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Sarasota Memorial HealthCasts

158 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratings

Get expert health and wellness tips, discover the latest medical advances and learn about the health issues impacting our community with HealthCasts podcast, featuring Sarasota Memorial’s award-winning physicians and experienced healthcare professionals. Subscribe, so you never miss an episode, or watch the video versions on our YouTube channel, @SMHCS.

Sarasota Memorial is one of the largest public health systems in Florida. Its flagship 897-bed hospital in Sarasota, Fla., has been consistently ranked among the highest performing hospitals in multiple specialties by U.S. News & World Report. Our SMH-Venice campus features 178 private rooms. Our podcasts are for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Please consult your physician about any personal health concerns.

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Episodes

Rethinking holiday stress

November 22, 2018 15:00 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MB

There are many ways to help reduce stress during the holidays - including delegation, changing expectations and making time for yourself. Listen in to find out where these stresses come from and a few more tips.

Beating The Holiday Blues

November 15, 2018 16:14 - 8 minutes - 8.16 MB

Visiting & celebrating is on the menu for many people at this time of year - but what if you aren't in the spirit of he holidays? Maybe you are feeling blue - or depressed? Listen in.

Ask an Expert - Stroke Recovery

November 08, 2018 15:58 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MB

Learn what to look for in inpatient stroke rehab, what can be expected & what the latest advancements in stroke rehab are in this recorded "Ask An Expert" Q&A.

Red Tide and its affects on health

November 01, 2018 20:15 - 2 minutes - 2.19 MB

Red Tide is a big topic right now, especially in Southwest Florida. But what exactly are red tide's health effects? Should we skip the beach during red-tide blooms? SMH Pulmonary Disease specialist Dr. Kirk Voelker explains.

Pill & procedure free ways to reduce back pain

October 25, 2018 15:11 - 7 minutes - 6.57 MB

In a nutshell, a healthy lifestyle. But in reality, they all add into the formula. Eating well, which provides nutrients for bone health; regular exercise to reduce the weight stress on the joints; and not smoking (yes - that affects your bones!). Listen & learn more.

Are you the ideal pain relief candidate?

October 18, 2018 13:36 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MB

Indirect Posterior Spinal Decompression, a new procedure performed by Sarasota Memorial's Dr. Eugene Pereira, may help you. Once a detailed discussion & review of your specific situation is done, you may be a candidate. One of the benefits? It's covered by Medicare. Listen for more benefits.

Leg pain? A new procedure can help provide immediate help.

October 11, 2018 12:52 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MB

The procedure, called Indirect Posterior Spinal Decompression, can help alleviate insufficient blood flow that starts in the lower back. The minimally-invasive (small incision) procedure is done in one appointment... and can provide immediate relief. Listen & learn more!

A new procedure can help reduce back pain

October 04, 2018 20:41 - 9 minutes - 8.8 MB

Back pain is the number 1 reason why people go to a pain specialist. Ailments like spinal slippage or curvature are treated with certain procedures. In the case of spinal compression, a new treatment called indirect posterior spinal decompression. Listen & learn more!

Seniors - staying safe when driving

September 27, 2018 14:24 - 10 minutes - 9.25 MB

When we get older, our vision deteriorate, joints get stiffer and reaction time is reduced. When it comes to driving, these can negatively affect one's ability to drive. SMH offers a driver assessment and re-education program that helps people remain independent, but keep others safe.

Warning signs of Dementia and some tips to perhaps prevent it

September 20, 2018 17:33 - 10 minutes - 9.46 MB

With the many types dementia - such as early dementia, Alzheimer's dementia & Parkinson's dementia - it can be hard to know if you or a loved one is affected. There are early warning signs like confusion, getting lost in familiar places or difficulty following instructions. Listen for more signs, and some tips to keep the brain healthy and perhaps keep dementia at bay.

Osteoarthritis and what you can do to manage the pain

September 13, 2018 18:32 - 9 minutes - 9.08 MB

There are many therapies that can help with the treatment of osteoarthritis, but a pill isn't the be all and end all. Aside from steroid injections, physical therapy can be prescribed that can include stretching, water programs and even weight loss. Listen to find out how to help prevent osteoarthritis.

