talks at length about the collaborative model he and his partners are using to develop processes for delivering new levels of patient care. New treatments and advanced therapies for the treatment of metastatic disease are discussed at length and how the use of genetic markers are being implemented to personalize treatment. 

In this episode Dr. Cohen sits down with Dr. Jonathan Henderson, CEO of Regional Urology in Shreveport Louisiana to discuss how the Prolaris test changed his treatment decision of multiple patients considering treatment or active surveillance. Dr. Henderson also talks about his reasoning for the early adoption of hereditary cancer screening and shares a compelling story about how genetic testing for BRCA status allowed him to get a compassionate writ for the PARP inhibitor - Lymparza which dramatically changed his patient's quality of life.