FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

In this episode of Bearded Biomed, host Chace Torres dives deep into the critical intersection of healthcare policy and the biomedical field, with a focus on the growing rural healthcare crisis.

Learn why rural hospitals are closing, how Medicaid cuts are accelerating the collapse of essential healthcare services, and what this means for biomedical technicians (BMETs) and HTM professionals working behind the scenes.

Chace breaks down alarming statistics on hospital closures, explains how healthcare legislation impacts hospital operations, staffing, and patient care, and offers a wake-up call to all Biomeds: document your value, advocate for your role, and stay informed.

This is Part 1 of a 2-part series on the rural healthcare crisis and its impact on the biomed profession.

Whether you’re a biomed tech, healthcare leader, or simply care about the future of rural healthcare, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.

👉 Tune in now and stay tuned for Part 2: How Biomeds Can Fight Back.

Related Stories Worth a Read

Time Magazine: "America’s Rural Hospital Crisis Has Been Looming for Decades"

https://time.com/7176024/rural-hospital-crisis-history/

Texas Tribune: " Why health care is still hard to access in rural towns near Texas’ bigger cities"

https://www.texastribune.org/2023/03/16/texas-health-care-deserts/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode
01:46 Understanding Healthcare Policy Impact on Biomed
03:01 The Current State of Rural Hospitals
06:17 The Role of Biomed in Rural Healthcare
09:08 Advocacy and the Future of Rural Healthcare

Do you have a CBET, CHTM, CRES certification to maintain? Then check out Bearded Biomed University to watch select episodes of the show and get issued an ACI approved CEU certificate. https://www.beardedbiomed.com/beardedceus

If you believe in supporting the future of the Biomed profession — check out Ohms Law Apparel Every sale helps fund scholarships, sponsorships, & community outreach to uplift current & aspiring BMETs. #WearYourImpact
https://www.ohmslawapparel.com/

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!
We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – https://.cbet.edu

🔹 Uptime Health – https://uptimehealth.com

🔹 Capital i – https://capitali.us/bearded

🔹 AAMI – https://www.aami.org/home/about-aci/aci-home

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

In this episode, Dr. Dayna Martinez shares her journey in STEM, highlighting the importance of mentorship, role models, and community support for the Hispanic population in engineering and technology. The conversation explores the challenges faced by first-generation college students and the need for increased awareness and resources to engage youth in STEM fields. Dr. Martinez emphasizes the significance of parental involvement and the role of organizations in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in STEM careers.

Report: https://shpe.org/resources/research/
Equipando Padres program: https://equipandopadres.org/
Virtual STEM Labs: https://shpe.org/engage/programs/virtual-stem-labs/
Become a SHPE member: https://shpe.org/membership/become-a-member/

Join The Movement, Wear Your Impact
Https://ohmslawapparel.com

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – https://.cbet.edu
🔹 Uptime Health – https://uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – https://capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

In this episode, Chace sits down with Jinesh Patel to explore the evolving intersection between biomedical technology and dental equipment repair. As the healthcare technology management field expands, so do the opportunities—especially in the often-overlooked dental sector. Together, they unpack the new partnership with CBET to create specialized training for dental equipment technicians, the vital role of the right to repair movement, and how biomeds can seize this new frontier. With a growing demand for skilled techs and an upcoming dental summit on the horizon, this conversation is your front-row seat to the next big wave in HTM.

Check Out The 2025 Dental Equipment Technician Summit. Open to ANY technician and will be the event of the year!! Tons of vendors, tons of training, and TONS of fun! https://summit.uptimehealth.com/

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – www.cbet.edu
🔹 Uptime Health – www.uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – www.capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

In this episode, Chace and Arthur Harper discuss the challenges and strategies for transitioning from military to civilian life, particularly in the biomedical field. They share personal experiences, emphasize the importance of networking, communication, and continuous learning, and explore various career paths available to veterans. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability and the value of leveraging online resources and professional communities to enhance career opportunities.