What happens when you visit a Pain Management Doctor

September 06, 2018 17:33 - 7 minutes - 7.14 MB

When visiting a Pain Management Doctor, a medical history and imaging will become part of the story that will help diagnose the best treatment for pain. In the case of Osteoarthritis, non-prescription solutions like losing weight, diet change and exercise can help relieve pain before any medication enters the equation.

Common ways arthritis affects the joints

August 30, 2018 13:32 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

Osteoarthritis is the gradual wearing away of the cartilage between the joints. From the back, to the hips & knees, to the foot; arthritis affects the joints in different ways. Learn more!

The types of arthritis and the most common: osteoarthritis on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi

August 16, 2018 15:06 - 5 minutes - 4.81 MB

There are several types of arthritis , which is inflammation of the joints. The most common, osteoarthritis, which afflicts 1 in 4 people in the US, is the breakdown of the cartilage of the joints. Learn more about the new  studies that offer information on the causes of arthritis.

A detailed discussion on conditions requiring an anticoagulation clinic – WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

August 09, 2018 17:56 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MB

When a clot forms in the body, whether in the lower extremities or in the brain, medications available at an anticoagulation clinic are often prescribed. Learn more through a detailed discussion on types & symptoms, and how the care is individualized for each person.

What are blood thinners and what do they do on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

August 02, 2018 15:21 - 9 minutes - 8.31 MB

Blood thinners – or anticoagulants – are medications that help keep blood flowing properly for people who’ve had strokes or blood clotting issues . SMH has 7 conveniently located anticoagulation clinics to help patients manage these medications.

Deep Vein Thrombosis, Genetic Clotting and other reasons you may need an anticoagulation clinic WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

July 26, 2018 17:17 - 9 minutes - 8.41 MB

People who are immobile for long periods of time, victims of a stroke or cancer patients are some of the more typical people who would use an anticoagulation clinic. Listen to find out some symptoms of these conditions, what medications options are available and what you can do to help.

Why you need to go to a clinic to manage anticoagulants on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

July 19, 2018 12:55 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MB

When administering anticaogulants like Wafarin, it is critical that they are kept within the correct therapeutic range. Clinics like SMH’s are staffed by experts that can help patients monitor the doses.

Getting comfortable with a new pediatrician – on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

July 05, 2018 13:49 - 6 minutes - 5.78 MB

Whether you are in your third trimester or you have just moved into the area, meeting a pediatrician is always recommended. It also gives you an opportunity to get to know them,  and how they will become part of your family.

The difference between a cold, flu and a sinus infection on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

June 28, 2018 13:51 - 14 minutes - 13 MB

Congestion that comes with a cold can sometimes lead to a sinus infection. Is it a viral or bacterial infection? How you can tell the difference and how you can help.

Dispelling the myths about the Flu vaccine with Dr. Tavarez on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

June 21, 2018 14:16 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

The flu vaccine is so important – especially for kids. Will you get the flu if you take the vaccine? Is the vaccine live flu? Is it the flu or a cold? Listen to Dr. Tavarez, Pediatrician, clear up some of the confusion.

Dr. Jose Tavarez, Pediatrician joins First Physicians Group – on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

June 15, 2018 16:51 - 10 minutes - 9.75 MB

Originally from the Dominican Republic, Dr. Tavarez will replace the longtime Sarasota – and retiring – Dr. Bob Shamsy. He offers all of the same, high-caliber and attentive care in pediatrics. He also speaks Spanish. Find out more about him!

Types of summer time hazards to be aware of on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

June 07, 2018 13:38 - 10 minutes - 9.82 MB

During the summer, there are hazards associated with being out having fun. Apart from the always needed sun screen, there are other tips to avoid more uncommon pains like a skate sting.

What is heat stroke and how to avoid it on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

May 31, 2018 13:34 - 10 minutes - 9.57 MB

During the summer, people tend to spend many more hours outside. Sweating will not only removes water from your body, it also removes electrolytes. Keeping hydrated will help you avoid heat exhaustion and the more severe heat stroke. What types of liquids should you drink? Listen in!

