Should Doctors Talk Politics With Their Patients

So, let’s talk about the reasons why your doctor struggles to sell you the promise of better health… Have you ever wondered why no matter what your doctor says, it doesn’t seem to stick and just goes in one ear and out the other? It’s not that they lack knowledge or expertise. For some reason, though, they really can’t seem to persuade you to do what they’re saying. Truth is, while doctors are trained to diagnose and treat, we’re not taught how to motivate patients to take charge of their health—a concern that’s been overlooked for far too long; a problem that the system has yet to fix. But if we don’t do something, it could lead to a growing disconnect, resulting in poorer health outcomes among many others. That’s why in this episode, we’ll uncover the reasons for this struggle and discuss how salesmanship and coaching enhance doctor-patient relationships and pave the way for better outcomes in health. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a patient, join us in yet another episode of Medicine Mondays and learn how we can make a difference. After all, transforming healthcare starts with changing how we communicate and connect. Why you need to check this episode: - Learn how training gaps affect a doctor’s skills in persuading patients to make healthy choices; - Understand why a patient needs a coach in their physician, hence the need for doctors to be great coaches as well; and - Discover tips you can use (if you’re a physician) to sell your patients on being healthy. “Patients need a coach in their physician.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “After about a decade of experience, I’ve realized that the reason why some doctors are able to get results where others just aren’t is that some doctors are much better at selling the aspect of being healthy than you are at the need to buy being healthy.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “You need to understand that your patients need a coach in their physician…because they need someone who will walk them down the path, explain [to] them what needs to be explained, [and] not necessarily be constrained by any time-related issues of why I can’t go into detail the way I need to go into detail.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “Doctors could be great doctors, but if they’re not great coaches, guess what? They’re going to have a hard time selling you their service, they’re going to have a hard time selling you your health, [and] they’re going to have a hard time selling you your health outcomes.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “Majority of doctors, especially the good ones, don’t really need 15 minutes to diagnose and treat. What they need is about 15 minutes to diagnose, treat, and then educate.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “If they have zero questions and they have zero objections, then they’re going to follow what they need to follow.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Mentions: Should You Fire Your Doctor Why Your Doctor Needs to be Your Health Coach Dr. Berry Pierre’s website Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

So, let's talk about the truth of penile enlargement—what men need to know and accept before considering it… Does a penile enlargement procedure add inches to a man’s penis, making it longer? — This is among many other questions that we’ll answer in this episode as we discuss sexual health awareness with a focus on penile enlargement procedures. From being an anesthesiologist to becoming a founder of a clinic specializing in penile enlargement, this week’s guest will shed light on the often-taboo topic of men’s sexual health. Here, we’ll talk about his transition, how penile enlargements work, and the importance of patient education in this practice. Also, we’ll discuss the risks, the benefits, and the post-procedure rules, among many other things. So, whether you’re just curious how a traditional anesthesiologist transitioned to running a specialized clinic for penile fillers or you want to learn about the nitty-gritty of penile enhancement, join us in this week’s episode of Medicine Mondays as we yet again discuss the importance of awareness and our sexual health. Guest’s bio: Dr. Joel Pash is an anesthesiologist by training who explored new fields outside traditional medicine when he founded The Upsize Clinic almost three years ago. Upsize is a series of clinics located across the United States and Europe dedicated to safe and effective male enhancement medical procedures. Dr. Pash is the medical director of their San Francisco location. Outside of work, Dr. Pash loves playing music and tennis while taking care of his child who is currently five years old. Why you need to check this episode: - Learn the hard truth about penile enlargement and discover how it works; - Understand the penile enlargement procedure’s risks, benefits, and longevity of results; and - Recognize the importance of patient education, especially in the practice of penile enlargement procedures. “You should definitely go to the emergency room if you have an erection that doesn’t go away. Otherwise, you can lose your penis, [and] losing penis is bad; I think we can all agree on that.” – Dr. Joel Pash Notable Quotes: “A lot of doctors, because they still work in the hospital and the operating room, are kind of set on the fact that they’re a doctor—that that’s what they’re trained how to do and that’s what they have to do. So, the thought of moving out of that never even crosses their mind, or if does cross their mind, it’s like, ‘Well, that’s impossible. I’m a surgeon; that’s what I have to do.’ It’s like they’re seeing a very narrow view of what is possible to do as a doctor.” – Dr. Joel Pash “I don’t think you need any degree to run a business. You don’t need a business degree to run a business. It’s a skill.” – Dr. Joel Pash “As long as people understand what it is that they’re going to get, they’re almost 100% happy.” – Dr. Joel Pash “Sometimes, the textbook is not exact, and everyone’s anatomy is a little different.” – Dr. Joel Pash Mentions: Upsize Urosculpt Connect with Dr. Joel Pash: Website (Upsize) Website (Urosculpt) Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

