Sarasota Memorial HealthCasts

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Sarasota Memorial HealthCasts

Get expert health and wellness tips, discover the latest medical advances and learn about the health issues impacting our community with HealthCasts podcast, featuring Sarasota Memorial’s award-winning physicians and experienced healthcare professionals. Subscribe, so you never miss an episode, or watch the video versions on our YouTube channel, @SMHCS. Sarasota Memorial is one of the largest public health systems in Florida. Its flagship 897-bed hospital in Sarasota, Fla., has been consistently ranked among the highest performing hospitals in multiple specialties by U.S. News & World Report. Our SMH-Venice campus features 178 private rooms. Our podcasts are for informational purposes only an...

✂️ Clip this podcast
Novel Screening for Pancreatic Cancer | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 11
#11
Yesterday at 7:49 PM

SMH’s Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute is enrolling patients in a research study evaluating LINFU (Low-Intensity Non-Focused Ultrasound), an emerging screening technology designed to help doctors identify precancerous changes in people at high risk for pancreatic cancer, but who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Kenneth Meredith, MD, chief of gastrointestinal oncology at SMH’s Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute and principal investigator of the local study, says the screening represents an important step forward in pancreatic cancer research.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more...


Radiation Therapy for Non-Cancerous Conditions | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 10
#10
05/21/2026

Low dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is a short, safe and effective outpatient treatment option which can enhance functionality and alleviate pain associated with many benign conditions. Kunal Saigal, MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Sarasota Memorial’s Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute discusses misconceptions surrounding radiation treatment, and why LDRT is a good alternative for patients wishing to avoid surgery or limit their need for pain medications.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sa...


The Rise in Colorectal Cancer Awareness | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 9
#9
05/07/2026

Colorectal cancer is making headlines — and increasingly, it’s affecting younger adults. Stephen Kucera, MD, Medical Director of Gastroenterology and Endoscopic Oncology, explains why diagnoses are rising in people under 55, what may be driving the trend, and the warning signs no one should ignore. He also shares the lifesaving steps everyone can take to reduce their risk, including when to get screened and how early detection can make all the difference.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign...


Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Disorders | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 8
#8
04/23/2026

No matter the sleep disorder a person may be experiencing, getting an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is essential, as quality sleep plays a critical role in overall health. Rabih Loutfi, MD, Medical Director of Sarasota Memorial’s Sleep Disorder Center, explains how sleep impacts overall well-being and highlights the comprehensive diagnostic services available to identify and treat sleep disorders.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Understanding Endometriosis | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 7
#7
04/09/2026

Endometriosis can be incredibly painful, and while it doesn't have a cure, it can be managed with hormone therapy or surgery. Gynecologist Kyle Garner, MD, discusses misconceptions about endometriosis, and what patients can do to advocate for themselves.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Preventing and Treating Concussions | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 6
#5
03/26/2026

Concussions are actually a type of traumatic brain injuries, and should be treated as such. Casey Howell, RN, SMH's Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator, explains the signs and symptoms of concussions, and why people often aren't treating them appropriately.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Understanding Hypertension and the Treatment Options | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 5
#8
03/12/2026

Diagnosing hypertension, known as a "silent killer," is incredibly important. Interventional cardiologists Ricardo Yaryura, MD, Jeffrey Rossi, MD and Daniel Molloy, MD, explain the diagnosis, traditional treatments and a newer option for uncontrolled blood pressure.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery and the SMH Heart Team Approach | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 4
#4
02/26/2026

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) is one of the techniques used by cardiac surgeons to repair or replace valves, including the mitral valve. While the procedure has a shorter recovery time than the traditional sternotomy, it is still an open heart operation, and not the same as the minimally invasive techniques used by interventional cardiologists. SMH Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery Jonathan Hoffberger, DO, explains the different options, and how the heart team approach helps to pair the right patient with the right procedure.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

...


Innovation in Medical Simulation | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 3
#3
02/12/2026

Simulation has transformed the way healthcare providers learn, practice and deliver care. Jessica DePaulo, DNP, RN, the Advance Practice Program Coordinator for Simulation in the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute discusses the critical role simulation plays in medical training at SMH, and how immersive learning environments are improving patient safety, building confidence, strengthening communication and shaping the future of healthcare education.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Urgent Versus Emergent Care | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 2
#2
01/29/2026

When battling illness or injury, and looking to get help as soon as possible, it can be difficult for people to decide if they need an emergency room for care, or can go to the nearest urgent care center. Emergency medicine physician and medical director of the SMH ER at Lakewood Ranch, Tara Wendt, MD, is breaking down the difference between the options, and how you can make that decision.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign...


Helping Firefighters Fight Cancer | HealthCasts Season 8, Episode 1
#1
01/15/2026

Cancer is among the leading causes of death among firefighters. By reducing firefighters’ exposure risks, encouraging regular cancer screenings and providing education, navigation and support, the Firefighters Cancer Collaborative aims to change that and save more lives. Richard Brown, MD, Medical Director for the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute at SMH, and Town of Longboat Key Fire Chief Paul Dezzi, explain the collaborative's mission and discuss the successes so far.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up...


Coping with Trauma and Building Resilience | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 25
#25
12/18/2025

While the word "trauma" is often thrown around flippantly, it has big meaning when it comes to mental health. Stephanie Iacopelli, LMHC, Manager of Behavioral Health Services for the Cornell Behavioral Health Pavilion at Sarasota Memorial, explains what trauma really is and how it can be treated.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Understanding Mental Health Challenges for Seniors | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 24
#24
12/04/2025

Senior mental health deserves real attention—and real conversations. In this continuation of the behavioral health mini-series, Jacqueline Carlson, MSN, APRN, Director of Nursing at the Cornell Behavioral Health Pavilion discusses the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of older adults, and what challenges are most commonly faced by this patient population.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Current Events Impacting Mental Health | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 23
#23
11/19/2025

External stressors can have a major impact on mental health. David Stone, LMHC, Clinical Supervisor of the SMH Behavioral Health Intervention Team, discusses what trends are being seen at the Cornell Behavioral Health Pavilion, and how current events can impact patients and families.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Supporting Youth Mental Health | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 22
#22
11/06/2025

Because young people go through a variety of hormonal and developmental changes, it can be difficult to spot mental health challenges. For the first episode of a HealthCasts behavioral health mini-series, Conor Malloy, MD, shares insights from his work at the Cornell Behavioral Health Pavilion at SMH with teens and families. He discusses the growing challenges young people face in an age of social media and constant pressure, and offers practical advice for parents and caregivers.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can...


Setting Attainable and Achievable Wellness Goals | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 21
#21
10/23/2025

Sarasota Memorial’s RENEW program highlights how balanced nutrition and regular fitness are essential pillars for achieving long-term health and wellness goals. Mikka Ipri, RDN, and Kara Saunders discuss how expert guidance and sustainable lifestyle changes can make a lasting impact on overall well-being. Visit smhrenew.com to learn more about the program.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Reconstructive Surgery After Mastectomy | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 20
#20
10/09/2025

Whether a patient is undergoing a mastectomy due to breast cancer or as a preventive measure, understanding their options is an important part of the journey. Plastic surgeon Jerette Schultz, MD, discusses the different types of breast reconstruction, and helping patients at Sarasota Memorial's Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute make informed decisions.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


BPH and New Treatment Options | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 19
#19
09/25/2025

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) impacts many men at some point as they age. Ramsay Kuo, MD, discusses why treatment is so important, and the growing number of options men have to improve quality of life and prevent irreversible bladder damage.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Treatments for Prostate Cancer | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 18
#18
09/11/2025

At Sarasota Memorial, the multi-disciplinary cancer care team provides prostate screening and diagnostic biopsy services, along with comprehensive care. Kunal Saigal, MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute, discusses the latest advancements in prostate cancer treatment, including the use of Pluvicto.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Understanding and Treating Common GI Issues | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 17
#17
08/28/2025

