Episodios

  • Why Access, Not Innovation, Holds Healthcare Back with Mike Druhan

    Why Access, Not Innovation, Holds Healthcare Back with Mike Druhan
    Sep 10 2025
    Welcome to this episode of Ditch the Lab Coat, hosted by Dr. Mark Bonta—a show where curiosity meets science and skepticism, all in the name of practical healthcare innovation.This week, we tackle a problem plaguing healthcare systems across Canada (and beyond): the painfully long wait times to see a dermatologist, especially when it comes to skin cancer. Our guest is Mike Druhan, President of Dermatology Services at MedX Health. Mike is on a mission to save lives by closing the gap between a suspicious mole and a potentially life-saving diagnosis.Together, Dr. Bonta and Mike explore the bottlenecks of Canadian healthcare, the trust required for new technologies to be accepted, and the real-world journey of bringing evidence-based digital solutions—like secure skin imaging and teledermatology—to market. You'll hear the candid realities behind innovation in medicine, the hurdles of building clinician confidence, and why access—not just technology—can be the biggest lifesaver of all.Plus, Mike shares eye-opening stories from the field, including how a routine golf outing and a sharp eye led to an early melanoma diagnosis that made all the difference for a patient. If you’ve ever wondered why game-changing ideas in medicine can take so long to become reality—or how technology can help us fight diseases hiding in plain sight—this conversation is for you.Plug in, enjoy, and get ready for a deep dive into the art and science of making innovation practical, trustworthy, and patient-centered.Episode HighlightsTrust Drives Healthcare Adoption — Healthcare innovation only moves as fast as stakeholders trust new systems and tech, making trust central to successful adoption.Early Detection Saves Lives — Catching skin cancer at the earliest stage dramatically improves outcomes and reduces treatment costs and patient suffering.Access Is a Critical Barrier — Long wait times to see specialists like dermatologists can be deadly; smart solutions must address these systemic access issues.Tech Complements, Not Replaces — Innovative tools are designed to support, not substitute, specialists—helping prioritize urgent cases and manage the patient queue.Design for Clinical Reality — Successful tools require clinician input, regulatory compliance, and clear workflow integration to earn real-world adoption.Iterate with Frontline Feedback — Regular collaboration with diverse healthcare professionals refines questions, workflows, and builds essential clinical buy-in.Evidence First, Hype Later — Robust evidence and pilot programs—rather than flashy promises—pave the path for credible healthcare innovation.AI Is an Assistant, Not Judge — AI is best used as a double-check for clinicians, enhancing accuracy but not replacing expert human decision-making.Economic Incentives Matter — Insurers and employers increasingly see the financial sense in proactive screening and early intervention for high-risk groups.Human Factor Still Critical — Even with tech, “right place, right time” expert intervention can make the difference between early cure and late-stage tragedy.Episode Timestamp03:59 – Canadian Healthcare Access Challenges 09:40 – Dermatology Digital Patient Platform Development 13:25 – Trust Barriers in Healthcare Innovation 15:57 – Dermatology Investment Collaboration Insights 19:05 – Prioritizing Urgent Pathology Reports 22:54 – Dermatology: Ownership and Patient Insights 24:19 – Dynamic Approach to Skin Cancer Tracking 28:38 – Early Detection through Stool Testing 32:56 – Canada's Dermatology Shortage and Insurance Solutions 33:38 – Predictive Analytics in Workplace Safety 37:07 – AI-Assisted Skin Cancer Detection 42:15 – Human Error vs. AI Expectations 45:47 – AI Enhancing Medical Diagnostics 46:46 – Trusting Emerging Healthcare Technologies DISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    48 m
  • Why Virtual Medicine Might Be Better Than In-Person Visits with Dr. William Cherniak

    Why Virtual Medicine Might Be Better Than In-Person Visits with Dr. William Cherniak
    Sep 3 2025
    Welcome back to Ditch the Lab Coat! In this episode, host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. William Cherniak, an emergency physician, global health leader, and CEO of Rocket Doctor—a Canadian tech company on a mission to shake up how we access healthcare. As the world continues to grapple with the lessons learned from COVID-19, Dr. Cherniak and Dr. Bonta dive deep into the evolution of virtual care and its role in both episodic and chronic healthcare.Together, they challenge the misconceptions around virtual medicine, exploring how digital innovation is not just a convenient alternative but often a superior solution for patients who need fast, efficient, and ongoing medical attention. From navigating Canada’s complex healthcare policies to leveraging AI and Bluetooth-enabled devices, Dr. Cherniak shares his journey as a physician-entrepreneur working to make healthcare more accessible—whether you’re managing blood pressure from your living room or urgently treating poison ivy without a trip across town.Tune in as we unravel the myths of hands-on-only healthcare, the future possibilities of remote diagnostics and procedures, and what it will take for medicine to truly enter the 21st century. If you’re curious about how virtual care is changing the patient-doctor relationship, cutting through red tape, and building a compassionate, tech-savvy future, this is an episode you can’t miss.(https://www.linkedin.com)(http://rocketdoctor.io/)Episode Lessons 1 – Virtual Care Is Effective – Virtual healthcare can match or even surpass in-person care for many conditions, especially when accessibility is an issue.2 – Breaking Down Healthcare Barriers – Virtual care improves access for patients struggling with long waits or limited transportation to clinics.3 – Episodic vs. Chronic Care Needs – Healthcare isn’t just for chronic patients; episodic care can be efficiently managed through modern virtual models.4 – Innovation Born From Necessity – Rocket Doctor’s creation was driven by gaps in primary care, especially for those without family doctors.5 – Team-Based Medical Support – Virtual platforms enable teams of physicians to support each other, ensuring continuity even when one doctor is away.6 – Navigating Bureaucracy and Policy – Different provinces and health systems determine how virtual care can be provided and reimbursed, affecting implementation.7 – Seeing Beyond Clinic Walls – Virtual visits provide unique insights into patients’ home and social environments, revealing valuable context for care.8 – Tech Empowers Doctors and Patients – Electronic records, AI tools, and Bluetooth devices streamline tasks, allowing more focus on patient care and faster follow-up.9 – Busting Medical Tradition Myths – Not every visit needs physical examination; much required care can be accurately delivered without in-person touch.10 – Envisioning Healthcare’s Future – Real integration of AI, seamless records sharing, and patient-driven portals will further revolutionize how care is delivered virtually.Want me to bold all the lesson titles for consistency, or keep only the last one bold as the highlight?Episode Timestamps00:00 – Medical Podcast Disclaimer 05:28 – Reimagining Virtual Care in Canada 08:04 – Canadian Tech-Driven Medical Practice 11:54 – Bureaucratic Challenges in Healthcare 13:39 – Embracing Virtual Healthcare 19:53 – Virtual Care: Beneficial vs. In-Person 20:54 – Canada's Acute vs. Preventative Care 26:14 – Virtual Care Evolution 2019 30:08 – Healthcare Innovation and Streamlining 32:59 – Home Ultrasound Study for Pneumonia 35:40 – Virtual Care: Medicine's Evolution 37:42 – Science Skepticism Podcast Promo DISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    38 m
  • Is Gambling the Next Public Health Crisis? with Dr. Daniela Lobo

    Is Gambling the Next Public Health Crisis? with Dr. Daniela Lobo
    Aug 27 2025
    Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat. Today’s episode dives deep into a topic that’s been quietly reshaping lives and families across the globe: gambling addiction. Host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Daniela Lobo, a leading expert in addiction psychiatry, to explore just how dramatically gambling—especially online and sports betting—has surged in prevalence, fueled by intensive marketing and made even more accessible by the pandemic’s isolation.Together, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Lobo break down the reality behind those flashy ads and glossy casino images, peeling back the curtain on the true costs of problem gambling. They explore not just the personal financial and mental fallout, but the ripple effects that devastate families, drive up debt, worsen mental health struggles, and even intersect with substance use disorders. As gambling apps, sports betting, and even crypto-trading continue to blur the lines between entertainment and addiction, the doctors unpack why so many young adults—and increasingly, teens—find themselves hooked.Dr. Lobo shares practical insights for recognizing gambling problems, supporting loved ones, and opening honest conversations with kids. Most importantly, they question whether the billions gained in gambling revenue are truly worth the social and health costs we’re only beginning to acknowledge.If you’ve ever wondered what really drives gambling addiction, how to spot it, or what responsible action looks like for individuals and society, you won’t want to miss this eye-opening, evidence-based conversation. Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about gambling in our modern age.Episode LessonsGambling Addiction: Not a Choice — A medical disorder with devastating consequences, not a weakness or bad habit.Online Gambling’s Rapid Expansion — Pandemic and marketing fueled a surge, making betting more accessible than ever.Marketing Drives Gambling Behaviors — Aggressive ads and sports integration normalize betting, increasing risks across all ages.Health Impact Beyond Money — Gambling harms mental, emotional, and even physical health, adding layers of stress.Younger Generations at Risk — Sports and digital platforms expose youth to gambling without proper safeguards.Overlap With Other Addictions — Gambling often co-occurs with mental health and substance use disorders.Paths to Treatment and Recovery — Counseling, family support, financial planning, and early intervention provide hope.Financial Ruin and Family Toll — Hidden gambling devastates households, with debt triggering further destructive cycles.Policy and Regulation Matter — Weak oversight allows profit-driven expansion while shifting costs to families.Prevention Through Education — Open dialogue and awareness reduce risks, counter marketing, and build resilience.Episode Timestamps03:21 – Addiction's Evolving Forms: Gambling Alert 07:08 – COVID-19's Impact on Gambling Behavior 11:56 – Gambling's Mental and Physical Toll 13:48 – Accessibility Fuels Gambling Issues 18:03 – Teens, Gambling, and Sports Obsession 22:25 – Problem Gambling's Significant Impact 25:36 – Gambling Disorders and Mental Health 29:18 – iGaming Self-Exclusion & Support 30:30 – Supporting Families with Addicted Loved Ones 36:00 – Modern Gambling: Signs and Challenges 39:02 – Gambling and Risk Awareness Conversation 42:33 – Understanding Moderation and Gambling Risks 45:23 – Ethics of Gambling Expansion 47:03 – Cautionary Insights on Gambling AppsDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    50 m
  • The Road from Suffering to Science with Dr. Diana Driscoll

    The Road from Suffering to Science with Dr. Diana Driscoll
    Aug 20 2025
    This week on Ditch the Labcoat, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Diana Driscoll, an optometrist, researcher, and internationally recognized authority on the autonomic nervous system—who also happens to be one of the rare non-MDs to join the show. After her own sudden and life-altering health collapse, Dr. Driscoll found herself deep in the world of dysautonomia—a group of disorders affecting the autonomic nervous system, responsible for all those automatic functions in our bodies we don’t usually have to think about. Finding few answers from doctors, and confronted by a system that too often shuns “invisible illnesses,” Dr. Driscoll became her own medical detective, pioneering research into conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and unlocking innovative approaches to treatment.In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Driscoll and Dr. Bonta tackle the complex, often misunderstood world of autonomic dysfunction, the science behind “mystery illnesses,” and the frustrating gaps in our medical knowledge. From the lived experience of being a patient who was told “it’s all in your head,” to developing new therapeutics and advocating for others, Dr. Driscoll’s story is as inspiring as it is informative.If you’ve ever struggled with unexplained symptoms, felt dismissed by the healthcare system, or just want to understand the evolving science behind these often-invisible disorders—this episode is for you. Plug in for a candid, practical, and hope-filled discussion that challenges the boundaries of what medicine knows today and explores the frontier where suffering finally meets science.Episode HighlightsInvisible Illness Is Real — Validation for patients with unexplained symptoms is crucial; their suffering is genuine, not imagined or "all in their head."Medicine’s Knowledge Blindspots — The medical establishment often lacks answers—and even language—for complex autonomic disorders like dysautonomia and POTS.Patient-Led Discovery Matters — Dr. Driscoll's personal journey from patient to researcher demonstrates the power of self-advocacy in pushing knowledge forward.Autonomic System Ignorance — Most clinicians receive minimal training about the autonomic nervous system, leading to missed diagnoses and inadequate care.One Size Doesn't Fit All — There is no single solution for autonomic dysfunction—treatments must be individualized to each patient’s complex presentation.Beyond Symptom Management — Suppressing symptoms (e.g., racing heart) without understanding the root cause can worsen patient outcomes or miss vital clues.The Inflammatory Connection — Inflammation, triggered by infections or stress, can drive autonomic dysfunction—a framework for science to pursue targeted therapies.Necessity of Clinical Innovation — When guidelines and therapies don’t exist, scientific curiosity and non-traditional research can inspire new approaches and hope.The Power of Lived Experience — Practitioner-patients like Dr. Driscoll bridge gaps between science, clinical care, and compassion through firsthand understanding.Hope Through Education — Educating both patients and practitioners fosters progress—there’s always hope, even if answers come step by step.Episode Timestamps04:15 – Post-COVID Dysautonomia Insights 07:12 – Invisible Illnesses and Tech Misguidance 13:07 – Central Sensitization and Unexplained Symptoms 16:44 – Nicotine Patch Stimulates Vagus Nerve 20:01 – Navigating Illness and Predatory Healthcare 20:51 – Navigating Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments 26:03 – Bridging Medical Knowledge Gaps 29:38 – Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Insights 31:25 – Inflammation's Impact on Heart and Vision 36:07 – Chronic Illness: The Domino Effect 41:18 – Questioning Symptom-Driven Treatments 44:22 – Unseen Illness: Recognition Grows 45:26 – Advancements in Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments 49:06 – Championing Long Covid ResearchDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    51 m
  • Burnout, Boundaries, and Breathwork with Dr. Judy Wright

    Burnout, Boundaries, and Breathwork with Dr. Judy Wright
    Aug 13 2025
    Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat with Dr. Mark Bonta! In this episode, we dive into the world of burnout—what it really looks like, how it creeps into even the most resilient among us, and, most importantly, what we can do to prevent it. Dr. Mark sits down with Dr. Judy Wright, a physician, performance strategist, burnout survivor, and the founder of JW Health Consulting. Dr. Wright brings a unique blend of medical expertise and personal experience to the conversation, sharing hard-won insights and practical tools that go beyond the surface-level “self-care” advice.From the silent lessons learned in medical school anatomy labs to the coping strategies (and comical dinner table conversations) that help healthcare workers weather the toughest shifts, Mark and Judy unpack what it really means to build resilience in high-stress environments. But these lessons aren’t just for doctors and nurses. Whether you’re managing a team, running a classroom, or simply juggling daily life, you’ll find actionable advice—from five-minute reset techniques to the importance of building a support network before you desperately need one.Get ready for a candid, insightful, and wide-ranging conversation that will challenge you to rethink your approach to stress, burnout, and what it means to truly look after yourself at work and beyond.Episode HighlightsProactively Build Support Systems – Don’t wait for crisis—establish a network of support inside and outside work to safeguard mental health and resilience.Normalize Emotional Boundaries – Healthcare workers are taught to compartmentalize; this is protective but needs healthy awareness to prevent detachment or apathy.Coping Skills Should Be Taught – Resilience and compartmentalization should be addressed directly in training, not just absorbed by osmosis or workplace culture.Talking Helps Heal Trauma – Debriefing difficult experiences with colleagues, friends, or professionals significantly boosts emotional processing and resilience.Early Self-Awareness Is Critical – Recognizing feelings of overwhelm or burnout early on is the best prevention, allowing intervention before serious harm is done.Burnout Is a Slow Erosion – It’s not sudden; burnout creeps in gradually. Regular self-checks and honest reflection prevent it from taking root.Self-Care Is Individualized – Effective self-care goes beyond popular trends; it must be meaningful and restorative specifically for you.Small Pauses Make a Difference – Taking even a five-minute break—for breath work, movement, hydration, or reflection—can disrupt stress accumulation.Burnout Affects All Life Areas – Professional burnout inevitably spills into personal life, impacting thinking, relationships, and daily functioning.You Can Reinvent Your Career – There are multiple fulfilling paths beyond traditional clinical roles. If the current job isn’t right, change is possible.Episode Timestamps 06:02 – Adapting to Cadaver Work 09:05 – Healthcare Workers' Emotional Challenges 10:03 – Emotional Detachment and Coping Mechanisms 13:16 – Debriefing's Role in Mental Health 17:02 – Early Healthcare Career Challenges 19:44 – Balancing Emotions in Medical Training 25:50 – Work-Life Interconnection Dynamics 29:33 – Importance of Building a Support System 30:18 – Integrating Self-Care with Work 34:30 – Exploring Diverse Medical Careers 39:30 – Prioritize Individualized Self-Care 40:54 – Authentic Self-Care Beyond Mani-Pedis 43:29 – Self-Care for Post-Work Recharge 47:40 – Workplace Energy and Self-Assessment 51:10 – Grounding Techniques for ResilienceDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    53 m
  • Ditch The Labcoat Do's and Dont's: Birthday Reflections with Dr Bonta

    Ditch The Labcoat Do's and Dont's: Birthday Reflections with Dr Bonta
    Aug 6 2025
    Welcome back to Ditch the Lab Coat with Dr. Mark Bonta—a podcast where we cut through health hype with evidence, curiosity, and a good dose of scientific skepticism. In this special solo episode, Dr. Bonta takes a step back to reflect on what he’s learned after recording over 70 episodes with experts across medicine, wellness, and psychology.Instead of chasing the latest biohacks and trendy do’s, Dr. Bonta shares his take on the “don’ts” that could make the biggest difference to our health: don’t load your pantry with ultra-processed foods, don’t rely on fad diets without respecting your biology, don’t ignore your mental resilience, don’t keep screens in your bedroom, and don’t underestimate the lifelong dangers of substance use—especially alcohol. Drawing from fascinating past guests and peppered with real-life anecdotes, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice that’s more about avoiding pitfalls than perfecting routines.So plug in as Dr. Bonta looks back, revisits his birthday reflections, and gives us a no-nonsense breakdown of the habits (and substances) to ditch for a healthier, happier life.Episode Highlights1. Courage to Lead Change — Courage is essential to make necessary healthcare changes; everyone knows what to do, but few are willing to go first. 2. Unlearning as Growth — Success requires letting go of outdated practices, even those we've clung to for decades. 3. Nurses Leading Change — Nurses are often the ones who recognize and push for better patient care, even in the face of resistance. 4. The Role of Clinical Experts — Real-time support from experts can turn ideas into action and prevent regression under pressure. 5. Listening to the Team — Culture change starts with listening to those on the frontlines and empowering their voice. 6. A Better Way to Wean Ventilators — Traditional weaning methods can fail; a spontaneous breathing trial may be more effective. 7. The Importance of Protocols — A clear process protects patients from inconsistency and ensures evidence-based care. 8. Sedation’s Downside — Sedation can cause harm; it’s time to shift from automatic comfort to mindful, minimal use. 9. The Awakening Moment — A pivotal story about witnessing patients walking while intubated—and the shift it sparked. 10. Belief Before Buy-In — Seeing isn't always believing. Sometimes you must believe there's a better way before you ever see it. 11. What’s Possible in Patient Recovery — Awake and mobile patients can achieve more than we think—even while critically ill. 12. Learning From Others — Growth often begins by learning from those who’ve already done what we thought was impossible. 13. Walking While Intubated — Real-world proof that mobility while ventilated isn't just a theory—it’s being done. 14. Staff Impact and Transformation — Watching patients improve has a lasting impact on the staff and the culture of care. 15. Changing ICU Culture — Creating an awake and walking ICU demands a mindset shift and persistent leadership. 16. Making It the New Normal — What was once considered extraordinary can become standard with the right support and structure. 17. The Ripple Effect — Positive change in one unit can influence an entire hospital—and beyond.Episode Timestamps01:00 — Podcast Reflections on Lifespan and Healthcare 04:59 — Living Well: Do's vs. Don'ts 08:33 — Avoid Junk, Embrace Healthy Eating 11:51 — Hormones, Dieting, and Healthy Habits 16:45 — Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods 18:56 — Prioritize Sleep: Limit Bedroom Screens 23:43 — Breath Work and CBT for Anxiety 27:26 — Optimal Health: Focus on Don'ts 28:38 — Alcohol and Substance Use Dangers 31:43 — Reflections on Healthier LivingDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    35 m
  • Awake Patients, Better Outcomes with Kali Dayton

    Awake Patients, Better Outcomes with Kali Dayton
    Jul 30 2025
    Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat! In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Kali Dayton, nurse practitioner, international consultant, and the bold voice behind the Awake and Walking ICU movement. Together, they peel back the curtain on a common but rarely questioned practice in critical care: routine heavy sedation of patients on ventilators.Kali shares her journey from a nurse in a pioneering ICU—where awake, mobile, intubated patients were the norm—to a world where comatose ventilator patients are the expectation. She unpacks the hidden harms of automatic sedation, sharing both eye-opening research and the heart-wrenching stories of ICU survivors who left with trauma, cognitive struggles, and fractured lives.Dr. Bonta and Kali explore how culture, habit, and outdated beliefs have shaped critical care—and challenge us all to rethink what’s possible. Is it really safer, easier, or kinder to keep patients sedated? Or can presence, mobility, and human connection transform not just survival, but recovery?Get ready to question what you thought you knew about the ICU, discover what’s already possible in some hospitals, and hear a call to action for compassionate, evidence-based change. If you work in healthcare—or might ever need it—this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss. Let’s ditch the lab coat and reimagine patient care, one episode at a time.Episode HighlightsRethinking ICU Sedation — Most ventilated patients don’t require deep sedation—remaining awake can actually improve outcomes and reduce harm.Hidden Harm of Sedation — Automatic sedation often leads to delirium, long-term trauma, and cognitive impairment for many ICU survivors.Awake and Walking ICU Model — It’s possible and beneficial to keep intubated patients awake and mobile; some ICUs already achieve this routinely.Cultural Myths in Medicine — Common ICU practices persist due to unexamined traditions, not necessarily the latest evidence or patient-centered thinking.Preventing Delirium Is Key — Early avoidance of sedation and encouraging mobility drastically decrease risks of ICU delirium and related complications.Power of Patient Stories — Listening to ICU survivors reveals the real, lasting harms of unnecessary sedation and challenges clinical assumptions.Team Buy-In Essential — Successful change requires educating and involving the entire healthcare team, from doctors to bedside nurses.Early Mobility Saves Lives — Mobilizing patients—even walking them—within hours of intubation is not only feasible, but can improve recovery.Family Involvement Matters — Informing and including families in care expectations helps calm patients and supports a less traumatic ICU experience.Start Small, Lead Change — Begin cultural transformation with one patient, one team—small steps can drive a revolution toward better, humane care.Episode Timestamps05:14 — Challenges of Mechanical Ventilation 06:57 — ICU Nursing: Breathing Tube Walks 10:14 — ICU Norms Challenged: Breathing Tubes 13:16 — Pioneering Awake, Mobile Patient Care 19:11 — Awake and Walking ICU Initiative 22:06 — