
The Podcast by KevinMD
Social media's leading physician voice, Kevin Pho, MD, shares the stories of the many who intersect with our health care system but are rarely heard from. 15 minutes a day. 7 days a week. Welcome to The Podcast by KevinMD.
Latest episodes

Jan 29, 2025 • 16min
Telepsychiatry’s role in a post-pandemic world: challenges and triumphs
Muhamad Aly Rifai shares his journey as an early advocate for telepsychiatry, highlighting its role in addressing the U.S. mental health crisis and providing access to care in underserved areas. He delves into the obstacles posed by outdated regulations, the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on telehealth adoption, and the ongoing battles with legal and administrative challenges. This episode unpacks the transformative power of telepsychiatry, its successes, and the urgent need for regulatory change. Muhamad Aly Rifai is a practicing internist and psychiatrist in the Greater Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. He is the CEO, chief psychiatrist and internist of Blue Mountain Psychiatry. He discusses the KevinMD article, "The rise and fall of telepsychiatry." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 28, 2025 • 21min
How artificial intelligence is transforming medicine
Janet A. Jokela discusses the profound impact of artificial intelligence in health care, exploring how AI is reshaping clinical decision-making, reducing physician burnout, and strengthening the patient-physician bond. She highlights the potential of AI to address health care inequities and ethical challenges, while also considering concerns about transparency, bias, and the future role of physicians. This conversation illuminates the balance between innovation and responsibility in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in medicine. Janet A. Jokela, MD, MPH, ACP’s Treasurer 2022-2025, served as the Regional Dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Urbana, and currently serves as Professor and Senior Associate Dean of Engagement at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, IL. She discusses the KevinMD article, "Navigating the world of artificial intelligence in health care." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 27, 2025 • 20min
When "do no harm" falls short: a pediatrician’s plea for long COVID care
Navigating the uncharted waters of long COVID in children, Elham Raker shares a deeply personal journey of advocating for her daughter’s health while questioning the medical system’s approach to chronic illness. This episode uncovers the challenges of limited resources, fragmented care, and the emotional toll on families. Together, we explore what it truly means to balance the principle of "do no harm" with the urgent need to act. Elham Raker is a pediatrician. She discusses the KevinMD article, "Doctors must rethink 'do no harm' to help children with long COVID." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 26, 2025 • 21min
From the waiting room to billing: How small changes improve patient care
Denise Reich shares powerful insights as a patient advocate, highlighting the importance of front desk staff, accessibility, accurate billing practices, and the impact of small changes on patient care. This episode dives into the disconnects between patient expectations and systemic practices and offers actionable steps to improve the overall patient experience. Denise Reich is a patient advocate. She discusses the KevinMD article, "4 hacks to improve patient experience in your practice." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 25, 2025 • 20min
What early retirement taught me about burnout and purpose
Susan Landers shares her heartfelt journey as a neonatologist navigating the challenges of burnout, the rewards of practicing medicine, and the complex emotions surrounding early retirement. From her intimate experiences in the NICU to rediscovering purpose through hobbies, writing, and grandparenting, Susan's story offers valuable insights for health care professionals and working parents alike. Join this reflective conversation about resilience, fulfillment, and finding meaning beyond the stethoscope. Susan Landers is a neonatologist. She discusses the KevinMD article, "Early retirement may not be the solution to your burnout." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 24, 2025 • 19min
How the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan transforms health care
Brian Whorley, a health care executive, dives into the groundbreaking Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (MPPP), exploring its potential to revolutionize medication adherence and patient outcomes. With 54 million beneficiaries eligible, this initiative promises to alleviate cost barriers, reduce hospital readmissions, and save billions annually. Join the conversation to learn how providers can play a pivotal role in ensuring patients benefit from this transformative program. Brian Whorley is a health care executive. He discusses the KevinMD article, "How the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan provides a practical solution to medication nonadherence." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 23, 2025 • 19min
How integrative medicine saved a family doctor
Jeffrey Gladd shares his transformative journey from burnout to a thriving career in integrative medicine. Discover how shifting from treating symptoms to addressing whole-person care changed his life and practice. From battling burnout and personal health struggles to embracing nutrition, mindfulness, and movement, Jeffrey offers insights into creating a healthier, more balanced life—for physicians and patients alike. This episode uncovers the practical strategies and mindset shifts that empower health care professionals to reclaim their passion and provide better care. Jeffrey Gladd is a family physician. He discusses the KevinMD article, "From burnout to breakthrough: Why treating yourself like a patient could save your medical career." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 22, 2025 • 18min
How to use biomarkers to boost your healthspan and longevity
In this episode, John Thomson Smith, a physician executive, explores the science of longevity and the critical role of healthspan in living a vibrant life. They discuss how tracking key biomarkers, such as VO2 max, heart rate variability, and telomere length, can empower individuals and clinicians to make data-driven decisions that enhance both daily vitality and long-term health. Whether you’re a health care professional or a patient seeking to optimize your well-being, this conversation offers actionable insights into the journey toward a thriving healthspan. John Thomson Smith is a physician executive. He discusses the KevinMD article, "Biomarkers: How to manage your body’s KPIs for longevity." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You’re not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 21, 2025 • 14min
How sleep affects your fertility and boosts reproductive success
We dive into the powerful connection between sleep and fertility with guest Oluyemisi Famuyiwa, a fertility specialist. Discover how sleep impacts reproductive hormones, gamete quality, and the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Learn actionable tips to improve sleep health, restore hormonal balance, and enhance fertility outcomes for both men and women. Oluyemisi (Yemi) Famuyiwa is a fertility specialist and founder, Montgomery Fertility Center. She discusses the KevinMD article, "The impact of sleep on fertility: Why rest matters for reproductive health." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. DAX Copilot, by Microsoft, is your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. DAX Copilot allows physicians to do more with less and turn their words into a powerful productivity tool. DAX Copilot automates clinical documentation—making it available in the EHR within minutes—and clinical workflows, including referral letters, after-visit summaries, style and formatting customizations, and more. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Discover AI-powered solutions for clinical documentation and workflows. Click here to see a 12-minute DAX Copilot demo. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

Jan 20, 2025 • 23min
How postmortem brain research is changing autism science
We explore the groundbreaking efforts to advance autism research through postmortem brain tissue donation with David G. Amaral, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences. Learn how brain donation provides unique insights into the biological causes of autism and its co-occurring conditions, and discover how families can play a pivotal role in transforming our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders. David G. Amaral is a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences. He discusses the KevinMD article, "Why talking to families of autistic individuals about brain donation is a priority." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. DAX Copilot, by Microsoft, is your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. DAX Copilot allows physicians to do more with less and turn their words into a powerful productivity tool. DAX Copilot automates clinical documentation—making it available in the EHR within minutes—and clinical workflows, including referral letters, after-visit summaries, style and formatting customizations, and more. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Discover AI-powered solutions for clinical documentation and workflows. Click here to see a 12-minute DAX Copilot demo. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus