Medical Matters Podcast
Medical Matters Podcast brings direct information, engaging discussion, and insight of the current state and issues surrounding health care with professionals who provide care.
Medical Matters Podcast--Availability of Medical Assistance and Aid
In this episode, the doctors discuss the availability of medical assistance, especially home care aid.
Medicaid, the low rates offered, and the low rate of pay many home care professionals earn are among the topics, along with concerns about what assistance may remain for those in need, with Congress's passing of President Trump's tax and spending package.
Medical Matters Podcast--Early Onset Cancer
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the increase in Early Onset Cancer. Studies show on average there has been a one to two-percent increase in cancers diagnosed in adults aged 18 to 49.
The doctors cite the changing manifestation of tumors, but also possible reasons, including lifestyle and environment. Reasons are examined in this article from UChicagoMedicine -- further, this recent examination of the issue by Yale Medicine offers evidence that cancers in younger people show some differences. ...
Medical Matters Podcast: Season 4 Premiere, "Processed Foods & Additives"
Season 4 of "Medical Matters Podcast" opens 2025 with a discussion on processed foods, and what is in much of our foods. Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the state of our food supply, and how the preservatives and additives can cause harm.
Many of these are in hundreds of everyday items, and the doctors discuss what these can do, and how to avoid them and move toward healthier eating.
A Harvard study from last year offers an in-depth study.
Medical Matters Podcast--Cabinet Picks for the New Trump Administration
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss some of President-Elect Trump's cabinet and agency head choices. Among these: the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as Director of the Department of Health & Human Services, TV host Dr. Mehmet Oz is slated to oversee Medicare and Medicaid services. Details of some of Trump's picks can be found here.
The doctors will consider some of the selections, and what these mean for you, and your healthcare.
Medical Matters Podcast--Cybersecurity in Healthcare
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss how patient, hospital, and healthcare data can be at risk from cyberattacks.
The recent Change Healthcare data breach is examined. UnitedHealth Group's (UHG) subsidiary was victimized by a ransomware attack that impacted more than 100 million individuals. The doctors discuss this HIPAA report and consider what patients might do to protect themselves.
The subject is also considered here.
Medical Matters Podcast--US Ranking in Healthcare, Shots and Vaccines
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack remind listeners it is time to think about getting your flu shot and updating with the new COVID vaccine.
The main focus of the podcast is the annual Commonwealth Fund report for 2024, which compared the US healthcare system to nine other highly developed nations to determine not only where we stand, but in an effort to find areas of improvement.
The report is divided into nine sections that include overall performance, access to care, health outcomes and especially, what...
Medical Matters Podcast--Getting Burned by the Healthcare System
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss issues with the healthcare system. They discuss ER and tertiary care, and those who could get lost in the system.
The potential for falling through the cracks along with professional decision-making is considered. In addition, first-hand experiences are examined, including the medical system and reimbursement process, plus quality-of-life issues.
Medical Matters Podcast: Increasing Medical Care Costs
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss rising healthcare costs in this episode. Commercial healthcare costs are expected to increase by eight percent in 2025, driven by several market and related forces. This is foretold by the increase in healthcare spending in the US this year, according to a recent report from the American Medical Association.
The doctors discuss differences in Medicare, including varied plans and factors that weigh on patient care, time spent, and billing methods. They also consider possible solutions.
A further examination of the matter appeared...
Medical Matters Podcast: Burnout in the Medical Profession
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the important issue of burnout in the medical profession. The industry has one of the highest percentages of burnout, which is basically defined here.
While our hosts provide their own insights and experiences, the question of what can be done is being examined. The US Oncology Network is looking to get to the root of stress in the profession.
Medical Matters Podcast: Hospital Bankruptcies/Effects of Medical Debt
On this in-depth episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack take a look at the rise of hospital bankruptcies, and the effects of medical debt, especially on patient care.
Of concern is how a private equity firm profited from the recent bankruptcy of Steward Healthcare, which is referred to from this article.
The effects of this particular bankruptcy has also caught the attention of federal lawmakers.
Medical Matters Podcast: Ozempic, Use of GLP-1 from the Weight Loss Perspective
In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the GLP-1 class of drugs from the weight-loss perspective.
Ozempic has gained popularity recently and has been marketed and promoted heavily for weight-loss use. Its initial purpose is as a weekly injection to manage blood glucose levels and HbA1c in patients with Type 2 Diabetes.
The side effects of GLP-1 are discussed, which can include gastrointestinal issues. In addition, the cost of Ozempic, as opposed to what it can be made for is...
Medical Matters Podcast--Patients On the Hook, After Policy Changes
In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss how policy changes could leave patients holding the bag.
