Prospective Doctor (from MedSchoolCoach)
Physicians with admission committee experience share tips, strategies, and experiences to help premed students succeed at becoming a doctor. Guest speakers provide insight into applying to medical school, selecting a medical specialty, and applying for residency. The Prospective Doctor podcast is for anyone considering, or on the path to, practicing medicine!
info_outline
Protecting Your Physician Credentials with Dr. Leah Houston
06/27/2024
Protecting Your Physician Credentials with Dr. Leah Houston
Imagine your credentials as a physician being misused, making it impossible for you to work. Dr. Leah Houston went through this identity theft nightmare. This experience led her to start HPEC, a decentralized autonomous organization of practicing physicians—essentially a digital physician guild. Dr. Houston, an emergency medicine physician turned pioneer in digital identity security for doctors, speaks with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen on this episode about how she turned crisis into innovation and resilience. They discuss physicians' staggering administrative challenges, the nuances of digital identity management, the burdensome credentialing process, and the importance of safeguarding one's medical credentials. In this episode, you’ll learn: Identity Management in Healthcare: Dr. Leah Houston shares her personal experience with Medicare and Medicaid identity fraud, shedding light on the often overlooked issue of identity management and credentialing in the medical field. She explains how administrative burdens can persist well beyond medical school and residency, impacting your ability to practice medicine. Innovation and Technological Solutions: Discover how Dr. Houston turned her challenges into a groundbreaking solution by developing a decentralized identity management system. This tool not only simplifies the credentialing process but also enhances security, allowing physicians to hold and share pre-verified data effortlessly. Exploring New Career Avenues: Our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, emphasizes the importance of networking and exploring opportunities outside traditional medical pathways. If you're keen on innovation or startup environments, take Dr. Houston's advice to heart: immerse yourself in tech, reach out to industry leaders, and even consider internships to broaden your horizons and make an impact in the evolving healthcare landscape. Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Introduction to The Prospective Doctor podcast with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen and special guest Dr. Leah Houston 02:04 Impact of Medicare/Medicaid identity fraud on her ability to work 04:40 The burdensome nature of the current system 06:02 Introducing a digital wallet for doctors to hold pre-verified credentials 08:18 Importance of networking and collaboration with tech innovators 11:05 Encouraging students to have confidence in their problem-solving abilities 16:45 Importance of showing genuine interest and offering tangible help to emerging startups 18:50 Importance of fair contracts and seeking legal advice. Where you can find Dr. Houston: LinkedIn: More on HPEC: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31864562
info_outline
Fighting Burnout In Med School With Dr. Svetlana Chamoun
06/20/2024
Fighting Burnout In Med School With Dr. Svetlana Chamoun
Burnout is real, and it’s more than just stress—it's an occupational phenomenon. Dr. Svetlana Chamoun, a cardiologist and Founder and President of CardioSeeds and host of the CardioSeeds Podcast joins Dr. Erkeda DeRouen to speak about burnout prevention and how it’s directly related to heart health and chronic disease. Dr. Chamoun is dedicated to shedding light on the mental health challenges that medical students and professionals face. Her acclaimed book Resilience in Scrubs and the upcoming Women Physician Survival Guide showcase her commitment to reducing burnout in the healthcare sector. Join the conversation as they discuss strategies for managing stress and burnout, from setting personal boundaries and engaging in fulfilling hobbies to building robust support networks. Discover how Cardioseeds is making a difference with its innovative wellness programs and why lifestyle medicine and resilience training should be integral parts of medical education. In this episode, you’ll learn to: Prioritize Your Mental Health: Dr. Svetlana Chamoun and Dr. Erkeda DeRouen delve into the significance of addressing mental health in the medical field. They spotlight the Doctor Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Protection Act, which encourages medical professionals to seek mental health help without fear of repercussions. Remember, your well-being is just as critical as your patients’. Embrace Personal Wellness: Discover strategies for maintaining mental wellness amid the demanding medical environment. From setting boundaries and engaging in hobbies to building a supportive network and aligning with your core values, these tips will help you stay mentally fit and ready to conquer the medical world. Combat Burnout: Dr. Chamoun shares insightful tips on recognizing and tackling burnout. Learn about symptoms like chronic fatigue, insomnia, and emotional detachment, and explore proactive measures like lifestyle medicine, resilience training, and mindfulness to set yourself up for a rewarding and sustainable medical career. Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Dr. Erkeda DeRouen introduces the Prospective Doctor podcast with guest Dr. Svetlana Chamoun 02:01 Dr. Chamoun on her journey through medical training and how burnout impacted her personal and professional life 06:31 On the pervasive issue of mental health struggles in the medical field 10:01 Align professional life with personal values by setting boundaries between work and personal life to maintain mental wellness 15:01 Insight into Dr. Chamoun's book "Resilience in Scrubs" and organization, Cardioseeds, which offers wellness programs for medical trainees 20:01 How burnout affects female healthcare professionals differently due to various factors such as cultural biases and the "double shift" phenomenon 25:01 Differentiating between stress and burnout, with a focus on how chronic, unresolved work-related stress leads to burnout 30:01 Lifestyle interventions and how to incorporate them into daily routines 35:01 Highlighting the role of leadership in creating supportive environments and addressing toxic workplaces Where you can find Dr. Chamoun: LinkedIn: More on CardioSeeds: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31817807
info_outline
Standing Out in a Highly Competitive Medical Specialty with Dr. Chiamaka Okorie
06/13/2024
Standing Out in a Highly Competitive Medical Specialty with Dr. Chiamaka Okorie
In this episode, host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen chats with Dr. Chiamaka Okorie, a recent graduate of Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. Dr. Okorie brings a unique perspective as an international student who excelled in the US system, acing the MCAT and building an impressive portfolio. Dr. Okorie shares practical advice for aspiring dermatologists, but her insights extend far beyond a single specialty. Tune in to learn about exploring career paths early, the power of networking, and the importance of self-advocacy. They'll delve into crafting a standout application, the value of passion-driven research, and the importance of building your support system. In this episode, you’ll learn: Depths of Dermatology: Dr. Chiamaka Okorie advises aspiring dermatologists to jump into the field early and seek guidance from professionals to build a competitive portfolio Self-Advocacy is Key: Both Dr. Chiamaka Okorie and our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, emphasize the importance of actively showcasing your achievements and interests. Building Your Personal Board of Directors: Proactively reaching out to professionals and leveraging digital platforms can provide invaluable guidance and support in your medical journey, from medical school decisions to career development. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the Prospective Doctor [02:01] Introduction to Dr. Chiamaka Okorie [02:43] Navigating getting into a US medical school for international students [04:16] - Tips for building a competitive portfolio early on, including the power of mentorship and networking [10:36] Dr. Okorie’s advice on fully committing to the desired specialty, including advocacy tips and strategies for standing out [15:14] The importance of research in building your portfolio [19:44] Building your network on LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media platforms [21:00] The competitive specialty of dermatology [28:37] Advocating for yourself in medical school Where you can find Dr. Okorie: Email: Twitter: LinkedIn: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31723777
info_outline
Addressing Global Healthcare Inequities with Dr. Kim Tranquada
06/06/2024
Addressing Global Healthcare Inequities with Dr. Kim Tranquada
