Medical Matters Podcast

Medical Matters Podcast--Prior Authorization

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:00:00 -0400

In this episode of "Medical Matters Podcast," Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss Prior Authorization, the process by which a healthcare provider must obtain approval from the insurance provider. The Cleveland Clinic outlines the full definition here.

Through experience, the doctors outline the process of prior authorization. They further cite the so-called "hidden" and administrative costs.

Medical Matters Podcast--Average Life Expectancy, Health Insurance Availability

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0500

Season 5 of the Medical Matters Podcast opens with an examination of life expectancy in the United States. Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick break down figures that confirm a record-high for both men and women in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released these numbers last week for the year 2024.

While deaths from illnesses such as coronavirus have decreased, there is also a strong decline in drug overdose deaths. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the US, followed by cancer and unintentional injuries.

The doctors also examine the availability of health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. Further, the continued increase of flu cases, including Influenza-A are discussed.

Medical Matters Podcast--Health Insurance, and the Affordable Care Act

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the potential for issues in the wake of the federal government shutdown. The doctors discuss the Affordable Care Act, benefits and drawbacks, along with the available providers and costs.

Medicare and Medicaid are also examined, and possible ways to make the programs more affordable and accessible to younger segments of the population.

In addition, a cautionary tale is offered about the dangers of not signing up for Social Security, Medicare and other available benefits.

Medical Matters Podcast--Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 20:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the use of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare.

There are concerns that mechanized treatment and therapy, when devoid of the human element, could allow AI to make value judgments, potentially resulting in less-than-ideal outcomes. A recent study by Stanford University is referenced here.

Building on this, while the use of chatbots may be helpful for simple answers to questions or advice (as seen in recent TV commercials), the hosts point out that the nuances of patient treatment run much deeper. They also discuss mental health treatment, noting potential concerns that AI may not detect all the complexities involved.

Further evaluations of AI's potential issues are examined in this article from DPA International.

(Note: despite the ending of federal funding for expansion of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the service is still available, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in need, 988 is there.)

Medical Matters Podcast--Availability of Medical Assistance and Aid

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0400

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

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0400

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.

Here, the American Cancer Society offers the ages for routine screening for several cancers.

Medical Matters Podcast: Season 4 Premiere, "Processed Foods & Additives"

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:00:00 -0500

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

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500

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

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0400

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

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0400

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 the US can do to improve. The full report can be read here.

Medical Matters Podcast--Getting Burned by the Healthcare System

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 19:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

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 in Forbes Magazine, which has been fact-checked.

Medical Matters Podcast: Burnout in the Medical Profession

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 21:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 20 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 19:00:00 -0400

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 examined.

More on that story here.

Medical Matters Podcast--Patients On the Hook, After Policy Changes

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0500

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)

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0500

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

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

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

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0500

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?

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 20:00:00 -0500

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

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0500

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

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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/

https://www.medpagetoday.com/special-reports/exclusives/102618

Medical Matters Podcast--Over-the-Counter Birth Control/New Alzheimer's Medicaton

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 14:00:00 -0400

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 progresses over time.

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-nonprescription-daily-oral-contraceptive

https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/new-alzheimers-drug-holds-promise-adds-cost-pressures-medicare-2023-07-13/

Medical Matters Podcast--Use of Ozempic for Weight Loss

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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)

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 12 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 05 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0400

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

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500

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

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0500

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

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0500

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

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 18:00:00 -0500

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

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0500

The doctors continue their in-depth discussion of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, and drug treatments.

Medical Matters--Supreme Court Ruling, Controlled Substances Rx

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0500

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

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 18:00:00 -0400

Kelly and Peter discuss Medicare Advantage Plans, what they mean, and how they are administered.

Medical Matters Podcast--How Hospitals Are Failing Us

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0400

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.

Medical Matters Podcast--Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400

The doctors discuss Alzeheimer's Disease and Dementia, including causes, and potential treatments.

Medical Matters Podcast--Life Expectancy

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Peter and Kelly discuss lowering life expectancy rates. Also, in our
"Did You Know" segment, a reminder that September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

A reminder: the National Crisis Hotline, available at all times, is 9-8-8.

Medical Matters Podcast--Physician and Medical Professional Work Hours

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This week, Peter and Kelly discuss the extreme work hours undergone by physicians and medical professionals.

Medical Matters Podcast--Veteran Suicides, VA REACH VET Program

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This week, Peter and Kelly discuss the rate of veteran suicides in the US, and the Veterans Administration's new REACH VET program.

Medical Matters Podcast--COVID-19, Up Close and Personal, and Prescribing of Medications

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0400

The Medical Matters Podcast returns from enforced hiatus, as Kelly details her coronavirus experience in Part 1. In Part 2, Peter and Kelly discuss prescribing of medications, which medical professionals may do so, and the concerns over possible expansion.

