Medical Matters Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kelly McCormack
Medical Matters Podcast brings direct information, engaging discussion, and insight of the current state and issues surrounding health care with professionals who provide care.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.**
**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**.
**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**.
**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.**
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.
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**.
**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**.
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**.
**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**.
**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**.
**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**.
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.**
**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**.
**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.**
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.
**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**.
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**.
**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**.
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
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.
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
**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/
**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.
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**.
**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.**
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.
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.
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?**
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.
Kelly and Peter discuss the issue of patient visits, and the numbers physicians are expected to see, and responses to portal messages.
**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**
**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.**
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.
The doctors continue their in-depth discussion of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, and drug treatments.
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.**
Kelly and Peter discuss Medicare Advantage Plans, what they mean, and how they are administered.
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.
The doctors discuss Alzeheimer's Disease and Dementia, including causes, and potential treatments.
**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.**
This week, Peter and Kelly discuss the extreme work hours undergone by physicians and medical professionals.
This week, Peter and Kelly discuss the rate of veteran suicides in the US, and the Veterans Administration's new REACH VET program.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Peter and Kelly discuss the ongoing nursing home crisis, and in Part 2, why men are choosing not to seek healthcare.
In this special episode of "Medical Matters Podcast," Peter and Kelly discuss mass shootings, in particular the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas.
Peter and Kelly discuss the trend of private equity firms buying into the healthcare system, and its potential effects.
Peter and Kelly discuss the effects of Social Media on mental health. They will also discuss the subject of changes for travel nurses compensation.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
Discussion of medical residents unionizing at a Massachusetts hospital residency program.
Discussion of the increase of alcoholism, alcohol abuse during the pandemic, and the consequences of alcohol on the body.
Discussion about "test to treat," the Oral COVID medication Paxlovid, and new variant worries.
Discussion about the increase in healthcare violence experienced by healthcare workers, especially since the COVID pandemic
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.
Discussion of the issues facing medical school education, graduating enough physicians to meet the needs of population, and factors leading to physician burnout.
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.
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.
DISCUSSION OF HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS AFFECTED PEOPLE OVER SINCE THE BEGINNING. MENTAL HEALTH, ALCOHOLISM, ISOLATION. AFFECTS ON THE HEALTHCARE WORKERS