So, let’s talk about sexual health awareness and its importance in our overall well-being… How comfortable are you talking about sexual health with your family or friends? September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, and we’re back with yet another episode to encourage ongoing and inclusive discussions about this health concern. In today’s podcast, we will discuss why this month is important, and when this month goes away, what do we do, moving forward. We’re going to highlight the importance of education, open conversations, and reducing stigma surrounding sexual health, and also cover why men often hesitate to discuss sexual health issues, and how sexual health isn’t just about avoiding diseases, but more about the physical and emotional well-being of oneself. Although widely considered a taboo subject, join me as we foster healthy discussions, reduce stigma, and empower each other toward better sexual health. Together, let's break the silence, embrace the conversation, and prioritize our sexual health. Why you need to check this episode: Discover why sexual health awareness is important, as well as the Sexual Health Awareness Month; Recognize the need for open conversations about sexual health, be that with children or adults; Learn why men often hesitate to discuss sexual health issues; and Understand the importance of advocating for accessible sexual health education for all demographics and utilizing Sexual Health Awareness Month for education and awareness beyond just September “It’s so extremely important that we understand that the access to this information be available to as many people, and it doesn’t matter their age, their gender, and their orientation. Good sexual health education is important for everyone because everyone benefits from it. There’s no point to be gatekeeping this type of information.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “If you can’t have them [sexual health conversations] with the kids, you’re definitely not having them with the adults.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “It does sound comical, and I say it, but I’m very serious on the amounts of relationships that suffer because just having the conversation doesn’t occur.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Mentions: American Sexual Health Association Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

So, let's talk about career pivots and the value of continuous education and training with Dr. Sharon Smith... Unlike many who enter medicine unsure of the path they’re going to take, today’s guest knew from the start that she wanted to be an obstetrician-gynecologist. Even when people around her tried to invite her to do something else, she didn’t falter and continued with what she wanted to do. But then, the pandemic came, a.k.a. one of the toughest times in medicine. And with the extreme burnout and having to deal with the pain of losing her father, she knew she needed to make a change. And so, she did. She pursued aesthetics and served in locum tenens of obstetrics and gynecology. This shift later changed her life for the better, helping her achieve work-life balance and better self-care. So, if you’re curious about how she was able to take the leap, or if you just want to learn about aesthetic medicine and procedures associated with it, tune in and join us as we talk about her story. Guest’s bio: Dr. Sharon Smith is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist with over 15 years of experience and has always had a strong interest in the beauty industry. This later on led her to transition to aesthetic medicine after realizing the need to pivot, especially after the pandemic. She’s currently serving as a part-time obstetrician and gynecologist while working full-time on her aesthetic and obesity medicine practice. Why you need to check this episode: Discover the work obstetrician-gynecologists and aesthetic physicians do; Recognize the importance of continuous education and training to achieve excellence in what you do; Understand the significance of building strong and nurturing relationships with patients; and Learn about aesthetic procedures while learning what the terms “OB Deserts”, “Platelet Rich Plasma” (PRP), and O-Shot mean “For you to become proficient and skilled at what you do, you have to put training upfront, and you have to know that you’re going to train and train again and update yourself and learn new techniques and hone your craft. That’s the only way you’re going to get good and become excellent at what you do.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “Just the awareness itself of what can happen and how I’d have to handle it, to me, [it] gives me an edge.” – Dr. Sharon Smith “It’s been good. Even transitioning to locums and growing my aesthetic practice, it’s been great. I sleep more now, I have more time for self-care, I’m not running on empty, I’m not missing out on much.” – Dr. Sharon Smith Mentions: Leading Ladies Lounge (Dr. Smith’s podcast) The Medical Collective (podcast collaboration with other physicians) Connect with Dr. Sharon Smith: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

