In this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' we delve into the challenges and intricacies of managing medical student loans and the changing medical school debt landscape with Joe McGrath from GradFin. Explore the average debt burden of medical students, effective repayment strategies, and the complexities of programs like PSLF and income-driven repayment (IDR). Joe McGrath provides insights into the current state of student loan policies, the impact of recent executive orders, and the benefits of GradFin's concierge service. Whether you're a pre-med student, in residency, or a practicing physician, this episode offers valuable guidance on managing student loan debt.

MEET OUR GUEST: Joe McGrath is a senior business development associate at GradFin, where he provides guidance on applying for, refinancing, and forgiving student loans. He offers valuable insights into the student loan marketplace and helps individuals navigate the complexities of student loans. Email Joe for a free one-on-one consultation: joe.mcgrath@gradfin.com | Connect with Joe on LinkedIn. | https://gradfin.com/

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction - The Financial Burden of Medical Education

00:54 Guest Introduction: Joe McGrath from GradFin

01:33 Understanding Student Loan Repayment

03:36 Current State of Student Loan Debt

05:04 Income-Driven Repayment Plans Explained

08:11 The SAVE Program and Its Challenges

10:04 Navigating Repayment Options

19:51 Refinancing Student Loans

25:49 Paying Off Student Loans Early

26:12 Understanding Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

26:42 Challenges with PSLF and Government Programs

29:36 Impact of COVID-19 on Loan Forgiveness

30:17 Navigating the SAVE Program and IBR Plan

36:32 GradFin's Membership and Services

43:16 Preparing for a Consultation with GradFin

46:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

Jennifer Wiggins, founder and CEO of Aegis Malpractice Solutions joins this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' broadcasting live from the 2025 ACGME Conference in Nashville, TN. We explore the intricacies of medical malpractice insurance. Jennifer breaks down common misconceptions and explains the importance of having the right coverage for both new and seasoned healthcare providers. The conversation covers the potential impact of AI and technology on malpractice claims, the significance of state-specific regulations, and the benefits of working with a specialized insurance broker. And Jennifer shares valuable tips on navigating the complexities of malpractice insurance, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and periodic policy reviews. This episode is a must-listen for physicians looking to safeguard their professional practice.

MEET OUR GUEST: Jennifer Wiggins, founder and CEO, Aegis Malpractice Solutions

Jennifer Wiggins started Aegis Malpractice Solutions in 2018 after 16 years working for one of the nation’s largest malpractice insurance carriers. Her goal: Demystify medmal with straightforward, transparent insights so clients can choose the best coverage for their practices. Aegis is one of the only agencies in the country specializing in medical malpractice insurance, and Jennifer has risen to the top of her game thanks to her exhaustive industry knowledge and tireless customer service. In Jennifer’s own weekly podcast, 'Malpractice Insights,' she shares actionable tips to help doctors stay protected and practice good medicine every day. Every episode is short and sweet. Jennifer loves to talk about all things medmal, and she’s eager to share her trademark clarity and breezy (yet comprehensive) knowledge with you.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

00:40 Meet Jennifer Wiggins, CEO of Aegis Malpractice Solutions

01:20 Understanding Malpractice Insurance

06:23 The Importance of Tail Insurance and Supplemental Policies

08:47 Special Considerations for Different Medical Practices

11:49 The Role of a Malpractice Broker

16:12 The Impact of Specialty on Malpractice Insurance

17:45 The Importance of Regular Policy Reviews

23:08 Understanding Malpractice Caps

23:46 Factors Influencing Insurance Rates

24:24 Best States for Malpractice Insurance

25:57 Qualifying for Coverage

28:00 Impact of AI and Robotics on Malpractice

32:48 Market Conditions and Policy Renewals

36:18 Challenges in Obtaining Coverage

42:42 Specialized Policies for Subspecialties

44:23 Final Thoughts

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

This episode of The Patient Physician Podcast was recorded live from the 2025 ACGME Conference in Nashville, TN. Friend of the show, Dr. Michele Blackwell, shares her journey in the medical field and her expertise in hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Blackwell delves into the challenges and triumphs of balancing a demanding career with personal wellness, improving quality of life as we age, the benefits and drawbacks of bioidentical hormone therapy, and the importance of continual learning and adaptation in medicine. The conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the critical need for self-compassion and resilience among medical professionals.

MEET OUR GUEST: MICHELE BLACKWELL, M.D. FACOG

Dr. Michele Blackwell is Board Certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, currently practicing general Gynecology after retiring from the practice of Obstetrics in 2013. She has been in practice since 1998, working in an academic environment for the first 10 years of her career before transitioning to private practice in 2009. She now focuses on providing more individualized healthcare for both women and men as they age and experience the hormonal changes associated with aging.

