Podcasts about University Health Network

Dr. Paul Hanona and Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla discuss how to safely and smartly integrate AI into the clinical workflow and tap its potential to improve patient-centered care, drug development, and access to clinical trials. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Paul Hanona: Hello, I'm Dr. Paul Hanona, your guest host of the ASCO Daily News Podcast today. I am a medical oncologist as well as a content creator @DoctorDiscover, and I'm delighted to be joined today by Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla, the chief of hematology and oncology at St. Luke's University Health Network. Dr. Bonilla is also the co-founder and chief medical officer at Massive Bio, an AI-driven platform that matches patients with clinical trials and novel therapies. Dr. Loaiza-Bonilla will share his unique perspective on the potential of artificial intelligence to advance precision oncology, especially through clinical trials and research, and other key advancements in AI that are transforming the oncology field. Our full disclosures are available in the transcript of the episode. Dr. Bonilla, it's great to be speaking with you today. Thanks for being here. Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Oh, thank you so much, Dr. Hanona. Paul, it's always great to have a conversation. Looking forward to a great one today. Dr. Paul Hanona: Absolutely. Let's just jump right into it. Let's talk about the way that we see AI being embedded in our clinical workflow as oncologists. What are some practical ways to use AI? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: To me, responsible AI integration in oncology is one of those that's focused on one principle to me, which is clinical purpose is first, instead of the algorithm or whatever technology we're going to be using. If we look at the best models in the world, they're really irrelevant unless we really solve a real day-to-day challenge, either when we're talking to patients in the clinic or in the infusion chair or making decision support. Currently, what I'm doing the most is focusing on solutions that are saving us time to be more productive and spend more time with our patients. So, for example, we're using ambient AI for appropriate documentation in real time with our patients. We're leveraging certain tools to assess for potential admission or readmission of patients who have certain conditions as well. And it's all about combining the listening of physicians like ourselves who are end users, those who create those algorithms, data scientists, and patient advocates, and even regulators, before they even write any single line of code. I felt that on my own, you know, entrepreneurial aspects, but I think it's an ethos that we should all follow. And I think that AI shouldn't be just bolted on later. We always have to look at workflows and try to look, for example, at clinical trial matching, which is something I'm very passionate about. We need to make sure that first, it's easier to access for patients, that oncologists like myself can go into the interface and be able to pull the data in real time when you really need it, and you don't get all this fatigue alerts. To me, that's the responsible way of doing so. Those are like the opportunities, right? So, the challenge is how we can make this happen in a meaningful way – we're just not reacting to like a black box suggestion or something that we have no idea why it came up to be. So, in terms of success – and I can tell you probably two stories of things that we know we're seeing successful – we all work closely with radiation oncologists, right? So, there are now these tools, for example, of automated contouring in radiation oncology, and some of these solutions were brought up in different meetings, including the last ASCO meeting. But overall, we know that transformer-based segmentation tools; transformer is just the specific architecture of the machine learning algorithm that has been able to dramatically reduce the time for colleagues to spend allotting targets for radiation oncology. So, comparing the target versus the normal tissue, which sometimes it takes many hours, now we can optimize things over 60%, sometimes even in minutes. So, this is not just responsible, but it's also an efficiency win, it's a precision win, and we're using it to adapt even mid-course in response to tumor shrinkage. Another success that I think is relevant is, for example, on the clinical trial matching side. We've been working on that and, you know, I don't want to preach to the choir here, but having the ability for us to structure data in real time using these tools, being able to extract information on biomarkers, and then show that multi-agentic AI is superior to what we call zero-shot or just throwing it into ChatGPT or any other algorithm, but using the same tools but just fine-tuned to the point that we can be very efficient and actually reliable to the level of almost like a research coordinator, is not just theory. Now, it can change lives because we can get patients enrolled in clinical trials and be activated in different places wherever the patient may be. I know it's like a long answer on that, but, you know, as we talk about responsible AI, that's important. And in terms of what keeps me up at night on this: data drift and biases, right? So, imaging protocols, all these things change, the lab switch between different vendors, or a patient has issues with new emerging data points. And health systems serve vastly different populations. So, if our models are trained in one context and deployed in another, then the output can be really inaccurate. So, the idea is to become a collaborative approach where we can use federated learning and patient-centricity so we can be much more efficient in developing those models that account for all the populations, and any retraining that is used based on data can be diverse enough that it represents all of us and we can be treated in a very good, appropriate way. So, if a clinician doesn't understand why a recommendation is made, as you probably know, you probably don't trust it, and we shouldn't expect them to. So, I think this is the next wave of the future. We need to make sure that we account for all those things. Dr. Paul Hanona: Absolutely. And even the part about the clinical trials, I want to dive a little bit more into in a few questions. I just kind of wanted to make a quick comment. Like you said, some of the prevalent things that I see are the ambient scribes. It seems like that's really taken off in the last year, and it seems like it's improving at a pretty dramatic speed as well. I wonder how quickly that'll get adopted by the majority of physicians or practitioners in general throughout the country. And you also mentioned things with AI tools regarding helping regulators move things quicker, even the radiation oncologist, helping them in their workflow with contouring and what else they might have to do. And again, the clinical trials thing will be quite interesting to get into. The first question I had subsequent to that is just more so when you have large datasets. And this pertains to two things: the paper that you published recently regarding different ways to use AI in the space of oncology referred to drug development, the way that we look at how we design drugs, specifically anticancer drugs, is pretty cumbersome. The steps that you have to take to design something, to make sure that one chemical will fit into the right chemical or the structure of the molecule, that takes a lot of time to tinker with. What are your thoughts on AI tools to help accelerate drug development? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Yes, that's the Holy Grail and something that I feel we should dedicate as much time and effort as possible because it relies on multimodality. It cannot be solved by just looking at patient histories. It cannot be solved by just looking at the tissue alone. It's combining all these different datasets and being able to understand the microenvironment, the patient condition and prior treatments, and how dynamic changes that we do through interventions and also exposome – the things that happen outside of the patient's own control – can be leveraged to determine like what's the best next step in terms of drugs. So, the ones that we heard the news the most is, for example, the Nobel Prize-winning [for Chemistry awarded to Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for] AlphaFold, an AI system that predicts protein structures right? So, we solved this very interesting concept of protein folding where, in the past, it would take the history of the known universe, basically – what's called the Levinthal's paradox – to be able to just predict on amino acid structure alone or the sequence alone, the way that three-dimensionally the proteins will fold. So, with that problem being solved and the Nobel Prize being won, the next step is, “Okay, now we know how this protein is there and just by sequence, how can we really understand any new drug that can be used as a candidate and leverage all the data that has been done for many years of testing against a specific protein or a specific gene or knockouts and what not?” So, this is the future of oncology and where we're probably seeing a lot of investments on that. The key challenge here is mostly working on the side of not just looking at pathology, but leveraging this digital pathology with whole slide imaging and identifying the microenvironment of that specific tissue. There's a number of efforts currently being done. One isn't just H&E, like hematoxylin and eosin, slides alone, but with whole imaging, now we can use expression profiles, spatial transcriptomics, and gene whole exome sequencing in the same space and use this transformer technology in a multimodality approach that we know already the slide or the pathology, but can we use that to understand, like, if I knock out this gene, how is the microenvironment going to change to see if an immunotherapy may work better, right? If we can make a microenvironment more reactive towards a cytotoxic T cell profile, for example. So, that is the way where we're really seeing the field moving forward, using multimodality for drug discovery. So, the FDA now seems to be very eager to support those initiatives, so that's of course welcome. And now the key thing is the investment to do this in a meaningful way so we can see those candidates that we're seeing from different companies now being leveraged for rare disease, for things that are going to be almost impossible to collect enough data, and make it efficient by using these algorithms that sometimes, just with multiple masking – basically, what they do is they mask all the features and force the algorithm to find solutions based on the specific inputs or prompts we're doing. So, I'm very excited about that, and I think we're going to be seeing that in the future. Dr. Paul Hanona: So, essentially, in a nutshell, we're saying we have the cancer, which is maybe a dandelion in a field of grass, and we want to see the grass that's surrounding the dandelion, which is the pathology slides. The problem is, to the human eye, it's almost impossible to look at every single piece of grass that's surrounding the dandelion. And so, with tools like AI, we can greatly accelerate our study of the microenvironment or the grass that's surrounding the dandelion and better tailor therapy, come up with therapy. Otherwise, like you said, to truly generate a drug, this would take years and years. We just don't have the throughput to get to answers like that unless we have something like AI to help us. Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Correct. Dr. Paul Hanona: And then, clinical trials. Now, this is an interesting conversation because if you ever look up our national guidelines as oncologists, there's always a mention of, if treatment fails, consider clinical trials. Or in the really aggressive cancers, sometimes you might just start out with clinical trials. You don't even give the standard first-line therapy because of how ineffective it is. There are a few issues with clinical trials that people might not be aware of, but the fact that the majority of patients who should be on clinical trials are never given the chance to be on clinical trials, whether that's because of proximity, right, they might live somewhere that's far from the institution, or for whatever reason, they don't qualify for the clinical trial, they don't meet the strict inclusion criteria.  But a reason you mentioned early on is that it's simply impossible for someone to be aware of every single clinical trial that's out there. And then even if you are aware of those clinical trials, to actually find the sites and put in the time could take hours. And so, how is AI going to revolutionize that? Because in my mind, it's not that we're inventing a new tool. Clinical trials have always been available. We just can't access them. So, if we have a tool that helps with access, wouldn't that be huge? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Correct. And that has been one of my passions. And for those who know me and follow me and we've spoke about it in different settings, that's something that I think we can solve. This other paradox, which is the clinical trial enrollment paradox, right? We have tens of thousands of clinical trials available with millions of patients eager to learn about trials, but we don't enroll enough and many trials close to accrual because of lack of enrollment. It is completely paradoxical and it's because of that misalignment because patients don't know where to go for trials and sites don't know what patients they can help because they haven't reached their doors yet. So, the solution has to be patient-centric, right? We have to put the patient at the center of the equation. And that was precisely what we had been discussing during the ASCO meeting. There was an ASCO Education Session where we talked about digital prescreening hubs, where we, in a patient-centric manner, the same way we look for Uber, Instacart, any solution that you may think of that you want something that can be leveraged in real time, we can use these real-world data streams from the patient directly, from hospitals, from pathology labs, from genomics companies, to continuously screen patients who can match to the inclusion/exclusion criteria of unique trials. So, when the patient walks into the clinic, the system already knows if there's a trial and alerts the site proactively. The patient can actually also do decentralization. So, there's a number of decentralized clinical trial solutions that are using what I call the “click and mortar” approach, which is basically the patient is checking digitally and then goes to the site to activate. We can also have the click and mortar in the bidirectional way where the patient is engaged in person and then you give the solution like the ones that are being offered on things that we're doing at Massive Bio and beyond, which is having the patient to access all that information and then they make decisions and enroll when the time is right.  As I mentioned earlier, there is this concept drift where clinical trials open and close, the patient line of therapy changes, new approvals come in and out, and sites may not be available at a given time but may be later. So, having that real-time alerts using tools that are able already to extract data from summarization that we already have in different settings and doing this natural language ingestion, we can not only solve this issue with manual chart review, which is extremely cumbersome and takes forever and takes to a lot of one-time assessments with very high screen failures, to a real-time dynamic approach where the patient, as they get closer to that eligibility criteria, they get engaged. And those tools can be built to activate trials, audit trials, and make them better and accessible to patients. And something that we know is, for example, 91%-plus of Americans live close to either a pharmacy or an imaging center. So, imagine that we can potentially activate certain of those trials in those locations. So, there's a number of pharmacies, special pharmacies, Walgreens, and sometimes CVS trying to do some of those efforts. So, I think the sky's the limit in terms of us working together. And we've been talking with corporate groups, they're all interested in those efforts as well, to getting patients digitally enabled and then activate the same way we activate the NCTN network of the corporate groups, that are almost just-in-time. You can activate a trial the patient is eligible for and we get all these breakthroughs from the NIH and NCI, just activate it in my site within a week or so, as long as we have the understanding of the protocol. So, using clinical trial matching in a digitally enabled way and then activate in that same fashion, but not only for NCTN studies, but all the studies that we have available will be the key of the future through those prescreening hubs. So, I think now we're at this very important time where collaboration is the important part and having this silo-breaking approach with interoperability where we can leverage data from any data source and from any electronic medical records and whatnot is going to be essential for us to move forward because now we have the tools to do so with our phones, with our interests, and with the multiple clinical trials that are coming into the pipelines. Dr. Paul Hanona: I just want to point out that the way you described the process involves several variables that practitioners often don't think about. We don't realize the 15 steps that are happening in the background. But just as a clarifier, how much time is it taking now to get one patient enrolled on a clinical trial? Is it on the order of maybe 5 to 10 hours for one patient by the time the manual chart review happens, by the time the matching happens, the calls go out, the sign-up, all this? And how much time do you think a tool that could match those trials quicker and get you enrolled quicker could save? Would it be maybe an hour instead of 15 hours? What's your thought process on that? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Yeah, exactly. So one is the matching, the other one is the enrollment, which, as you mentioned, is very important. So, it can take, from, as you said, probably between 4 days to sometimes 30 days. Sometimes that's how long it takes for all the things to be parsed out in terms of logistics and things that could be done now agentically. So, we can use agents to solve those different steps that may take multiple individuals. We can just do it as a supply chain approach where all those different steps can be done by a single agent in a simultaneous fashion and then we can get things much faster. With an AI-based solution using these frontier models and multi-agentic AI – and we presented some of this data in ASCO as well – you can do 5,000 patients in an hour, right? So, just enrolling is going to be between an hour and maximum enrollment, it could be 7 days for those 5,000 patients if it was done at scale in a multi-level approach where we have all the trials available. Dr. Paul Hanona: No, definitely a very exciting aspect of our future as oncologists. It's one thing to have really neat, novel mechanisms of treatment, but what good is it if we can't actually get it to people who need it? I'm very much looking for the future of that.  One of the last questions I want to ask you is another prevalent way that people use AI is just simply looking up questions, right? So, traditionally, the workflow for oncologists is maybe going on national guidelines and looking up the stage of the cancer and seeing what treatments are available and then referencing the papers and looking at who was included, who wasn't included, the side effects to be aware of, and sort of coming up with a decision as to how to treat a cancer patient. But now, just in the last few years, we've had several tools become available that make getting questions easier, make getting answers easier, whether that's something like OpenAI's tools or Perplexity or Doximity or OpenEvidence or even ASCO has a Guidelines Assistant as well that is drawing from their own guidelines as to how to treat different cancers. Do you see these replacing traditional sources? Do you see them saving us a lot more time so that we can be more productive in clinic? What do you think is the role that they're going to play with patient care? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Such a relevant question, particularly at this time, because these AI-enabled query tools, they're coming left and right and becoming increasingly common in our daily workflows and things that we're doing. So, traditionally, when we go and we look for national guidelines, we try to understand the context ourselves and then we make treatment decisions accordingly. But that is a lot of a process that now AI is helping us to solve. So, at face value, it seems like an efficiency win, but in many cases, I personally evaluate platforms as the chief of hem/onc at St. Luke's and also having led the digital engagement things through Massive Bio and trying to put things together, I can tell you this: not all tools are created equal. In cancer care, each data point can mean the difference between cure and progression, so we cannot really take a lot of shortcuts in this case or have unverified output. So, the tools are helpful, but it has to be grounded in truth, in trusted data sources, and they need to be continuously updated with, like, ASCO and NCCN and others. So, the reason why the ASCO Guidelines Assistant, for instance, works is because it builds on all these recommendations, is assessed by end users like ourselves. So, that kind of verification is critical, right? We're entering a phase where even the source material may be AI-generated. So, the role of human expert validation is really actually more important, not less important. You know, generalist LLMs, even when fine-tuned, they may not be enough. You can pull a few API calls from PubMed, etc., but what we need now is specialized, context-aware, agentic tools that can interpret multimodal and real-time clinical inputs. So, something that we are continuing to check on and very relevant to have entities and bodies like ASCO looking into this so they can help us to be really efficient and really help our patients. Dr. Paul Hanona: Dr. Bonilla, what do you want to leave the listener with in terms of the future direction of AI, things that we should be cautious about, and things that we should be optimistic about? Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Looking 5 years ahead, I think there's enormous promise. As you know, I'm an AI enthusiast, but always, there's a few priorities that I think – 3 of them, I think – we need to tackle head-on. First is algorithmic equity. So, most AI tools today are trained on data from academic medical centers but not necessarily from community practices or underrepresented populations, particularly when you're looking at radiology, pathology, and what not. So, those blind spots, they need to be filled, and we can eliminate a lot of disparities in cancer care. So, those frameworks to incentivize while keeping the data sharing using federated models and things that we can optimize is key. The second one is the governance on the lifecycle. So, you know, AI is not really static. So, unlike a drug that is approved and it just, you know, works always, AI changes. So, we need to make sure that we have tools that are able to retrain and recall when things degrade or models drift. So, we need to use up-to-date AI for clinical practice, so we are going to be in constant revalidation and make it really easy to do. And lastly, the human-AI interface. You know, clinicians don't need more noise or we don't need more black boxes. We need decision support that is clear, that we can interpret, and that is actionable. “Why are you using this? Why did we choose this drug? Why this dose? Why now?” So, all these things are going to help us and that allows us to trace evidence with a single click. So, I always call it back to the Moravec's paradox where we say, you know, evolution gave us so much energy to discern in the sensory-neural and dexterity. That's what we're going to be taking care of patients. We can use AI to really be a force to help us to be better clinicians and not to really replace us. So, if we get this right and we decide for transparency with trust, inclusion, etc., it will never replace any of our work, which is so important, as much as we want, we can actually take care of patients and be personalized, timely, and equitable. So, all those things are what get me excited every single day about these conversations on AI. Dr. Paul Hanona: All great thoughts, Dr. Bonilla. I'm very excited to see how this field evolves. I'm excited to see how oncologists really come to this field. I think with technology, there's always a bit of a lag in adopting it, but I think if we jump on board and grow with it, we can do amazing things for the field of oncology in general. Thank you for the advancements that you've made in your own career in the field of AI and oncology and just ultimately with the hopeful outcomes of improving patient care, especially cancer patients. Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla: Thank you so much, Dr. Hanona. Dr. Paul Hanona: Thanks to our listeners for your time today. If you value the insights that you hear on ASCO Daily News Podcast, please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Disclaimer: The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. This is not a substitute for professional medical care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests on this podcast express their own opinions, experience, and conclusions. Guest statements on the podcast do not express the opinions of ASCO. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity, or therapy should not be construed as an ASCO endorsement. More on today's speakers:    Dr. Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla @DrBonillaOnc Dr. Paul Hanona @DoctorDiscover on YouTube Follow ASCO on social media:      @ASCO on Twitter      ASCO on Facebook      ASCO on LinkedIn    ASCO on BlueSky Disclosures: Paul Hanona: No relationships to disclose. Dr. Arturo-Loaiza-Bonilla: Leadership: Massive Bio Stock & Other Ownership Interests: Massive Bio Consulting or Advisory Role: Massive Bio, Bayer, PSI, BrightInsight, CardinalHealth, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Medscape Speakers' Bureau: Guardant Health, Ipsen, AstraZeneca/Daiichi Sankyo, Natera

