In this conversation, Dr Nusheen Ameenuddin discusses with host Dr Saba Fatima her journey into advocacy for children's health, the challenges of vaccine hesitancy, and the importance of engaging with families. She emphasizes the impact of misinformation and the need for pediatricians to advocate for healthcare equity, especially in light of Medicaid cuts. The discussion highlights the role of empathy and community support in addressing these issues, while also offering hope for the future of healthcare through the engagement of young people and the importance of persistence in advocacy efforts.

Dr. Nusheen Ameenuddin is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Community Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. She previously served as Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Communications and Media, in addition to Chair of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity of the Mayo Clinic Health System.
She is most passionate about advocating for underresourced populations who face barriers to healthcare. Dr. Ameenuddin has participated in vaccine education outreach with the Minnesota Department of Health, partnering with leaders in the Somali community and visiting mosques throughout the state.
Dr. Ameenuddin also has a strong interest in health equity and the effects of media on children. She helped spearhead a video campaign using social media as part of the AAP’s #KeepKidsCovered initiative. • Pediatricians Speak Up to Protect Medicaid...
She testified before the US House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce about children’s media use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Ameenuddin attended Kansas State University where she completed a BS in biology, cum laude, and a minor in Spanish. She received her MD and MPH degrees from the University of Kansas Medical Center. She completed a pediatrics residency at Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education. She was selected as a Commonwealth Fund Fellow in Minority Health Policy at Harvard Medical School where she also completed a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

takeaways
Advocacy can occur in both clinical and legislative settings.
Seeing children thrive brings joy to pediatricians.
Health equity is a personal mission for many healthcare providers.
Vaccine hesitancy has evolved, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listening to families' concerns is crucial in addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Misinformation campaigns significantly impact public health.
Pediatricians must engage with local legislators to advocate for children's health.
Medicaid cuts can severely affect children's access to healthcare.
Building trust with families is essential for effective communication.
Young people today are more connected and savvy about health issues.
titles


#advocacy, #vaccine hesitancy, #healthcare #pediatricians

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Gwendolyn Williams and Host, Dr. Saba Fatima discuss the challenges and triumphs of women in leadership roles, particularly in healthcare. They explore the importance of allyship, mentorship, and the need for systemic change to support women in leadership positions. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of self-advocacy, the power of influence over traditional notions of power, and the necessity of creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and promote equity.

Dr. Gwendolyn Rowena Williams is a first-generation American of Indo-Caribbean heritage whose lived experience has fueled a lifelong commitment to health equity, belonging, and inclusive leadership in medicine. A Hospital Medicine Physician and Associate Professor of
Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University Health, she has built her career advocating for historically marginalized voices—particularly women in medicine. During her nine-year tenure at Sentara Health, she made history as the first female President of the Medical Executive
Committee at Sentara CarePlex Hospital and led the impactful “Celebrating Women in Medicine” campaign. She also championed the implementation of paid parental leave for physicians, addressing systemic barriers faced by women in healthcare. She was instrumental in leading physician wellness initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic,
focusing on vaccine equity, access, and combating misinformation in underserved communities. Her leadership has earned her the 2023 Society of Hospital Medicine Unsung Hero Award, the 2024 Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian Award, and recognition as one of
Hunter College’s Top 40 Under 40. Dr. Williams continues to shape a more equitable healthcare landscape—one where inclusion, dignity, and compassion are foundational for all who give and receive care. She will be presenting at the Women in Medicine Power Summit in Chicago this September: The Courage to Lead: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Your Leadership Potential Friday September 19 2025 ( Time 1.00-1.40PM)


takeaways
Leadership qualities can stem from family upbringing.
Women face unique challenges in leadership roles.
The motherhood tax impacts women's careers in medicine.
It's important to challenge gender biases in the workplace.
Women have historically fought for recognition and value.
Innovation should be celebrated in healthcare settings.
Support from family can empower women in their careers. Women must uplift themselves and recognize their worth.
Allyship is crucial for women in leadership roles.
Navigating gender dynamics requires confidence and support..
Mentorship and sponsorship are vital for career advancement.
Institutions need to create clear pathways for women leaders.
Diversity enhances excellence in leadership.
Women should advocate for their own needs and aspirations.
True leadership is about influence, not just power.

keywords
#leadership, #genderbias, #healthcare, #womeninmedicine, #motherhood,

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Robert R. Wittler shares with host Dr Saba Fatima his insights on the joys and challenges of practicing medicine, reflecting on his experiences as a pediatric infectious disease physician. He discusses the importance of teaching, the evolving landscape of medicine, and the impact of burnout. Dr. Wittler emphasizes the significance of building relationships with patients, navigating the complexities of electronic medical records, and the ongoing issue of vaccine skepticism. He offers advice for younger physicians and expresses hope for the future of medicine, highlighting the importance of resilience and connection in the medical field.

Dr. Robert Wittler is a Professor of Pediatrics and Infectious Disease at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita. Dr. Wittler brings a remarkable depth of experience, not only as a physician, but as a leader, teacher, and mentor. He served in the US Army for 13 years, completing his pediatric residency at Letterman Army Medical Center in San Francisco, followed by a fellowship in pediatric infectious disease at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, and a research fellowship at Walter Reed Army Research Institute in Washington, DC.

Since 1995, Dr. Wittler has been on faculty at KU School of Medicine, Wichita as the only pediatric infectious disease physician in Kansas. He's published widely in peer-reviewed journals and is a beloved educator, honored with numerous teaching awards, including the Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award and the Ruth Bohan Teaching Professorship. .He brings both the wisdom of experience and a thoughtful curiosity about where we've been and where we're headed.


takeaways
Joy in medicine comes from teaching and patient interactions.
Thriving means enjoying work and feeling energized by it.
The amount of information in medicine has increased significantly.
Electronic medical records can create more work for physicians.
Burnout can stem from a focus on financial metrics over teaching.
Asking for help is crucial for physicians facing challenges.
Building relationships with patients is essential for effective care.
Vaccine skepticism has increased, especially post-COVID.
Success in medicine evolves from diagnosis to patient impact.


Chapters
00:00
Introduction to the Challenges in Medicine
04:12
Defining Thriving in a Medical Career
07:10
Experiencing Burnout and Disconnection
11:54
Comparing Past and Present Residency Experiences
15:52
Reflections on Duty Hours and Work-Life Balance
17:56
The Role of Electronic Medical Records
19:04
Balancing Relational and Transactional Medicine
20:30
Time Management and Patient Interaction
22:17
Staying Grounded in a Medical Career
23:59
Evolving Definitions of Success in Medicine
24:52
The Importance of Academic Progression
25:06
Navigating Mistrust in Medicine
31:02
The Balance of Physician Wellness and Efficiency
32:00
Advice for Overwhelmed Physicians
33:04
Wisdom from 'The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Hound'
35:16
Life-Changing Moments in Medicine
36:40
Improving Physician-Administration Relationships
38:28
Reflections on Career and Commitment
41:08
Hope for the Future of Medicine
44:26
The Strength in Stru

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Gregory R, Johnson shares with host Dr Saba Fatima, his journey from clinician to healthcare executive, emphasizing the importance of joy in medicine and the need for physician engagement. He discusses the challenges of balancing provider wellness with productivity goals, the financial pressures in healthcare, and the significance of metrics that align with patient care. Dr. Johnson advocates for scalable interventions to enhance physician involvement and stresses the importance of creating a culture of wellness within healthcare organizations. He concludes with advice for burnt-out physicians and institutions striving to improve the healthcare system.

Dr. Gregory R. Johnson is a distinguished medical professional known for his exceptional leadership in the healthcare industry. Dr. Johnson has significantly advanced medical practices, education, and health equity throughout his extensive career. Dr. Johnson currently serves as the System Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at UnityPoint Health, where he oversees the clinical enterprise for 17 acute care hospitals and
19 rural affiliates. His efforts in restructuring service lines and standardizing clinical practices have optimized care delivery and outcomes.
Previously, Dr. Johnson was the Chief Executive Officer – Hospital Medicine and Chief Health Equity and Diversity Officer at Sound Physicians, where he managed over 200 clinical practices and almost 4000 physicians, advanced practitioners and nurses across 45 states. His initiatives in reducing health disparities and maintaining top quartile outcomes for length of stay, readmissions, and mortality were pivotal. Dr. Johnson's academic contributions are substantial.

He has served as Clinical Faculty at the McGovern School of Medicine and Texas Tech University Health Science Center. His leadership extends to professional organizations, including the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association, and the National Association of Health Service Executives.
Throughout his career, Dr. Johnson has been honored with numerous accolades. He was recently recognized as one of the "Chief Medical Officers to Know" by Becker’s Healthcare, and in 2023, he was named a "Black Healthcare Executive to Know."
His commitment to excellence is further evidenced by awards such as the Atlas Award from Sound Physicians and a healthcare awardee by the National Black MBA Association. Dr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Anthropology from Dartmouth College and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the McGovern School of Medicine. He completed a
Combined Internal Medicine/Family Practice Residency at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans where he also served as chief resident. Additionally, he earned a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Certificate from Northwestern University.
Dr. Johnson's extensive experience and unwavering dedication to improving healthcare quality and equity make him a leading figure in the medical community, inspiring and advancing the field of medicine.

keywords
#healthcare, #physicianwellness, #burnout, healthcare #leadership, #patientcare, healthcare #metrics, healthcare advocacy, #healthequity , healthcare system, #physician engagement #productivity

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

n this episode of Muted in Medicine, host Saba Fatima engages with Dr. Ali Rafiq, an international medical graduate (IMG), to discuss the unique challenges faced by IMGs in the healthcare system. They explore Ali's personal journey from medical school in Pakistan to becoming a hospitalist in the U.S., highlighting the cultural adjustments, professional hurdles, and the emotional toll of being an IMG. The conversation delves into the residency match process, strategies for increasing chances of matching, common mistakes made by IMGs, and the importance of support systems and networking. The episode concludes with reflections on resilience, persistence, and the ongoing journey of IMGs in the medical field.


Dr. Ali Rafiq currently works as hospitalist in Wichita KS. Within his organization, he has completed a one-year Emerging Leaders program. During residency, he received multiple awards for his professionalism and research. He has thus far volunteered participation in the Kansas Mortality Review Team, Ethics Integration Committee, Safety Event Review Team, and the Hospitalist peer review committee at his current hospital. He serves as the preceptor for the newly established Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Additionally, he has completed a three-year guided fellowship program, being elected as a Fellow for the American College of Physicians. He has also served in leadership positions for the Society of Hospital Medicine’s Kansas Chapter and is the current President of the same. His efforts helped SHM’s Kansas Chapter achieve the Platinum Excellence Chapter three years in a row. For his efforts, he was recognized for the Most Engaged Chapter Leader Award in the nation for SHM. Last year, he was elected as Fellow of Hospital Medicine for his efforts in the field. He currently serves in SHM’s public policy committee. He has consistently represented Kansas on the national stage, including advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.

Dr. Rafiq has authored and co-authored over two dozen peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed articles. He has over 75 citations of his publications, according to Google scholar.

keywords
International Medical Graduates, #img challenges, #residency #match , cultural adjustment, #impostersyndrome , #healthcareworkers workforce, y

Takeaways:
IMGs face unique challenges in the healthcare system.
Cultural adjustment is a significant hurdle for IMGs.
Networking and interpersonal skills are crucial for IMGs.
Persistence and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
The residency match process can be competitive for IMGs.
IMGs often experience imposter syndrome during their training.
Support systems in residency programs can help IMGs adjust.
Personal statements should reflect genuine experiences.
Common mistakes in applications can hinder IMGs' chances.
Cultural sensitivity in residency programs is essential for IMGs.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Kara Pepper shares with host Dr. Saba Fatima, her journey from a successful medical career to confronting her struggles with substance use and burnout. She emphasizes the importance of finding joy in medicine, the challenges healthcare workers face, and the need for open conversations about mental health and substance use. Dr. Pepper discusses her personal experiences with alcohol, the stigma surrounding it, and the significance of community support in recovery. She encourages listeners to recognize their autonomy in their careers and to seek help when needed, ultimately advocating for a culture shift in the medical profession.

Dr. Kara Pepper is a practicing primary care Internist and executive coach in Atlanta, GA. After 14 years in private practice, Dr. Pepper built her own 17-state telemedicine practice for adults across the southeast, especially those with eating disorders. In addition to her clinical practice, she provides executive coaching and is the founder of Micropractice Mastermind, a community for physicians transforming healthcare through solo practice. Dr. Pepper is the podcast host of "It's Not Just You," stories of survival, humanism, and career sustainability.

Chapters
00:00
Breaking the Silence on Substance Abuse in Healthcare
03:17
Dr. Kara Pepper's Journey: From Perfectionism to Recovery
06:02
The Impact of COVID-19 on Substance Use Among Physicians
08:54
Understanding Shame and Seeking Help in Medicine
11:48
The Prevalence of Substance Abuse in Healthcare
14:44
Feeling Trapped: The Burden of Professional Expectations
17:46
Taking Action: How to Seek Help and Support
20:32
Navigating Work and Recovery: Do You Need to Quit?
23:24
Creating Compassionate Work Environments for Healthcare Workers
28:13
Breaking Free from Addiction
32:15
Navigating Social Relationships Post-Addiction
33:50
Talking to Teens About Addiction
36:23
Transitioning to a New Career
38:36
Identity and Responsibility in Medicine
41:11
Normalizing Conversations Around Substance Use
42:14
Cultural Norms and Alcohol
43:17
Final Thoughts and Resources

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Albert Wu discusses with host Dr, Saba Fatima the concept of 'second victim syndrome,' which refers to the emotional distress healthcare providers experience after a patient suffers an adverse event. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting healthcare workers who face trauma, the need for effective peer support systems, and the role of apology and disclosure in patient care. Dr. Wu advocates for a cultural shift in healthcare that prioritizes the well-being of providers to improve patient safety and care outcomes.

Albert W. Wu is a practicing general internist and Fred and Juliet Soper Professor of Health Policy & Management, with Joint Appointments in Epidemiology, International Health, Medicine, Surgery, and Business at Johns Hopkins University. He is director of the Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research and PhD in Health Services Research. He has worked in patient safety since the 1988. He was Senior Adviser for Patient Safety at WHO from 2007-2009 and continues with this work. He is director of Strategic Collaborations for the Armstrong Institute, leads the online Masters of Applied Science in Patient Safety & Healthcare Quality, and is Editor-in-Chief of Journal of Patient Safety and Risk Management. He coined the term “second victim,” and is co-founder and co-director of the RISE (Resilience in Stressful Events) peer support program.

keywords
second victim syndrome, #healthcare, #medicalerrors, #peersupport, psychological first aid, #patientsafety, #healthcare providers, resilience, burnout, #apology in healthcare

takeaways
Second victim syndrome highlights the emotional toll on healthcare providers after patient harm.
Support systems are crucial for healthcare workers to cope with trauma.
Apologizing to patients can foster trust and transparency.
Peer support programs like RISE provide essential emotional aid to clinicians.
Psychological first aid is vital for healthcare workers after traumatic events.
There is a disconnect between providers and patients regarding emotional experiences.
Healthcare leaders must prioritize the well-being of their staff to improve care.
Burnout among healthcare workers is a significant issue that needs addressing.
Creating a culture of openness can help reduce shame and blame in healthcare.
The evolution of support for healthcare workers is ongoing and requires continuous effort.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com

In this episode, Dr. Galina Gheihman discusses with host Dr. Saba Fatima the pervasive issue of medical uncertainty, its impact on healthcare providers, and strategies for navigating this challenge. The conversation explores the emotional toll of uncertainty, the importance of communication with patients, and the role of mentorship and teamwork in managing uncertainty. Dr. Gheihman introduces frameworks for recognizing and addressing uncertainty, emphasizing the need for courage and a growth mindset in the medical field.

Galina Gheihman, MD is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and an attending physician in General Neurology at Mass General Brigham. Dr. Gheihman attended the University of Toronto for her undergraduate studies. She earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School. She completed her residency at MGB, where she served as Chief Resident in 2023-2024. Galina helps run a monthly acute neurology simulation program for medical students, founded the BRAINS program supporting near-peer teaching of medicine residents, and is co-director of a CME course on neurology for the non-neurologist. She is also co-founder of the NeuEJM monthly medical education journal club and co-leader of the MGB neurology residency med ed certificate program. Galina has wide research interests including resilience, leadership, navigating uncertainty, and mentorship and career development for clinician educators.

Her work on medical uncertainty referenced in the podcast include the following articles

12 Tips for Thriving in the Face of Uncertainty: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30912...

Navigating Clinical Uncertainty: The RAPS Framework (Recognize, Acknowledge, Partner, & Seek Support): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38286...

Impact of clinical uncertainty on trainees in GME: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35666...

HMS Magazine article on navigating uncertainty in Medicine:

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

© 2024 Muted in Medicine. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction of this content is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact mutedinmedicine@gmail.com