“Why wait for change when you can create it yourself?” was the driving question that inspired Dr. Kim Tranquada to explore the innovative world where telehealth meets global health disparities. Dr. Kim Tranquada, passionately known as” Dr. T”, is an emergency physician with over 25 years of diverse experience, ranging from academic institutions to the VA healthcare system. Currently, she's pioneering the Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World, an international telehealth initiative aimed at bridging the global healthcare workforce gap. She spoke with host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about how telehealth can help healthcare professionals provide essential services from anywhere in the world, the importance of stepping out of traditional medical roles and embracing innovative approaches to healthcare. In this episode, you’ll learn the importance of: Embracing Innovation: Leverage technology and think creatively to address global healthcare challenges, like using telehealth to bridge workforce gaps. Value of Global Health Experience: Gain exposure to different healthcare systems and needs worldwide to broaden your impact and understanding of global health. Empowering Your Medical Career: Take ownership of your career path, be visible, and create change within or outside traditional medical roles to make a meaningful impact. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction [00:27] Meet Dr. T [02:36] The mission of Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World [06:36] Joining the initiative [09:35] Impacting communities that need it [14:19] The doctor deficit [16:54] Innovating in the telehealth space [21:24] How would a global telehealth rotation change medicine? [23:53] Rotation opportunities for med students You can find Dr. Tranquada on LinkedIn: Learn more about Healthcare Alliance for an Equitable World: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31553527
info_outline
Switching Residencies to Fulfill Your Passion with Dr. Nishi Bhopal
05/30/2024
Switching Residencies to Fulfill Your Passion with Dr. Nishi Bhopal
“It's important to tune into yourself and really figure out what is it that you want. Being open to the possibilities and proactive about your career can lead you to unexpected and fulfilling paths.” Dr. Nishi Bhopal, a Board Certified Integrative Psychiatrist and Sleep Physician, delves into the diverse and often unexpected paths that a medical career can take with host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen. Dr. Nishi Bhopal shares her personal journey, detailing her transition from internal medicine to psychiatry, and the internal and external obstacles she faced along the way. Dr. Bhopal's story is a testament to the importance of staying true to one's interests and instincts despite the pressures and expectations of the medical profession. This episode focuses on the broader aspects of medical careers, including the integration of holistic and integrative medicine into practice, the role of telehealth, and the exciting possibilities that lie in medical entrepreneurship and education through digital platforms. In this episode, you’ll learn: Strategies for switching residencies during and after match The importance of resilience in the face of professional challenges, such as confronting the stereotypes within medical fields Why a significant paradigm shift from acute care to a more preventative approach in healthcare is needed Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:24] Meet Dr. Nishi Bhopal [02:09] The Big Switch: Internal Medicine to Psychiatry [03:34] The Importance of an Open Mind [05:09] Obstacles on the Path Forward [08:48] Exploring New Horizons in Medicine [11:31] The Value of Knowing Yourself [14:35] Integrating Holistic Medicine into Practice [20:08] Cultural Differences in Healthcare [23:26] Connecting with Dr. Bhopal Resources: You can find Dr. Bhopal on YouTube: You can find Dr. Bhopal on LinkedIn: Learn more about Pacific Integrative Psychiatry: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31511567
info_outline
Balancing Med School and Relationships with Dr. Kate Mangona
05/23/2024
Balancing Med School and Relationships with Dr. Kate Mangona
"It doesn't matter how busy you are in life. If you don't make your intimate partner a priority, then they might as well not even be in a relationship.” Dr. Kate Mangona speaks the truth about relationships with Dr. DeRouen in this episode of Prospective Doctor. Dr. Mangona is a pediatric radiologist passionate about marriage and intimacy coaching. She also hosts the podcast Love Lab MD and brings a unique perspective, having personally encountered the challenges of balancing relationships while pursuing her medical career and supporting her husband’s journey into medicine. They discuss the art of relationship management amid the grueling medical training schedule. She shares practical tips on clear communication, setting priorities, and creative ways to maintain intimacy—even when you're miles apart. Whether you're single, dating, or married with kids, she offers strategies to ensure your career and personal life thrive. In this episode, you’ll learn: Balancing a demanding medical career and personal relationships involves clear communication and prioritizing your partner. Maintaining chemistry and proximity is key. FaceTime dinners and disconnect times help keep your relationships strong. Immersing yourself in relationship literature, podcasts, or even hiring a relationship coach can provide invaluable insights into avoiding the high divorce rates seen among medical professionals. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:35] Introduction to Dr Kate Mangona [03:00] Managing Expectations and Guilt when balancing a busy medical career and relationships [04:45] Scheduling quality time with partners on a calendar [07:17] Long-distance relationships while studying medicine [10:20] Establishing rituals for a healthy relationship [14:11] Misconceptions about Medical Relationships [16:47] Radiologists and Relationships [21:16] Avoiding high divorce rates among physicians [24:14] Final advice for medical students Resources: You can find Dr. Mangona on LinkedIn: More about Love Lab MD: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31426327
info_outline
Forging a Career in Public Health with Epidemiologist Dr. Charnetta Williams
05/16/2024
Forging a Career in Public Health with Epidemiologist Dr. Charnetta Williams
"Medicine is just the beginning, not the destination," says Dr. Charnetta Williams in an eye-opening discussion that shatters the conventional path of clinical practice in medicine. Her journey from the front lines of an Ebola response to a trailblazer in public health proves that a medical degree can be the key to doors you never even noticed were there. In this episode, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen is joined by Dr. Charnetta Williams, a seasoned professional who transitioned from the rigorous world of clinical medicine to the dynamic field of public health. With experiences ranging from direct patient care to shaping national health policies, Dr. Williams embodies the versatility and impact that medical professionals can achieve beyond traditional roles. Dr. Williams and Dr. DeRouen explore the unpredictable yet rewarding career paths in epidemiology, the importance of work-life balance, and the impact of mentorship and representation in healthcare. Dr. Williams also highlights her inspiring work outside the healthcare system, providing education and support to women during the postpartum period. This conversation could very well redefine how you view your future in medicine. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to Navigate Medical Career Changes: Explore multiple aspects of the medical field, and don’t be afraid of less conventional routes that resonate with your evolving interests and passions. How to Leverage Fellowships: Learn more about CDC fellowships and how to strategically plan clinical rotations to broaden your medical horizons. Understanding Work-Life Challenges within the Medical Profession: The importance of self-care and developing a support network. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:32] Introduction to Dr. Charnetta Williams [08:22] Skills that transfer well into other industries [11:29] CDC Fellowship and work with the Ebola outbreak [15:07] Student planning and taking advantage of flexibility [16:28] Work-Life Balance and Representing Diversity [20:27] Dr. Williams As An Author [24:44] Advocating for Postpartum Support [29:09] Connecting with Dr. Williams Resources: You can find Dr. Williams on LinkedIn: More about Dr. Williams’s book: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31328587
info_outline
Trading Music for Medical School
05/09/2024
Trading Music for Medical School
Dr. Sujin Lee, an immigrant from Seoul, Korea, initially moved to the United States to pursue a music career. After obtaining her degree, life had a different plan for her: marriage, motherhood, and a surprising yet fulfilling pivot to the medical field. In this episode, Dr. Lee speaks with Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about this journey, the challenges, and the triumphs of changing careers, balancing life as a medical student with being a mother, and the advantages of entering medicine from a non-traditional background. Her insights are not just motivational but are also peppered with practical advice for anyone fearing they might be too far along one path to venture onto another. Dr. Lee’s story offers encouragement and a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for ourselves is to follow our heart, even if it leads us down an unexpected path. This episode is a testament to the notion that it’s never too late to recalibrate your career toward your passions. In this episode, you’ll learn: Switching Tracks Can Lead to Success: A non-traditional path can not only be possible but also incredibly fulfilling in medicine. Embrace your unique background—whether in arts, humanities, or another field—as it may offer you valuable insights and a distinctive advantage in your medical career. How to Embrace Life Beyond Medicine: Dr. Lee's multifaceted career journey underscores the importance of versatility in medicine and opens up a panorama of possibilities outside the typical patient care settings. Advocating for System Change: Dr. Lee feels the American healthcare system, particularly the complexities involving insurance authorizations and their impact on patient care can be vastly improved by focusing more on an efficient and patient-centered healthcare system. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the Prospective Doctor [00:41] Introduction to Dr. Sujin Lee [02:57} Transition from music to medicine [04:00} Challenges she faced being an older medical student, and a mother [04:42] The value of diverse backgrounds in medicine [07:00] Juggling multiple roles as a clinician, researcher, and educator [10:10] Beyond clinical practice; Dr. Lee’s legal & coaching roles [15:34] Changing the American Healthcare System by reducing bureaucratic hurdles [19:18] Final thoughts on perseverance and how to contact Dr. Lee Resources: You can find Dr. Lee on LinkedIn: Learn more about Dr. Lee’s Coaching: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31202177
info_outline
Premed Success and Med School Applications
05/02/2024
Premed Success and Med School Applications
Navigating the Medical School Admissions process is a different journey for everyone, and with the process constantly changing, the road to becoming a physician is not always easy. Luckily, , Director of Advising Services at the Health Professional Student Association and Editorial Board Member of the Student Doctor Network is an invaluable resource. In this episode of Prospective Doctor, Dr. Chuck sits down with host Dr. Erkeda DeRouen to discuss how he and his organization provide aspiring health professionals the insights they need to navigate the intricate pathways of healthcare education and practice. With his background in cell biology and extensive experience in healthcare and academic realms, Dr. Chuck highlights the ever-evolving landscape of medical school admissions, the intricacies of situational judgment tests, like Casper and AAMC’s new assessment tools, as well as the crucial role of mentorship and networking in building a successful medical career. In this episode, you’ll learn: Understanding the Admissions Landscape: Dr. Chuck offers valuable perspectives on how a research background can significantly influence your medical school application process, while also emphasizing the critical need for self-awareness about your motivations and potential impact in healthcare. Strong Networks Are Crucial: Both Dr. Chuck and our host, Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, discussed the importance of building robust support systems through mentorship and organizations. These networks can be vital in your journey toward a successful career in medicine. Navigating SJTs: Dr. Chuck sheds light on the relatively new situational judgment tests, including the Casper and AAMC's preview exam, highlighting the evolving challenges and the importance of staying informed about their use in medical program selections. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [01:13] Introduction to Dr. Emil Chuck [02:44] About the Student Doctor Network and HPSA [04:57] How waitlists are managed [06:25] The evolution of the admissions process [08:41] Figuring out your why [10:30] Advice on finding mentors and champions [16:41] Situational Judgement Tests [26:01] Connecting with Dr. Chuck and the HPSA Resources: You can find Dr. Chuck on LinkedIn: Learn more about Health Professional Student Association: Publications and Reports from HPSA: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/31079238
info_outline
Tech for Her: Revolutionizing Women’s Health
04/25/2024
Tech for Her: Revolutionizing Women’s Health
While everyone’s journey into medicine is unique, it may not be unconventional. But those are the ones that bring an incredibly fresh perspective on carving one’s own path. , an OBGYN Hospitalist, Laborist, and co-founder of FemInnovation is one of those unconventional paths. Having started as a psychology major with no science background, she ventured into medicine a bit later than her peers, navigated through a post-baccalaureate pre-med program, and engaged with Alzheimer's patients before pursuing medical school at Georgetown. Her multifaceted career, including stints in academia, federally qualified health centers, and now in femtech, along with her personal life of adopting three children during her fourth year of medical school, provides a wealth of inspiration and guidance for both traditional and non-traditional medical students. In this episode, Dr. Arnold not only speaks with Dr. Erkeda DeRouen about her journey into medicine but also the intersection between health tech and FemTech and the role of technology in medicine. In this episode, you’ll learn: Career Flexibility: Medicine's beauty lies in its adaptability to life's changes. Learn how Dr. Arnold transitioned from a psychology major to an OBGYN, embraced family life by adopting three kids during med school, and transitioned into Femtech. The Impact of Femtech: Dr. Arnold illuminates the crucial need for physicians' involvement in Femtech to ensure accuracy and prevent the exacerbation of health disparities. Parenthood & Medicine: A candid discussion on adopting and raising children during medical training, offering honest insights into the challenges and triumphs of dual roles as a parent and doctor. [00:00] Introduction to The Prospective Doctor [00:53] Introduction to Dr. Kate Arnold [01:58] Dr. Arnold’s role as a laborist [04:21] The Intersection of Dr. Arnold’s Work and Family Life [12:40] Fem Tech and Health Tech [16:52] Risks in Health Tech [19:59] Healthcare Mindset vs. Tech Mindset [23:24] What Dr. Arnold Wishes She Knew Before She Started Medicine [26:00] Parting Words Resources: You can find Dr. Arnold on LinkedIn: Learn more about FemInnovation: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30968488
info_outline
REPLAY: Unlocking the Opportunities and Challenges of Medical Research
04/18/2024
REPLAY: Unlocking the Opportunities and Challenges of Medical Research
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen is joined by Dr. Jia Ng. She is a board-certified nephrologist and epidemiologist and today, she talks about the world of research for medical students. Dr. Jia describes the opportunities and procedures she encountered from doing research, as well as the conditions they need to be in for them to thrive in the field. [00:28] Introduction of Dr. Jia Ng [01:35] Transitioning and Opportunities in Research [03:18] Recommendation for Research Pursual [06:41] Importance of Research in Residency [11:51] Dr. Jia: Why the US over Australia? [15:47] How to Get Involved in Research Research Dr. Jia mentions that Research is more complex than students and experts should perceive. According to her, research is a field that not only takes on the basic know-hows of medicine, but also the data driving the knowledge that caters to how medicine works along the evolution of society. Research allows the industry to adapt new knowledge for medical practitioners to not only develop new medicines, but also the overall medical healthcare system application. These applications include the in and out flow of patient care from medications to consultations and prescriptions. For students who are interested to take up research, it’s important to note that they will be tasked on training with groups and mentors, working on large amounts of data that can be published in order to help a certain medical field in terms of innovative solutions to customer-friendly applications. Paving Your Own Path Medical students will have the opportunity to pave their own path in the field of research. The field may seem simple, but the avenue students take to be where they want to be may be more complex than they think. The key to having control over the path you want in the field of research is working around the knowledge that you are familiar with. Familiarity comes in the form of how well you know the healthcare system within a certain area and region or the connections you have with that set location as well. While it’s important not to look at it as a race, getting where you need to be in the industry takes time, and that is inevitable. You can connect more with Dr. Ng through her and channel. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at or . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Instagram:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30867383