Since its launch 19 years ago, The Agenda With Steve Paikin has highlighted scientific discoveries and new insights into health. So what's changed over the course of over two decades-and what kinds of challenges and breakthroughs do experts anticipate seeing in the decades to come? To discuss, we're joined by Keith Stewart, University Health Network vice-president, cancer, and director of the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre; Raywat Deonandan, epidemiologist and associate professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa; Saskia Sivananthan, neuroscientist and affiliate professor in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University; and Ghazal Fazli, epidemiologist and assistant professor with the Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment at the University of Toronto Mississauga.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melanoma is on the rise in Canada, a recent study found the number of new cases increased 17 per cent last year. We hear about the questions you have about sunscreen and other ways to project yourself from skin cancer and we speak with Dr. Cheryl Rosen, head of dermatology with the University Health Network.

All images and links can be found on CISO Series. Check out this post by Gautam ‘Gotham' Sharma of AccessCyber for the discussion that is the basis of our conversation on this week's episode, co-hosted by me, David Spark (@dspark), the producer of CISO Series, and Steve Zalewski. Joining us is Krista Arndt, associate CISO, St. Luke's University Health Network. In this episode: Verify then trust Dishonesty on all sides A lack of flexibility What about integrity? Huge thanks to our sponsor, Formal Formal secures humans, AI agent's access to MCP servers, infrastructure, and data stores by monitoring and controlling data flows in real time. Using a protocol-aware reverse proxy, Formal enforces least-privilege access to sensitive data and APIs, ensuring AI behavior stays predictable and secure. Visit joinformal.com to learn more or schedule a demo.

This week on The Gritty Nurse Podcast, we're diving deep into a topic that's should not be considered revolutionary--but is fundamentally human and morally ethical: the idea that a safe, stable and affordable housing should be considered a prescription for health. Medicine is not just about pills and procedures – it is about examining and dealing with humans and their entire situations. We discuss the profound impact of social medicine and how addressing the root causes of illness, like housing insecurity, can transform individual well-being and public health and improve healthcare outcomes overall. Joining us this week is Dr. Andrew Boozary, a leading voice in healthcare advocacy and social medicine. Dr. Boozary will unpack the compelling evidence linking housing to health outcomes, from chronic disease management to mental wellness. We'll explore innovative programs where housing is being integrated into healthcare solutions, and challenge the traditional boundaries of what it means to truly care for a patient. Tune in as we discuss: The core principles of social medicine and why it's gaining traction in healthcare. The state of homelessness in our in the GTA and how current trends reflect broader issues. How homelessness is a profound health crisis,and the economic impact it has. The biggest challenges to achieving truly equitable housing for all. Why housing is fundamentally a human right, and what that truly means for policy and practice. Inspiring wins and success stories, like the impactful work of Dunn House, demonstrating what's possible when we prioritize housing. Practical actions the average person can take to support those who are unhoused in their communities. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that will make you rethink the very definition of healthcare and the essential role of social determinants in fostering a healthier society. More about Dr. Boozary Dr. Andrew Boozary is a primary care physician, policy practitioner, researcher, and founding executive director of the Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine at the University Health Network. As the driving force behind Dunn House, Canada's first social medicine housing initiative, he has been a leader in integrating health care and housing to address the social determinants of health. His work focuses on advancing health equity and improving outcomes for underserved populations. Dr. Boozary completed his medical training at the University of Toronto and health policy training at Princeton and Harvard. He has served in senior advisory roles for policymakers at various levels of government, shaping public policy on primary care reform and pharmacare. He is also the founding Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Public Health Review and holds the Dalla Lana Professorship in Policy Innovation at the University of Toronto. Recognized for his impact in health equity and social justice, Dr. Boozary is a Clarkson Laureate for Public Service and the youngest physician to receive the Louise Lemieux-Charles Health System Leadership Award. In 2024, Toronto Life named him one of the city's most influential people. His writing and analysis appear in high-impact academic journals and major media outlets, and he was the youngest Convocation speaker for the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto. Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/ https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/ X: https://x.com/GrittyNurse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse

Was there really a New Brunswick mystery brain disease? Guest: Dr. Anthony Lang, Neurologist and Senior Scientist at University Health Network's Krembil Brain Institute and Lead Author of the Study Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why does David Eby think Bill 15 is necessary? Guest: David Eby, Premier of British Columbia Conclave: The chemistry behind white and black smoke Guest: Mark Lorch, Professor of Science Communication and Chemistry at the University of Hull Was there really a New Brunswick mystery brain disease? Guest: Dr. Anthony Lang, Neurologist and Senior Scientist at University Health Network's Krembil Brain Institute and Lead Author of the Study The Park Board strikes back at Ken Sim Guest: Aaron Jasper, Former Park Board Chair How did someone die in supportive housing and go unnoticed for 11 days? Guest: Ravi Kahlon, BC's Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The escalating rates of Parkinson's Disease both globally, and here in Canada, have led some researchers to warn that it is becoming a pandemic. To help shed light on a disease that still has no cure, we welcome: Dr. Lorraine Kalia, neurologist and senior scientist at the University Health Network's Krembil Brain Institute. She is also an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Chris Labos, cardiologist with a degree in epidemiology and a regular contributor on CJAD 800 and Dr. Joel Lexchin, Professor Emeritus at York University and a retired emergency medicine doctor at University Health Network.

Patients with refractory or high-risk myasthenia gravis (MG) respond poorly to conventional immunosuppressive therapy, requiring rescue therapies and often experiencing treatment toxicity. The study discussed in this podcast suggests that lower doses of cyclophosphamide can be effective and safe in people with MG, including older age. JNNP's podcast editor, Saima Chaudhry, is joined by Professor Carolina Barnett-Tapia, University of Toronto, University Health Network, who authors the editorial comment 'Cyclophosphamide for myasthenia gravis: a comeback?'(https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/95/12/1095). The original paper is also free to access: https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/95/12/1096. Please subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or find it on your platform of choice. Your feedback and reviews are very appreciated. Follow JNNP on twitter: @JNNP_BMJ

In this episode of Leadership Trademarked, we sit down with Dr. John Flannery, a Medical Director at University Health Network, to explore the "Control vs. No Control Tool." This framework helps leaders navigate complex situations by distinguishing between what they can influence and what they must let go. John shares how this tool has guided him in both everyday management and high-stakes decisions, offering valuable insights on making clear, confident choices in uncertain environments.   John dives into real-world applications of the tool, discussing how it can improve team dynamics and help leaders focus on the areas that truly matter. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership clarity and actionable strategies for success.

A Toronto hospital network has a plan to recruit the best and brightest medical scientists from the U.S. and around the world, as funding cuts and layoffs put a chill on research south of the border. Matt Galloway discusses what Canada stands to gain with Kevin Smith, president and CEO of University Health Network; and Brad Wouters, UHN's executive vice-president of science and research.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Diego Delgado discusses how to manage patients with mixed phenotype hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis over the course of their disease from initial symptoms and clinical suspicion, to monitoring patients on treatment. For additional details, please see the related video publication by Dr. Delgado and colleagues: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589790X25001180Our Guest: Dr. Diego Delgado is the Director of the Cardiac Amyloid Centre and Associate Professor in the Division of Cardiology and Cardiac Transplantation at the University Health Network in Toronto, Ontario. Dr. Diego Delgado graduated in Medicine from the Universidad del Salvador in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He completed his Internal Medicine and Cardiology training in Hospital Espanol in Buenos Aires. Subsequently he completed a research fellowship in cardiac transplantation at Rush Presbyterian St Luke's Medical Center in Chicago, US and a research/clinical fellowship in heart failure and transplantation at the Toronto General Hospital.Dr. Delgado completed his Maters of Science in Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Toronto and the Leadership Development Program at Rotman School of Management in Toronto. He is the author of more than 100 publications in the area of heart failure, transplantation and mechanical assist devices. His interests are immunologic aspects of heart failure and transplantation and cardio oncology.This podcast episode was sponsored by AstraZeneca Canada. For other medical education content, please subscribe to our podcast or visit our website at: https://www.impactmedicom.com (https://www.impactmedicom.com/).