Dr. Blackwell is fascinated by the aging human body, the ways to improve quality of life as we age, and the prevention of diseases. With this in mind, hormonal imbalances can occur as early as the third decade of life. She is constantly studying and learning to improve women's and men's quality of life.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician Podcast

00:30 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest, Dr. Michele Blackwell

00:50 Dr. Michele Blackwell's Journey in Medicine

03:00 Transition from Academic Setting to Private Practice

04:45 Challenges and Changes in Private Practice

08:35 Specializing in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

11:34 Balancing Family and Career

14:04 Navigating Perimenopause and Hormone Therapy

26:18 Validating Symptoms and Emotional Support

26:56 Impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy

28:44 Fitness and Strength Training for Women

31:06 Nutrition and Protein Intake

35:17 The Role of GLP-1 Medications

37:09 Challenges in Hormone Therapy Education

40:58 Future of Hormone Therapy and Virtual Services

45:06 Men's Hormone Therapy and Final Thoughts

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

This episode of 'The Patient Physician' features brief interviews recorded from the 2025 ACGME conference exploring meaning in medicine. Participating attendees included program directors, administrators, doctors, educators, and their support staff, who discussed initiatives that promote community engagement and holistic healthcare, the integration of culinary medicine into training programs, and the impact of AI on medical practice. In their own voice, each emphasizes the importance of human connection in the medical field, the evolving role of wellness support, and the future of medicine amidst technological advancements. And they reflect on how these changes influence the development and education of future physicians, underscoring the crucial balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.

ACGME Annual Educational Conference 2025 in Nashville, TN - Over three days, more than 5,000 participants gathered for the world’s largest graduate medical education (GME) event to collaborate, innovate, and inspire. With the theme of Meaning in Medicine, the conference highlighted the importance of sustaining purpose and joy in the work of health care professionals.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

00:38 Finding Meaning in Medicine

01:46 Community Outreach Initiatives

03:51 Challenges and Solutions in Medical Education

05:30 Innovative Approaches in Residency Programs

09:16 Leadership and Wellness in Medicine

14:08 Future of Medicine

20:02 Personal Reflections and Experiences

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

In this episode of 'The Patient Physician,' meet Dr. Georgeanne Freeman, a family medicine physician known as the 'Downtown Doctor' in Austin, Texas. Dr. Freeman shares her journey from practicing in rural America to establishing a concierge practice in Austin. She discusses her diverse experiences, including overcoming professional and personal challenges while working in rural Appalachia and the impact of life coaching. Dr. Freeman also elaborates on her transition away from traditional insurance models, underscoring the benefits of direct patient care and preventative medicine. Her story emphasizes the importance of holistic wellness and reclaiming physician autonomy.

MEET OUR GUEST: DR. GEORGEANNE FREEMAN

Board-certified in family medicine, Dr. Freeman has worked in emergency rooms, hospitals, and clinics. She is also trained in bio-identical hormones and botox and juvederm cosmetic procedures. As a country doctor, she learned much about medicine and made house calls. A favorite memory of Dr. Freeman is delivering flu shots on horseback with insulated saddlebags to an elderly couple who lived nearby.

Freeman Medical Clinic in downtown Austin, TX, offers a full spectrum of care. You can find services from ADHD evaluation and treatment to well-women and well-men exams. In addition, the clinic provides walk-in urgent care and even makes house calls. A particularly popular treatment is IV hydration (www.hippohydrate.com) - a custom mix of vitamins, electrolytes, medication, and IV fluids for migraine headaches, athletes, and those seeking optimal health.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

00:42 Meet Dr. Georgeanne Freeman

01:15 Dr. Freeman's Journey in Rural Medicine

02:43 Experiences and Challenges in Rural Practice

12:22 Transition to Austin and Personal Struggles

18:00 Starting a Concierge Practice in Austin

23:59 The Future of Healthcare and Insurance

31:31 The Reality of Insurance and Negotiation

32:05 Facing Catastrophic Events Without Insurance

36:59 The Future of Medicine: A New Approach

39:30 Preventive Medicine and Insurance

44:03 Transitioning to a Concierge Practice

47:29 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

51:29 Balancing Professional and Personal Life

57:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

This episode of 'The Patient Physician' tackles the common theme of overwhelming stress and lack of non-medical education among physicians and the power of coaching for change. Dr. Ben Reinking, a board-certified general pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist, has layered in professional coaching to assist both learning and seasoned physicians through his program, The Developing Doctor. "Dr. Ben" shares his journey from medical training to facing professional burnout and how coaching helped him develop a positive mindset and new skills. He elaborates on the role of a coach in assisting physicians to thrive through small, impactful changes. Dr. Ben emphasizes the importance of a supportive and forward-looking approach. The episode provides valuable advice on burnout prevention, achieving work-life harmony, and redefining success through personal and professional development.

MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Ben Reinking

Dr. Ben Reinking is a board certified General Pediatrician and Pediatric Cardiologist. He is also a Master Certified Physician Development Coach and member of the International Coaching Federation. His clinical interests include general pediatric cardiology, echocardiography, fetal cardiology, and the care of patients with single ventricle congenital heart disease.

Dr. Reinking has served in many different roles at his institution including Medical Director of Pediatric Echocardiography, Medical Director of Clinical Pediatric Cardiology, Associate Fellowship Program Director, Fellowship Program Director, and Faculty Director of a medical student learning Community. In addition, he has been a formal and informal mentor to medical students, residents, fellows, and new faculty. Learn more about his coaching practice, The Developing Doctor, here.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

00:38 Common Challenges Faced by Physicians

02:52 Introducing Dr. Ben Reinking

03:28 Dr. Reinking's Journey to Coaching

06:40 The Impact of Coaching on Physicians

14:17 Developing Doctor: Helping Physicians Thrive

25:48 The Weight of Expectations

26:56 Coaching Programs and Their Benefits

28:41 Preventing Burnout as a Coach

30:12 Challenges in Coaching and Client Relationships

33:54 Empowering Physicians to Thrive

37:17 Transitioning from Training to Practice

40:55 The Ripple Effect of Coaching

44:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN

In this episode of The Patient Physician, delve into the inspiring story of Janna Champagne, a professor, retired nurse, herbalist, and patient advocate whose life took a transformative turn following a debilitating immune health collapse in 2012. Janna had to pause her training as a nurse practitioner but found a new path through cannabis therapy, which not only aided her recovery but also helped her daughter’s autism. Since becoming a cannabis specialty nurse in 2015, Janna has helped thousands of patients optimize their cannabis therapy outcomes through an individualized and well-informed approach. She teaches and mentors healthcare professionals, and educates the public and medical community about the benefits of targeted cannabis therapy. The episode explores Janna's personal and professional journey, her challenges and successes in parenting a child with autism, the difficulties of integrating cannabis into mainstream medical practice, and her ongoing advocacy for better-informed and ethically sound healthcare.

MEET OUR GUEST: Janna Champagne | www.jannachampagne.com

Janna Champagne is a professor, retired nurse and herbalist. She began work as a cannabis-specialty nurse in 2015, but she began as a cannabis patient after suffering a debilitating immune health collapse in 2012. She educates and mentors nurses and other medical professionals, serving as a professor of Medical Cannabinoid Science for John Patrick University’s Integrative Medicine Degree Programs.

Janna is a founding member of Cannabis Nurses Network. She serves on their Speaker's Bureau, and has received peer-awarded designations every year since 2019: from Leader of Nursing, to Outstanding Author, Educator of the Year, and Contributor of the Year, plus an honorable mention as Nurse Mentor of the Year.

Janna volunteers on the Oregon Ryan’s Law team, and the Oregon Cannabis Healthcare Act Coalition, and she is the founder and Executive Directors for nonprofit Autism Safe Haven.

LINKS TO THINKS DISCUSSED:

• Referral Resource – Free guidance call scheduling link: www.cannabisnurseapproved.com
• 501c3 Autism Safe Haven: www.autismsafehaven.org
• Cannabinoid Science JPU program Info
• Epilepsy Testimony Article (Epidiolex vs whole plant CBD comparison)
• Janna's article on Cannabis for Autism Harm Reduction, which includes the research supporting this approach.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to The Patient Physician

00:38 Life's Unpredictable Journey

01:25 Introducing Janna Champagne

03:45 Janna's Health Crisis and Cannabis Journey

08:23 The Science Behind Cannabis and Health

11:26 Cannabis in Medical Practice

14:11 Janna's Personal Experience with Cannabis

19:15 Educational Advocacy for Cannabis

20:26 Cannabis and Autism: A Personal Story

30:45 Reflecting on a Decade of Impact

31:22 Educating Medical Professionals on Cannabis

32:19 A Personal Story of CBD and Epilepsy

34:26 Challenges in Autism Care and Cannabis

37:27 Advocating for Cannabis Inclusive Care Homes

38:50 Educational Resources and Future Plans

40:49 Creating a Safe and Dignified Living Environment

42:03 Addressing Long-Term Care Concerns

45:31 The Importance of Patient-Centered Care

50:07 Thoughts on the Meaning of The Patient Physician

Please email questions or show ideas to info@physiciansrs.com.

Connect with Us on Social:

• FACEBOOK
• LINKEDIN