info_outline
Navigating the Pressure: Coping Techniques for Medical Students
04/11/2024
Navigating the Pressure: Coping Techniques for Medical Students
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Sarah Nasir, an osteopathic physician specializing in family medicine and sub-specializing in addiction medicine. In this episode, they talk about how medical students can cope with and navigate academic struggles in a far-from-perfect medical education system. [00:00] Introduction [04:01] Coping With Academic Struggles [11:15] Navigating Your Journey in Medicine [17:56] Academic Bullying [21:14] What Dr. Nasir Would Change About the Medical Education System [33:13] Parting Words How Can Medical Students Cope With Academic Struggles? The medical process is so arduous that no matter who enters it does not come out unscathed. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, allow yourself some grace and give yourself some love. If you are overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Remind yourself of your greatness and progress when things get difficult, because every doctor has been through the same struggle. You can find Dr. Nasir on and . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30756038
info_outline
Harnessing Technology: Addressing Disparities in Addiction Medicine
04/04/2024
Harnessing Technology: Addressing Disparities in Addiction Medicine
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Mike Tang, an adult and child psychiatrist, addiction medicine doctor, paediatrician, and Vice President of Integrated Care at Cityblock Health. In this episode, they talk about how you can get additional certifications with addiction medicine and the importance of technology in the improvement of health across all social factors. [00:00] Introduction [07:51] Additional Certifications [09:55] Addiction Medicine [12:03] Tech to Decrease Disparities and Social Determinants of Health [15:23] What Dr. Tang Wishes He Knew As He Entered Medicine [19:47] What Dr. Tang Would Change About the Healthcare System [22:56] Parting Words Additional Certifications in Addiction Medicine Addiction and substance use disorders are a huge driver of disparities. Plenty of risk factors that drive poverty, inequality, racism, and decreased access to care can also increase the risk for substance use. By creating more just and better systems as well as addressing addiction, substance use, and recovery, we have an opportunity to improve care in our society. Addiction is present across all specialties and certifications through the American Board of Preventative Medicine and being able to layer that additional knowledge and latest science is very helpful. Utilizing Tech to Decrease Disparities At the end of the day, tech in medicine is still all about the relationship between the provider, the provider team, and the patients. Predictive analytics and AI help determine who will be needing care to help predict and provide preventative care before someone ends up in the emergency room or the inpatient room unnecessarily. You can reach out to Dr. Tang through his and . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30673023
info_outline
Navigating Medicine: How Mentorship Shapes Future Physicians
03/28/2024
Navigating Medicine: How Mentorship Shapes Future Physicians
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. April Renee Ruffin. In this episode, they talk about everything you need to know about mentorship and finding the right mentor at the early stages of your medical career. [00:00] Introduction [03:54] The Importance of Mentorship [09:30] How Do You Find a Mentor? [13:33] How Many Mentors Should You Get? [18:47] Dr. Ruffin’s Advice For Those Starting Out in Medicine [20:39] Parting Words The Importance of Mentorship There’s existing literature that suggests how students excel academically and have higher graduation rates when they have a mentor no matter what grade they’re in. Mentors even help with promotions, sponsorships, and other career development. But beyond that, mentors also help you grow as a person. It helps you learn new skills, identify gaps in your own skill sets, and develop new ones. Mentees eventually become mentors and are able to keep that cycle going, mastering a certain level of expertise and being able to share that knowledge to someone else. For graduate and medical students looking to find a mentor, first start with the community that you have around you. For undergrads on the other hand, you can look to certain professors that you may have a good relationship with, and even organizations. Look their bios up online and don’t be afraid to say hello and set an appointment. If you don’t have any organizations you can reach out to, you can take advantage of different clubs and organizations that have partnerships or affiliations with the school who can offer support and assistance. Harnessing the power of social media and finding your interest groups are also a plus. You can find Dr. Ruffin on , , and . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30571788
info_outline
Beyond Urban Centers: Enhancing Rural Health Infrastructure
03/21/2024
Beyond Urban Centers: Enhancing Rural Health Infrastructure
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Thomas Campanella, a healthcare executive-in-residence at Baldwin Wallace, healthcare consultant, and former healthcare attorney. They talk everything about rural health: the challenges, initiatives, and technology involved to help improve it. [00:00] Introduction [03:00] Challenges Facing Rural Health [07:06] Initiatives for Rural Health [11:37] The Healthcare System, Legislature, and Technology [15:52] What Dr. Campanella Would Change About the Healthcare System [18:01] Parting Thoughts Challenges in Rural Health Looking at the major cities from a population standpoint, most of America is in rural areas. In Ohio where Dr. Campanella is from, 80/88 counties are in rural areas. Health care in those areas is neglected compared to the major cities. There are challenges in major cities, however, there is a need to redirect resources to the rural areas as well. The aging population is over 65% in rural America. You can find Dr. Campanella on and send him an . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30465063
info_outline
Empathy in Education: Fostering Patient-Doctor Bonds in Medical School
03/14/2024
Empathy in Education: Fostering Patient-Doctor Bonds in Medical School
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Bradley Block, a general adult and pediatric ENT and host of “The Physician’s Guide to Doctoring” podcast. They talk about what every medical school should incorporate into their curriculum, the importance of patient-doctor communication, and what they think of the US healthcare system. [00:00] Introduction [07:19] Three Things That Every Medical School Should Incorporate [11:28] Patient-Doctor Communication [14:55] What Dr. Block Would Change About the Healthcare System [20:00] Parting Thoughts What Medical Schools Should Incorporate According to Dr. Block, the three things that medical schools should incorporate into their curriculum is the importance of communication, such as sitting down with a family physician, shadowing them for the day, and reflecting on what skills each student needs to optimize each of those interactions, second is learning the skills of persuasion, and the last one would be habit development. Patient-Doctor Communication For Dr. Block, communication skills can definitely be developed, but there is a need to be methodical about it. Ask yourself, “What is it you need to work on to be an effective communicator?”, and then you work on it in your own life by being present and being undistracted. You can find Dr. Block on , , , and and listen to his podcast . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30369118
info_outline
Mentorship Matters: Nurturing Success in the Medical Field
03/07/2024
Mentorship Matters: Nurturing Success in the Medical Field
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Adaira Landry, an emergency medicine physician, author, and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. They talk about the impact and importance of advocating for diversity and mentorship, the power of networking, and how to create equitable spaces in the medical field. [00:00] Introduction [04:24] Advocating for Diversity, Mentorship, and the Power of Networking [10:43] Imposter Syndrome, Decreasing Bias, and Creating Equitable Spaces [20:33] Going After What You Want and Asking Questions [28:23] What Dr. Landry Would Change About the Healthcare System [30:51] Parting Thoughts What is Imposter Syndrome? The original paper on Imposter Syndrome was published in 1973 by two white female psychologists where they looked at women, mostly white, mid-career, doing phenomenal work, and being recognized by their peers, but felt like they were fraudulent despite being in a positive environment. However, for Dr. Landry, she feels like people in her community recognize their own potential and know that there is a lot they can offer, but no one is welcoming them. It’s not imposter syndrome, but a feeling of being unseen, unheard, unwelcome, and unsupported. Networking and Nurturing Relationships How do you nurture relationships and go back to them and feel like it’s a safe space? First is to know that these relationships are bi-directional; you can’t just take and you also have to offer. Secondly, own your relationships and putting all the logistics on your plate such as meetings and even Zoom meetings. Lastly is to pace your asks and the amount of time you’re asking of someone. Preorder Dr. Adaira Landry’s book “MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact”, which comes out on April 16, through or . You can reach out to her through and . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30263593
info_outline
A Dean’s View on Breaking Barriers: Navigating Social Equality in Healthcare
02/29/2024
A Dean’s View on Breaking Barriers: Navigating Social Equality in Healthcare
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Joe Greer, a hepatologist gastroenterologist. They talk about dealing with social inequality and social justice in the medical system as well as how we can integrate social justice into our educational system. [00:00] Introduction [13:22] First Generation Medical Students [14:44] Dealing with Social Inequality in Medicine [20:32] Social Justice in Education [26:55] Dr. Greer’s Advice for Medical Students [28:29] Parting Thoughts How to Deal with Social Inequality in Medicine Dr. Greer’s advocacy centers around treating every individual with the utmost respect. When he started his career working with the homeless, he immediately thought to himself, “I couldn’t survive here. What makes these individuals so special that they can?”. There are too many injustices and according to Dr. Greer, what we need to do is advocate and defend those that are left behind. Doctors are blessed by being able to become professionals and are in a position where they can make change. We have the science and medical professionals should apply it equitably and in a way that makes the U.S. the healthiest country in the world. Social Justice in the Education System Dr. Greer was one of the first to have a curriculum on social justice and improving health equity, or rather, how social justice runs through the veins of the entire curriculum. He incorporates social justice in the education at Roseman University through curriculums and programs that focus on education for all family members belonging in racial minorities across the U.S. as well as programs for opioid and stimulant use disorder pregnant women to ensure that a mother and child stays together. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30153803
info_outline
Echoes of Courage: Insights from Cancer Patients
02/22/2024
Echoes of Courage: Insights from Cancer Patients
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Christina Gomez, a GI medical oncologist at Banner MD Anderson in Phoenix, Arizona. They talk about how doctors can best break bad news to their patients as well as her journey to writing her book, “Stopped in My Tracks”. [00:00] Introduction [06:08] Advice For Giving Bad News [10:14] “Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients' Quotes” [19:08] Sharing Quotes and Support Groups [21:07] What Dr. Gomez Would Change About US Healthcare [23:07] Parting Thoughts How Dr. Gomez Wrote “Stopped in My Tracks” “I got all the pain, but she got all the suffering.” These were the words that touched Dr. Gomez and drove her to write her book “Stopped in My Tracks”, a collection of words and quotes from her patients under her care. Doctors are trained to send messages to their patients, both good and bad, and they pray that they can deliver them well. But instead of jotting down pearls of knowledge like how she was trained in med school, she started jotting down her patients’ words instead, which would literally stop her in her tracks. She would then ask her patients to pause, repeat their words, and she would write it down on any piece of paper she could find. Thus, her book was born. Dr. Gomez’s Advice for Giving Bad News Dr. Gomez has two pieces advice when it comes to giving bad news to their patients. First, is that patients want to know. She learned throughout her career that patients always want to know their diagnosis and will always ask about it. As a med student, she thought that patients wouldn’t want to know more details about their diagnosis, such as how studies might say that they only have 18 months, or that the new drug can only buy two months compared to the placebo or the standard of care. It should always be a doctor’s honour and privilege to deliver these bad news to the patients. Secondly, silence is powerful and loud and is a way to communicate with patients, especially learning how to practice our pauses. After all, our silence can and is able to heal. Get Dr. Christina Gomez’s book “Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients' Quotes” at and , and reach out to her through her . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/30055743
info_outline
ForeverRx: Bridging Health and Hearts in the Modern Dating Scene
02/15/2024
ForeverRx: Bridging Health and Hearts in the Modern Dating Scene
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Shivani Shah, a 4th year paediatric neurology resident at Duke University in North Carolina. They talk about her app Foreverrx, dating and socializing in the medical industry, and how you can build your own app. [00:00] Introduction [03:51] How Foreverrx Started [09:25] Resources for Building an App or a Business [12:13] What Dr. Shih Would Change About US Healthcare [14:45] Parting Thoughts How Foreverrx Was Born Dr. Shih founded Foreverrx with her brother during the COVID-19 pandemic and is a dating and social networking platform for all healthcare professionals as a way to create a community in the healthcare field for romantic and platonic connections, because finding connections for both are so important especially during the hardest days of training. How to Build an App Dr. Shih cites her and her brother’s MBA degrees as helpful components to building their business as well as having a software developer and Dr. Shih’s passion for coding to help maintain the app. The resources are readily available everywhere, so the most important thing in creating your app is to know your “why”. Your “why” is what sustains you through everything and in all aspects of your life and if you are in harmony with your “why”, you eventually get on the path you’re supposed to be on. Learn more about ForeverRx through and their . To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29966413
info_outline
From Burnout to Brilliance: A Medical Student's Guide to Thriving in the Academic Marathon
02/08/2024
From Burnout to Brilliance: A Medical Student's Guide to Thriving in the Academic Marathon
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Sejal Desai, a family medicine physician with over 20 years of experience with a board certification in obesity medicine. They discuss how medical students can navigate their med school journeys and the feeling of burnout, work-life balance, and the three things she wished [00:00] Introduction [03:19] A Med Student’s Life Journey [05:44] Navigating Burnout [11:44] Three Things Dr. Desai Wishes She Knew Before Starting Out [17:45] Is Work-Life Balance Possible? [21:04] What Dr. Desai Would Change About US Healthcare [22:47] Parting Thoughts Navigating Burnout Dr. Desai dislikes the word “burnout” especially in medicine where physicians are just simply told what to do. She believes that it’s important for med students to take some time, focus on themselves, and figure out what it is that they really want. She cites Jay Shetty, a motivational speaker, and the concept of “dharma” as an important learning, which is all about figuring out our place in the world and using our gifts to make a better place. From this, it’s important for medical students to take some time and re-evaluate their where and why to help them navigate their eventual path and career. Dr. Desai’s Advice in Retrospect Dr. Desai shares three things she wished she knew before starting out her career as a family medicine physician: first is that bedside manners matter more than grades. Grades are important, but they are not everything, especially when patients care more about how attentive and honest doctors are and not what grade they got in medical school. Secondly, medicine is not just about helping patients but also administrative work such as documentation, labs, and imaging to name a few. Managing your time according to this is crucial to prevent being overworked and overwhelmed. Lastly, she realized how big of a role lifestyle plays in disease. Almost all diseases are related to four things: nutrition, physical activity, quality of sleep, and stress levels. If we learn and fix this early in life, we can fix a lot of health problems in the long run. Work-Life Balance Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Desai believes that work-life balance is achievable. She suggests paying attention to three important things when it comes to work-life balance. First is communicating well and setting expectations with colleagues on time and schedules, second is delegating tasks, and the last one is scheduling the downtime such as personal hobbies and self-care. Reach out to Dr. Sejal Desai via , , , and her for more details about her work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29847293
info_outline
The Menopause Menu: What Medical Students Need to Know About Mastering Menopause
02/01/2024
The Menopause Menu: What Medical Students Need to Know About Mastering Menopause
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Susan Baumgaertel, an internal medicine physician with 30 years of experience and founder of MenopauseMenu and myMDadvocate. They discuss menopause lessons for medical students, things everybody should know about menopause, and why men need to know about menopause too. [00:00] Introduction [02:20] Menopause - The Forgotten Branch of Medicine [02:51] How Students Can Learn to Work with Women in Menopause [06:27] The Benefits of Listening to Your Patients [07:10] How to Educate Patients About the Different Stages of Menopause [09:16] Ways to Ask For More Time From Your Doctor [11:36] Dr. Baumgaertel’s Book - The Menopause Menu [16:14] Men Need to Know About Menopause Too [19:39] What Dr. Baumgaertel Would Change About US Healthcare [22:10] Parting Thoughts Menopause is More Than Hot Flashes Dr. Baumgaertel emphasizes that menopause is often seen through a narrow lens, focusing solely on hot flashes. However, she challenges this narrative, urging us to recognize the multifaceted aspects of menopause that impact every woman uniquely. From this conversation, it’s very clear that understanding menopause goes beyond just one medical discipline. It involves everything from primary care, OB/GYN, cardiology, dermatology, rheumatology, neurology, and more. Dr. Baumgaertel stresses the importance of a multifactorial approach when caring for menopausal patients. Each woman's experience is unique, and healthcare professionals must be receptive and attentive to their patients' needs. Yes, commonalities exist, but not every woman experiences menopause in the same way. In fact, some women don’t experience menopausal symptoms at all. Advocating for Yourself: Sending Agendas Dr. Baumgaertel encourages women to advocate for themselves by setting the agenda during medical appointments. Sometimes an hour-long doctor's appointment is not enough, and it’s okay to ask your doctor for more time. By addressing specific concerns and communicating them ahead of time, patients can ensure that their healthcare providers allocate the necessary time to discuss crucial aspects of menopause. Menopause is a stressful time and you need all the support you can get. The Menopause Menu Book: A Resource for All Dr. Susan introduces her book, "The Menopause Menu: From Hot Flashes to Delicious Dishes, A Symptom-Driven Nourishing Guide to Mastering Menopause." Combining practical advice with a visually engaging format, the book is designed to reach a broad audience, including men seeking to support their partners. According to Dr. Baumgaertel, women in their late 30s to early 60s need accurate information on the entire menopausal journey. The Menopause Menu provides helpful, science-based advice, presented with a unique blend of personal narrative and holistic support. The chapters are easy to read and are paired with 16 simple recipes. Grab a copy of Dr. Baumgaertel’s book The Menopause Menu on and reach out to her via , and her for more details about her work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29715503
info_outline
Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine
01/25/2024
Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Uché Blackstock, an American emergency physician and former associate professor of emergency medicine at the New York University School of Medicine. They discuss the Flexner Report, the need for diversity in healthcare, and the deep inequities that still exist in the U.S. healthcare system. [00:00] Introduction [01:45] Why Dr. Blackstock Chose to Pursue Medicine [04:21] The Racial Health Inequities in America Today [07:34] Dr. Blackstock’s Inspiration For Writing a Book on Health Inequities [09:19] What is the Flexner Report? [12:13] The Need Diversity in Healthcare [15:15] All the Things They Don’t Teach in Med School [18:34] Things That Could Potentially Improve American Healthcare [22:50] Giving Women and People of Color a Voice [24:09] Advice for Aspiring Physicians [25:10] Parting Thoughts Navigating Unconventional Paths in Medicine Dr. Blackstock talks about the benefits of following the unconventional path on your journey to medicine. Your journey will not be a straight line, so it’s okay to break away from traditional molds and find unique ways to contribute to the healthcare system. Dr. Blackstock shares pivotal moments in her career, from leaving academic medicine to starting her own company and becoming an MSNBC medical contributor. Her story serves as a testament to the diverse paths available to physicians and the impact they can have outside traditional roles. Health Equity and Why It Matters Research has shown time and again that a more diverse physician workforce may lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. According to Dr. Blackstock, this can only be possible if we make a concerted effort to increase representation of diverse racial and ethnic groups among trainee physicians. Reflecting on her experiences, Dr. Blackstock emphasizes the systemic barriers faced by Black physicians. She sheds light on historical factors, such as the Flexner Report, that contribute to the current underrepresentation of Black physicians. In the chapter, "All the Things They Didn't Teach Me," Dr. Blackstock discusses the need for a revamped medical curriculum. She advocates for integrated learning on health disparities, anti-racism, and social determinants of health. Grab a copy of Dr. Blackstock’s book Legacy on and reach out to her via and her for more details about his work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29616478
info_outline
The Pre-Med Paradox: What You Need to Know About the Life of a Physician
01/18/2024
The Pre-Med Paradox: What You Need to Know About the Life of a Physician
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Amit Pandey, an Internal Medicine Hospitalist with SRS Medical Group in San Diego, California. They discuss all you need to know about the life of a physician, the benefits of being adaptable to change, and why every physician remembers their first code blue. [00:00] Introduction [01:45] Who is Dr. Amit Pandey [03:56] The Life of a Physician [06:19] Memorable Moments in Dr. Pandey’s Career [09:20] Do You Remember Your First Code Blue? [12:15] What Dr. Pandey Wishes He Knew Before Becoming a Physician [15:45] The Benefits of Being Adaptable and Open to Change [17:40] What Dr. Pandey Would Do Different If He Could Go Back in Time [21:15] Parting Thoughts The Pre-Med Paradox Dr. Pandey recently penned a book titled "The Pre-Med Paradox: What You Need to Know About the Life of a Physician." The book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the medical journey, from pre-med through residency, and becoming a physician. He shares the motivation for writing the book and how it can serve as a pseudo-mentor for students, offering practical insights into the experiential component of life in medicine. Memorable Moments in Medicine Dr. Pandey shares his most memorable experiences as a physician, highlighting one moment that will stick with him for the rest of his life—the first time he ran a code blue. This life-and-death situation became a pivotal experience, showcasing the high-stakes nature of hospital medicine and the collaboration involved in resuscitating a patient. Reflecting on the Medical Journey Valuable advice for those considering a career in medicine: be adaptable and open to change. According to Dr. Pandey, the journey to medicine is not a straight line. Your passions will change and so will your dreams. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the diversity within the medical field, both in terms of practitioners and career opportunities. He encourages aspiring doctors to explore various roles, specialties, and to keep an open mind throughout their medical journey. As a soon-to-be physician, focus not only on academics but also on exploring opportunities, having a balanced life-work routine, and embracing the ever-changing nature of your career. Grab a copy of Dr. Pandey’s book on and reach out to him via and his for more details about his work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29533183
info_outline
The High-Stakes Competition to Land a US Residency
12/28/2023
The High-Stakes Competition to Land a US Residency
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Bryan Carmody, a pediatric nephrologist at Eastern Virginia Medical School. They discuss the value of standardized test scores, the ultra-competitive nature of the residency admissions process, and the benefits of having an open mind in your journey to medicine. [00:00] Introduction [01:37] Who is Dr. Bryan Carmody [02:54] The Benefits of Having an Open Mind in Your Journey to Medicine [05:52] All You Need to Know About the USMLE Selection Process [07:50] Why Residency Matching is Becoming More Competitive [11:01] Residency Match Explained [13:59] Addressing the Pediatric Subspecialty Shortage [16:15] What Dr. Carmody Would Change About Healthcare [18:34] Parting Thoughts Pivoting Specialties: Your Pediatrician's Tale You probably already know this, but your medical journey is not linear. You might end up pursuing a career different from what you thought you’d do. Dr. Carmody made an unexpected shift from internal medicine to pediatrics. He emphasizes the importance of staying open-minded during rotations and allowing yourself to discover new passions. As an aspiring physician, you must be open to the fact that your journey can take unexpected but fulfilling turns. So, approach rotation with a mind of curiosity. Addressing Pediatric Subspecialty Shortages Dr. Carmody discusses the shortages in certain fields like pediatric nephrology. He shares concerns about the workforce not keeping pace with retirements, raising questions about future care models. The recent shortages underline why we need to inspire the next generation to pursue these critical specialties. The conversation becomes a call to action, emphasizing the urgency of addressing shortages in pediatric subspecialties. Dr. Carmody discusses potential solutions, including inspiring and supporting you to choose these specialties and adapting care models to ensure continued excellence in pediatric care. Why Residency Matching is Becoming More Competitive The residency matching process is becoming more competitive by the year. The USMLE has undergone what Dr. Carmody refers to as "scope creep." This term highlights the expansion and intensification of exam expectations over the years. In the early 1990s, the USMLE mean score stood at 200. Fast forward to the present day, and the median score has surged to approximately 250. This substantial increase of 50 points is not something to be ignored. To put this into perspective, the worst test-takers in today's environment outperform the average test-taker from the 1990s. Even the very best test-takers from that era are average in today’s ultra-competitive landscape. So what is driving this upward trend, and is this trend good or bad? Despite the perception of increased competitiveness, the number of available residency positions relative to the number of graduating US MD students is more favorable than in recent memory. In the most recent cycle, there were approximately 1.9 residency positions available for every graduating US MD student. When factoring in US DO students, this number remains favorable at 1.38 residency positions per student. This proves that the match process is not all doom and gloom after all. You still have a more than favorable chance to get into the program of your dreams. You can reach Dr. Carmody on , and his for more details about her work. Check out the six-part series on residency matching here - To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29212623
info_outline
The Power of Perseverance and the Difficult Road to Becoming a Physician
12/21/2023
The Power of Perseverance and the Difficult Road to Becoming a Physician
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson, a board-certified pediatrician and founder of Cary Cares Parenting LLC. They discuss the benefits of knowing your learning style, what you need to know about a neuroscience career, and how to build a fulfilling life outside medicine. [00:00] Introduction [01:37] Who is Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson? [02:26] Dr. Cary-Thompson's Journey to Medicine [06:45] The Benefits of Knowing the Type of Learner You Are [09:20] Why Dr. Cary-Thompson Chose a Career in Neuroscience [15:46] Family Issues and Taking Care of Her Grandmother [20:13] Things Dr. Cary-Thompson Wished She Knew About the Medical Profession [24:49] It's Okay to Ask For Help [27:49] Why You Need to be Strategic About What You Do Post-Residency [31:20] The Inspiration Behind Dr. Cary-Thompson Book The Fine Print [35:10] Parting Thoughts Living Life Outside Medicine Dr. Cary-Thompson starts the conversation by emphasizing the importance of embracing life beyond the confines of medicine. We live in a world where the white coat often defines a physician's identity. However, life is more than that. As a physician, it's in your best interest to recognize that being a physician is just one piece of the puzzle. Life, with its myriad experiences and roles, continues alongside the demanding profession. As a board-certified pediatrician, small business owner, parenting coach, mother, and wife, Dr. Cary-Thompson wears multiple hats, acknowledging that each role contributes to the rich tapestry of her identity. From Academic Hurdles to Personal Growth The journey to becoming a physician is rarely linear. Dr. Cary-Thompson reflects on her academic challenges, particularly with organic chemistry, offering vulnerable insights into the hurdles she faced. From being a valedictorian with high expectations to encountering struggles in college, she shares the valuable lesson of perseverance and the need to adapt to different learning styles. Navigating the Evolving Healthcare Landscape The medical world is changing. To stay relevant and have a more fulfilling career, you need to stay informed about these changes. Dr. Cary-Thompson emphasizes the importance of awareness, not just about medical advancements but also about evolving patient care paradigms and technology integration. Her insights into the changing face of healthcare serve as a wake-up call for future physicians. Unfortunately, medical education is still not equipping physicians with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of their profession. So, it's up to you to educate yourself and be part of the change you want to see. You can reach Dr. Cary-Thompson on , , , and her for more details about her work. by Dr. Stacy Cary-Thompson To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29164033
info_outline
Becker's Healthcare and The Truth About the American Healthcare System
12/14/2023
Becker's Healthcare and The Truth About the American Healthcare System
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Scott Becker, the Founder of Becker’s Healthcare, a leading healthcare media company that offers news, analysis, and guidance relating to the healthcare industry. They discuss the trending topics in American healthcare, the benefits of having hobbies outside of medicine, and the significant problems with the U.S. healthcare system. [00:00] Introducing Scott Becker [02:44] The Journey to Launching Becker's Healthcare [04:50] What You Must Do to Succeed in Your Journey to Medicine [07:38] Don't Let Medicine Define Who You Are [09:48] The Hottest Topics in Healthcare Right Now [13:37] What Scott Would Change About Healthcare [16:37] The Big Gap in the American Healthcare System [19:52] Parting Thoughts The Journey to Medicine Medicine is one of the most challenging yet rewarding career paths in the world. And although the journey is not always a straight line, Scott reveals the three mindsets that will help you become the very best at what you do. 1. Be Clear About Where You're Going Be clear about your destination. Your journey to medicine needs a GPS. Having a general sense of where you're headed in your medical career provides a guiding light, steering your decisions and actions. 2. Your First Job is Not Your Last Job Always remember your first job won't be your last. Don't stress too much about having the perfect first job straight out of med school. The journey to use medicine is like a marathon, and your initial job is merely the starting line. 3. Have Hobbies Outside of Medicine According to Scott, the only way to become the best at what you do is to become a physician and something else. Being a doctor is essential, but it's equally as important to explore other things that define you. The physicians who burn out build their lives sorely around seeing patients. The solution lies in realizing that your medical career is not just about medicine; it's about creating a fulfilling life within and beyond the realm of clinics and hospitals. The 3 Big Problems Plaguing American Healthcare There are numerous problems plaguing the American healthcare system. According to Scott, they are all born from three primary issues. 1. The Math Problem There is a huge imbalance of numbers in the American healthcare system. The American population is rapidly growing, yet the number of medical professionals remains the same. According to Scott, we are a country of about 330 million people with approximately 1,070,000 doctors. The imbalance in supply and demand in healthcare is a substantial concern. The shortage of physicians is the number one reason our country struggles to provide adequate healthcare services to the ever-expanding population. 2. The Thinking Problem Although physicians are generally considered intelligent, we still face a thinking problem. Healthcare, according to Becker, requires a multifaceted strategy that acknowledges the complexity of the issues at hand. Rather than seeking singular solutions, the industry must adopt a comprehensive mindset that integrates various facets – from technology advancements to the thoughtful inclusion of human caregivers. 3. The Power Problem American healthcare has a power problem - the disproportionate influence wielded by major players, such as United, Aetna, Cigna, and the former Anthem Blue Cross (now Elevate). The dominance of these major players creates an inherent power imbalance, as healthcare systems and providers find themselves dwarfed in size and influence. This power dynamic introduces challenges in decision-making, resource allocation, and overall system functionality, posing a substantial hurdle to achieving a balanced and equitable healthcare landscape. You can reach Scott Becker on and check his for more details about his work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/29021753
