Wise & Well Presented by Community Memorial Healthcare: Recent Episodes
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Are you or a loved one recovering from heart surgery? In this insightful conversation with Kelli O'Harrow, Cardiac Rehab Nurse, we uncover the numerous benefits of cardiac rehabilitation, specifically designed to help you recover stronger and live better after a cardiac incident.
To learn more, visit https://www.mycmh.org/programs-services/heart-vascular/cardiac-rehabilitation.
At Community Memorial, we want you to have the best experience possible while you’re in our care. That’s why we partnered with Teladoc® to bring our talented, compassionate staff and the latest in virtual nursing technology together. Our Virtual Nursing program gives you immediate access to your nurse at the click of a button, while allowing our in-person team members to spend
more time at your bedside when needed.
Join Diane Drexler, Chief Nursing Officer & Vice President, Patient Care Services, for more about the impact of virtual nursing on patient satisfaction, nurse retention, and overall healthcare delivery at Community Memorial Hospital — Ventura.
In this special episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with Community Memorial Healthcare President & CEO, Mick Zdeblick for a year in review.
Join host Caitlin Whyte as she delves into the world of orofacial pain with Dr. Brigitte Lovell, expert in oral facial pain and dental sleep medicine at Community Memorial Healthcare.
In this insightful episode, Dr. Lovell sheds light on a range of lesser-known headache disorders, from hypnic headaches that wake you up in the middle of the night to migraines that can manifest as tooth pain. She also discusses the common causes of orofacial pain, including muscle tension, TMJ disorders, and sleep apnea.
Discover the impact of sleep apnea on your quality of life and learn about alternative treatment options to CPAP, such as custom-made oral appliances. Dr. Lovell explains the benefits of these appliances and how they can improve your sleep and overall well-being.
This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone experiencing orofacial pain, headaches, or sleep disturbances. Tune in to learn from Dr. Lovell and gain a better understanding of these conditions and how to find relief.
Join us as we welcome Dr. Alison Shuman, the newly appointed Chief of Staff at Community Memorial Healthcare. In this insightful interview, we dive into Dr. Shuman’s impressive background in pediatric hospital medicine and general pediatrics, and explore her vision for the future of Community Memorial Healthcare .
Discover her top priorities as she embarks on this new role, including her plans to leverage technology and innovation to enhance patient care. We’ll also discuss the organization’s long-term strategic goals and how Dr. Shuman’s leadership will contribute to their success. Tune in!
Sometimes, it can be difficult to know whether your illness or sudden onset health condition requires a visit to the emergency room, urgent care, or just a call to your primary care physician. In this episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with Community Memorial Healthcare Chief of Staff and Emergency Medicine Physician, Dr. Chris Johnson, to discuss when and where to seek immediate care. Dr. Johnson also shares the importance of establishing and maintaining a relationship with a primary care provider, as well as what you can do to prepare for unexpected trips to the emergency room. To find a Community Memorial Urgent Care or Emergency Room location near you, visit mycmh.org/locations.
In this episode, Community Memorial Healthcare's Cancer Nurse Navigator Cheryl Ryan shares how she guides cancer patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, and the positive impact it has on patients' lives. Learn about the specific responsibilities of a Cancer Nurse Navigator, how they collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and how they help reduce stress and anxiety for patients and their families. Tune in to gain insights into the compassionate care provided by Cancer Nurse Navigator and learn how patients can connect with Cheryl for support at Community Memorial.
Want to know what it's really like to be an Internal Medicine resident at Community Memorial Healthcare? This episode of our Residency Spotlight series dives into Internal Medicine with Program Director Dr. Hannah Robinson and resident physician Dr. Rahul Jalota. Learn more about the program, the curriculum, and what makes Community Memorial Healthcare a unique place to train. To learn more, visit mycmh.org/internal-medicine.
Want to know what it's really like to be an Family Medicine resident at Community Memorial Healthcare? Join us as we delve into the world of Family Medicine with Dr. Brian Utz, Program Director and Dr. Monica Hernandez, Chief Resident. Get the inside scoop on the program, the curriculum, and what makes Community Memorial Healthcare a unique place to train. This episode is part of our series exploring the different residency programs offered at Community Memorial. Don't miss out!
To learn more, visit mycmh.org/family-medicine
Community Memorial Hospital has once again received the prestigious Baby-Friendly designation from Baby-Friendly USA. This global program recognizes hospitals that prioritize optimal infant feeding practices and support mothers in achieving their breastfeeding goals.
In this episode, we explore what the Baby-Friendly designation means for Community Memorial Hospital - Ventura and local families. We'll be joined by Sheila Dedrick, RN, Lactation Consultant, and manager of the Community Memorial New Parent Resource Center, and Megan Rodarte, MSN, Maternal Child Health Director. Tune in and discover why CMH Ventura is the perfect place to welcome your new bundle of joy!
To learn more, visit mycmhbaby.org
Want to know what it's really like to be an Orthopedic Surgery resident at Community Memorial Healthcare? This episode of our Residency Spotlight series dives into Orthopedic Surgery with Program Director Dr. Thomas Golden and resident physician Dr. Laura Maharjan. Learn more about the program, the curriculum, and what makes Community Memorial Healthcare a unique place to train. To learn more, visit mycmh.org/orthopaedic-surgery
Facing a serious illness can be overwhelming. In this episode of Wise & Well, we welcome Dr. Colin Scibetta, a Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist at Community Memorial Healthcare, to shed light on palliative care. Dr. Scibetta explains the difference between palliative and hospice care, dispels common misconceptions, and illustrates with an inspiring story of how palliative care truly empowers patients and families throughout their journey. Learn how the Community Memorial team works alongside your existing healthcare providers.
In this episode of the Wise and Well Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Alison Shuman, pediatrician with Community Memorial, to discuss the crucial steps in choosing the right pediatrician for your child. Dr. Shuman shares her expertise on the benefits of establishing a pediatrician relationship early and essential questions to ask during those initial appointments.
We also get into valuable advice for navigating the first few months of a child's life, the importance of well-child visits, and tips for keeping your child healthy during the cold and flu season. Dr. Shuman provides guidance on managing common illnesses at home and knowing when to call your doctor. This episode is packed with practical advice for new and expecting parents.
To find a doctor, visit mycmh.org/find-a-doctor or request an appointment by texting or calling 805-948-6353.
If you're gearing up for joint or spine surgery, this episode is your guide to a smoother, more empowered journey at Community Memorial. We explore the innovative pre-habilitation program at Community Memorial, with Kathryn Harada, Orthopedic Patient Care Navigator. Learn about its development, multi-disciplinary approach, and the array of benefits participants can expect. Whether you're planning surgery or supporting a loved one, this episode provides crucial insights into a transformative journey. Tune in to learn about pre-habilitation's power in enhancing the surgical experience at Community Memorial.
In today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Jack Tretko and Dr. Keegan Bachelor from Community Memorial Healthcare's Pharmacy. We highlight the comprehensive services provided by the pharmacy team at both inpatient and outpatient levels, including the innovative Meds to Beds program and the convenience of free delivery services for outpatients.
We also discuss Community Memorial Pharmacy's recent accreditation by the American Commission for Healthcare Specialty Pharmacy. Dr. Tretko and Dr. Bachelor explain the significance of this prestigious designation and discuss the benefits for patients and the community.
To learn more, visit www.mycmh.org/locations/community-memorial-pharmacy/.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we dive into the world of pregnancy, labor, and delivery with Dr. David Crownover, Medical Director of Maternal Child Health, and Sally McNally, a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNMW). Join us as these experts share their wealth of knowledge and experience in guiding families through the beautiful journey of childbirth.
Our experts explore the crucial factors families should consider when choosing where to deliver their baby. From safety measures to fostering a positive birthing experience, Dr. Crownover and Sally provide invaluable insights into what makes Community Memorial Hospital the premier birthing center in Ventura County.
The episode highlights the hospital's accolades, including prestigious awards for patient experience and maternity care excellence. Listeners also gain a deeper understanding of the midwife program at Community Memorial, its objectives, and the unique benefits it offers to expectant mothers and families.
Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the midwife program at Community Memorial, its objectives, and the unique benefits it offers to expectant mothers and families. Dr. Crownover and Sally explain the distinction between OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse Midwives, shedding light on their collaborative approach to prenatal care and hospital births at Community Memorial. For those considering midwife-assisted delivery, our experts discuss the advantages of choosing a hospital environment over non-hospital options, ensuring safety and peace of mind for both mother and baby.
Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about Community Memorial Hospital's exceptional Maternal Child Health program and embark on a journey toward a safe, fulfilling childbirth experience.
