On this episode of Office Hours with MIT Health, Dr. David Li, a dermatologist at MIT Health answers our questions about sunscreen.

We answer a question from a budding runner who is concerned about shin splints and over-pronation. 

Learn more about Shawn Ferullo, MD 

Getting tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections, or STIs, is easier than you think! In this episode, we sit down with Maura Rowley, Manager of Student Health Nursing at MIT Health, to talk about how quick, simple, and confidential STI screening is for students. Learn how to book an appointment, what to expect during your visit, and why routine testing is important—even if you feel fine. Plus, we’ll clear up common myths and answer your questions about privacy, cost (spoiler: it's covered!), and next steps if you have concerns. Taking care of your sexual health is stress-free at MIT—tune in to find out how!

Who would make medical decisions for you if you couldn’t? In this episode of Conversations with MIT Health, Jessica Senesi, ANP-BC, and Lydia Barlow, MD, explain why healthcare proxies matter, how to choose one, and the key conversations to have. They’ll also clear up misconceptions and discuss how proxies interact with advance directives. Whether planning for yourself or a loved one, this discussion will help you make informed decisions with confidence.

“Conversations with MIT Health” presents “Nutrition Tips for Managing Hypertension or Diabetes,” featuring Dr. David Podradchik, clinical pharmacist at MIT Health. Dr. Podradchik offers practical guidance on making sustainable dietary changes to better manage blood pressure and blood sugar. He discusses common nutrition challenges, simple adjustments that can have a big impact, and how diet interacts with medications. Listeners will gain insight into working with their care team to develop a personalized plan for long-term health.

In this episode of Conversations with MIT Health, we discuss the importance of colorectal cancer screening with Nicole Napier, Population Health Manager at MIT Health. Nicole shares why early detection is critical, explains the different screening options available, and addresses common concerns that may cause hesitation. We also explore why screening guidelines have changed, when to start testing, and how MIT Health supports prevention efforts. Tune in to learn how you can take proactive steps toward better health and early detection.

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. There are over 40 types of HPV, 13 of which can lead cancer. In this episode, Jennifer Shark, CNM, explains need to know information for protecting yourself against HPV as well as screening and treatment options.

The team at MIT’s Occupational Health Service provides an overview of the unique work-related and environmental support that they offer MIT employees and beyond. More specifically, they discuss their employee-oriented comprehensive consulting, treatment, and health-education support – as well as examinations, vaccinations, and immunity certifications for Institute employees and affiliated groups like Draper Laboratory.

Monisha Rajinikanth, OD provides us with an overview of Optometry services at MIT Health. She also talks about when you should plan to see an eye doctor (and how), when you shouldn’t – as well as common eye concerns seen in the MIT community.

MIT Health offers a variety of treatments to support conditions related to allergies. Treatments include allergy shots, environmental changes, antihistamines and other medications – as well as initial diagnoses support.

MIT Health patients now have access to physical therapy appointments -- on campus -- thanks to our new partnership with Bay State Physical Therapy. Shawn Ferullo, MIT Health Associate Medical Director, speaks with Ben Rose, Bay State Physical Therapy’s Managing Partner and Physical Therapist and Alexandra Leon, Clinic Manager about the treatments and services available through this partnership.

Travel Health is a unique clinical service and benefit for the MIT community. MIT Health’s Travel Nurse Advisor Program Manager Pauline Lee gives us an overview of how the service can help students, faculty, staff – family members, and retirees develop a safe travel plan before traveling abroad for recreation, study, internships, and more.

Jennifer Shark, certified midwife provides us with an overview MIT Health’s Obstetrics and Gynecologic practice. In this episode, Jennifer talks about the different community members that MIT Health’s OB/GYN department supports, as well as common services offered for different stages of life and more.

Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine used to treat chronic pain, as well as an array of other conditions. Abram Ojure, founder of New England Integrated Health, Caitlyn McCourt, Director of MIT Health’s Community Wellness department and Katie Choi, Administrative Clinical Operations Supervisor of MIT Health’s Community Wellness join us to talk about the practice and how it may benefit you.

Jonathan Pelletier, Medical Laboratory Manager walks us through how patients can utilize laboratory services at MIT Health, and the range of services offered to patients for laboratory needs. MIT Health’s laboratory is committed to accurately, efficiently and conveniently providing test results for patients.

MIT Health’s Urgent Care service can provides same-day care for urgent but non-life-threatening emergencies, for students, employees, family members and retires. Practice Manager Lauren Condon and Dr. Justyna Notargiacomo talk about the conditions which can be supported at MIT Health’s Urgent Care.

MIT Health offers care for even the youngest members of the MIT community. Pediatricians Rosemarie Roqué Gordon and Ed Levy join us to talk about overall pediatric services available at MIT Health – how they work with parents to keep children healthy and thriving, types of appointments offered and more!

Research shows that on average LGBTQ+ patients typically rate their healthcare experiences as less satisfying than individuals who do not identify as LGBTQ+. In this episode, we talk about LGBTQ+ services offered at MIT Health, specific challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face when seeking healthcare and how MIT Health works to mitigate those challenges.

Lead Mammo Technologist Rachel Winn walks us through what to expect as part of a mammogram at MIT Health.

The Sports Medicine and Orthopedics practice at MIT Health provides an array of progressive treatment options for both athletes and non-athletic community members. Dr. Shawn Ferullo, Dr. Angelene Elliott, and Dr. Christian Rose talk about the practice’s approach to comprehensive, coordinated musculoskeletal and orthopedic support for MIT students, employees, retirees and beyond.

MIT Health is accepting new patients. As annual employee open enrollment is happening, remember to sign up for an MIT-sponsored health insurance plan so you and your family can use MIT Health services such as Primary Care, Urgent Care, and nearly 20 different types of specialty care. In this podcast, Primary Care Clinical Director Jessica Senesi, Medical Specialties Manager Kate Derr and Family/Sports Medicine Physician Chukwueloka Obionwu talk about the benefits of managing your care at MIT Health.

Medical testing is done to detect potential health conditions, and we know that early detection can reduce the risk of some serious health disorders and help clinicians to treat diseases more effectively. Screening tests, however, can also cause harm in certain situations. Listen as MIT Health primary care provider Dr. Kamau Karanja discusses medical testing and the risks and benefits that clinicians consider when deciding which tests to perform.

During routine or “well-child” visits, your child's healthcare provider will check their growth and development in order to find or prevent problems. Well-child visits also provide an opportunity for parents or guardians to ask questions and share concerns. Listen as Dr. Edward Levy discusses scheduling routine visits for your child, how to prepare for their appointments, and what to do if you have questions between visits.

Contraceptives and condoms can help protect you against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). MIT Health offers a wide variety of birth control options to fit your needs and offers counseling and insurance options to help you make the right choices.

Two family nurse practitioners and primary care providers (PCPs) from MIT Health Primary Care Service explain the forms of birth control available to MIT Health patients, discuss important factors to consider when choosing birth control, and share information about ongoing guidance and support resources.

There are several forms of hormonal contraception available today, birth control pills, hormonal skin patches, implants, coils. They all affect hormone levels and prevent pregnancy, but they are used in different ways. How does one decide which form works best for their needs? Jennifer Shark a Certified Nurse Midwife at MIT Health with many years of contraceptive counseling experience, is here to discuss hormonal birth control options, how they work, their effectiveness, and things to consider when choosing birth control.

There are several forms of hormonal contraception available today, birth control pills, hormonal skin patches, implants, and coils. They all affect hormone levels and prevent pregnancy, but they are used in different ways. How does one decide which form works best for their needs?

In part 2 of a 3-part series, listen as Jennifer Shark a Certified Nurse Midwife at MIT Health with many years of contraceptive counseling experience, discusses emergency contraception, what options are available and how to use EC correctly and effectively.

There are several forms of hormonal contraception available today, birth control pills, hormonal skin patches, implants, and coils. They all affect hormone levels and prevent pregnancy, but they are used in different ways. How does one decide which form works best for their needs?

In part 3 of the 3-part series, listen as Jennifer Shark a Certified Nurse Midwife at MIT Health with many years of contraceptive counseling experience, discusses what factors you should consider if you are thinking about getting an IUD.

MIT Health Primary Care Providers (PCPs) include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are pediatricians for children, specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Kamau Karanja, MD, primary care provider (PCP) and family physician at MIT Health.

Joanna Goldsmith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at MIT Health Student Mental Health Counseling Services and a certified sex educator. She is here to discuss sex and anxiety, and share resources for understanding and coping with one’s own anxieties around sex.

MIT Health's Primary Care Providers (PCPs) include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are pediatricians for children, specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Israel Molina, MD, primary care provider (PCP) and family physician at MIT Health.

MIT Health's Primary Care Providers (PCPs) include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are pediatricians for children, specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Chukwueloka Obionwu, Jr., M.D., physician, sports medicine specialist, and primary care provider at MIT Health.

Many of us track our diet, exercise, and sleep patterns, but what other data should we consider as we manage our health and wellness? How often are we reaching out to others and socializing with friends? How does our anxiety level fluctuate throughout the week? Listen as Eric Marks discusses options for tracking data for self-care.

MIT Health's Primary Care Providers (PCPs) include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are pediatricians for children, specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Rosemarie Roqué Gordon, MD, MPH, Pediatrician at MIT Health.

Erik Marks discusses mindfulness, stress reduction, and self care.

Dr. Maryam Khodadoust discusses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy strategies to reduce stress and anxiety.

Jennifer Shark discusses Midwifery at MIT Health.

Dr. Mackel discusses her career path and what let her to become a primary care provider at MIT.

MIT Health Psychologist Dr. Xiaolu Hsi discusses ways to reach outfor support as we self-isolateduring the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of sleep, and other tools for stress management. 

 Learn more about Xiaolu Hsi, PhD

Leslie Langston, LICSW, discusses mental health and treatment for people of color.

Erik Marks, MSW, discusses mindfulness and self-care.

Members of the MIT Traditional Health Plan are required to select an MIT Health primary care provider (PCP). And, students are strongly urged to select a PCP at MIT Health as well.

Our PCPs include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, pediatricians for children, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Allison Sherwood, MSN, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner and primary care provider at MIT Health.

Anthony Van Niel, MD, covers FAQs surrounding the use of antidepressants, including alternate treatments, medication interactions, and how long one should be on an antidepressant regimen.

Dr. Xiaolu Hsi explains the difference between good and bad stress, cultural differences in managing stress, self-help techniques, and the different services available to MIT students to help combat stress.

The Mental Health and Counseling Service can help students who are experiencing symptoms of stress or depression, dealing with sleep difficulties or relationship problems, or trying to cope with other concerns. MIT’s Student Mental Health and Counseling Services works directly with students to understand and solve problems.

Dr. Anthony Van Niel discusses Student Mental Health and Counseling services available at MIT Health as well as who can use these services.

MedLinks are students like you. We serve as liaisons between undergraduate students and MIT Health. We support the health and wellbeing of MIT students—both in their living groups and within the wider MIT community—one-on-one and through larger campus events. MedLinks can dispense first-aid supplies and over-the-counter (OTC) medications and can help you decide if you need to seek medical attention when you are sick or hurt.

In this segment of Conversations with MIT Health, we are speaking with Greg Baker, Coordinator of MedLinks.

Alcohol overdose can be a very serious and emergent situation. If left untreated, an alcohol overdose or what is referred to as alcohol poisoning can cause a person to choke or suffocate on their own vomit, or worse they are at risk for death.

Listen in as Shawn Ferullo and Don Camelio explain the importance of recognizing the warning signs of alcohol poisoning and when to call for help.

While marijuana use is not allowed on MIT Campus, the laws in Massachusetts have changed and it is possible that some people might experiment with this drug. Marijuana use by adults and possession (up to certain quantities) has been legalized for recreational use in Massachusetts. 

Listen in as Shawn Ferullo and Don Camelio explain the medical and social implications of using marijuana and the policy at MIT regarding its use.

Patients want to make the most of each visit to their medical providers, but there are so many services offered and details to remember, it can be difficult to cover everything. Being prepared for appointments is a good start.