In today’s episode of Real Physician Reacts, we’re discussing the alarming listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meats. With nine reported deaths and over 50 illnesses across 18 states, this is a public health concern that demands attention. I’m Dr. Berry Pierre, and we’ll explore the details of the outbreak, the role of the CDC, and what you need to do to protect yourself. Episode Summary: This episode covers the serious listeria outbreak that has resulted in nine deaths and numerous illnesses across the United States. We discuss how the CDC has identified Boar’s Head deli meats as the source, leading to the recall of 7 million pounds of products. The discussion emphasizes the importance of taking food safety warnings seriously and the need to respect public health guidelines to prevent further incidents. Key Takeaways: Listeria Outbreak: The Boar’s Head listeria outbreak has caused nine deaths and affected 18 states, highlighting the severity of foodborne illnesses. CDC’s Role: The CDC has played a critical role in identifying the source and ensuring that contaminated products are recalled. Food Safety: It’s crucial to heed warnings about food contamination and take proactive steps to protect your health, including checking your fridge for recalled products. Quotes: “You can’t pick and choose when to follow the CDC. When they say don’t eat that salad, don’t eat that meat, people fall in line very quickly.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “Listeria is one of those bugs that will stay around. It will stay around on those meat slices, it will stay around in your refrigerator.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “If you bought any meats in the past month, month and a half, go all the way to July, check your refrigerator today.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Links: CDC: Listeria Outbreak Deli Meat Death Toll CDC: Signs and Symptoms of Listeria Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family

So, let’s talk about the comments people left on our “Are COVID Cases Rising Again?” video… I haven’t talked much about COVID-19 this year, because aside from the fact that there are other things we need to discuss, I also know people are trying to move on from talking about it. However, in one of our recent episodes where we discussed the rise in cases once again, we received comments mostly about virus and vaccine fallacies. I don’t know where they get their information, but it’s hilarious how those who seem to really disdain COVID-19 like following me and commenting on my content. So today, we’re going to bring a little bit of comedic relief to our channel by giving a bit of shine on them. We’re still going to talk about COVID-19, but we’re going to make it a little bit light, a little educational, but also kind of poking back. So, join me as we give a shout-out and debunk misconceptions our anti-vax people have always had. Why you need to check this episode: Discover the most common misconceptions about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines, as seen through comments people left on this channel; Recognize the importance of preventive health measures, such as being vaccinated and wearing masks, especially for those who are in high-risk industries; and Understand how humor can be used in health education “I haven’t talked about COVID much this year, only because [there are] things to talk about and I know people are trying to move on. But what I found interesting with this video and with the comments is that we may have to add COVID [discussions] once a month or something, because we get comments like this which let us know that the education still needs to be had.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “You got to understand where their mindset is. They don’t believe COVID is real. They don’t believe COVID-19 is significant. So, they don’t even understand why a hairstylist would want to even protect themselves from it.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “I know it may seem like I don’t like my anti-vaxxers, but again, education is education, right? So, if I got to educate someone, I’m educating them regardless of how they come at me.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “COVID cases are rising. We need to protect ourselves and to do well protecting ourselves. We got to mask up. We got to social distance. We got to wash our hands [and] hit that hand sanitizer. And more importantly, you got to get the booster.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Mentions: Are COVID Cases Rising Again? Dr. Berry Pierre’s TikTok account Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

In this episode of Real Physician Reacts, we’re discussing the recent news about Danielle Fishel, known to many as Topanga from Boy Meets World, who has been diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer. I’m Dr. Berry Pierre, and today we’ll explore the significance of early detection, what stage zero breast cancer means, and why regular screenings are crucial for saving lives. Episode Summary: This episode covers the emotional and educational aspects of Danielle Fishel’s breast cancer diagnosis. We talk about the importance of routine mammograms, how early detection at stage zero can significantly impact treatment options and outcomes, and the broader implications of breast cancer awareness. This discussion also highlights the role of medical technology in early detection and the importance of advocating for your own health. Key Takeaways: Early Detection Saves Lives: Danielle Fishel’s diagnosis at stage zero underscores the importance of routine mammograms and catching cancer early. Medical Technology: Advances in medical technology, such as mammograms, play a vital role in detecting breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Health Advocacy: It’s crucial to stay on top of routine health screenings and advocate for yourself to ensure timely detection and treatment. Quotes: "When we hear the word cancer, we only think of the end result—dire, you know, the most bad result that we can think of." – Dr. Berry Pierre "Shout out to medical technology—saves another life. We get a shout out to medical technology. I think a lot of times, especially with this day and age, where we got handheld devices that can send faxes and edit pictures and videos... A lot of times people don't think about the medical technological advances that are in medicine." – Dr. Berry Pierre "The second your doctor says the C word—cancer—everything else after that don't really mean a hill of beans." – Dr. Berry Pierre Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family

So, let’s talk about why COVID-19 and the flu are NOT the same thing… A couple of weeks ago, in our “Are COVID Cases Rising Again?” episode, we discussed the rise in COVID-19 cases amid the summertime surge. Unfortunately, while it was well-received, a lot of the comments were very similar to what it was like in 2021 to 2022. As cases rise again, some people still think that COVID-19 and the flu are the same thing. But they are NOT, and a lot of numbers show that. While they are both respiratory diseases with some similarities in transmission and symptoms, COVID-19 is significantly more contagious and deadly than the flu. In a four-year stretch alone (2020-2024), more people have died from COVID-19 than the amount of people who have died from the flu since it first began (1800s-present). So, join me in this episode as we discuss the similarities, but more importantly—the differences between the two. Together, let’s stop pressing on any discussion that tries to put COVID-19 in the same bucket as the flu. Why you need to check this episode: Learn about the similarities, but more importantly, the differences between COVID-19 and the flu; Discover why people often think that COVID-19 and the flu are the same thing; Find out why COVID-19 is considered more severe than the flu, especially considering the contagiousness and duration of the disease; and Recognize the importance of educating oneself and not continuing to be uninformed when the information is just right here for you “Is COVID-19 and the flu the same thing? Absolutely not. Are there some similarities? Yes. There are some similarities with how they’re transmitted; not the rate, but how they’re transmitted. There are some similarities with some of the symptoms you may develop when it first hits you. There are some similarities when we talk about some of the complications that can occur if you get COVID or flu. There are some similarities when we talk about how we prevent it. But after that, the detour occurs. The hospitalizations, the rate of transmissions, deaths, the types of viruses that cause it, some of the complications—the detour is there. Don’t let anyone tell you again that COVID-19 and the flu are the same thing and that we should act as if COVID-19 and the flu are the same thing.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “COVID has always been more transmissible than the flu…This is the reason why you can have a million cases in one week with COVID; whereas on the flu, on a bad year, may average about half a million or a little bit above that for the whole year…You can get a million cases in one week with COVID [but] you’re not getting a million cases in one week with the flu; it just doesn’t happen. And why is that? The rate of transmission is almost 10-100x more in COVID than it is in the flu.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “The rate of deaths associated with COVID is 1% to 2%...[while] the flu can get—with the rate of contagion and everything else from a fatality perspective—0.1%... In fact, more people died from COVID in the three to four-year stretch that we started counting COVID than the amount of people who have died since the initiation of the flu.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “When you hear people say COVID-19 and the flu are the same thing, they are not being truthful or they’re just not knowledgeable. It’s either or.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Mentions: Are COVID Cases Rising Again? Noah Lyles Wins Bronze While Battling COVID-19 Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify

In today’s episode of Real Physician Reacts, we’re diving into the recent resurgence of Monkeypox, specifically the first reported case of the new strain in Sweden. This development has prompted the World Health Organization (W.H.O.) to declare a global health emergency. I’m Dr. Berry Pierre, and we’ll explore why this disease is back in the spotlight, what makes this new strain more concerning, and what you need to know to stay informed. Episode Summary: This episode highlights the re-emergence of Monkeypox, focusing on the recent case in Sweden. The new strain, known as clade 1, is more transmissible and lethal than previous versions. With a higher fatality rate and the ability to spread more easily, this strain has raised significant concerns on a global scale. We discuss the importance of staying informed about these developments, particularly as the world continues to grapple with various health challenges. Key Takeaways: Monkeypox in Sweden: The first reported case of the clade 1 strain outside of Africa marks a significant global health concern. Clade 1 Strain: This strain is more dangerous due to its higher transmission rate and increased fatality. Global Vigilance: Staying informed about these developments is essential to understanding the potential risks and impacts. Quotes: "When W.H.O. declares this emergency, you best believe that we need to kind of keep an eye because, you know, remember where this is? Summertime, right? Where everyone's outside, everyone's traveling, everyone's doing them, and the world is a lot smaller than we may think." – Dr. Berry Pierre "This strain that we're talking about now, clade 1, is more transmissible, which means more cases can be spread because of the disease. And it’s also more virulent, meaning the fatality rate is higher." – Dr. Berry Pierre "We just need to say all right, especially if you're in the United States, we just have to think like, okay, we just need to keep an eye on this. We should keep an eye on this." – Dr. Berry Pierre Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family

So, let’s talk about the importance of doctors talking about politics with their patients… If you’ve been following me, especially on social media, you’ll know that there’s typically no topic that I run away from, especially when I know that it affects my patients. And you best believe that politics has always been one. Because I know—and there’s so much history to show—that decisions made in politics affect the patients I’m taking care of right now, not only for today but for the decades to come. That’s why it blows my mind when a physician says “Politics is not my thing”, especially while speaking to a patient. As physicians, there's so much power in our expertise that can help empower people to make informed decisions that can curve the connection between politics and healthcare into a more positive path. While I understand that some physicians avoid politics due to fear of conflict, in this episode, I'll discuss why it's important that doctors do not shy away from political discussions nor act apolitical in front of their patients. Just like what the model says—empower yourself for better health. As the election period comes close, let us understand the possible implications of the choices we're going to make. Why you need to check this episode: Recognize the role physicians play in empowering people to make informed decisions, especially those concerning their health; Discover why some doctors avoid political discussions; Understand how politics affect patients and the overall system of healthcare; and Find out why an open dialogue about politics is a discussion important for doctors and patients to have. “I’m not asking you to learn every single bit of platform a candidate may have, but I am asking you to figure out from a health care perspective… ‘how does this help me?’ From a health care perspective, ‘how does this hurt me?’… ‘How does it help my patient?’… ‘How does it hurt my patient?’ You should know that. Like, if you don’t know anything else, you should know that.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Notable Quotes: “Politics has always been one that I know that I have to be aware of, because I know that decisions that are made outside of my walls can directly affect the patients I’m taking care of in front of me.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “I believe if medical schools trained you for it, if medical schools said, ‘We need you guys to be a little bit more politically involved and understand how the politics around you can have direct and indirect effects on the patient you have to take care of, I’m pretty sure you’d have a new school of doctors who are okay doing it.” – Dr. Berry Pierre “You can’t act apolitical.” – Dr. Berry Pierre Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com  to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify