Welcome to another episode of *Ditch the Lab Coat*! I am your host, Dr. Mark Bonta, and today we're diving deep into the intricate world of post-viral syndromes with our esteemed guest, Dr. Ric Arseneau. In the first part of this fascinating conversation, we'll explore the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19, particularly focusing on long COVID and other post-viral conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

Dr. Arseneau brings a wealth of expertise on how these conditions manifest and affect patients long after the initial viral infection. We'll discuss the often confusing distinctions between post-COVID and long COVID, and the critical need for consistent terminology in medical literature. Dr. Arseneau will also share insights into the downstream effects of COVID-19 on various organs and systems, the challenges in recognizing post-viral syndromes, and the societal stigma that often accompanies these "invisible" illnesses.

Moreover, we'll delve into the current state of COVID treatment options, the barriers posed by cost and availability, and the essential role of healthcare professionals in acknowledging and treating these complex conditions. Dr. Arseneau's approach to managing chronic conditions, including the importance of pacing, neuroplasticity work, and non-pharmacological treatments, provides a comprehensive look at improving patient outcomes.

Join us as we bring attention to these crucial yet often overlooked aspects of health in the aftermath of COVID-19, and stay tuned for even more riveting discussions in Part 2 of our conversation. Whether you're a healthcare professional or simply someone eager to understand the long-term effects of the pandemic, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Let's get started!

Episode Timestamps :

02:30 Doctor Arsenault leads exploration into mysteries of healthcare.
03:33 Dr. Arsenault excels but long COVID support lacks.
09:30 Post viral syndromes, neuroimmune adrenergic phenomenon, long COVID.
13:37 Healthcare system adapts to living with COVID-19.
14:43 Post-COVID issues neglected, patients not properly cared.
18:20 Physicians suffer from Sherlock Holmes fallacy hubris.
23:03 Recommended 9 grams salt/day, more effective orally.
24:59 Factors involved: hypovolemic, small fiber neuropathy, cardiac output, neuroinflammation, autonomic overdrive.
29:32 Challenging societal perceptions of chronic fatigue syndrome.
31:34 Syndrome-based diagnoses limit understanding of conditions.
37:44 Neuroplasticity for pain with psychiatrist's new approach.
40:00 Neurological features, depression, misdiagnosis, chronic fatigue syndrome.
42:02 Patients open to depression's effect on symptoms.
48:34 Bias in medical legal cases, patients denied benefits.
49:30 You are a pioneering expert in Canada.
53:42 COVID treatments aim to reduce severity, not cure.
58:45 Long COVID and treating patients with compassion.
01:00:26 Tune in for part two next time.

Welcome back to another episode of "Ditch the Labcoat," the podcast that explores the human side of healthcare beyond the sterile field.

In this insightful episode of "Ditch the Labcoat," host Dr. Mark Bonta is joined by Dr. Samir Grover, a prominent figure in the realm of medical education. Together, they delve into the pressing issues surrounding current educational practices in healthcare and propose revolutionary changes aligned with the needs of a modern medical system.

Dr. Grover discusses his advocacy for competency-based training systems and the integration of technology like AI and simulations to enhance assessment objectivity in medical education. He emphasizes the critical role of fostering essential physician traits such as empathy and hard work, beyond just academic achievements. The episode critically analyses the misalignment in assessments, such as the lack of evaluation for practical skills like endoscopy among gastroenterologists, despite its significance in their daily responsibilities.

The conversation extends to the potential shifts in medical student selection processes, aiming to highlight qualities beyond test scores, and explores the ongoing need for reforms in training systems to better match learners’ capabilities with their medical specialty. Dr. Grover also shares his experiences and perspectives on the need for personalized assessment and the effective use of feedback in education.

Adding to the rich discussion, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Grover touch upon the future of medical education, advocating for the inclusion of advanced technologies and methodologies that ensure comprehensive and efficient learning experiences. They conclude with a critical view on health fads like juice cleanses and the importance of evidence-based approaches in medical practices.

This episode not only sheds light on the essential changes needed in medical education but also celebrates the efforts of educators like Dr. Grover who are at the forefront of these transformative approaches. Whether you're a medical professional or just intrigued by the evolution of medical education, this episode offers valuable insights into making healthcare education more adaptive, inclusive, and effective.

Episode timestamps:

04:41 Important physician traits: earnestness, desire to learn.
07:45 Academic excellence not sole indicator of good physician.
11:28 Flexner report still influences medical education today.
14:28 Self-regulated learning key for medical practitioners.
20:31 High-intensity simulation improves clinical procedure performance.
23:25 Validated colonoscopy performance scales differentiate novices to experts.
27:51 Using AI assists improves learning and performance.
28:47 Laparoscopy: minimally invasive surgery with training challenges.
33:43 Striving for autonomy in medical career assessment.
35:24 Competency-based system for physician training summary.
38:50 Work assessments and subjective nature in universities.
43:40 Understanding medical terms critical for both sides.
46:01 Developing social and emotional intelligence for healthcare.
51:42 Virtual reality enables real-time consultation with experts.
52:58 Doctor Bonta thanks team, family, promises more.