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The Cure

The Cure

By The Cure Podcast

A podcast focused on delivering up to date information in a practical and easily digestible format and hosted by a team of hospital medicine physicians based out of Dartmouth Health.

Have questions for us? Shoot us an email at thecure@hitchcock.org!
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Episode 5.5 - COVID-19 Vaccination in Cancer Patients

The CureFeb 01, 2021

00:00
17:56
Mind the Sugars: Steroid Induced Hyperglycemia

Mind the Sugars: Steroid Induced Hyperglycemia

In this episode, we'll explore the delicate balance of utilizing steroids for treatment while navigating the potential side effect of hyperglycemia. Our conversation pivots on understanding the mechanisms behind steroid induced hyperglycemia, emphasizing the importance of early detection, and effective management strategies. Our goal is to equip you with valuable insights and practical tips that would contribute to improved quality of health care delivery. Listen now and be part of this vital conversation.

Mar 23, 202413:10
Episode 35 The Heart of Health: Exploring the Cardiovascular Benefits of GLP1 Receptor Agonists

Episode 35 The Heart of Health: Exploring the Cardiovascular Benefits of GLP1 Receptor Agonists

Some studies have suggested that GLP-1 receptor agonists might offer direct cardiovascular benefits beyond those associated with weight loss, blood pressure reduction, improved lipid profiles, and glycemic control. These include potential protective effects on the heart and vascular system, such as improved endothelial function, reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation, and decreased myocardial stress.


It is important for healthcare providers to consider the individual patient's health profile, including the presence of cardiovascular disease or risk factors, when prescribing these medication. Listen in to learn more.

Mar 09, 202423:07
The Promise Partnership: A Co-production Learning Health System

The Promise Partnership: A Co-production Learning Health System

Co-production in healthcare refers to an approach where patients, their families, and healthcare providers work together as partners to design, manage, and deliver health services. A learning health system is a framework in which which data and experience are systematically integrated to improve health outcomes.

When these two concepts are combined into a co-production learning health system, it suggests a model of healthcare where patients and providers co-create the healthcare experience while continuously learning and adpating based on data and outcomes. Listen in to learn more.

Feb 28, 202426:17
Calderwood Considers: Employee Engagement

Calderwood Considers: Employee Engagement

An engaged workforce leads to improved patient outcomes, lower instances of medical errors, and higher patient satisfaction scores. It acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence in patient care.


In this episode, we explore the world of employee enagagement, its paramount importance, and its undeniable correlation with the quality of care and patient safety. We discuss how engaged employees are the key drivers in creating a positive and supportive work environment, leading to reduced turnover rates, enhanced team collaboration, and a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose among healthcare workers.


By fostering a culture of engagement, healthcare organizations create an environment where safety is prioritized, communication is open, and employees feel empowered to speak up about potential risks, thereby significantly reducing the chances of adverse events. Listen in to learn more



Feb 07, 202429:13
Episode 34 The Lived Experience of Care

Episode 34 The Lived Experience of Care

Improving patient experience in healthcare has wide-ranging benefits for both patients and healthcare providers. A positive patient experience may lead to better adherence to treatment plans, increased follow through with scheduled appointments, and better health outcomes. It also builds trust in healthcare institutions. Patients who trust their healthcare providers are more likely to adopt healthy lifestyles and take proactive measures to prevent illness.

Improving patient experience in healthcare is not just a matter of providing better customer service. It is a critical component of patient- centered care and contributes to the well-being of individuals and communities. Listen in to learn more.

Nov 19, 202320:40
Episode 33 An Introduction to Just Culture

Episode 33 An Introduction to Just Culture

Just Cullture is a concept that emphasizes creating a fair and accontable environment in organizations, especially those involved in patient safety. The principles of Just Culture are designed to balance the need for learning from mistakes and improving system safety with the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions. It recognizes that errors will happen, and the focus should be on learning from those errors to prevent future occurences.


By implementing a Just Culture, organizations create an environment where individuals feel safe repoirting errors without fear of unwarranted blame or punishment. This contributes to enhancing overall safety and reduces risk of serious incidents. Listen in to learn more.

Nov 13, 202336:52
Calderwood Considers: Leadership Styles and Principles

Calderwood Considers: Leadership Styles and Principles

There are several different leadership styles and principles that leaders can adopt. These styles and principles can vary in their approach and effectiveness depending on the context and the individuals involved. Leaders often blend various styles and principles to suit their specific situation and the needs of their team. The most effective leaders are those who can adapt and integrate different styles and principles as necesary to acheive their goals and foster organizational culture. Listen in to learn more.

Nov 08, 202321:08
Episode 32 A Miracle Drug for Weight Loss?

Episode 32 A Miracle Drug for Weight Loss?

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 agonists or GLP-1a, also known as incretin mimetics, are a class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and weight loss. They work by mimicking the action of GLP-1, a naturally occuring hormone in the body that regulates blood sugar levels.

In this episode Danielle Basta, APRN and Dr. Elizabeth Honigsberg talks about some of the key characteristics of GLP-1 agonist. Listen in to learn more!

The information in this episode is intended for medical education and should not be substituted as medical advice. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
Oct 27, 202337:25
Mind the Sugars: A Focus on Insulins

Mind the Sugars: A Focus on Insulins

Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels in the body. There are several different types of insulin, which can be classified based on their onset of action, peak action, and duration of action. The choice of insulin type and regimen depends on an individuals spesific needs, lifestyles, and the recommendations of their healthcare provider. People with diabetes may use a combination of different types of insulins to achieve optimal sugar control. It's essential to follow a healthcare provider's guidance and monitor blood sugar levels regularly when using insulin therapy. Listen in to learn more.

Oct 09, 202316:52
Episode 31 The Tripledemic: How to protect yourself against COVID, Flu, and RSV

Episode 31 The Tripledemic: How to protect yourself against COVID, Flu, and RSV

Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death associated with respiratory viruses. Widespread vaccination helps achieve herd immunity, which occurs when a significant portion of the population becomes immune to a disease. This helps protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as individuals with certain medical conditions and reduces the overall transmission of the virus in the community. Widespread vaccination can also help minimize social and economic disruptions caused by viruses. Overall, vaccination is a critical tool in the fight against these viruses and in protecting public health. Listen in to learn more.
It's important to note that the specific recommendations for vaccination may vary by region, age, group and individual health status. It is best to consult your healthcare provider or local health authorities for guidance on which vaccines are recommended for you and when to get them.
Oct 04, 202330:21
Calderwood Considers: Change Management

Calderwood Considers: Change Management

Given the complexity of healthcare systems, change management is particularly relevant in this industry to ensure that changes are carefully planned, well-executed, and have the intended positive impact on patient care, staff engagement, and operational efficiency. Change management in this context focuses on minimizing disruptions and ensuring a smooth transition while improving the quality of care delivered. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as change efforts can encounter obstacles and setbacks that require leaders to effectively manage the human aspects of change to increase the likelihood of successful implementation. Listen in to learn more.

Aug 24, 202320:27
Episode 30 Healthcare Legislation Updates for New Hampshire and Vermont

Episode 30 Healthcare Legislation Updates for New Hampshire and Vermont

Healthcare legislation advocacy plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect the health and well-being of individuals and communities. It can lead to positive changes in healthcare systems, making healthcare more accessible, affordable, and equitable while promoting public health and patient rights. Advocacy can address barriers to healthcare access, such as insurance coverage, and geographic availability. It can also focus on addressing health disparities that disproportionately affect certain communities based on race, ethnicity, gender, and income.
In this epiosde, Courtney Tanner, Director of Government Relations, and Matthew Houde, Vice President of Government Relations, walks us through updates from the 2023 legislative sessions in New Hampshire and Vermont. Listen in to learn more.
Jul 30, 202329:27
Episode 29 Authenticity in Healthcare

Episode 29 Authenticity in Healthcare

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are critical in healthcare settings as they help address healthcare disparities, promote cultural competence, improve patient-provider relationships, enhance health outcomes, and build a healthcare workforce that reflects the diverse needs of communities. Embracing these principles can lead to a more equitable, patient-centered, and inclusive healthcare system.


In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Teresa Dean Malcolm, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at Datmouth Health, who shares our journey and vision towards embracing divesity, eliminating disparities, removing barriers to participation, and fostering empathy & understanding. Let's listen in to learn more.