A Special Thank You to Capital i

We deeply appreciate the support of Capital i, who is dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the link below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey!

https://capitali.us/bearded

Chapters

00:00 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
12:07 Navigating Job Opportunities and Relocation
23:50 Leadership and Mentorship in the Biomedical Field
24:19 The Importance of Networking
25:54 Leveraging Social Media for Career Opportunities
27:51 Navigating the Biomed Community
29:53 The Value of Networking in the Civilian Sector
31:35 Continuous Education and Certifications
33:48 Understanding IT Integration in Biomed
35:40 Exploring Career Paths in Biomed
39:05 Diverse Opportunities in the Biomed Field
41:39 Specialization vs. Generalization in Biomed
44:31 Long-term Career Planning and Resources
46:47 Key Takeaways for Transitioning Veterans

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

This Episode Is Dedicated To Myles & To Those Struggling Today

Jeff Ruiz shares his extensive journey in the biomedical field, starting from his early experiences in home health care to his transition into biomedical engineering. He discusses the importance of leadership, personal growth, and the impact of personal experiences on professional life, particularly through the lens of his son Miles' story. Jeff emphasizes the significance of relationships, mental health awareness, and the need for support in both personal and professional realms. He offers valuable career advice for newcomers in the field and encourages listeners to believe in themselves and reach out for help when needed.

Jeff Thank you so much

Join The Movement, Wear Your Impact

Https://ohmslawapparel.com

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – https://.cbet.edu
🔹 UptimeHealth – https://uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – https://capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

In this episode, Chace and Kevin Rivera discuss the journey and evolution of a biomedical technician, exploring Kevin's career path from technician to manager, the challenges of leadership, the importance of specialization, and the impact of budget constraints on training. They also delve into the evolving role of Biomeds in cybersecurity and the necessity of building strong relationships with clinicians to enhance patient safety and operational efficiency. In this conversation, Chace and Kevin Rivera discuss the importance of certification in the biomedical field, the role of biomed associations in professional development, and strategies to engage younger technicians. They emphasize the need for continuous learning, networking, and the recognition of certifications as valuable assets in career advancement. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by technicians in obtaining certifications and the importance of fostering a supportive community within the biomed industry.

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – www.cbet.edu
🔹 UptimeHealth – www.uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – www.capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Chace interviews Justin Barbour, a prominent figure in the biomedical field, discussing his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful content creator and advocate for the biomedical community. They explore defining moments that shaped Justin's work ethic, the importance of communication in the industry, and the impact of his YouTube channel, @BetterBiomedChannel . The discussion also delves into the challenges faced in their careers, the significance of mindset, and future plans for Better Biomed, including initiatives to help others in the field. In this conversation, Chace discusses the importance of hard work, personal branding, and the balance between professional and personal life in the biomed field. He shares insights on mentorship, the misconceptions people have about him, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Chace emphasizes the significance of networking, particularly through LinkedIn, and reflects on his past experiences that shaped his career. He advocates for collaboration within the biomed community and encourages new technicians to embrace change and build their own brands.

Check Out Justin's Website:
https://betterbiomed.com/

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – www.cbet.edu
🔹 UptimeHealth – www.uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – www.capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG

FAN MAIL: Send a "Bearded Message"

Summary

In this episode, Chace, Webb, and Ryan delve into the often-overlooked topic of beds and stretchers in healthcare. They discuss the importance of these medical devices in patient care, the challenges faced in their maintenance, and the debate between in-house versus outsourced management. The conversation highlights the technological advancements in hospital beds, the need for proper training and staffing, and the cultural shift required to prioritize bed maintenance in healthcare facilities. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the critical role of biomedical departments in managing hospital beds and stretchers, emphasizing the importance of lifecycle management, training, and integration with other hospital systems. They highlight the challenges faced in maintaining these medical devices, the need for effective communication with manufacturers, and the impact of equipment on patient experience and satisfaction. The discussion culminates in a call to action for biomed professionals to embrace the importance of beds and stretchers in healthcare.

Ryans Bed Maintenance Presentation
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ZJPvfKUDcVk&si=oyQ3c8ZE8z6IR0Xb


A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

We deeply appreciate the support of our incredible sponsors, who are dedicated to empowering and creating opportunities for biomedical professionals striving to grow in their careers. Be sure to explore the links below to learn more about how they can help you take the next step in your journey.

🔹 College of Biomedical Equipment Technology – www.cbet.edu
🔹 UptimeHealth – www.uptimehealth.com
🔹 Capital i – www.capitali.us/bearded

Your success starts with the right support—check them out today! 🚀

Watch the video podcast on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLisOVWzYA0rq9UrYCz7fU7HNBjXgwc8DG