In this episode of PX Space host Linda Robinson Speaks with Dr. Attef Mikhail, a Board Certified Vascular and Interventional Radiologist at Vascular and Interventional Associates in Crestview Hills, Kentucky.. His commitment to patient care has earned him multiple "Top Doctor" awards from Cincinnati Magazine. Known for his ability to make complex medical information accessible to patients, Dr. Mikhail specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vascular diseases and conditions

Linda and Dr. Mikhail discussed the significant advancements and impacts of interventional radiology (IR), particularly in oncology. Dr. Mikhail highlighted the rise of minimally invasive procedures that require less recovery time and are suitable for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery, including the elderly or those who are poor surgical candidates. These procedures not only offer therapeutic and diagnostic benefits but also provide palliative care to relieve pain. Furthermore, there is a focus on educating both the healthcare community and the public about the capabilities and benefits of IR, as it is still a relatively unknown field. They also emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in oncology to enhance patient outcomes through combined expertise and integrated treatment approaches.

Dr. Mikhail explains three categories of treatments in interventional oncology, focusing particularly on arterial therapies and ablation for liver cancer, including primary and metastatic tumors. These treatments involve inserting a catheter to deliver radioactive beads or chemicals directly to the tumor or blocking the tumor's blood supply. He also discusses newer methods like oblation, where tumors are targeted with energy to destroy them. Additionally, these physical methods can enhance immunotherapy by exposing previously "cold" tumors to the immune system, making them "hot" and more susceptible to attack. Dr. Mikhail also touches on the integration of these treatments with other oncology approaches and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in developing effective cancer treatments.

Dr. Mikhail elaborates on the use of advanced medical imaging technology in interventional radiology, noting that today's medical monitors offer higher resolution than standard televisions and provide real-time visualization, which is crucial for guiding procedures precisely.

Dr. Mikhail discusses advanced interventional radiology procedures used for palliative care, particularly focusing on methods that alleviate severe pain in cancer patients. He describes how technologies like probes and needles can be used to target and freeze tumors and surrounding nerve fibers, which significantly reduces pain levels in patients. Furthermore, he explains the use of medical cement and percutaneous screws to stabilize bones affected by cancer, improving patients' mobility and quality of life. Dr. Mikhail also highlights the integration of these procedures with other oncological treatments to enhance their effectiveness and how these advancements have transformed patient care.

Explore the transformative journey of Dr. Misty Wilkie, PhD, RN, FAAN, in this episode of PX Space with host Linda Robinson. As a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing, Dr. Wilkie's pioneering research centers on supporting minority nursing students, particularly those from American Indian/Alaska Native/Indigenous backgrounds. Gain insights into her impactful role as the Founder/Director of Niganawenimaanaanig, securing $4.2 million to empower American Indian/Alaska Native/Indigenous nursing students.

Delve into the complexities faced by American Indian communities, addressing historical injustices like the Indian Relocation Act and the enduring impact of the boarding school era. Dr. Wilkie challenges the notion of easily overcoming profound historical traumas, emphasizing the lasting effects on present-day issues. Host Linda Robinson navigates the discussion through Dr. Wilkie's dedication to Niganawenimaanaanig, providing holistic support for students, and the program's expansion at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing.

Discover the success stories of Niganawenimaanaanig, graduating 19 American Indian/Alaska Native nurses with BSNs and expanding to support DNP and Ph.D. candidates. Dr. Wilkie's programs aim to address the historical underrepresentation of Indigenous healthcare providers and empower nurses to return to their tribal homelands. The episode unfolds the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts to support minority nursing students, intertwining historical context, personal experiences, and the transformative power of dedicated programs.

Dr. Wilkie also shares her involvement in creating the first American Indian digital clinical experience with Shadow Health, emphasizing cultural nuances in healthcare. The simulation incorporates practices like burying the placenta at homelands, unique communication styles, and the significance of eye contact. The dialogue underscores the importance of cultural competency in nursing education and the transformative power of mentorship.

The podcast concludes with Dr. Wilkie emphasizing the impact of visible role models and encouraging aspiring nurses to overcome barriers with perseverance and a strong support system. Tune in to this illuminating episode, where culture, healthcare, and education intersect, fostering a dialogue that transcends boundaries.

In this PX Space episode, Chief Veterans Experience Officer John W. Boerstler discusses his journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to leading the Veterans Experience Office at the Department of Veterans Affairs. He emphasizes human-centered design, addresses trust discrepancies among veterans, and highlights efforts to improve experiences for diverse veteran groups.

He delves into challenges identified through feedback from younger veterans, emphasizing non-clinical concerns like parking and facility navigation. Boerstler introduces initiatives, including the Red Coat Ambassador program and "Own the Moment" training, aiming to enhance patient experiences. The episode concludes with insights into addressing social determinants of health, improving patient care processes, and breaking down departmental silos, resulting in increased satisfaction and trust among VA patients. Satisfaction reached 79.3%, and trust in outpatient experiences reached 90%.

You won't want to miss the insights shared by our distinguished guest this week on the podcast!