Category: KevinMD

Everyday dangers unknowingly impacting our health

When we think of symptoms or ailments, they are often a signal to us that there’s something off with our health. Yet, many of us, as well as doctors, often don’t think so much outside the traditional box when it comes to what may be influen…

A shop teacher’s daughter on transforming patient safety

Just a few weeks ago, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) issued a report, “A Transformational Effort on Patient Safety.” This was both a “surprise” and “not a surprise” to me …

What happened to the chemical pathologist?

During my early years as a pediatric hospitalist in the U.K. during the ’80s, a figure that loomed large was the chemical pathologist (CP). The CP was the guardian of the laboratory, and every hospital had one. This fearsome beast was approached …

Utilizing AI may reduce maternal and infant mortality

The United States health care system is in the midst of a crisis. Despite being among the richest nations in the world, it consistently ranks among the lowest for maternal health outcomes—and that’s before you begin digging into the health disparities …

Unraveling the complex enigma of obesity [PODCAST]

Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! We sit down with Franchell Hamilton, a bariatric surgeon, to explore the intriguing link between genetics, brain function, and obesity. She shares her insights into why many patients don&#8…

Second chances and simple beauty in thrift stores

I like to thrift shop. Aisle after aisle weaves a story of people and their lives. Pieces of trinkets I’ll never need. But I can feel the hidden simple beauty, and then I have to have it. My children can line my gravesite with the thousands of co…

How to facilitate caregiver learning and support to improve clinical care outcomes

Caregivers are arguably the most important members of a patient’s care team, with more touchpoints and access to a patient and their lifestyle than any provider or specialist. With approximately 43.5 million caregivers in the U.S., 40 percent are…

Air quality alert: Reducing our carbon footprint in health care

A guest column by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, exclusive to KevinMD. Do no harm. We learn this throughout our medical education and training, and in practice it is a keystone for clinical decision making. This principle continues to inspi…

Exploring HIV care and advocacy [PODCAST]

Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! Join George Kerr, III, a community health advocate. We delve into the complex world of HIV management, especially among aging individuals. George brings his expertise to the table, discussi…

A teenager’s perspective: the pressing need for mental health days in schools

Mental health in children and teens is worsening, and there are not enough providers to support them. This is a cause for significant concern. As a teenager who has experienced firsthand the challenges of maintaining positive mental health amidst a dem…