Category: KevinMD

ECMO spotlight: Expanding access for improved survival rates

The recent coverage of ECMO by the Wall Street Journal has shone a spotlight on a therapy that, despite its decades-long existence, remains relatively obscure and underutilized. While the article thoughtfully delved into the ethical considerations surr…

Understanding the psychological impact of chest numbness after mastectomy [PODCAST]

Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! Join Kristen Casey, a clinical psychologist, as we delve into the emotional and psychological impact of chest numbness following mastectomy. Discover the importance of discussing this often…

Transforming the preoperative patient consultation: from “clearance” to “evaluation and optimization”

A guest column by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, exclusive to KevinMD. Put yourself in the anesthesiologist’s shoes. It’s 7:00 a.m., and you’ve just finished setting up the operating room (OR). You make your way to the pre…

Surviving an EHR upgrade

My practice is about to change to a new electronic health record, and I can’t help but feel dread. The last time we did this, it was so stressful. I really don’t want to go through it again. What do I do? How do I prepare? Here is what I&#8…

Addressing the health care crisis and global warming

The topic of the health care crisis has dominated the media in recent years and will likely continue to be of great interest. This issue must remain relevant. However, without united action, the health care crisis and burnout may end up like the topic …

Legacy of a #1 party school: college alcohol abuse today

In 2009, the famed NPR radio series This American Life aired an episode that would forever change how we looked at college life. “#1 Party School” featured Penn State University and shed light on the rampant alcohol abuse in higher educatio…

Medical and legal aspects of codeine cough syrup [PODCAST]

Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! Join us for an insightful podcast discussion with L. Joseph Parker, a research physician. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of promethazine with codeine cough syrup, its …

When medical protocol meets family concerns

An excerpt from 2060. Willis murmured, “Not again.” He approached his mother, who was lying in bed with an uneaten tray of food on the bedside table. A stream of drool collected on her gown as she slumped to the right. “Mom.” Wi…

The erosion of compassion in medicine

With my first thrust on his chest, I shattered his sternum, feeling his bones crumble in my hands. His eyes were wide open but lifeless. Dried secretions crusted his lips. His dusky skin tone indicated my efforts would be futile. Nonetheless, I proceed…

Why maternal mortality is on the rise [PODCAST]

Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! Join Alan Lindemann, an obstetrics-gynecology physician and the author of Pregnancy Your Way: Choose a Safe and Happy Birth. We’ll delve into the critical issue of rising maternal mor…