Heat-related health issues on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

May 24, 2018 17:56 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MB

When the body dissipates heat (sweating), your body’s fluid levels drop. If you don’t properly hydrate, serious health risks can appear. Listen in on how it can transform from mild side effects all the way to serious ones like a stroke.

Summer time mishaps and where you should go on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

May 17, 2018 13:00 - 9 minutes - 9.09 MB

Summer is almost here, and when something happens – heat stroke, sprain or sever sun burn – you can visit one of SMH’s Urgent Care Centers. If you are showing signs of a stroke or heart attack or other serious medical event, one of the two emergency rooms is where you should go.

The nurse residency program in a nutshell on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

May 10, 2018 17:36 - 8 minutes - 7.74 MB

The 14 month program for newly licensed program was recently accredited. And when the newly hired nurse is assigned to one of the three designated residency unit, their journey begins. Listen in to find out what happens.

Wide array of clinical programs supporting SMH on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

May 03, 2018 17:39 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MB

Apart from the Nurse Residency program that is active at SMH, there are many others including the geriatric-centered “Niche”, Vascular Access, Acute Pain and behavioral health just to name a few. Sarasota Memorial is blessed by having a breadth of clinical support teams.

How do you get into the nurse residency program? On WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

April 26, 2018 12:42 - 12 minutes - 11.8 MB

The SMH nurse residency program earns national recognition from the ANCC (American Nurse Credentialing Center). Listen to hear about a story of one RN nearing the end of her nurse residency program.

What is a Nurse resident? WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

April 19, 2018 18:37 - 9 minutes - 8.48 MB

SMH’s Jackie Garabito, Manager, Clinical Programs, talks about what a Nurse resident is, what it takes to go through the support levels and what it does to a Nurse’s confidence. Accountability and dedication are essential ingredients to become a nurse resident.

New procedure to treat chronic pain on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

April 12, 2018 13:04 - 11 minutes - 10.3 MB

Dr. Eugene Pereira discuses a new, advanced procedure that can help treat chronic pain for the long term. A simplified analogy? It like placing a wedge between vertebra to keep the nerve openings stable.

Opioids and how to treat chronic pain on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

April 06, 2018 12:54 - 9 minutes - 8.47 MB

Opioids, while effective, have side effects that have lead them to be prescribed more carefully. Better understanding  of how the body becomes used to them has helped to discover new techniques in treating chronic pain.

Types of pain and how it affects your body on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

March 29, 2018 12:53 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MB

Ageing is a natural process and that will inevitably lead to pain. However, other types of pain can be due to other factors. Listen to find out how OTC pain relievers affect your health – and for other options.

The evolution of Pain Management on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

March 22, 2018 17:59 - 8 minutes - 7.65 MB

Dr. Eugene Pereira – Director of SMH’s Pain Management Program, talks about how pain care transformed into pain management. New methods are more scientific in approach. Listen in to find out more.

Engaging with young minds to learn about a nursing career – On WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

March 15, 2018 13:29 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

Nursing is about giving – care, hope and time – to patients and visitors. But what SMH’s outreach nursing team shows the young people in the community – especially high schools students – that they can give back.

Being a nurse at SMH on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

March 08, 2018 14:18 - 9 minutes - 9.12 MB

Being a Magnet designated hospital, SMH has been recognized as one of the best in the country for quality of care. A preceptor (mentor) is assigned to new nurses for the first 14 months. And for experienced nurses, there are multiple options for continued growth.

The Rewarding Work of Being a Nurse on Health Check with Heidi Godman

March 01, 2018 18:54 - 8 minutes - 7.67 MB

People are living longer, and as the number of patients increases, nursing staff is stretched thinner. Even with those challenges, there are many rewarding perks being a nurse. Listen in!

Nursing Shortage on Health Check with Heidi Godman

February 22, 2018 18:02 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MB

A nursing shortage exists not only in Florida, but also at a national level.  Various reasons exist, including school capacity and nursing educators availability. Listen in on how SMH is being proactive.

Internal Medicine Practice for the Newtown Community – on Health Check with Heidi Godman

February 15, 2018 18:17 - 10 minutes - 9.53 MB

The underserved population of the Newtown area of northern Sarasota, due to the distance from Sarasota Memorial’s network of services, will now have access to local health care. Sarasota Memorial Internal Medicine – Newtown is a group physician practice that will offer comprehensive, coordinated care and accessible services to patients over the age of 18.

Florida State University’s College of Internal Medicine Residents – on Health Check with Heidi Godman

February 08, 2018 15:34 - 10 minutes - 9.53 MB

With their 4 years of training at Florida State University’s College of Medicine completed, 13 internal medicine residents have been matched to Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s new graduate medical education program. Listen in to find out exactly what being a “Resident” means.

SMH Wayfinder App is Powered by the Earth – WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

January 25, 2018 18:57 - 9 minutes - 8.49 MB

Using a recording of the Earth’s geomagnetic field fingerprint throughout the entire hospital, the SMH Wayfinder app will show you where you are at any given moment. If you need to get somewhere, simply look-up the destination, select it and the app will provide the walking directions – turn by turn – in a GPS-like, blue dot experience.

A smartphone app to help improve patient & visitor experience on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

January 18, 2018 16:22 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

The SMH Wayfinder app is a new option to help patients and visitors get to where they need to go. From a patient room to the cafeteria, this app gives turn-by-turn guidance inside the main campus building. It uses leading edge technology called geomagnetic positioning.

What to do with genetic test results? On WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

December 15, 2017 14:00 - 9 minutes - 8.36 MB

Whether it’s a predisposition to cancers or another type of disease, genetic tests simply show the potential hidden within your genes. Depending on the results, therapies can be developed to help prevent development by early detection.

Who is a candidate for genetic testing on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

December 07, 2017 16:00 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

Many people seek a genetic test for the benefit of their family members, or even their children. Family history, depending on your mother or grandmother’s genetic history can drive that decisions. Listen in on how to prepare properly.

Genetic Testing and Why on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

November 30, 2017 18:53 - 14 minutes - 12.9 MB

Pregnant women, or people with heart disease or cancer in their family are some examples of people who could benefit from genetic testing. Answering questions about future ailments or discovering unknown genes are sometimes the outcomes.

What role does a Genetic Counselor play in a cancer patient’s journey? on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

November 17, 2017 16:06 - 7 minutes - 7.29 MB

As part of SMH’s Ocology Genetics program, Nicole Wood,  Certified Genetic Counselor is able to teach and offer medical help to cancer patients.  Recently, the Education portion of the program has been expanded to better serve patients suffering from Cancer.

Using interactive experiences in the Pavilion to assist in rehabilitation on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

November 09, 2017 18:17 - 8 minutes - 7.94 MB

From a hydraulic car for mobility training to a full furnished condo which helps people regain functionality their home – the Rehabilitation Pavilion has it all. Oh… and a full size grocery store!

The Ekso Skeleton – Available to Help Patients Recover at the Rehabilitation Pavilion on WSRQ’s Health Check with Heidi Godman

November 02, 2017 18:36 - 9 minutes - 8.97 MB

The clinical care offered in the Rehabilitation Pavilion is truly out of this world. Not only does that apply to the team of people, but also to the technology. Task-driven tools like the Ekso Skeleton and the Vector Track are truly state-of-the-art.

Part 1 of Tips for a Safe and Happy Halloween on Health Check with Heidi Godman on WSRQ

October 26, 2017 18:13 - 21 minutes - 19.8 MB

From carving a pumpkin to the big event, kids (and adults) need to be aware of some the most common injuries that can happen. Listen in for tips to have a safe and happy Halloween.

What’s Inside the Rehabilitation Pavilion on Health Check with Heidi Godman on WSRQ

October 19, 2017 17:55 - 11 minutes - 10.4 MB

From the Mobility Garden to the state-of-the-art gyms, the new Rehabilitation Pavilion offers services for all types of patients. It has been designed to help patients regain their independence following strokes, brain tumors, brain injuries, broken bones, spinal fractures, amputation, surgery and trauma-related injuries.

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