From heartburn and IBS to more serious gastrointestinal issues like IBD and GERD, First Physicians Group gastroenterologist Mark Radetic, MD, breaks down symptoms, causes, and the latest treatment options.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Diagnosing and Treating Pediatric Asthma | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 16
#16
08/14/2025

Pediatric asthma is the leading cause of emergency room visits and hospitalizations in children. SMH First Physicians Group pediatrician Azima Khan, MD, discusses how asthma is diagnosed in children, how it's treated, and why it's vitally important that families are educated about asthma.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Understanding Congenital Heart Defects | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 15
#15
07/31/2025

Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defects, affecting nearly 1 in 100 babies. Jeffrey Sell, MD, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Sarasota Memorial, explains how these conditions are diagnosed, treated, and managed across a patient’s lifetime.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Accessing Prenatal Care | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 14
#14
07/17/2025

A national shortage of providers for pregnant patients is cause for concern, but Sarasota Memorial is joining a team of partners helping to address this complex issue. Abby Olsen, RN, Director of Women's and Children's Services at SMH, discusses the Pregnancy Care Team and how this initiative is helping patients get the prenatal care they need.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Tech-Related Injuries | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 13
#13
07/03/2025

Are your devices causing you pain? Steven Papuchis, DO, and Regina Bonynge, OTR/L, talk about the rise of tech-related injuries—from "tech neck" and “text claw” to posture problems and repetitive strain injuries. Learn how ergonomics play a crucial role in preventing and treating these modern-day issues.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Brain Scans for People with Dementia | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 12
#12
06/19/2025

If you or a loved one is experiencing early signs of dementia or cognitive impairment, specialized brain imaging can help detect different types of dementia and lead to more targeted treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s dementia and other causes of cognitive decline. Richard Lichtenstein, MD, a radiologist practicing at Sarasota Memorial explains how these scans work and why early detection is vital.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digita...


Preventing, Diagnosing and Treating Dementia | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 11
#11
06/06/2025

When people hear the word "dementia," they most often associate it with Alzheimer's disease. However, dementia is actually a symptom of numerous diseases, Alzheimer's is just the most common cause. Danielle Valery, BS, CDP, program manager for the SMH Memory Disorder Clinic, explains how dementia can be prevented, and also how it is diagnosed and treated.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Cervical Cancer Prevention and Screening | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 10
#10
05/22/2025

Many cervical cancers are linked to the HPV virus. However, thanks to screening advancements, early detection of the cancer resulting in effective treatment is possible. Toni Kilts, DO, discusses screening guidelines and cervical cancer prevention.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


The Impact of Academic Research at SMH | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 9
#9
05/08/2025

Sarasota Memorial recently opened the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute, housing technology to support medical education and innovation in the community. SMH Chief Medical Officer James Fiorica, MD, and Chief Academic Officer Wilhelmine Wiese-Rometsch, MD, discuss the importance of the Institute, and what it means for patients.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Reconstruction Surgery for Head & Neck Cancers | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 8
#8
04/24/2025

While the first goal of head and neck cancer surgery is always clear margins, a secondary goal is reconstruction, whether for functionality of cosmetic improvement. Wesley McIlwain, MD, a head and neck cancer surgeon at Sarasota Memorial discusses options for reconstruction and how the team at the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute comes together to get patients the best outcomes.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Transportation Safety and Preventing Traumatic Injury | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 7
#7
04/10/2025

Sarasota Memorial's trauma team has seen a concerning increase in e-bike, scooter, and bicycle accidents. And with summer months just around the corner, they know more people will be getting outside and hitting the road for family vacations, which could also cause even more injuries. Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator Casey Howell, RN, discusses how everyone in the community can do their part to prevent these traumatic accidents.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota...