For more information, visit mycmh.org or explore the dedicated Maternal Child Health section at mycmhbaby.org.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we're joined by Dr. Hornstein to discuss what an advance directive entails and why it's crucial to have your wishes documented. Learn who you should share your advance directive with, and why it's important to encourage your loved ones to complete theirs as well. Take charge of your healthcare decisions and empower your loved ones by creating an advance directive. Visit our website, mycmh.org, and search "advance care planning" to download a copy of the form and watch instructional videos.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we explore Substance Use Disorder (SUD) with Ian Anderson, Substance Use Navigator at Community Memorial Healthcare and Program Director at Conejo Health. Ian discusses the most prevalent substances in Ventura County, and how Community Memorial Healthcare is supporting patients through initiatives such as its Substance Use Navigator program. In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize the signs of addiction in yourself or a loved one, and discover resources available at Community Memorial to guide you on the path to recovery. Visit mycmh.org/sun for more information.
In recognition of Patient Safety Awareness Month, join us as we discuss patient safety in today's healthcare landscape with Maureen Archambault, VP of Quality & Risk at Community Memorial Healthcare. Discover the significance of consulting reputable ratings groups for assessing hospital safety and performance and the potential drawbacks of sites like Yelp or Google. Maureen underscores the risks inherent in such sources and offers guidance on where to turn for reliable information. To learn more, visit mycmh.org.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we are joined by Diane Drexler, DNP, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services at Community Memorial Healthcare. Diane discusses Community Memorial's innovative approach to supporting the growth and development of nurses through their Nurse Residency Program and Nurse Internship I & II programs. She sheds light on how these initiatives not only benefit aspiring RNs but also contribute to the longevity of healthcare in our community. Diane also offers valuable advice to nursing students considering a career at Community Memorial Healthcare.
To learn more about Residency & Training
In this episode, we take a closer look at the unique structure of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Community Memorial Healthcare with the doctors who share the role – Dr. Kellie Zaylor, Dr. Lamar Bushnell, and Dr. Deborah Carlson. The CMOs shed light on how their joint leadership enhances clinical improvements, quality measures, and the overall level of healthcare available in our community. Learn about their individual roles and upcoming health system developments, such as the implementation of a state-of-the-art electronic medical record system and initiatives aimed at expanding outpatient services. For more information, visit mycmh.org.
Join us as we discuss the Breathing Easy Program at Community Memorial Healthcare. Our guest and Pulmonary Rehab Coordinator, Juanita Trine, sheds light on the program's mission, goals, and the ways it supports individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. From collaboration with referring physicians to accreditation by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR), discover the comprehensive approach taken to enhance patients' quality of life and decrease shortness of breath. Whether you're seeking information or considering enrollment, this episode provides guidance on how to breathe easy again. To learn more, visit mycmh.org and search Pulmonary Rehab.
In this episode, we delve into the field of electrophysiology with Dr. Ayhan Yoruk, Electrophysiologist with Community Memorial Healthcare. Learn how electrophysiology plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and treating Atrial fibrillation (AFib), and about the advancements taking place within this specialized area of cardiac care.
Read more about Community Memorial’s electrophysiology program
In this episode of "Wise & Well,” we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Wan, cardiothoracic surgeon with Community Memorial Healthcare. Dr. Wan discusses the role of a cardiothoracic surgeon in today’s rapidly advancing surgical environment and the exceptional cardiothoracic surgery program at Community Memorial. We also explore some recent surgical advancements in cardiothoracic surgery, and the benefit of having your procedure done close to home.
To learn more, visit here
In this episode of Wise & Well Presented by Community Memorial Healthcare, we are joined by Dr. Alicia Haglund, the Medical Director of Community Memorial Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine. Dr. Haglund discusses the specialized services offered at the health center, the impact of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and the unique qualities that set their practice apart. Whether you're a patient, family member, or healthcare provider, Dr. Haglund reveals how you can access their services and who may benefit from their expertise.
For more information, visit our website, mycmh.org
In this episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with interventional cardiologist Dr. Omid Fatemi, to explore the Structural Heart Program at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura. Learn about advanced heart care at Community Memorial and gain a deeper understanding of how minimally-invasive approaches are revolutionizing the field of cardiology and enhancing quality of life for patients.