Send us a textHealthcare isn't just something that happens in hospitals—it's happening in our homes, whether we realize it or not. But what if home wasn't just a backdrop for health, but an active partner in healing?In this episode, Dr. Andrew Boozary—Founding Executive Director of University Health Network's Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine—discusses the Dunn House project, a first-of-its-kind initiative where a hospital campus is prescribing permanent housing as part of patient care. Because without a stable home, how can someone truly get better? Meanwhile, Dr. Upali Nanda, EVP and Global Sector Director of Innovation at HKS, shares how her team is using VR to immerse designers in the lived experiences of real patients, revealing the unseen barriers to health inside the home.Together, we'll explore how housing, healthcare, and design are colliding in ways that could reshape the built environment—and why it's time for designers across all disciplines to start thinking about home in a whole new way.HKS Home as Health Hub Idea LabDunn House Social Medicine Project  

Donald Weaver, professor of chemistry and senior scientist of the Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, University of Toronto For more of the Shaye Ganam Show, subscribe to the podcast. https://globalnews.ca/calgary/program/shaye-ganam/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Health Science Podcast, brought to you by the National Health Association, Dr. Frank Sabatino sits down with Dr. Meagan L. Grega, a board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine and the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Kellyn Foundation. Together, they discuss the power of community-driven health initiatives, the importance of making the healthy choice the easy choice, and how the Kellyn Foundation is working to transform neighborhoods with lifestyle medicine programs. Dr. Grega shares insights on the evolution of her career, from her early passion for service to her realization that true healing comes from prevention and community support. She explains how the Kellyn Foundation integrates school-based education, gardening programs, mobile markets, and hands-on cooking classes to create sustainable change in the Lehigh Valley. If you're looking to learn how lifestyle medicine can be a powerful force for improving health outcomes, this episode is a must-listen! About Our Guest: Meagan L. Grega, MD, FACLM, DipABLM, DipABFM Dr. Meagan L. Grega is a leader in Lifestyle Medicine and the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Kellyn Foundation (www.kellyn.org), a non-profit dedicated to making the healthy choice the easy choice through community-based health initiatives. The foundation's “Healthy Neighborhood Immersion Strategy” integrates school-based wellness education, hands-on cooking classes, and a mobile market providing access to fresh, nutrient-dense food. Dr. Grega graduated summa cum laude from Bucknell University with a B.S. in Biochemistry/Cell Biology and earned her MD from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School. She served as a medical officer in the United States Navy and currently manages the Llantrisant Retreat and Wellness Center (www.llantrisantretreat.com). She is actively involved in medical education, serving as faculty for St. Luke's University Health Network and Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine, and is the current Conference Chair for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine Annual Meeting. She also serves on the governing boards of both the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine and the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Key Topics Discussed in This Episode: Dr. Grega's journey from aspiring shaman to board-certified physician How lifestyle medicine addresses the root causes of disease The role of social nudges and choice architecture in shaping healthy behaviors The Kellyn Foundation's programs, including school-based education, gardening initiatives, and the Eat Real Food Mobile Market Challenges in implementing lifestyle medicine in schools and how to overcome them The importance of medically tailored meals and expanding access to nutrition-focused healthcare How future physicians are being trained in lifestyle medicine Resources & Links: Kellyn Foundation: www.kellyn.org Llantrisant Retreat and Wellness Center: www.llantrisantretreat.com Connect with Us: Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Read more at: https://www.healthscience.org/podcast/episode-122-meagan-grega/

Get Dr. Mina's Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here. Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here. Join Dr. Mina and Dr. Mansha Sethi as they navigate the ever-evolving world of med spas. In this conversation, they break down popular aesthetic services, discuss industry regulations, and highlight why patient safety should always come first. From understanding the risks of non-physician providers to choosing a reputable med spa, this episode empowers listeners to make informed decisions about cosmetic treatments. Whether you're curious about injectables or considering your first med spa visit, this discussion sheds light on what every patient needs to know before booking an appointment. Key Takeaways: - Med spas offer a variety of non-invasive cosmetic procedures. - Regulation of med spas varies significantly by state. - Only a small percentage of med spas have proper physician oversight. - Complications can arise from aesthetic procedures, even in trained hands. - Patients should be cautious of overly cheap services. - It's essential to verify the qualifications of the providers at med spas. - Hydrafacials and laser hair removal are popular and effective treatments. - Patients should be wary of over-promising treatments and results. - Cleanliness and organization are critical indicators of a reputable med spa. - Collaboration between dermatologists and estheticians enhances patient care.   In This Episode: (02:00) Understanding Med Spas: A Comprehensive Overview (06:08) Regulation and Oversight of Med Spas (14:57) Complications and Patient Safety in Aesthetic Procedures (18:51) Choosing the Right Med Spa: Key Considerations (21:04) Best Practices and Treatments at Med Spas (25:23) Red Flags and Warning Signs at Med Spas (28:10) Final Thoughts: Ensuring Safety and Quality in Aesthetic Care   Dr. Mansha Sethi is a board-certified dermatologist serving both adult and pediatric patients. She currently practices medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology at St. Luke's University Health Network in PA. Part of her job includes training dermatology residents. Prior to this, Dr. Sethi worked at a private practice in Houston, TX. She grew up in Northeast Pennsylvania. She attended Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, for her Bachelor of Science, earning Dean's List each semester for academic record. She received her medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia. She was selected to present her research at local and national conferences – the Philadelphia Dermatological Society and the American Academy of Dermatology. She completed a year of internal medicine at Jefferson-Abington Hospital and her dermatology residency at Thomas Jefferson University. Philly holds a special place in her heart because she met her husband there. Dr. Sethi is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. She's one of the social media ambassadors for AAD. Outside work, she enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family. She's navigating new mom life with her baby boy. Follow Dr. Sethi here: https://www.instagram.com/doctor_sethi   Follow Dr. Mina here:-  https://instagram.com/drminaskin https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ For more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.com Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLC Email - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.com Contact - (404) 844-0496 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/ Thanks for listening! The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Send us a textAn article in CMAJ, "Move more, age well: prescribing physical activity for older adults," found that regular physical activity can reduce all-cause mortality by 31%. As Canada's population ages, maintaining physical activity is becoming an increasingly critical factor in healthy aging. On this episode, Dr. Samir Sinha, a geriatrician at Sinai Health and the University Health Network and co-author of the CMAJ article, explains the evidence supporting exercise as a tool for preventing frailty, cognitive decline, and chronic disease in older adults. He addresses common misconceptions about aging and physical activity, emphasizing that even small, progressive increases in movement can help people stay independent longer.Physiotherapist Steve Di Ciacca, program manager at the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging at Western University, outlines practical ways clinicians can help older patients build movement into their daily routines. He discusses the role of social engagement, personalized goal-setting, and structured exercise programs in improving adherence. He also highlights evidence showing that a simple written prescription for physical activity can increase adherence by up to 10%.This episode provides evidence-based insights to help clinicians encourage physical activity in older patients, promoting better long-term health outcomes.​​For more information from our sponsor, go to md.ca/tax. Join us as we explore medical solutions that address the urgent need to change healthcare. Reach out to us about this or any episode you hear. Or tell us about something you'd like to hear on the leading Canadian medical podcast.You can find Blair and Mojola on X @BlairBigham and @DrmojolaomoleX (in English): @CMAJ X (en français): @JAMC FacebookInstagram: @CMAJ.ca The CMAJ Podcast is produced by PodCraft Productions

