Dr. Sunit Patel, Medical Director of Respiratory Therapy at Mercy Medical Center, discusses advances in detecting and diagnosing lung nodules — with a focus on the minimally invasive robotic Ion bronchoscopy. Learn what a lung nodule is, how clinicians evaluate nodules using CT and PET scans and blood tests, and why tissue diagnosis matters. Dr. Patel explains how the robotic Ion system uses shape-sensing technology and precise navigation to reach peripheral nodules safely, reduce risks like pneumothorax and bleeding, and improve diagnostic accuracy. The episode also covers the role of local lung cancer screening programs, how early detection can improve outcomes and reduce treatment costs, and what patients should do if a nodule is found on imaging. Helpful for anyone facing a lung-nodule diagnosis or interested in cutting-edge respiratory care.

Alexis Paulson, NP, discusses the importance of Lung Cancer Screening and the Program offered on the Central California Coast. She talks about who is at risk for Lung Cancer and talks about how the screening program works and what it costs. 

Learn more about Alexis Paulson, NP

Dr. Bora Timkin, Pediatric Hospitalist at Dignity Health—Memorial Hospital, discusses how parents and caregivers can maintain their children's health throughout the school year and follow preventive measures for flu season.

Dr. Whitney Guerrero, board-certified general surgeon and fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon, joins the Hello Healthy podcast episode to discuss gallbladder health, common issues that affect the gallbladder, and when it may be time for patients to consider a cholecystectomy.

Dr. Jasmine Singh, DO, discusses the impact of our environment on mental health, including the effect of relationships, the level of organization/tidiness of an area, safety, etc.

Dr. Jared Salvo, Cardiac Electrophysiologist, discusses the importance of stroke prevention for atrial fibrillation patients and current treatment options available to mitigate the risk of stroke.

En este episodio del pódcast, el Dr. Kevin Rodríguez, cirujano general, destaca las ventajas de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva (laparoscópica) de la vesícula biliar (colecistectomía). Comienza explicando brevemente que esta cirugía suele ser necesaria para tratar los cálculos biliares dolorosos y las complicaciones relacionadas. Luego se enfoca en por qué la colecistectomía laparoscópica se ha convertido en el método preferido para la mayoría de los pacientes.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Kevin Rodriguez, a general surgeon, champions the advantages of minimally invasive (laparoscopic) gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy). He begins by briefly explaining that gallbladder surgery is often necessary to address painful gallstones and related complications. He then can focuses on why laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the preferred method for most patients.

Dr. Tim Beck, MD, Endocrine Surgeon with Dignity Health Medical Group—Bakersfield, joins the Hello Healthy podcast to discuss thyroid disorders, hyperparathyroidism, and the advanced treatment options available to patients.

Dr. Kalyan Gaddam, Director of Integrative Oncology & Rehabilitation Center at CBCC, joins the Hello Healthy podcast to discuss how integrative pain management can improve the quality of life for oncology patients, while simultaneously improving overall men's health.

Dr. Whitney Guerrero discusses the rise of colorectal cancer in younger adults and advises adult women on how to seek care and advocate for their colorectal health by understanding the risks, symptoms, and treatment options available to them.

Dr. Jared Salvo, DO, Cardiac Electrophysiologist provides expert cardiac advice on mitigating the risk of a sudden cardiac arrest event among young athletes and other high-risk groups.

Dive deep into the complexities of addiction with Dr. Sandeep Mann, an expert in addiction medicine. Discover the differences between addiction, habits, and urges, and learn how various forms of addiction impact individuals from all walks of life.

Dr. Anila Chadha, Obesity Medicine Physician with Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield, discusses bariatric surgery and weight loss medications to help obesity patients determine which route is a better fit for their weight loss goals.

Dr. Erica Manrriquez, Gynecologic Oncologist discusses the advanced treatment option of minimally-invasive robotic surgery for gynecological cancers. Tune in to learn how this advanced treatment offers cancer patients advantages in comparison to traditional open surgery.

Dr. Carney discusses the health benefits of immunizations. She shares information on how immunizations help children stay healthy and the importance of staying up-to-date on vaccinations.

Sara Moore, Supervisor of the Art & Spirituality Center at Dignity Health—Mercy & Memorial Hospitals joins Hello Healthy to discuss the healing benefits that creative expression can provide patients, family, and the community of Kern County.

Dr. David Foulad, Breast Surgeon discusses the importance of preventive breast care and explains what patients should expect when following preventive care. Tune in to learn why preventive care is crucial in breast cancer treatment.

Throughout her 25 years at St. Joseph’s, Dr. Williams has been a strong leader and advocate for education. This is highlighted by the development of the HOPE program, which she founded as part of St. Joseph’s larger educational efforts with HealthForce Partners and Health Career Academy. The HOPE program has had an incredible impact on the lives of numerous employees, their families, and St. Joseph’s nursing units.

In this podcast, Gary Alegre, MD, Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, shares the signs you should talk with a doctor regarding your neck pain.

Dr. Christopher Hamilton, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon discusses how you can enjoy pickleball and prevent injuries.

Realistic views on feeding a newborn child and the struggles a parent could endure. A perspective from a healthcare provider and parent that breastfed both of her children, but not without struggles.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure used primarily in the treatment of various mental health disorders, notably depression. Overall, TMS offers a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions, but it is important to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether it is an appropriate treatment option.

In this episode Dr. Le, discusses Neck pain and when to seek treatment.

In this episode, Cathy Mangaoang-Welsh discusses The importance of self-care and where to seek help.

In this episode, President and CEO of St. Joseph's Medical Center, Donald J. Wiley, discusses the hospital’s commitment to excellence. St. Joseph’s is recognized nationally for providing outstanding care across a wide variety of services.

Preventative actions people can take to avoid hip fractures.

In this podcast, Dr. Friedman discusses the various types of meniscus tears and when it's appropriate to surgically intervene.

The FDA recently approved Wegovy, a weight loss injection medication that supports long-term weight loss. Dr. Anila Chadha, family medicine physician who specializes in obesity discusses the use and benefits of this new medical treatment for patients.

In this episode, Dr. Eric Peck, Cardiothoracic Surgeon with Dignity Health Medical Group discusses recent research that explains a rise of lung cancer in women under 50 years of age and the surgical treatment options available for lung cancer patients.

Mercy Medical Center in Merced is opening up an Obstetrics Emergency Department in the Family Birth Center. Learn the important benefits this addition will bring to the community and what it entails for expecting and postpartum mothers. 

Learn more about Mercy's Family Birth Center 

Pancreatic Cancer often doesn't get detected until it's in Advanced stages. Dr. Constantine Melitas will talk about a new Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program that he is spearheading at Dignity Health's Mission Hope Cancer Center and Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, California and what this could mean for patients.

In this podcast episode, we delve into the introduction of Street Medicine to Merced, exploring the services it will provide and the composition of the Street/Mobile Care team. Join us as we discuss the critical role Street Medicine plays in advancing our medical community and the impact it will have on the targeted population in Merced, shedding light on the concept of reality-based healthcare.

In this episode, learn the difference between the two common vascular diseases that affect millions of Americans - peripheral artery disease and venous insufficiency. Tune in to hear Dr. Hao Bui, Vascular Surgeon to discuss the common symptoms, treatment options, and management of these conditions.

How do you know when it's time to visit the OB emergency department? Ashley Thomas, labor and delivery RN with a Master's Degree in Nursing Education, with St. Joseph's Medical Center breaks down when you should come to the hospital.

In this episode, Ken Keller, President & CEO of Memorial Hospital, discusses patient safety and what it means to earn a letter "A" grade from the Leapfrog Group. Tune in and learn how patient safety and quality are delivered at Memorial Hospital and what it takes to lead staff to achieve this national distinction.

In this episode, Dr. Malellari, Colorectal Surgeon and Medical Director of the S.A. Camp Companies Robotics Surgical Center, discusses a recent robotic surgery procedure he performed on his patient, Cherry Pancian, RN. Tune in to hear how robotic surgery saved his patient and understand the details of her recovery process after undergoing assisted robotic colorectal surgery.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. As summer arrives, people will gravitate to spend more time in the sun. Dr. Madhusudhan, MD, Family Medicine Physician with Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield, discusses how to stay safe in the sun and prevent skin cancer this summer.

Dr. Gary Alegre, a Fellowship Trained Spine Surgeon and Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, discusses when you should be concerned about your back pain and when it's time to visit your doctor. 

Dr. Eric Peck discusses his latest heart mass removal surgery using the AlphaVac, an FDA approved mechanical aspiration device for the removal of thromboemboli from a patient's venous system. This minimally invasive procedure allows patients to avoid open-heart surgery and no disruption to their daily life.