Elisabeth Rosenthal of KFF Health News has written widely on healthcare issues, including a recent opinion piece that recently appeared in the Washington Post.
Rosenthal is also the author of the book, An American Sickness. She discussed her findings in this NPR interview.
Medical Matters Podcast--Aging in America
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the subject of aging, and how the experience in the United States perhaps differs from other nations.
Topics include loneliness, a lack of socialization, and how elderly residents are viewed in other nations. These and other subjects have been the focus of recent studies by the Yale School of Public Health--these findings can be found here.
Medical Matters Podcast--Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss a recent article about Electronic Health Records. With recordkeeping increasingly moving online or "in the Cloud," more time is required to update keep patient records current. The doctors talk about the ins and outs of EHRs.
A recent article about EHRs can be found here.
Medical Matters Podcast--American Health Health Month, & Heart Disease
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack highlight the month of February, which is American Heart Health Month. You can find out more from the American Heart Assocation here.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and the doctors break down the topic with an in-depth discussion. More information is available from the Centers for Disease Control here.
Medical Matters Podcast--Hospital Ratings Systems
In the Season 3 premiere of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss hospital ratings systems. How are hospitals graded, and under what criteria?
The discussion follows a recent issue in Pennsylvania when a state Department of Health inspection turned up problems at Lancaster General Hospital, which is operated by Penn Medicine. More about that story can be found here.
US News and World Report provides one of the most comprehensive "Best of" lists. Here is the national report for 2023-24.<...
Medical Matters Podcast--Who Profits the Most from Healthcare?
On this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss who benefits and profits the most from the business of healthcare. They take an in-depth look at insurers, drug distributors, and Pharmacy Benefit Managers, also known as PBMs.
The relationship between patients and the healthcare system is examined, with a look at the "middle men." This report notes how the US spends far more on healthcare than other industrialized nations. The Doctors also look into potential solutions and alternatives.
Medical Matters Podcast--Navigating the Healthcare System
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss working one's way through the US healthcare system. They discuss the different health systems and plans, Open Enrollment, Medicare, and Advantage, along with copays and finding what plan is right for you, and what you can safely afford.
Medical Matters Podcast--Medicare Advantage Program
In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss Medicare Advantage Plans and help navigate the options. Approximately 31 million Americans have such private-sector alternatives to Medicare.
A recent NBC News story on the issue can be found here.
Medical Matters Podcast--Medical Debt
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack examine the issue of medical debt. Recent studies find millions of Americans are struggling with significant debt. KFF Health News' recent award-winning series notes that medical debt has become a defining feature of the US healthcare system. Their report can be read here.
In addition, lawmakers in several states are trying to find ways to deal with the problem at their level.
Medical Matters Podcast--Wegovy, Weight Loss and Heart Failure
In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack return to the topic of Semaglitude, also known as Wegovy. A new study commissioned by Novo Nordisk has determined that Wegovy, prescribed for weight loss, may also be beneficial for the most common form of heart failure.
Details of the study can be found here.
CNN's report is also available.
Medical Matters Podcast--Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Health Care
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the recent use of Artificial Intelligence in health care. One promising find is that of Yale researcher Dr. Rohan Khera, who has discovered a way to use AI to detect a hidden heart problem. His findings are available in the July 25th, 2023 issue of the journal, Circulation, and in a recent issue of the Hartford Courant.
https://www.courant.com/2023/08/13/how-using-ai-yale-research-finds-serious-heart-problem-before-symptoms-occur/
https://www.ahajournals.org/toc/circ/148/4
Medical Matters Podcast--The PACT Act, and Veterans Benefits
In this episode, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the PACT Act, and the new benefits for veterans exposed to "burn pits" in Afghanistan.
https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/veterans-historic-expansion-benefits-toxic-exposure-new-law-102053437
Those who wish to make a claim may do so here:
https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/#:~:text=The%20PACT%20Act%20is%20a,by%20exposure%20to%20these%20substances.
Medical Matters Podcast--Non-Compete Agreements in the Medical Industry
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the topic of non-compete clauses, and how they pertain to the medical industry. The Federal Trade Commission is proposing a ban on non-competes; what this could mean is examined in the link below.
https://www.medpagetoday.com/special-reports/exclusives/102618
In Part 2, the Doctors discussed the recent tornado in North Carolina, and the concerns about a sterile injectable drug shortage, due to the damage to a Pfizer storage facility in Rocky Mount.
https://abc11.com/pfizer-north-carolina-tornado-damage-nc-rocky-mount-ceo-albert-bourla/13529565/
Medical Matters Podcast--Over-the-Counter Birth Control/New Alzheimer's Medicaton
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss two new medications recently approved by the Food & Drug Administration.