The Benefits of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation - Rehab Series | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 6
#6
03/27/2025

For those who need cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, it can truly be life-changing. But according to SMH Medical Director of Cardiac Rehab, Hakim Morsli, MD, the program is significantly underutilized by eligible patients. Along with program supervisor Meredith Cleveland, BS, CCRP, Dr. Morsli explains how the program works and why it's so important patients get referred and get the rehab they need.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Comprehensive Care for Neuro Patients - Rehab Series | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 5
#5
03/13/2025

For outpatient neurologic rehabilitation patients at Sarasota Memorial, treatment plans are customized to meet an individual’s goals and needs through a multidisciplinary team approach. Danielle Schwab, PT, DPT, Debra Henderson, OTR, and Molly Daunt, M.A., CCC-SLP, explain how physical, occupational, and speech therapies can provide long-term benefits for patients managing neurologic conditions and disorders. Check out other interviews with SMH experts at smh.com/podcast, and subscribe on your favorite streaming app.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from ex...


"Game Changing" Procedure for Stroke Patients - Rehab Series | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 4
#4
02/27/2025

The Vivistim implant is an FDA approved procedure, now being used to help some stroke patients continue their healing during rehab. Medical Director of Inpatient Rehabilitation at SMH, Ryan Hafner, MD, explains how the protocol works for patients, and why it's considered such a "game changer."

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Surgical Treatment for Heart Valve Dysfunction | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 3
#3
02/13/2025

There are a number of treatments available for aortic aneurysms, particularly at the root, but not all interventions work for all patients. Kristen Walker, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Sarasota Memorial, discusses a procedure she uses called the Florida Sleeve, and how patients with multi-valve dysfunction can benefit as well.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Diagnosing VTE and the Treatment Options | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 2
#2
01/30/2025

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition where blood clots form in a blood vessel. As serious as heart attacks and strokes, VTE is the most common cause of preventable death in hospitalized patients. Interventional Radiologist Scott Perrin, MD, discusses the dangers of the disease and what can be done to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Treating the Whole Patient with Integrative Care | HealthCasts Season 7, Episode 1
#1
01/16/2025

Sometimes patients struggle with the difficult side effects of necessary treatments during an inpatient hospital stay. That's where Sarasota Memorial's Integrative Care Program becomes so important. Mariah Pierre, a nurse and program coordinator for integrative care services at SMH, discusses some of the holistic treatment options available, and why it's so important the health system invests in these approaches to treating the whole patient.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly di...


Managing Your Medications | HealthCasts Season 6, Episode 25
#25
12/12/2024

It can be difficult, especially when transitioning from the hospital to home, to keep track of medications, especially when they're prescribed by more than one provider. Brett Lambert, PharmD, discusses the best ways patients can manage their meds mindfully, while also addressing concerns with prescribers and pharmacists.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Trauma Prevention and the Holiday Season | HealthCasts Season 6, Episode 24
#24
11/27/2024

While the holiday season is often a wonderful time to get together with family and friends, trauma centers like Sarasota Memorial see an uptick in emergencies as well. Casey Howell, RN, discusses what can be done to keep the holidays happy, healthy and safe for you and your loved ones this year.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Preparing to Successfully Breastfeed - Maternity Series | HealthCasts Season 6, Episode 23
#23
11/14/2024

The breastfeeding journey can certainly be challenging, and it's important that parents prepare. In this final episode of the maternity mini-series, Leah Brown, RN, a lactation consultant at Sarasota Memorial, explains what can be done before baby is born to get ready, and the importance of finding all available local resources.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.


Managing Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar - Maternity Series | HealthCasts Season 6, Episode 22
#22
10/31/2024

Gestational Diabetes and preeclampsia are two of the most common conditions which make pregnancies high risk. In the second episode of the three part maternity mini-series, Larry Matsumoto, MD, discusses what these diagnoses mean and how they're monitored.

You can also watch the video recording on our Vimeo channel here.

For more health tips & news you can use from experts you trust, sign up for Sarasota Memorial’s monthly digital newsletter, Healthe-Matters.