Health is driven by more than what happens in a clinic or the operating room, it is driven by long-standing system decisions. One of the ways Dr. Andrew Boozary and the UHN are impacting health equity is through the inception of Dunn House, Canada's first hospital-led supportive housing initiative. This unique model couples health and social care by improving health outcomes for unhoused Torontonians, embedding concreate solutions to UHN's most vulnerable patients. “This brings a wholistic approach to healthcare, that it's not just about access to physicians and nurses, that there's really a more integrated way to think about health, and Dunn House is real action on that kind of thinking and philosophy.” In this exciting episode of Healthcare Change Makers, learn more about UHN's social medicine program, the impact of Dunn house, and the value of partnership with community organizations. And stay tuned until the end to hear Dr. Boozary's take on medical TV dramas and which musician helps give him an energy boost.   Quotables: “How do we recenter humanity in healthcare for those of us who work in the system, for families, for caregivers, and most ultimately for patients.” “Health and so much protection in society are system choices or policy choices, and it's not about individual failures but how resources, protection, power, and privilege, really play roles in worse health outcomes.” “The idea that some lives matter more than others is the fundamental issue or injustice that we face in the world.” “Whatever it is that grips you, that you lose sleep over, that makes your blood boil, whatever it is that you feel this sense of injustice, to not lose that feeling and energy, and pursue it however you can.” “If the University Health Network is really serious (which they are) about advancing health and not being the university healthcare network, but truly about heath, we need to be able to take different approaches in how we reach people… who need it most.” “Housing and health are inextricably linked.” “This is what I think is really the secret sauce, is the partnership and the willingness to think differently about the solution – that the band-aid fixes are not going to work. That there is a moral distress that becomes imposed on health workers seeing the same revolving door… and how can we start embedding, building concrete solutions for people.” “I think it's really important to shout out the incredible work of community health centres that have been leading social medicine work for 50 years or more.” “Preventing some of these feelings of despair or burnout is understanding this is part of the work, and how do you hold and create space for some of it, because trying to deny it or push it out or discount it has its own downsides as well.” “We don't need a magic wand, we need real investment in people, and that we can see magical outcomes if we actually dedicate that focus.” Mentioned in this Episode: ·       HIROC's 2025 Conference, Save the Date ·       University Health Network (UHN) ·       Dr. Kevin Smith ·       UHN's Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine ·       UHN's Dunn House ·       Dr. Jeff Turnbull ·       Wendy Muckle ·       Dr. Paul Farmer ·       Emmanuelle Gattuso ·       City of Toronto ·       Fred Victor ·       The United Way ·       Angela Robertson, Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre ·       Camden Coalition ·       Kendrick Lamar ·       The Knick (tv drama) ·       The Pitt (tv drama) Access More Interviews with Healthcare Leaders at HIROC.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favourite podcasts. Email us at Communications@HIROC.com.

In this episode, host Helen Angus, CEO of AMS Healthcare, speaks with Dr. Andrew Boozary, a primary care physician, policy practitioner, researcher, and founding executive director of the Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine at the University Health Network. He completed his medical training at the University of Toronto and health policy training at Princeton University and Harvard University. His work at the intersection of health policy, social justice and equitable health care delivery aims to improve health outcomes for marginalized populations. During the pandemic, Dr. Boozary served as co-lead of the Ontario Health Toronto Region COVID-19 Homelessness Response and holds the Dalla Lana Professorship in Policy Innovation at the University of Toronto. He is also the founding Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Public Health Review and served in senior advisory roles for policymakers at various levels of government both nationally and abroad on public policy issues ranging from primary care reform to the implementation of pharmacare. Dr. Boozary has published in high-impact academic journals, and his writing and analysis appear in print and broadcast media. He has been the recipient of a number of national and international awards and is the youngest physician recipient of the Louise Lemieux-Charles Health System Leadership Award and the youngest Convocation speaker for the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine. http://amshealthcare.ca/  

January 30, 2025: Chad Brisendine, VP and CIO of St. Luke's University Health Network, explores the transformative journey of healthcare technology. How does a hospital room evolve into a hub of AI-powered care while ensuring patient-centered innovation? What challenges arise when integrating virtual nursing, telehealth, and ambient technologies at scale? As the conversation traverses from imaging solutions to price transparency, how do leaders like Chad balance rapid technological advancements with long-term strategies? Key Points:04:30 The Hospital Room of the Future16:00 Enterprise Imaging Solutions22:31 Patient Experience and Price Transparency26:05 Leadership and Team MotivationSubscribe: This Week HealthTwitter: This Week HealthLinkedIn: This Week HealthDonate: Alex's Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer

The COVID-19 pandemic awakened the nation – and the world – to the fact that small-house eldercare homes were substantially safer places to deliver long-term care compared with traditional nursing homes. And while it's now been almost five years since the onset of the pandemic, Canadian health policy makers such as Samir Sinha, MD, continue to raise awareness of the need for the proliferation of models such as Green House homes. As it happens, his appearance on this week's episode coincides with his new report, titled “There's No Place Like Home: Why Canada Must Prioritize Small Care Home Models in its Provision of Long-Term Care,” published by his Toronto Metropolitan University's National Institute on Ageing, where he is director of health policy research. Susan Ryan sits down with Dr. Sinha to discuss his work, the new report, and why he wants Canada to prioritize small care home models in the future delivery of long-term care services. Dr. Sinha, who is also a geriatrician and clinician scientist at Sinai Health System and the University Health Network in Toronto, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto, and a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, has lots to say about eldercare, his desire to help and to work with vulnerable populations.  Listen to the episode to find out why he believes importance of adequate staffing and the role of universal direct care and its relationship to better resident-centered care. Download the Toronto Metropolitan University's report on small-house models here: https://www.niageing.ca/small-care-homes

Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/communityAre you considering applying to a brand-new CRNA program but unsure if it's the right move? Today Jenny dives into the pros and cons of joining a newly established nurse anesthesia program and reveals a comprehensive list of 22 brand-new CRNA programs that have recently opened or are undergoing accreditation.From insider tips to alleviate concerns about new programs to advice on assessing program quality, this episode is packed with invaluable information for aspiring CRNAs!She discusses the unique advantages of new CRNA programs, such as potentially less competitive application pools and fresh, energized faculty eager to build a positive culture. You'll also learn about the rigorous accreditation process new programs must undergo to ensure they meet the Council on Accreditation (COA) standards, which can provide peace of mind for applicants.Plus, she breaks down important considerations, like board passing rates and hybrid learning opportunities, that can impact your decision. Whether you're intrigued by the flexibility of hybrid programs or the potential for independent practice exposure, this episode will guide you in making an informed choice.Ready to explore your options and gain a competitive edge in your CRNA journey? Tune in to discover if a brand-new program is the right fit for you and to hear about the exciting opportunities in locations like Nevada, Texas, Ohio, and beyond!List of CRNA Schools Mentioned in Episode: - Roseman University- Rocky Vista University- UTMB (University of Texas Medical Branch)- Ursuline College with SNAP- Ohio State University- UC Davis- Ohio University- Duquesne University- Fairfield University (Austin, Texas branch)- UT Health San Antonio- UT Tyler- Bellarmine University- University of Louisville- Loyola University- New Mexico State University- Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing- Delaware Nurse Anesthesiology Program at Christiana Care and Wilmington University- Edgewood College- St. John Fisher University- St. Luke's University Health Network, DeSales University- University of Illinois Chicago- LaSalle UniversityGet access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success.Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy:https://cspaedu.com/joinGet CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-emailBook a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.comJoin our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

In this bonus episode, we delve into the life-changing journey of Carmen Chu, a cancer survivor and mother who was diagnosed with sleep apnea. Carmen shares her struggles with interrupted sleep, fatigue, and the impact on her daily life. She discusses her experience with sleep tests and the transformative benefits of using a CPAP machine.Additional ResourcesUHN's Centre for Sleep Health and ResearchDr. Frances Chung named UHN Inventor of the YearDr. Douglas Bradley featured in KITE Research spotlight: Use of non-invasive breathing device to alleviate obstructive and central sleep apnea improves quality of life The Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

RECOVERING POLITICIANS PANEL:  PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMP'S TARIFF THREAT & FORD GOVERNMENT PASSES LEGISLATION ON BIKE LANES Libby Znaimer is joined by George Smitherman, former Ontario Liberal Health minister and Deputy Premier, Cheri DiNovo, Ontario NDP MPP and Janet Ecker, a former Ontario PC MPP and finance minister. This week:  President-elect Trump threatens Canada and Mexico with a 25 percent tariff on goods and the Ford government passes legislation pertaining to bike lanes. THE ZOOMER RADIO PRINCESS MARGARET CANCER CENTRE RADIOTHON  Libby Znaimer is now joined by Dr. Aaron Schimmer, Senior Scientist and Research Director at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Dr. Keith Stewart, Vice President, Cancer and Director of the Princess Margaret Cancer Program, University Health Network. Welcome to Zoomer Radio's fourth annual radiothon in support of the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.  Today, we highlight the important work being done at PMCC and the latest research and innovations regarding treatment. To donate, visit zoomerradiothon.ca or call 1-888-388-3308.

In this bonus episode, we share Adriana Salazar's powerful and emotional journey. Adriana, a 40-year-old mother and wife, first experienced the pain on her honeymoon in Portugal. The pain disappeared but returned during her pregnancy, escalating to a point where she couldn't smile or eat. Despite seeing multiple specialists, she received her diagnosis only after her daughter's birth.After undergoing microvascular decompression surgery, Adriana finally found relief. Her journey from debilitating pain and struggles with misdiagnoses to reclaiming her life highlights the resilience and strength of those battling trigeminal neuralgia.Additional ResourcesDr. Hodaie was interviewed on Season 1 of Your Complex Brain – "The most painful brain disease you've never heard of"Toronto neurosurgeon marks 1,000th operation treating 'excruciating' facial pain syndrome (CBC story)Dr. Hodaie recounts her journey from new immigrant to neurosurgeon (video)Brain Aging in Fast Forward (UHN Research article)Dr. Hodaie was a featured speaker at KBI's first-ever 'International Day of Women and Girls in Science' event (video)The Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Today, we're diving into the deeply personal journey of Julianne Hazelwood, a journalist and new mother, who has lived with epilepsy since her early teenage years. Julianne shares her transformational experience of motherhood, the challenges of managing epilepsy, and how The Lullaby Project—a group that brings together expectant mothers with songwriters to create a song for their baby—became a therapeutic outlet during her pregnancy.Additional ResourcesThe Lullaby ProjectThe Lullaby Project PlaylistJulianne Hazlewood's CBC radio documentary on White Coat Black ArtDr. Esther Bui was interviewed in Season 2 of Your Complex Brain podcast - A New Era in Women's Brain Health: Closing the Gap on Delayed DiagnosisAdvancing Women's Neurology through Education, Research and Advocacy (U of T story featuring Dr. Esther Bui & Dr. Aleksandra Pikula)Dr. Esther Bui was featured in UHN Foundation 'Know Your Heroes' seriesThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Mainstreet's Alex Guye has been looking at the lack of intersecting support for those among us who are confronted by homelessness, mental illness and substance use. This is her latest instalment, featuring Dr. Andrew Boozary of University Health Network in Toronto.