Keeping notes about symptoms and health questions that come up between appointments is an important part of being your own best health advocate and being an engaged patient.

Listen in as Cecilia Stuopis, MD, Medical Director at MIT Health, discusses what you can do and what you should know going into an appointment to help you get the most out of your health care.

Did you come to MIT with your husband, wife, or significant other? MIT Spouses & Partners Connect can help you build a social network, learn a new language, and find the resources you need to build a life in the Boston area.

Through weekly meetings, interest groups, trips, and annual events, MIT Spouses & Partners Connect gives you opportunities to make new friends, build a social network, and practice speaking English in a low-pressure environment.

Listen in as Jennifer Recklet Tassi BA, Program Manager for International Families, discusses MIT Healths MIT Spouses & Partners Connect program.

The MIT Athletic Training Services unit is committed to providing the highest quality healthcare possible. The unit’s expertise focuses on the prevention, treatment, evaluation, rehabilitation, and emergency care for athletic related injuries and illnesses.

The AT staff work under the direction and supervision of the team physician, Dr. Shawn Ferullo, was well as in conjunction with other providers from MIT Health.

Shawn M. Ferullo, MD is here to explain what services are available through the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Service at MIT Health, as well as some common preventable sport injuries and some basic tips for avoiding them.

About 11 percent of school-age children in the United States have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

While many of these children eventually “outgrow” the disorder, some carry their difficulties into adulthood: About 10 million American adults are currently diagnosed with ADHD.

Diagnoses of student ADHD have risen dramatically in the past several years, with symptoms similar to those of childhood ADHD: a general inability to focus, reflected in difficulty completing tasks, listening to instructions, or remembering details.

Xiaolu Hsi, Ph.D., is here to explain what treatment or skill training options are available to MIT Students with ADHD.

MIT Health is committed to providing comprehensive, supportive, personalized healthcare and information to individuals with diverse expressions of gender and sexuality.

We understand that gender identity exists within a broad spectrum and that transgender people and those with questions about gender identity may have unique needs that require experienced and supportive healthcare providers and services. 

Colleen McDonald, M.S.N., is here to help you better understand the Transgender Health Services at MIT Health.

MIT Health obstetricians, gynecologists, and nurse practitioners and Mount Auburn Hospital physicians and certified nurse midwives work together to provide complete prenatal care, including pregnancy testing, birth planning, and health education, as well as necessary tests, support, and encouragement.

Physicians who specialize in maternal/fetal medicine are available for women who have special medical or genetic concerns or who face high-risk pregnancies.

Nicole Napier, MSM, is here to explain how MIT Health will help you with all your prenatal concerns every step of the way.

MedLinks is a residence-based peer health advocacy program sponsored by Community Wellness at MIT Medical.

Trained student volunteers encourage relationships between undergraduate students and MIT Medical by offering advice about its health and wellness services.

MedLinks looks to make students feel more comfortable accessing services at MIT Medical, but how do you find a MedLink and how can they help you figure out your options?

Today we are speaking with Greg Baker, Coordinator of MedLinks.

Members of the MIT Traditional Health Plan are required to select an MIT Health primary care provider (PCP). And students are strongly urged to select a PCP at MIT Health as well.

Our PCPs include physicians and nurse practitioners. They are specialists in internal medicine and family practice for adults, pediatricians for children, and specialists in adolescent medicine and family practice for young adults.

But how do you know which of our many providers is best for you? Today we are speaking with Colleen McDonald, a nurse practitioner and PCP.

Members of the MIT Traditional Health Plan are required to choose an MIT Health primary care provider (PCP).

And students are strongly urged to select a PCP at MIT Health as well.

Our PCPs include physicians and nurse practitioners. But what is a nurse practitioner and how might the care you get from an NP differ from a MD?

Today we are speaking with Maureen Johnston, a nurse practitioner the chief of nursing at MIT Health.

Studies suggest that adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep a night.

But the realities of life at MIT often make that number a seemingly impossible goal to reach.

Today we are speaking with Zan Barry, senior program director from Community Wellness at MIT Health to discuss tips and techniques for getting more sleep, taking power naps, and how to make sure that the rest you do get is the best rest possible.