To learn more, visit: https://www.mycmh.org/programs-services/heart-vascular/structural-heart-care/
If you're considering a career at Community Memorial Healthcare, this episode is a must-listen. Our guest, Paolo Santos, HR Talent Acquisition Supervisor at Community, provides a view of what makes Community Memorial a unique and appealing workplace. Paolo shares the crucial roles within Community and sheds light on the recruitment strategies and onboarding processes involved. The episode also offers valuable insights into the healthcare industry's future, discussing the most in-demand roles, positions, and skill sets expected over the next 5-10 years. For more information on careers with Community, visit mycmh.org/careers
In this special episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with Community Memorial Healthcare President & CEO, Mick Zdeblick for a year in review. Join us as we explore Mick's first year at Community Memorial Healthcare, his vision for the future, and the key milestones and achievements that have set this healthcare system on an exceptional path. From a fresh brand launch to prestigious recognitions like the CMS Five-Star rating, it's been a year of growth and transformation.
In this episode, we sit down with Maureen Archambault, Vice President of Quality & Risk Management at Community Memorial Healthcare, following the achievement of Community Memorial Hospital – Ventura receiving a prestigious five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Healthgrade’s 5-Star Rating and 2023 Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Join us as we discuss the journey that led to this accomplishment, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic – and what it means to our community. Maureen sheds light on the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of the entire healthcare system that propelled the hospital to be among the top in the nation.
Healthgrades Awards Community Memorial Hospital
Community Memorial Hospital – Ventura Ranked Among Top 15% of Hospitals Nationwide
In this episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with Dr. Justin Millard, a board-certified Spine Surgeon with additional expertise in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Millard's commitment to patient care is deeply rooted in forming genuine connections and understanding individual needs. Join us as we delve into the intricate world of spine health, exploring minimally invasive surgery, motion preservation, and orthopedic trauma. Dr. Millard's patient-centered approach sheds light on the importance of communication and partnership in achieving optimal outcomes.
In this episode, we dive into a common yet often underestimated issue – heartburn and acid reflux. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Patrick McCarty, general surgeon, to explore the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for these digestive challenges. Whether you're seeking relief from heartburn or simply want to expand your medical knowledge, this episode offers a comprehensive journey through the world of reflux management.
Dr. Fowler talks about the exciting advancements in pathology with the potential to transform patient care, alongside insights shared with aspiring students by seasoned pathologists.
In this episode Dr. Fowler explores the crucial role of pathologists in healthcare, including their collaboration with other professionals and their impact on cancer care.
In this episode, we sit down with Patty Williams, the Director of Development at Community Memorial Foundation, as she provides an overview of the recently released Impact Report, discusses fundraising efforts after the challenges posed by COVID-19, and speaks to the foundation’s promising future plans. Discover how a community-driven foundation can make a lasting difference and build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system in Ventura County. Patty also offers insight into how individuals can contribute to the foundation's mission.
For more information, visit mycmh.org/giving.
In this episode, we dive into the numerous benefits of breastfeeding and provide valuable advice, tips, and resources for new families. We also explore the essential role that partners play in supporting breastfeeding mothers with our special guest, Sheila Dedrick, a renowned lactation consultant and manager of the Community Memorial New Parent Resource Center. Sheila shares her wealth of knowledge and expertise on all things related to childbirth, parenting, and breastfeeding. Join us as we discover the amazing advantages of breastfeeding, gain insights into overcoming common challenges, and uncover the supportive resources available specifically at Community Memorial for families embarking on their parenting and breastfeeding journies. For more information on all the classes and resources discussed in this episode, visit mycmhbaby.org.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we sit down with Dr. Irene Dansby, Medical Director of Community Memorial Breast Center. Dr. Dansby introduces the Community Memorial Breast Center and highlights its commitment to delivering the highest quality and accuracy in breast screenings to Ventura County. We also discuss the importance of women maintaining their regular mammogram schedule, even during challenging times, and the potential consequences of neglecting essential screenings. Lastly, Dr. Dansby provides guidance for women on how to initiate the breast cancer screening process and emphasized the importance of initiating your breast health journey.
Tune in to this episode for valuable knowledge on breast cancer screening and detection, and for more information on the Community Memorial Breast Center visit Community Memorial Breast Center
Medication education and safety is an integral component of the care provided at Community Memorial Healthcare. In this episode, we're joined by Pharmacist and Medication Safety Coordinator Shirley Guan and Pharmacist and Manager of Outpatient Pharmacy Operations, Keegan Bachelor, to discuss recent pharmacy advancements and the ongoing initiatives in place at Community Memorial to ensure patients receive the best care possible while hospitalized, but also have the support and resources they need to manage their care once they're home. To learn more about the Community Memorial retail pharmacy, visit mycmh.org.