In this powerful and inspiring bonus episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Shruti Kothari, a 34-year-old actress and stroke survivor. On March 7, 2020, just before the pandemic shook the world, Shruti experienced a stroke while hosting friends at her apartment. Her left side went numb, and thanks to a quick-thinking friend trained in recognizing stroke symptoms, paramedics were called immediately. Shruti's story is not just one of survival but thriving against all odds. She talks about her rehabilitation process, an innovative program that helped her regain movement in her arm, and her determination to continue her acting career. Despite the challenges, Shruti's optimism and drive to give back to the community shine through. Additional ResourcesUHN's Stroke Prevention ClinicDr. Pikula was interviewed in the Your Complex Brain episode "The Rise of Stroke in Young Adults"UHN Foundation video "Shruti's journey back to the stage, with some help from Team UHN"Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada – Women's Digital HubWorld Stroke Academy podcast featuring Dr. LindsayThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Over the past year, more than 4,000 visits to ERs in Toronto were made by a small group of 100 unhoused people. Now, the city's University Health Network is supporting Dunn House, a project offering homes to people in that group, with onsite medical and social supports. 

Oncotarget #published this #editorial on September 30, 2024, in Volume 15, entitled “Lessons from the ACDC-RP trial: Clinical trial design for radical prostatectomy neoadjuvant therapy trials” by Rashid K. Sayyid and Neil E. Fleshner from the Division of Urologic Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.28648 Correspondence to - Rashid K. Sayyid - rksayyid@gmail.com Video short - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APkPoTlXBWY Sign up for free Altmetric alerts about this article - https://oncotarget.altmetric.com/details/email_updates?id=10.18632%2Foncotarget.28648 Subscribe for free publication alerts from Oncotarget - https://www.oncotarget.com/subscribe/ Keywords - cancer, clinical trial, prostatic neoplasms, neoadjuvant therapy, chemotherapy; androgen receptor agonist About Oncotarget Oncotarget (a primarily oncology-focused, peer-reviewed, open access journal) aims to maximize research impact through insightful peer-review; eliminate borders between specialties by linking different fields of oncology, cancer research and biomedical sciences; and foster application of basic and clinical science. Oncotarget is indexed and archived by PubMed/Medline, PubMed Central, Scopus, EMBASE, META (Chan Zuckerberg Initiative) (2018-2022), and Dimensions (Digital Science). To learn more about Oncotarget, please visit https://www.oncotarget.com and connect with us: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Oncotarget/ X - https://twitter.com/oncotarget Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oncotargetjrnl/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OncotargetJournal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/oncotarget Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/oncotarget/ Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/Oncotarget/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0gRwT6BqYWJzxzmjPJwtVh MEDIA@IMPACTJOURNALS.COM

It's fall respiratory illness season and experts are once again urging Canadians to get vaccinated. Dr. Susy Hota, division head of infectious diseases at the University Health Network and Sinai Health in Toronto, breaks down the latest vaccines and treatments for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, while also talking about how everyone can stay safe this season. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the lived experience of Matthew Cote, a teacher and advocate for those living with learning disabilities, including reading disabilities. Matthew shares his personal journey, detailing how his reading disability impacted his early years, from struggling to decode words and feeling isolated to the turning point when he received assistive technology that transformed his learning experience. He also talks about the crucial role of support from his family, particularly his mother, and his teacher who helped him believe in himself.Additional ResourcesDr. Cathy Barr's UHN Research websiteUHN Foundation story featuring Dr. Cathy Barr – "Reading the Genome"Sick Kids Empower Reading & Learning GroupLearning Disabilities Association of OntarioThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Who is Edward Rogers, Toronto's new sports tycoon? David Common speaks to Globe & Mail business reporter Andrew Willis about Rogers Communication's buying up Bell's stakes in MLSE. Plus, Canada's medical community is apologizing for the harm it's done to Indigenous Peoples. What's next? University Health Network's Indigenous Health Lead, Dr. Mike Anderson, shares his thoughts. And David speaks with Ulrike Al-Khamis, CEO of the Aga Khan Museum, about its 10 year anniversary.

Neurofibromatosis, also known as NF, is one of the most common genetic disorders affecting about 1 in 3000 people globally. However, little is known about the condition causing it to often be misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed. Neurofibromatosis causes different types of tumors to form in various parts of the body.In this bonus episode, Dr. Ryan Thomas, a family physician and Clinical Associate at UHN's Elisabeth Raab Neurofibromatosis Clinic—the only adult NF clinic in Canada—shares his personal journey with NF. Diagnosed in his late twenties, Dr. Thomas underwent a life-changing surgery to remove a large tumor in his chest, just two months before his wedding. His experience provides a unique perspective on the condition, allowing him to connect deeply with his patients.Additional ResourcesCanadian First : UHN Opens Multidisciplinary Clinic on Genetic DisorderElisabeth Raab Accelerator of Science to End NeurofibromatosisNeurofibromatosis OntarioDr. Gelareh Zadeh's lab – link to more info about the Elisabeth Raab Neurofibromatosis ClinicChildren's Tumour FoundationThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world, affecting over 100,000 Canadians and 12,000 new cases diagnosed every year. In this bonus episode of Your Complex Brain, we explore the transformative power of exercise in managing Parkinson's symptoms and possibly slowing the disease's progression.Join us as we hear from Steven Iseman, who was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson's Disease at 48. Now 58, Steven shares his remarkably journey from hiding his diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate for Parkinson's awareness and the benefits of exercise. Learn how he co-founded the Rigid Riders cycling club and the Spinning Wheels Tour, cycling 8,000 km across Canada to connect with and support others living with Parkinson's. Steven's story is one of resilience, community and the relentless pursuit of a better life despite his diagnosis. Discover how exercise has not only helped Steven manage his symptoms but also given him a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Additional ResourcesUHN Movement Disorders Clinic websiteKalia Labs websiteVideo: Dr. Lorraine Kalia on why she studies Parkinson'sVideo: Dr. Lorraine Kalia Discusses the Latest in Parkinson's Research on TVO's The AgendaVideo: The Rigid Riders StorySpinning Wheels Cycling TourThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Welcome to PsychEd, the psychiatry podcast for medical learners, by medical learners. This episode covers an introduction to consultation-liaison psychiatry with Dr. Raed Hawa and Dr. Alan Wai, both from the University of Toronto. Dr. Raed Hawa is an esteemed CL psychiatrist and educator. Dr Hawa's interests are in the areas of undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing medical education. He also practices general sleep medicine with particular clinical interest in the areas of insomnia, co-morbid psychiatric and medical illnesses, and sleep-related movement disorders. He currently serves as the President of the Canadian Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CACLP) and holds the position of Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto. Additionally, Dr. Hawa is the Deputy Psychiatrist-in-Chief at the Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network. Dr. Hawa has earned American Board Certification in Psychiatry, with subspecialty certifications in Sleep Medicine and Psychosomatic Medicine (Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry). His expertise and contributions to the field have been recognized through his designation as a Distinguished Fellow of both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA). Dr. Alan Wai is a psychiatrist at the University Health Network in Toronto and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto. He provides inpatient CL psychiatry care and mental health and psychiatric care embedded in the Immunodeficiency Clinic at Toronto General Hospital, where he sees both persons living with and at risk of HIV. He received his medical degree from the University of British Columbia and completed his psychiatric residency training at the University of Toronto. The learning objectives for this episode are as follows: By the end of this episode, the listener will be able to… Outline the history and evolution of CL psychiatry Define the role and scope of CL psychiatrists in diverse medical settings Identify and assess common psychiatric disorders in CL settings Provide differential diagnoses and a general approach to a CL patient through a sample case Guests: Dr. Raed Hawa and Dr. Alan Wai Hosts: Annie Yu (PGY3), Sena Gok (MD), and Matthew Cho (CC3) Audio editing by: Sena Gok Show notes by: Sena Gok Interview content: Introduction - 00:13 Learning objectives - 01:09 First guest introduction - 01:36 History of CL psychiatry - 03:18 Subspecialties within CL psychiatry - 10:33 Collaborative care of CL psychiatry - 14:00 Preparation for CL Rotation - 20:03 Bariatric clinic and CL psychiatry - 22:32 Future of CL psychiatry, AFC Certification - 27:45 Second guest introduction - 33:29 Role and scope of CL psychiatry - 34:18 A day in CL psychiatry - 39:32 Cultural competence in CL psychiatry - 44:08 Introduction to patients in CL clinics - 47:53 Resources for CL psychiatry rotation - 50:14 Clinical vignette - 53:08 CL psychiatric assessment approach - 01:00:25 Agitation management in CL psychiatry - 01:09:24 Closing - 01:13:51 End credits - 01:15:05 Resources: Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of General Hospital Psychiatry: https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9781437719277/massachusetts-general-hospital-handbook-of-general-hospital-psychiatry Academy of CL Psychiatry (ACLP) educational resources: https://www.clpsychiatry.org/educationcareers/ AFC (Area of Focused Competence) in CL Psychiatry: https://news.royalcollege.ca/en/eligibility-and-exams/areas-of-focused-competence.html Canadian Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry website: https://www.clpsychiatry.ca Our previous CL psychiatry-related episodes: PsychEd Episode 22: Psycho-Oncology Assessments with Dr. Elie Isenberg-Grzeda PsychEd Episode 35: Pain Psychiatry with Dr. Leon Tourian PsychEd Episode 36: Understanding Eating Disorders with Dr. Randy Staab PsychEdEpisode 37: Treating Eating Disorders with Dr. Randy Staab PsychEd Episode 57: HIV Psychiatry with Dr. Adriana Carvalhal and Dr. Leigh van den Heuvel References: Ali, S., Ernst, C., Pacheco, M., & Fricchione, G. (2006). Consultation-liaison psychiatry: How far have we come? Current Psychiatry Reports, 8(3), 215–222. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-006-0026-y Beran, C., & Sowa, N. A. (2021). Adaptation of an Academic Inpatient Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Effects on Clinical Practice and Trainee Supervision. Journal of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, 62(2), 186–192. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33288272 Lipowski, Z. J. (1974). Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry: An Overview. American Journal of Psychiatry, 131(6), 623–630. https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.131.6.623 Lipowski, Z. J. (1992). Consultation-liaison psychiatry at century's end. Psychosomatics, 33(2), 128–133. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0033-3182(92)71988-4 Swenson, J. R., Abbey, S., & Stewart, D. E. (1993). Consultation-liaison psychiatry as a subspecialty. A Canadian survey. General Hospital Psychiatry, 15(6), 386–391. https://doi.org/10.1016/0163-8343(93)90007-b Taylor, G., & Doody, K. (1979). Psychiatric Consultations in a Canadian General Hospital. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 24(8), 717–723. https://doi.org/10.1177/070674377902400803 For more PsychEd, follow us on Instagram (@psyched.podcast), X (@psychedpodcast), and Facebook (PsychEd Podcast). You can provide feedback by email at psychedpodcast@gmail.com. For more information, visit our website at psychedpodcast.org.