info_outline
A Passionate Approach to Emergency Care
12/07/2023
A Passionate Approach to Emergency Care
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Gina Blocker, an emergency medicine physician and CEO of Dash Health, Houston’s premier concierge mobile urgent care service. They discuss the future of emergency medicine, the unique challenges for women in medicine, and how to build a strong relationship with your patients. [00:00] Introducing Dr. Gina Blocker [01:22] Why Dr. Blocker Took the Military Medicine Route [04:59] Dr. Blocker’s Journey to Emergency Medicine [07:30] Advice For Medical Students on the Journey to Becoming a Physician [09:58] The Unique Challenges Plaguing Women in Medicine [15:07] Launching Houston’s Premier Concierge Mobile Urgent Care Service [18:05] The Evolution of Emergency Medicine [19:20] What Dr. Blocker Would Change About Healthcare [21:35] Parting Thoughts How to Build a Strong Relationship with Your Patients Healthcare is changing. Gone are the days when patients did not have relationships with their doctors. Today, the patient-doctor relationship is crucial to the overall care experience. Dr. Blocker believes the most important part of building this relationship is taking time to know your patients. Address the patient as an individual, as opposed to a medical condition. Your goal is to get your patients to open up to you about things they’d never be comfortable sharing with anyone else. Do this successfully, and you’ll find a lot of your medical diagnoses will come from patients telling you the truth about what they’re going through. Why Emergency Medicine? If you love making a difference in emergencies, emergency medicine is for you. Dr. Blocker shares how, to excel in emergency medicine, you need to be the kind of physician who loves immediate impact, connecting with patients, and thriving in the chaos of an emergency room. You will care for a whole host of patients- some healthy, some sick, some very alive, and some unconscious. Expect to see patients in their most vulnerable and terrified states. But the pressure will be worth it since you’ll make a difference in people’s lives. Advice to Medical Students on the Journey to Becoming a Physician Let your journey to becoming a physician change you. Let it impact how you live your life, but never let it become your everything. Become the very best at what you do, but have a life outside of medicine. According to Dr. Blocker, the best physicians live and breathe medicine. But they always make time for hobbies and passions that have nothing to do with patient care. Your hobbies are the things that make you whole. So don’t lose them chasing a title that will make you miserable and burnt out. You can reach Dr. Blocker on , Email and for more details about her work. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/28950378
info_outline
Gaining Acceptance into Medical School and Surviving The First Year
11/30/2023
Gaining Acceptance into Medical School and Surviving The First Year
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Jeffery SooHoo, the Assistant Dean of Admissions at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. They talk about how to put your best foot forward in applications and how to survive your first year in medical school. [00:47] Introducing Dr. Jeffery SooHoo [03:13] Adjusting to Medical School [09:56] Best Way to Impress Medical School Admissions [13:16] Reapplying to Med Schools [15:05] Advice for Pre-Meds and Medical Students [16:30] What Dr. SooHoo Would Change About Healthcare The First Year of Medical School Majority of students are taken aback by how challenging medical school can be. The first year of medical school is definitely an adjustment period where you may need to adopt new study habits or learning styles. A mistake that new students make is that they don’t ask for help soon enough. Teachers and peers can provide helpful resources that students can utilize. It’s a time to experiment and try new things, but do so one at a time. Increase Your Chances of Acceptance into Medical School It would be helpful to know what kinds of skills and competencies medical schools are looking for. Get to know your strengths as well so you can communicate how you best fit into the school. Remember that it’s not enough to just speak about your passions. It’s crucial to have experiences that showcase your interest and dedication to medicine. Impress your interviewer by talking about your experiences in a reflective and nuanced way. Should you be waitlisted or rejected, don’t fret! Have someone else take a look at and evaluate your application. Typically, the issue may lie in your paper application, your interviewing skills or your selection of schools. If there are gaps in your resume, try to remedy them so you can increase your chances of acceptance on your reapplication. To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/27828903
info_outline
The Genetic Landscape: Insights and Advice for Aspiring Physician Geneticists
11/23/2023
The Genetic Landscape: Insights and Advice for Aspiring Physician Geneticists
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr Dallas Reed, the Division Chief of Genetics and Director of Perinatal Genetics at Tufts Medical Center. They discuss all you need to know about genetics and becoming a geneticist, why health equity is important in medicine, and the future of genetic research. [00:00] Introducing Dr. Dallas Reed [01:22] Why Dr. Reed Chose to Pursue Medical Genetics [06:24] Career Pathways in the Field of Genetics [08:20] The Three Types of Genetic Laboratories [11:40] Advice for Students Interested in Genetics [13:32] Health Equity and Why It’s Important [16:31] The Genetics of Cancer [18:01] Why We Need More Community Partnerships For Genetic Research [19:20] What Dr. Reed Would Change About Healthcare [23:00] Navigating the Politics of Medicine [25:50] Parting Thoughts How Dr. Reed Became a Geneticist Dr. Reed's journey into genetics began with a deeply personal experience within her own family. Her brother was born prematurely with a life-threatening chromosomal abnormality. He died at four months, and this event, though marked by tragedy, became the catalyst for Dr. Reed's lifelong commitment to genetics. Inspired by a desire to understand and help families facing similar situations, she embarked on a journey to become a geneticist--one of only ten black medical geneticists in the country. How to Build a Career in Genetics Would you like a career in the field of genetics? A geneticist is a specialist who studies genetic traits in biological systems in plants, animals, and humans. According to Dr. Reed, there are endless opportunities available in this field, from research and laboratory roles to patient-facing positions. Dr. Reed encourages students to explore combined residency and fellowship programs, tailoring their journey to their specific interests. Practical strategies, including reaching out to professionals, leveraging social networks, and exploring internship programs, are keys to navigating the exciting world of genetics. The Case for Health Equity in Genetics Dr. Reed is a strong advocate for health equity in genetics. She addresses the technical challenges patients of non-Caucasian backgrounds face, particularly in interpreting genetic test results. By bringing attention to the need for a diversified reference genome, Dr. Reed aims to eliminate uncertainties that may arise due to genetic variations specific to certain ethnicities. Additionally, Dr. Reed underscores the importance of standard practices in cancer genetics, advocating for equal access to genetic testing and referrals for all cancer patients, regardless of their racial or ethnic background. Her commitment to building trust between researchers and communities echoes a broader call for inclusivity and outreach efforts. You can reach Dr. Reed on and for more details about her work. Mentioned in This Episode: Genetics training programs: American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) (FREE STUDENT MEMBERSHIP ) American Society of Human Genetics () International Society of Prenatal Diagnosis ( Training grants: To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at . You can also reach us through our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSchoolCoach Dr. Erkeda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordgram/ YouTube:
/episode/index/show/medschoolcoach/id/28701343