Jul 07, 202339:21
Mind the Sugars: Total Daily Insulin Dosing

Mind the Sugars: Total Daily Insulin Dosing

The basal-bolus insulin regimen is a commonly used approach for managing diabetes. It involves the use of two different types of insulin: basal insulin and bolus insulin. This regimen aims to mimic the natural insulin secretion pattern of a healthy pancreas.

Basal insulin is a long-acting insulin that provides a steady, background level of insulin throughout the day and night, even between meals. It helps control blood sugar levels between meals and during periods of fasting, such as overnight. Basal insulin covers the body's basal, or baseline, insulin needs. On the other hand, bolus insulin, also known as mealtime or rapid-acting insulin, is taken before meals to control the blood sugar rise that occurs after eating. It acts quickly to lower blood glucose levels and covers the increase in blood sugar caused by food intake.

In addition to mealtime bolus insulin, additional bolus doses may be needed to correct high blood sugar levels throughout the day. This correction bolus is calculated based on an individual's insulin sensitivity factor, which represents how much one unit of insulin is expected to lower blood sugar levels. The basal-bolus insulin regimen provides more flexibility and precision in matching insulin delivery to an individual's needs. It allows for better control over blood sugar levels throughout the day and helps maintain a more stable and normal glucose profile. Let's ;isten in to learn more.

May 28, 202317:08
Episode 28 The End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

Episode 28 The End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

The end of the COVID-19 public health emergency generally means that the situation related to the pandemic has improved significantly, and the emergency measures put in place to control the spread of the virus are no longer necessary.


Lifting of restrictions and reduced public health measures are some examples of this new phase. The end of the public health emergency may mark the transition from crisis management to a new phase focused on long-term recovery and prevention. Efforts might shift towards vaccination campaigns, ongoing monitoring of the virus, and strengthening healthcare systems to better handle potential future outbreaks.


It's important to note that the end of the public health emergency doesn't mean the complete eradication of the virus. It signifies a significant improvement in the situation, but continued vigilance, vaccination efforts, and adherence to public health guidelines are often necessary to prevent the resurgence of the virus or the emergence of new variants. Let's listen in to learn more.

May 21, 202322:40
Calderwood Considers: Tackling Public Reporting and Pay-for-Performance

Calderwood Considers: Tackling Public Reporting and Pay-for-Performance

Pay for performance (P4P) in healthcare is a reimbursement model that links payments to healthcare providers, such as hospitals or physicians, to the quality of care they provide. In other words, providers are rewarded for delivering high-quality care or achieving specific healthcare outcomes, rather than simply being paid based on the volume of services they provide.


The goal is to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes while controlling costs. Hospitals are incentivized to deliver more effective, efficient, and patient-centered care, which can lead to better health outcomes, reduced medical errors, and lower healthcare costs in the long term.


P4P programs typically involve the use of performance metrics, such as clinical quality measures or patient satisfaction ratings, to evaluate the quality of care provided by healthcare systems. Hospitals that meet or exceed these metrics may be eligible for financial incentives or bonuses, while those who fall short may face penalties or reduced payments. There is ongoing debate over the effectiveness and fairness of P4P programs, as well as concerns about unintended consequences. Let's listen to the conversation to learn more.

May 13, 202324:41
Mind the Sugars: Introduction to Inpatient Diabetes Management

Mind the Sugars: Introduction to Inpatient Diabetes Management

The primary goal of inpatient diabetes management is to achieve and maintain optimal blood sugar control, minimize the risk of complications, and ensure a safe and speedy recovery. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a blood sugar target of 140-180 mg/dL for most hospitalized patients. However, individualized targets may be set based on the patient's medical history, comorbidities, and the reason for hospitalization. Insulin is the most effective medication for controlling blood sugar levels in hospitalized patients. Patients who are already using insulin at home may require adjustments in their insulin doses while hospitalized. Patients who are not using insulin may require initiation of insulin therapy. Overall, inpatient diabetes management requires a multidisciplinary team approach that includes physicians, nurses, dietitians, and diabetes educators. The goal is to achieve optimal glycemic control and minimize the risk of complications, ensuring a safe and successful hospital stay for patients with diabetes. Let's listen in to learn more

Mar 24, 202313:31
Episode 27 Responding to Subtle Acts of Exclusion

Episode 27 Responding to Subtle Acts of Exclusion

Microaggressions are subtle and often unintentional forms of discrimination or prejudice that can manifest in everyday interactions. Common examples include; using inappropriate or derogatory language when referring to a person's culture or religion, and making assumptions about an individuals's lifestyle choices or behaviors based on their race or ethnicity.

To combat these microaggressions, it is important for us to be aware of our own biases and to actively work to overcome them. This can involve taking cultural competency training and seeking out diverse perspectives in medical education and training. Additionally, we should strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for our colleagues and the patients that we serve, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or cultural background. Let's listen in to the conversation and learn more about the subtle acts of exclusions and how we can respond to it. 

Mar 17, 202317:42
Calderwood Considers: Psychological Safety

Calderwood Considers: Psychological Safety

Psychological safety refers to the extent to which healthcare providers feel comfortable expressing their opinions, concerns, and ideas without fear of negative consequences such as retaliation, rejection, or criticism. It involves creating an environment where healthcare providers can speak up, ask questions, and make suggestions without the fear of being judged, ridiculed, or punished.

In healthcare, psychological safety is essential for fostering open communication and collaboration among team members, which can lead to better patient outcomes. When healthcare providers feel safe to speak up, they are more likely to report errors, identify potential risks, and share best practices. This can ultimately improve patient safety and quality of care.

This is particularly important in healthcare because the stakes are high, and mistakes can have serious consequences for patients' health and well-being. Therefore, it is essential to create a culture of psychological safety where healthcare providers feel empowered to share their thoughts and ideas, even if they may be perceived as unconventional or contrary to the norm. Let's listen in to the conversation to learn more. 

Mar 05, 202316:04
Episode 26 Responding to Patient Bias

Episode 26 Responding to Patient Bias

Healthcare professionals across the United States, including at Dartmouth Health, experience incidents of bias regarding personal characteristics including race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, or national origin. At times these comments may be well-meaning or not recognized as potentially hurtful or demeaning, but at other times they may be outright discriminatory.
Addressing macroaggressions in healthcare requires a commitment to cultural humility, anti-racism, and anti-discrimination, as well as policies and practices that promote health equity and inclusivity for all. Dr. Kelly Kieffer, a general internist at DHMC and Vice-Chair for Education in the Department of Medicine, joins us today to talk about how to recognize and respond to bias.
Feb 25, 202327:00
Calderwood Considers: Burnout

Calderwood Considers: Burnout

For the inaugural episode of our new series; Calderwood Considers! Host Jessica Swain, Director of Infection Prevention and Control for Dartmouth Health, talks to Dr. Michael Calderwood, Chief Quality Officer at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, about oocupational burnout. 

According to the World Health Organization, occupational burnout is a syndrome resulting from chronic work-related stress, with symptoms characterized by feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativity or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced effectiveness. Let's listen in to the conversation to learn more. 

Jan 23, 202321:24
Episode 25 The Future of COVID-19 Management

Episode 25 The Future of COVID-19 Management

The United States is currently experiencing an early uptick in flu and respiratory syncytial virus infections, straining a health-care system trying to recover from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, healthcare facilities continue to try an keep up with evolving guidelines from the CDC, CMS, and OSHA. In this episode, we are joined by Mary Pierce and Erin Patnode from Cheshire Medical Center discuss the latest in COVID-19 infection prevention strategies. Dr. Phil Adamo, Section Chief and Medical Director of Occupational and Environmental Health and Wellbeing, also joins the conversation to discuss the evolution of occupational health with regards to COVID-19. Dr. Michael Calderwood, Infectious Diseases physician and Chief Quality Officer for Dartmouth Medical Center, offer some insights around vaccination and the future of the COVID-19 management.

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.

Nov 09, 202239:60
Episode 24 Screening colonoscopy. Is it worth it?

Episode 24 Screening colonoscopy. Is it worth it?

There's ongoing debate as to whether some preventative screenings are helpful in the general population because of risk associated with doing procedures and unnecessary treatment leading to higher healthcare costs. A recent study from Poland, Norway, and Sweden showing a relatively similar risk of death from colorectal cancer between screened and unscreened populations highlights this dilemma. 

We are joined by Dr. Audrey Calderwood, a gastroenterologist at Dartmouth in Lebanon. She is the director of the Comprehensive Gastroenterology Center and Associate Professor of Medicine at Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and the Dartmouth Institute for Health and Policy and Clinical Practice. Her passions from both a clinical and research perspective is colorectal cancer prevention. She will walk us through some of the higlights of the study which we hope will help our listeners make an informed decision. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice. 

Nov 05, 202220:03
Episode 23 Updates on Monkeypox

Episode 23 Updates on Monkeypox

In this episode, host Jessica Swain talks to Margaret Worth, infection preventionist and quality specialists at Mount Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, and Morgan Kuhnly, infection preventionist at Dartmouth Health, to give updated information on Monkeypox. The team is also joined by Dr. Aalok Khole who is an  infectious diseases physician at Cheshire Medical Center and physician lead for the hospital epidemiology and anti-microbial stewardship program to help anwer common clinical questions around Monkeypox. 

Monkeypox cases are declining nationally which has led to government officials being cautiously optimistic that we can works towards elimination of the virus in the United States. In the meantime, we need to remain vigilant and continue to isolate and vaccinate close contacts of infected individuals which should help end the current outbreak of the disease.  

Sep 25, 202224:38
Episode 22 Healthcare Legislation and You

Episode 22 Healthcare Legislation and You

Looking at health through the lens of political determinants means analysing how different ideological positions, institutions, processes, and interests, affect health within different political systems and cultures and at different levels of governance. 

In this episode, we talk to Matthew Houde, System Vice President of Government Relations at Dartmouth Health, and Courtney Tanner, Director of Government Relations at Dartmouth Health. Matthew and Courtney walks us through political determinants of health, the 2022 executive and legislative activity, and how healthcare staff can engage in this advocacy space 

Aug 08, 202227:20
Episode 21 Updates on Infection Prevention for Healthcare Workers

Episode 21 Updates on Infection Prevention for Healthcare Workers

COVID-19 infection control guidelines continue to evolve as we deal with the increased transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. In this episode, host Jessica Swain talks to Angelica Sindelar, infection preventionist at Dartmouth Health Medical Center, to talk about updates on the infection control guidance from the CDC. These updates helps to enhance protection for healthcare personnel, patients, and visitors and to address concerns about potential impacts on the healthcare system. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice


Jun 27, 202218:59
Episode 20 Navigating Chest Pain

Episode 20 Navigating Chest Pain

Chest pain is a frequent cause for Emergency Department visits in the United States. In this episode, host Dr. Rima Mercado talks to Dr. Bruce Andrus who is the director of clinical cardiology at Dartmouth Health Medical Center about this common symptom. Dr. Andrus walks us through the most recent guidelines from professional societies like tha American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association and gives his perspective on how we should risk stratify patients presenting with chest pain, weigh cost vs benefits considerartions in diagnostic testing, and approach shared decision making. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice 

Jun 20, 202224:12
Episode 19 Monkeypox

Episode 19 Monkeypox

According to the CDC scientists are curently tracking multiple cases of monkeypox that have been reported in several counties that don't normally report the disease, including the United States. In this episode host Jessica Swain talks to Dr. Elizabeth Talbot, infectious diseases physician at Dartmouth Health and professor of medicine at the Geisel School of Medicine, with hopes to increase awareness and provide knowledge for healthcare providers and patients who experience rash illnesses suspicious for monkeypox. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice. 

Jun 05, 202218:43
Episode 18 Transitioning to the Endemic Phase of COVID-19

Episode 18 Transitioning to the Endemic Phase of COVID-19

Just when you think this pandemic is over, it rears it's ugly head again. Host Jessica Swain, System Director of Infection Prevention for Dartmouth Health, talks to Dr. Michael Calderwood about where we are now with COVID-19. Dr. Calderwood is the Chief Quality Officer and an Infectious Diseases physician at Dartmouth Health and he shares his insights on studies shared at the recently concluded Society of Healthcare Epidemiology annual conference. 

We are all experiencing pandemic fatigue but it is important for us to think about what we can do and to understand how it will take each one of us to get through this. Like always, the information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice 

Apr 28, 202224:36
Episode 17 Outpatient COVID-19 Therapies

Episode 17 Outpatient COVID-19 Therapies

As we transition into our new normal of living with COVID-19. We envision a state where diagnostic tests and oral medications are readily available for the community with an overall goal of increasing access to life-saving treatments that need to be given quickly to be effective. 

Dr. Rebecca Wang, infectious diseases physician and medical co-director of the comprehensive antimicrobial program, and Craig Worby, infectious disease clinical pharmacist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and co-director of the comprehensive antimicrobic program, walks us through currently available outpatient COVID-19 therapies.

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice. 

Mar 09, 202223:32
Episode 16 Navigating Through Changing COVID-19 Guidelines

Episode 16 Navigating Through Changing COVID-19 Guidelines

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to increase, driven by the Omicron variant making it more important for individuals to keep up-to-date with the most recent public health recommendations. However, keeping up with the ever changing guidelines is not only challenging for some but also confusing and frustrating given the many nuances that come with the changes. 

In this episode, host Jessica Swain, senior infection preventionist at Dartmouth Hitchcock, talks to Dr. Aalok Khole, infectious disease physician at Cheshire Medical Center, to help us navigate through the CDC's updated mask recommendations, & isolation and quarantine guidelines. Dr. Khole also walks us through how to interpret home antigen test results and shares highlights about new therapy against COVID-19 infection. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.

Jan 22, 202230:60
Episode 15 The Omicron Variant

Episode 15 The Omicron Variant

The omicron variant is now the predominantly circulating variant of concern in the United States. It is more transmissible and may have the ability of immune escape. Time will tell if it leads to a more severe disease, but regardless of disease severity, we need to remain vigilant and get the vaccine, get boosted, wear our masks, and wash our hands. These are all additive layers of protection to prevent the spread of infection. 

We are joined by Caitlin Adams Barker who is a senior infection preventionist at Dartmouth Hitchcock. We talk to Caitlin about how we can reduce the likelihood of transmission as we plan to spend time with family through the holidays. Dr. Justin Kim also joins us for this episode. He is the hospital epidemiologist at Dartmouth Hitchcock and he gives us some higlights about the omicron variant and novel therapies for COVID-19. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.


Dec 21, 202111:49
Episode 14 Should My Kids Get The COVID-19 Vaccine?

Episode 14 Should My Kids Get The COVID-19 Vaccine?

In this episode, We talk to Dr. Susanne Tanski, section chief and vice chair of pediatrics at Dartmouth-Hitchcock about the recently approved Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 years old. She talks to us about the safety and efficay of the vaccines, how to weigh the risks and benefits, and what this means for our kids growth and development. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice. 

Nov 03, 202116:48
Episode 13 Why You Should Not Use Ivermectin for COVID-19 & Other Treatment Updates

Episode 13 Why You Should Not Use Ivermectin for COVID-19 & Other Treatment Updates

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be one of the greatest challenges of modern medicine. Experts continue to do research on drugs that can help save lives of infected people and perhaps even prevent them from getting sick in the first place. In today's episode, we will be talking about updates on the treatment options for COVID-19.

Host Jessica Swain, senior infection preventionist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, is joined by Dr. Rebecca Wang Infectious Disease physician at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and medical co-director of the Comprehensive Antimicrobial Program. 

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.

Sep 09, 202119:53
Episode 12.5 Updates on C. difficile Infections

Episode 12.5 Updates on C. difficile Infections

C. difficile is a germ that causes severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. It's estimated to cause almost half a million infections in the United States each year and about one in six patients who get a C difficile infection will get it again in the subsequent two to eight weeks. 

In this episode, senior infection preventionist, Caitlin Adams Barker talks to Cameron Griffin who is an infection preventionist and chair of the C. difficile prevention committee at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and Dr. Michael Calderwood who is an infectious disease physician and the chief quality officer for Dartmouth Hitchcock about the treatment and prevention of C. difficile infections.

The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.

Jul 21, 202120:47
Episode 12 - COVID - 19 and Resilience

Episode 12 - COVID - 19 and Resilience

Psychologists define resilience as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or other significant sources of stress. 

In this episode, Dr. Marshall Ward, Dr. Mahathi Komaragiri, Dr. Amogh Karnik, and Dr. Rima Mercado talk to psychologists Dr. Sivan Rotenberg, Dr. Mary Jankowski, and Dr. Eve Zukowski about building resilience through reframing your thoughts, focusing on what you can control, establishing a healthy stress management habits, and knowing when to seek support. We hope this episode gives you a road map on how to emerge stronger than before.   

Jun 03, 202127:39
Episode 11 - COVID-19 and the Heart

Episode 11 - COVID-19 and the Heart

In this episode, We talk to Dr. Lauren Gilstrap who is a heart failure and transplant cardiologist. Dr. Gilstrap walks us through cardiovascular risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 disease, acute and chronic cardiovascular complications of COVID-19, and the benefits of the vaccine for patients with heart disease. 

Marshall Ward, MD is a staff hospitalist  and Associate Section Chief of Hospital Medicine at at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock.

If you have any questions for us, drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

May 23, 202123:11
Episode 10 - Post Acute Complications of COVID-19

Episode 10 - Post Acute Complications of COVID-19

In this episode, Amogh and Marshall chat with Dr. Ellen Eisenberg, Interim Section Chief of General Internal Medicine and Associate Professor of Medicine at Geisel, and Dr. Jeffrey Parsonnet, attending Infectious Disease physician and Professor of Medicine at Geisel. They discuss the post-acute complications of COVID, and how DH-H is working to provide a new avenue for patients with long term symptoms after acute COVID-19 through a collaborative, multidisciplinary clinic. Patients can be referred to this clinic directly by their primary care providers. For more information about this program, contact postCOVID@hitchcock.org. 

Marshall Ward, MD is a staff hospitalist  and Associate Section Chief of Hospital Medicine at at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. 

If you have any questions for us, drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Apr 21, 202117:31
Episode 9 - Infection Prevention in the COVID-19 Era

Episode 9 - Infection Prevention in the COVID-19 Era

In this episode, Jose and Amogh speak with Caitlin Adams Barker, senior infection prevention nurse at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. They discuss Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health's current standards for personal protective equipment and guidance in the event of a healthcare worker exposure to COVID-19. They also discuss when isolation precautions may be relaxed for patients who test positive for COVID-19 and when they can safely be sent home.

Jose Mercado, MD is a staff hospitalist and the Associate Hospital Epidemiologist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Mar 30, 202117:54
Episode 8 - Updates on COVID-19 Treatment

Episode 8 - Updates on COVID-19 Treatment

In this episode, Amogh, Jose, and Rima chat with Dr. Richard Zuckerman. Dr. Zuckerman is an Infectious Disease specialist and the director of the Transplant and Immunocompromised Hosts Program at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. They review the data on tocilizumab, sarilumab, and other novel treatments that are being studied to treat COVID-19 infection. 

Rima Mercado, MD is a staff hospitalist and the Medical Director of the Medical Specialties Units at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Jose Mercado, MD is a staff hospitalist and Associate Hospital Epidemiologist at DHMC. Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at DHMC.


Mar 22, 202119:02
Episode 7 - Reflecting on One Year of COVID-19

Episode 7 - Reflecting on One Year of COVID-19

In this episode, Amogh, Jose, and Marshall chat with Dr. Antonia Altomare, DO, MPH, an infectious disease specialist and hospital epidemiologist at DHMC. They reflect on lessons learned in the past year, discuss herd immunity and outlook as we continue to vaccinate our communities, and contemplate whether masking may be here longer than we initially thought.

Jose Mercado, MD is a staff hospitalist and associate hospital epidemiologist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Marshall Ward, MD is a staff hospitalist and Associate Section Chief for Hospital Medicine at DHMC. Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
Mar 12, 202120:18
Episode 6 - COVID-19 and Medical Education

Episode 6 - COVID-19 and Medical Education

Mahathi, Amogh, Marshall, and Jose sit down with John Dick, MD, a staff hospitalist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and is the interim Associate Dean for Medical Education at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth (among many other things). They discuss the far-reaching impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the medical education system as a whole, the role of students in the pandemic, and how medical education is looking to change as we look to the future.
Mahathi Komaragiri, MD is a staff hospitalist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health. Amogh Karnik, MD is a chief medical resident at DHMC. Marshall Ward, MD is a staff hospitalist and Associate Section Chief of Hospital Medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Jose Mercado, MD is also a staff hospitalist and is the Associate Hospital Epidemiologist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock.
Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!
Feb 17, 202132:12
Episode 5.5 - COVID-19 Vaccination in Cancer Patients
Feb 01, 202117:56
Episode 5 - Updates on COVID-19 Vaccination
Jan 28, 202136:27
Episode 4 - Clotting, Bleeding, and COVID-19

Episode 4 - Clotting, Bleeding, and COVID-19

In this episode, Amogh, Marshall, and Rima check in with Dr. Deborah Ornstein, the director of the Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. They discuss why COVID-19 seems to be associated with increased risk of blood clots and strategies for preventing clots in patients. 

Amogh Karnik, MD is a chief medical resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Marshall Ward, MD is Associate Section Chief of Hospital Medicine and a staff hospitalist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. Rima Mercado, MD is unit director of the Medical Specialties Unit and is also a staff hospitalist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. 

Questions? Drop us a note at thecure@hitchcock.org! 

Jan 19, 202120:36
Episode 3 - Respiratory Complications of COVID-19

Episode 3 - Respiratory Complications of COVID-19

In this episode, Amogh, Mahathi, Jose, and Beth chat with Graham Atkins, MD, a Pulmonary/Critical Care specialist at DHMC. Dr. Atkins discusses how COVID-19 infection impacts the lungs and talks about the different types of therapies and approaches that can be used for patients with hypoxemia. Here's the article by Raoof et al. that Dr. Atkins referenced during the discussion.  

Amogh Karnik, MD is a chief medical resident at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Mahathi Komaragiri, MD is a staff hospitalist at DH-H. Jose Mercado, MD is a staff hospitalist at DH-H and Associate Hospital Epidemiologist at DHMC. Beth Souther, MD is a staff hospitalist at DH-H and section chief of Hospital Medicine at DHMC. 


Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Jan 04, 202137:07
Episode 2.5 - COVID-19 Vaccines and Allergies

Episode 2.5 - COVID-19 Vaccines and Allergies

In this mini-episode, Marshall Ward, Mahathi Komaragiri, and Rima Mercado chat with Erin Reigh, an Allergy/Immunology specialist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock to get her perspectives on the vaccine and the risk of allergic reactions as we see our initial wave of vaccine distributed around the country. 


Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Dec 20, 202010:20
Episode 2 - Preparing for a Vaccine

Episode 2 - Preparing for a Vaccine

As we inch closer to multiple vaccines for COVID-19, Jose Mercado MD, Mahathi Komaragiri MD, and Amogh Karnik MD speak with Dr. Michael Calderwood, Infectious Disease physician and Associate Chief Quality Officer at DHMC about vaccine safety and efficacy, logistics around distribution, and the ongoing need for precautions in the coming months. 


Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Dec 15, 202028:21
Episode 1 - How Are We Treating COVID-19?

Episode 1 - How Are We Treating COVID-19?

In this episode, Amogh Karnik, MD, Mahathi Komaragiri, MD, and Jose Mercado, MD confer with David de Gijsel, MD,  an Infectious Disease specialist at DHMC. We discuss the utility of remdesivir, the data behind using steroids, and new treatments on the horizon for treatment of both inpatients and outpatients with COVID-19.  For more information about DH-H's recommendations for diagnostics and management, check out the internal COVID-19 provider resources page here. 


Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Dec 09, 202030:40
Episode 0 - Introducing The Cure

Episode 0 - Introducing The Cure

Hi there! The Cure is a podcast based out of Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, and we're hoping to use this medium to provide updates about COVID-19.  We have a team of a few internists, will be joined by various guests from all over the DH-H system. Jose Mercado, MD is a Hospitalist at DH-H and the Associate Hospital Epidemiologist at DHMC.   Mahathi Komaragiri, MD and Marshall Ward, MD are both Hospitalists at DH-H.  Amogh Karnik, MD is a Chief Medical Resident at DHMC. 


Questions? Drop us a line at thecure@hitchcock.org!

Dec 04, 202001:09