Opill is the first over-the-counter birth control pill that will become available in the US in 2024. Made by Perrigo, Opill is a progestin-only oral contraceptive; the concerns of the FDA, and potential side effects are examined.
Leqembi (Lecanemab) is a new drug produced by the Japanese pharmaceutical firm Eisei. The monoclonal antibody medication is designed for early-stage Alzheimer's patients; the discussion focuses on Leqembi's potential, but also the question of what occurs as the disease...
Medical Matters Podcast--Use of Ozempic for Weight Loss
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the increased use of Ozempic as a weight-loss method. Semaglutide is used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes, and is sold under the names Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy.
The Washington Post has published a series of pieces on the use of Ozempic for weight loss, its popularity and how insurers are resisting--the June 12th, 2023 article can be found here. The FDA has also warned consumers against the use of so-called "off-brand" versions of these drugs.
Medical Matters Podcast--Vitamins and Supplements; WHO Report on Non-Sugar Sweeteners
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the vitamins and supplements industry. The dietary supplements market size is currently estimated at $ 167.5 billion, according to a recent report, and does not show any stoppage of growth, according to Reportlinker.com.
In Part 2 of the program, the doctors take up the recent World Health Organization report that advises against the use of non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) as a means of weight control. The full report can be found here.
Medical Matters Podcast--Geisinger/Kaiser Permanente Merger (Updates and More)
The Doctors continue their discussion on the merger of Geisinger and Kaiser Permanente Health Systems. The "upgrade" to a national health system is considered, as the latter seeks to expand value-based care.
What does this mean for patients of both systems, and how will their access and services change.
Medical Matters Podcast--Geisinger/Kaiser Permanente Merger
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the recent merger of Kaiser Permanente and Geisinger. The long history of the two firms is examined, and what the merger means for patients.
Medical Matters Podcast--Loneliness
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss recent stories surrounding the concept of loneliness. A recent study by the US Department of Health and Human Services, regarding social connection shows the potential for increased health issues. The report can be found at the Office of Surgeon General website, hhs.gov/surgeongeneral
The Doctors take us through the seven different types of loneliness, and possible solutions.
Medical Matters Podcast--Moderna/Pfizer COVID-19 Price Hikes
Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the recent decision of Moderna and Pfizer to increase the cost of their coronavirus vaccines. While the price is expected to increase (Courtesy VerifyThis.com), vaccines are expected to remain free for those with health insurance.
Concerns are what this will mean for the market, and the potential efficacy of Moderna's Patient Assistance Program. What also does this mean for future vaccines, if required?
Medical Matters Podcast--Damar Hamlin Case Update, Related Issues
Peter and Kelly discuss Damar Hamlin's planned return to pro football. What has been learned from his unique case? Procedures and methods in dealing with heart conditions are also examined.
Medical Matters Podcast--Patient Visits, Portal Messages
Kelly and Peter discuss the issue of patient visits, and the numbers physicians are expected to see, and responses to portal messages.
Medical Matters Podcast--Providers Opting Out of Medicare
The Doctors discuss the option for providers to opt out of Medicare, why physicians would do so, and what this means for the healthcare system.
Information on this can be found at MedicareInteractive.org
Medical Matters Podcast--The State of Nursing
The Doctors discuss the recent nursing strike in New York City. More than seven thousand nurses connected to hospitals in Manhattan and the Bronx, and while resolved, the issue highlights a shortage of nursing staff nationwide.
Co-host Kelly McCormack offers her own experiences as a Nurse Practitioner, the inequities in pay and ongoing issues with insurance are also examined.
Medical Matters Podcast Season 2 Premiere: Damar Hamlin Case
Season 2 of "Medical Matters" begins with an examination of the Damar Hamlin case. Drs. Peter Brier and Kelly McCormack discuss the collapse of the Buffalo Bills player from cardiac arrest during a nationally-televised game, the prevalence of such episodes, and what it means, not only for sports, but heart health.
Medical Matters Podcast--Alzheimer's Disease, Drug
The doctors continue their in-depth discussion of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, and drug treatments.
Medical Matters--Supreme Court Ruling, Controlled Substances Rx
Kelly and Peter discuss the recent US Supreme Court ruling, Ruan vs. United States, which James Romoser documents here:
https://www.scotusblog.com/2022/10/the-other-supreme-court-ruling-with-big-repercussions-for-u-s-health-care/
Find out the doctor's takes here on Medical Matters Podcast.
Medical Matters Podcast--Medicare Advantage Plans
Kelly and Peter discuss Medicare Advantage Plans, what they mean, and how they are administered.
Medical Matters Podcast--How Hospitals Are Failing Us
The doctors discuss issues with hospitals, including costs and related issues that are causing potential failure. In addition, this week's Did You Know segment reminds us of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