In this bonus episode of Your Complex Brain, we hear from John Ruffolo, Founder and Managing Partner of Maverix Private Equity, who shares his personal journey of surviving a life-threatening cycling accident in 2020 that left him with a severe spinal cord injury. John recounts the harrowing moments following the accident, his extensive surgeries, and his remarkable recovery journey. Despite being diagnosed with the most severe grading of spinal cord injury, John's relentless spirit and dedication to physical therapy have led to astonishing improvements in his mobility.Featuring: John Ruffolo is the Founder and Managing Partner of Maverix Private Equity, a private equity firm focused on technology-enabled growth and disruption investment strategies. Maverix invests in health and wellness, financial services, transportation and logistics, live, work, play and learn and retail. As an active board member in the profit and not-for-profit sectors, John works with many leading innovative organizations and has been recognized as Canada's #1 of 100 Most Powerful Business People by Canadian Business Magazine and was selected as one of Toronto's 50 Most Influential People by Toronto Life. He is currently living with a spinal cord injury.Additional ResourcesUHN's Spinal Cord Injury ClinicDr. Fehlings' Laboratory for Neural Repair and Regeneration websiteDr. Fehling's interview on Season 1 of Your Complex Brain, 'Revolutionary Advances in Spinal Cord Injury'PSI Foundation feature story on Dr. Laureen HachemToronto's Top Grad Dreams Big – Toronto.com feature story on Dr. Laureen Hachem as a high school studentThe Globe and Mail feature story on John RuffoloThe Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rethinkingwellness.substack.comMedical doctor and pharmaceutical-policy researcher Joel Lexchin joins us to discuss the impact of industry sponsorship on medical research, why merely disclosing these financial conflicts of interest is not enough (and may not be accurate or complete), some of the surprising tactics drug- and device-makers use to get more favorable study results and conclusions, and lots more. Behind the paywall, we discuss how to think critically about industry-sponsored research without getting sucked into conspiracy theories and becoming vulnerable to the wellness industry, the role of pharmaceutical companies in creating the craze for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, and the disturbing truth about many patient-advocacy groups. Paid subscribers can hear the full interview, and the first half is available to all listeners. To upgrade to paid, go to rethinkingwellness.substack.com. Joel Lexchin received his MD from the University of Toronto in 1977. He is a Professor Emeritus in the School of Health Policy and Management at York University in Toronto, Canada, where he taught health policy until 2016. In addition, he worked in the emergency department at the University Health Network in Toronto for over 34 years. He has published two books since 2016: Private Profits vs Public Policy: The Pharmaceutical Industry and the Canadian State (University of Toronto Press, 2016) and Doctors in Denial: Why Big Pharma and the Canadian Medical Profession Are Too Close for Comfort (Lorimer, 2017). He is a member of the Foundation Board of Health Action International and the board of Canadian Doctors for Medicare. He is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and is among the top 2 percent of the world's most highly cited researchers.If you like this conversation, subscribe to hear lots more like it! Support the podcast by becoming a paid subscriber, and unlock great perks like extended interviews, subscriber-only Q&As, full access to our archives, commenting privileges and subscriber threads where you can connect with other listeners, and more. Learn more and sign up at rethinkingwellness.substack.com.Christy's second book, The Wellness Trap, is available wherever books are sold! Order it here, or ask for it in your favorite local bookstore.If you're looking to make peace with food and break free from diet and wellness culture, come check out Christy's Intuitive Eating Fundamentals online course.

In this bonus episode of Your Complex Brain, we delve into the world of dementia care with Maria Martinez, a dedicated social worker at UHN's Memory Clinic, part of the Krembil Brain Institute. With nearly 25 years of experience, Maria shares her journey from studying anthropology and sociology to becoming a vital support for patients living with dementia and their families.Maria highlights the unique challenges faced by those dealing with rare dementias and early-onset cases, emphasizing the importance of personalized support and the significant financial burdens these families often encounter.Despite the challenges, Maria finds hope and fulfillment in her work, learning continuously from the resilient families she supports. This episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into the daily efforts of a social worker dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.Featuring: Maria Martinez has been a social worker for nearly 25 years. Most recently, she has worked with the team at UHN's Memory Clinic, helping patients living with Alzheimer's and dementia, and their families, navigate their diagnosis and community support.Additional resources:Dr. Carmela Tartaglia's interview on EP 1 of Your Complex Brain – ‘The Quest to Solve the Concussion Problem' Risk Factors for Alzheimer's and Dementia (video) UHN Memory Clinic Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA) Dr. Laura Middleton's research project - DREAM (Dementia Resources for Eating, Activity, and Meaningful Inclusion Dr. Laura Middleton's research project - DICE (Dementia Inclusive Choices for Exercise)The Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

Send us a Text Message.On this episode of the CMAJ Podcast, Dr. Blair Bigham and Dr. Mojola Omole tackle the complex issue of "socially admitted" patients, sometimes uncharitably referred to as "granny dumping." They explore the factors leading to these non-acute medical admissions, the challenges faced by healthcare providers and innovative solutions to the problem.Dr. Jasmine Mah, a geriatrics fellow at Dalhousie University, shares insights from her qualitative study published in CMAJ, titled "Managing “socially admitted” patients in hospital: a qualitative study of healthcare providers' perceptions". She provides examples of typical “social admissions”, such as patients with chronic conditions whose care circumstances have changed, and highlights the high mortality rates associated with these cases.The discussion moves to the attitudes of healthcare providers towards “socially admitted” patients, the systemic failures leading to these admissions, and potential solutions. Dr. Mah emphasizes the need for better understanding and support for these patients, suggesting systemic changes like integrating social vulnerability into case mix indices and improving community care to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions.Dr. Andrew Boozary, a primary care physician and executive director of the Gattuso Center for Social Medicine at University Health Network in Toronto, expands on these ideas in an editorial response. He underscores that these issues are not personal failures but policy failures, advocating for increased support roles like peer support workers and social medicine navigators. Dr. Boozary highlights the importance of innovative team-based care models to address the gaps in the current healthcare system.Throughout the episode, the hosts and guests call for a more integrated and empathetic approach to patient care, stressing the need for systemic changes to better manage “socially admitted” patients and improve overall healthcare outcomes.Join us as we explore medical solutions that address the urgent need to change healthcare. Reach out to us about this or any episode you hear. Or tell us about something you'd like to hear on the leading Canadian medical podcast.You can find Blair and Mojola on X @BlairBigham and @DrmojolaomoleX (in English): @CMAJ X (en français): @JAMC FacebookInstagram: @CMAJ.ca The CMAJ Podcast is produced by PodCraft Productions