Living Wills, COVID-19 Misinformation

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This week, Peter and Kelly discuss the concept of living wills in Part 1 of this weeks' Medical Matters Podcast. In Part 2, they talk about the ever-changing mater of COVID-19 misinformation.

Cancer Drug Costs, Vitamin Supplement Industry

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0400

In Part 1 of this week's episode, Peter and Kelly discuss the high cost and waste of cancer drugs. In Part 2, they discuss the vitamin supplementation industry and the USPTF recommendations on vitamin supplementation.

Addressing drug costs to Medicare via Mark Cuban and generic drugs and patient's hospital costs

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This week's episode focuses on the cost of drugs covered by Medicare/Medicaid and Mark Cuban's focus on generic drugs costs at high savings to the insurance program. Additionally, we discuss the hospital costs to patients and hospitals that are supposed to post on their websites costs of procedures so patients can compare costs.

Nursing Home Issues and Men Refraining From Seeking Healthcare

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly discuss the ongoing nursing home crisis, and in Part 2, why men are choosing not to seek healthcare.

Discussion of Uvalde and Mass Killings

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0400

In this special episode of "Medical Matters Podcast," Peter and Kelly discuss mass shootings, in particular the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas.

Medical Matters Podcast--Private Equity Firms Buying Into Healthcare

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly discuss the trend of private equity firms buying into the healthcare system, and its potential effects.

Effects of Social Media on our Mental Health

Fri, 27 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly discuss the effects of Social Media on mental health. They will also discuss the subject of changes for travel nurses compensation.

Diabetes Advances

Fri, 20 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly discuss advances in medications for the treatment of Diabetes.

Hospital Expansion

Fri, 13 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly will discuss Hospital Expansion, and what it means for the industry, and the care you may receive. Also, this week's Did You Know segment marks May as Stroke Awareness Month.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Fri, 06 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Peter and Kelly discuss the increase in denials from Medicare Advantage Plans. Also, the doctors talk about the differences between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans.

Cost of Insulin and Pharmacy Benefit Managers

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practicioner Kelly McCormack discuss the increased cost of life-saving Insulin for patients and legislation aimed at reducing patient's cost for this medication. They also take up the subject of pharmacy benefit managers, the go-between for insurance medication coverage: are they really needed or just a costly middleman?

HealthCare Fraud and Mask Mandate

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the issue of healthcare fraud, and its affects on the system. Also, an update on mask mandate.

Decrease in Life Expectancy

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss a decrease in life expectancy in Part 1 of this edition of the Medical Matters Podcast. In Part 2, they discuss the topic of convalescence, which has changed over centuries.

Medical Matters--Randonda Vaught Case

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormack discuss the case of Randonda Vaught, a former nurse who was criminally convicted for a fatal drug error in 2017.

Unionization in Medical Residencies

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Discussion of medical residents unionizing at a Massachusetts hospital residency program.

Alcoholism and the increase of alcohol abuse during the pandemic

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Discussion of the increase of alcoholism, alcohol abuse during the pandemic, and the consequences of alcohol on the body.

COVID Paxlovid and New Variant Worries

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Discussion about "test to treat," the Oral COVID medication Paxlovid, and new variant worries.

HealthCare Violence

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0500

Discussion about the increase in healthcare violence experienced by healthcare workers, especially since the COVID pandemic

Opioid Crisis in its Current State

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0500

Discussion of the opioid supply restriction, how it has affected the opioid crisis. Treatment option or the lack of treatment options for patients. The transition of getting opioids from the streets.

Medical School Education/Physician Burnout

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500

Discussion of the issues facing medical school education, graduating enough physicians to meet the needs of population, and factors leading to physician burnout.

Balanced (Surprised) Billing and Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500

First segment discusses balanced billing, surprise billing and some ways to get around this issue. In the second segment discussion about Mark Cuban's new Cost Plus Drug Company, Good RX, pros and cons of these programs, cost of drugs, generic vs. brand name drug costs.

COVID PANDEMIC NUMBERS; CRISIS TEXT LINE; PIG HEART TRANSPLANT

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500

Episode 2 of the Medical Matters Podcast looks at recent coronavirus pandemic numbers and deaths. In addition, the doctors discuss the available Crisis Text Line, and a recent heart transplant involving the heart of a pig.

COVID PANDEMIC AFFECT ON PEOPLE AND HEALTH CARE WORKERS

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500

DISCUSSION OF HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS AFFECTED PEOPLE OVER SINCE THE BEGINNING. MENTAL HEALTH, ALCOHOLISM, ISOLATION. AFFECTS ON THE HEALTHCARE WORKERS