In a recently released survey on drug use in America, more than 20 percent of those age 12 or older said they used illicit drugs in the past year. More than nine million Americans misused opioids during that same period. The pandemic exacerbated substance use disorders in this country with overdose deaths reaching record levels.
What tools do substance use disorder clinicians have to treat addiction? With seven out of ten Americans who had a substance use disorder considering themselves to be recovering or in recovery, there is hope.
Today in the United States, 37.3 million people have diabetes, and an additional 96 million people 18 years of age or older have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Together, these shocking statistics represent almost half of our population. With numbers this high, the need for diabetes education and support is more urgent than ever -- not just as a means of managing the disease, but also as a strategy to prevent it.
Community Memorial's Diabetes Education program is the only accredited outpatient diabetes education program in Ventura County. The program is staffed by Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, and provides training and education to patients in the areas of healthy eating, active living, medication management, risk reduction, problem solving, and more! In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Amaro, Community Memorial's Manager of Population Health, to learn what makes Community Memorial's Diabetes Education program so unique, effective, and valuable to the community.
In this episode of Wise & Well, we’re joined by Community Memorial expert cardiologist, Dr. Alon Steinberg, for an exploration of the advanced heart care available at Community Memorial Healthcare. From preventative care and heart disease risk management, to advanced screenings and minimally invasive procedures, Dr. Steinberg walks us through the steps you can take to lower your risk factors, ensure optimal heart health, and manage issues as they arise.
Community Memorial’s Heart & Vascular program offers a variety of tools such as free Heart Disease Risk Assessments, Cardiac CT Scans for Calcium Scoring, an expert team of cardiothoracic surgeons, and one of the most successful Structural Heart programs in the region.
Learn more about Community Memorial’s Heart & Vascular Program
Maureen Hodge, (Community Memorial Healthcare's High-Risk Program Manager) talks about the caregiver navigator program at Community Memorial Healthcare. She explains caregiving and how it's needed for more than just medical, the role of a caregiver navigator and how can patients find out more information on the caregiver navigator program.
Skin Cancer is by far the most common cancer in the world, accounting for 75% of all cancer diagnoses. So what can we do to stay safe while also enjoying all of the outdoor activities that Ventura County offers? We sit down with Dr. Ryan Wells, a Ventura County native, and board-certified dermatologist, to discuss Mohs surgery and the ways it treats skin cancer, as well as other best practices to maintain healthy skin!
With the proliferation of social media platforms and streaming services, our children are spending more and more time in front of a screens. COVID-19 further complicated the relationship between children and technology by intensifying their reliance on computers, tablets, and phones for education and social purposes. Isolation has increased, in-person interaction has decreased, and the long-term effects of screens and social media on children are still largely unknown. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Sun M. Lee, a pediatrician with Community Memorial Health System, as we discuss current screen time recommendations, the addictive properties of social media, and the possible downsides of phones and tablets.
Community Memorial Healthcare recently reached a major milestone in robotic surgery by completing its 5000th da Vinci procedure. Robotic surgery is often referred to as “robotic-assisted surgery,” and that’s for good reason. Without a skilled surgeon at the helm, a robotic surgical platform is just a sophisticated tool. The surgeon’s technique and expertise using the robot makes all the difference. With the da Vinci system, surgeons work inside a highly sophisticated, immersive console, remotely manipulating tiny instruments that have been inserted into the surgical area.
Robotic assisted surgery allows for incredible precision, resulting in faster recoveries, shorter hospital stays and enhanced results for patients. In this episode, we sit down with one of Community Memorial Health System’s pioneers in robotic surgery, Dr. Marc Beaghler, to discuss a brief history of robotics at Community Memorial Health System and the benefits of the da Vinci robotic surgery platform.
Robotic assisted surgery allows for incredible precision, resulting in faster recoveries, shorter hospital stays and enhanced results for patients. Join Dr. Sohrab Pahlavan, MD, with Community Memorial Health System’s Midtown Medical Group Specialty Clinic and Ventura Orthopedics, as he discusses more about the ExcelsiusGPS™ Robot for Spine Surgery, available at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura.
The national Blue Cross Blue Shield Association has selected Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura as a Blue Distinction Center+ for Spine Surgery, as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. Blue Distinction Centers® are nationally designated healthcare facilities that show a commitment to delivering high-quality patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures developed with input from the medical community and leading accreditation and quality organizations. Join Tom Parra, Director of Specialty Operations at CMH, as he sits down to discuss this recent major accomplishment, and what it means for spine surgery candidates.