Loud, disruptive snoring could be (but isn't always) a sign of sleep apnea, a common condition in which breathing may stop and start many times throughout the night. You may be aware that sleep apnea can disrupt your sleep and cause fatigue, but did you know that it can also impact your heart, your brain – even your sex drive?In today's episode, we discuss the health risks of undiagnosed sleep apnea and why, if you're having trouble sleeping or staying awake during the day, if you're experiencing morning headaches, mood changes or difficulty focusing, you should consider getting a sleep test.Featuring: Dr. Douglas Bradley - Director of UHN's Centre for Sleep Health and Research, at Toronto General Hospital.Dr. Frances Chung - Anesthesiologist and Clinician Investigator with UHN's Krembil Brain Institute; Inventor of the STOP-Bang Questionnaire, a new screening tool for sleep apnea that's being used around the world.  Carmen Chu – Fundraising professional and cancer survivor, who was recently diagnosed with sleep apnea. Additional resources: UHN's Centre for Sleep Health and ResearchDr. Frances Chung named UHN Inventor of the YearDr. Douglas Bradley featured in KITE Research spotlight: Use of non-invasive breathing device to alleviate obstructive and central sleep apnea improves quality of life The Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Alley Wilson, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

This accelerated delivery platform improves clinic workflow and speeds up breast cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. From screening mammogram, a clinical pathway flags patients who meet One-Stop Breast Clinic criteria, eliminating the traditional “first come, first served” scheduling model. To date, more than 300 patients have benefited from this rapid diagnostic approach, receiving their diagnosis in 3 to 7 days, far below the national average of 26 days. Guest: Michele Brands Network Director Women's Imaging St. Luke's University Health Network, St. Luke's Cancer Care Bethlehem, Pennsylvania   Quote: “[After COVID-19] access really became an issue for diagnostic breast imaging…the One-Stop Breast Clinic allows us to take our highest-risk patients…and get them from the diagnostic process through biopsy to pathology in 48 hours or less.”  Additional Resources:  Improving the Care of Patients Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Clinical Meaningfulness: Insights from a Metastatic Breast Cancer Qualitative Study The Changing Landscape of Breast Cancer  Empowering Cancer Patients Using Integrative Medicine: A Novel Model for Breast Cancer Risk Modification Breast Care ACCESS Project

What's the first thing you think of when asked, “how well do you listen?” Many CX professionals might think of their listening systems: surveys, close-loop feedback, listening architectures. Some may say they interact with clients on a regular basis. But what about actively listening? Talking less and letting others express themselves, and then reassuring them that the conversation was worth it. Host Sara Walker welcomes Marisa Schwartz, senior regional medical director for St. Luke's University Health Network, to discuss the importance of active listening.  Find a transcript of this episode on the show notes page: https://cxleaderpodcast.com/talk-less-listen-more/ Learn more about St. Luke's University Health Network at https://www.slhn.org/ Listen to more episodes at https://cxleaderpodcast.com/ Learn more about Walker at https://walkerinfo.com/ 

At UHN's Krembil Brain Institute, we have cared for many patients living with an extreme and heartbreaking facial pain disorder called trigeminal neuralgia. Patients often describe the pain as a lightning bolt to the face, or an electric shock. Some talk about the impact the disease has had on their family & relationships, including not being able to hug their loved ones, or kiss their children goodnight. In today's episode, we discuss how AI is helping researchers look for patterns and clues to treat patients living with trigeminal neuralgia and other chronic pain disorders.Featuring: Dr. Mojgan Hodaie – Neurosurgeon and senior scientist with UHN's Krembil Brain Institute and the Greg Wilkins-Barrick Chair in International Surgery at UHN. Dr. Hodaie is also a Professor and the Postgraduate Medical Education Director for the Department of Surgery, at the University of Toronto's Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Her surgical practice and research laboratory are dedicated to unraveling the underpinnings of the severe pain condition of trigeminal neuralgia, using advanced brain imaging technology. Her interest and dedication to education spans local, national and international activities.Adriana Salazar - Graduated from The University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Management and Organizational Studies (BMOS) and has worked in the Finance Department at a law firm for the past 9 years. She is happily married and has a lovely daughter who just finished her first year of school.  In her off time, she enjoys traveling back home to Colombia to see her family, painting in watercolours, and reading James Patterson novels in her hammock.Additional resources: Dr. Hodaie was interviewed on Season 1 of Your Complex Brain – “The most painful brain disease you've never heard of”Toronto neurosurgeon marks 1,000th operation treating 'excruciating' facial pain syndromeDr. Hodaie recounts her journey from new immigrant to neurosurgeon (video)Brain Aging in Fast Forward (UHN Research article)Dr. Hodaie was a featured speaker at KBI's first-ever ‘International Day of Women and Girls in Science' event (video)The Your Complex Brain production team is Heather Sherman, Jessica Schmidt, Dr. Amy Ma, Kim Perry, Sara Yuan, Meagan Anderi, Liz Chapman, and Lorna Gilfedder.The Krembil Brain Institute, part of University Health Network, in Toronto, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, stroke, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, brain cancer or concussion, in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly toward finding new treatments and cures.Do you want to know more about the Krembil Brain Institute at UHN? Visit us at: uhn.ca/krembilTo get in touch, email us at krembil@uhn.ca or message us on social media:Instagram - @krembilresearchTwitter - @KBI_UHNFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KrembilBrainInstituteThanks for listening!

We discussed a few things including:1. Their career journeys  2. Mental health crisis3. Karin's startup and product4. Harvey's work relating to #AI in #Healthcare5. Trends, challenges and opportunities re AI and healthKarin Andrea Stephan is a visionary leader and serial entrepreneur with over three decades of business experience. Her passion for empowering people to reach their true potential led her to co-found Earkick, an AI-powered companion that measures, assesses, and improves mental health in real-time.  With degrees in music, management psychology, and digital management, she leverages technology to serve humanity. Having spent most of her life abroad, Karin continuously picks up new languages and thrives on outdoor sports while striving to decode human behavior.-----Dr. Harvey Castro is a multifaceted medical professional, entrepreneur, and AI futurist dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare through innovative technology. With over 20 years of experience as an ER physician, he has been recognized multiple times as ER Doctor of the Year by D Magazine and has consistently been named a "Best Doctor" since 2014. In 2024, he was named one of the top 30 Healthcare IT Influencers Worth a Follow.Dr. Castro holds an MD from The University of Texas Medical Branch and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. His medical training includes a residency in Emergency Medicine at St. Luke's University Health Network. Beyond his clinical expertise, he has served as an E4 Specialist & Dental Assistant in the United States Army Reserve.An active thought leader in AI and healthcare, Dr. Castro is the Chief Medical AI Officer at Helpp.ai, focusing on AI-driven fall prevention and workflow automation. He is also the CEO of Medical Intelligence Ops, which integrates Large Language Models into healthcare. Additionally, Dr. Castro holds advisory roles at PONS and Cellotex, and serves as a Strategic Advisor for ChatGPT & Healthcare, the Singapore Ministry of Health, and the Texas Medical Association.Dr. Castro is a prolific author, with notable works including "Bing Copilot and Other LLM: Revolutionizing Healthcare With AI" and "ChatGPT-5 and Healthcare: Revolutionizing Modern Medicine." He is also finalizing his book, "The Unofficial Guide to AI Mastery: Key Insights from 54 Pioneering TED Talks on Artificial Intelligence," which delves into the transformative impact of AI on healthcare.Dr. Castro leverages his extensive expertise to educate and inspire, offering courses on AI in healthcare and success reinvention. His digital presence includes a cloned podcast on gptpodcast.com and AI products on convowithgpt.com. Through his work, Dr. Castro aims to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical healthcare applications, ensuring ethical integration and a focus on the human elements in AI.#podcast #AFewThingsPodcast

Dr. Sara Vasconcelos is a Senior Scientist and the John Kitson McIvor Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research at University Health Network. She is also an Associate Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto. Her lab studies microvascular regeneration in cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, and are working to develop personalized patient-derived organ-chip models for drug screening and other applications. In this episode, she talks about modeling cardiac fibrosis and studying pancreatic islet vasculature. She also discusses working with microchips and with large animal models.

Dr Akila Viswanathan talks to Dr David Kirsch from the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre/University Health Network about treating soft tissue sarcomas for Seminars in Radiation Oncology.

Interview with Dustin Greenhill, MD, FAAOS, Associate Program Director of Orthopaedic Surgery at the St. Luke's University Health Network and Assistant Clinical Professor at Temple University School of Medicine. Dr. Greenhill is a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and first author of the paper entitled “Treatment of Length-Unstable Pediatric Femur Fractures in Children Aged 5 to 11 […]

This episode features Darlene Dasent, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at University Health Network. Here, she shares key insights into UHN, accomplishments UHN has achieved that she is proud of, her focus on the impact of rapidly evolving technology, and more.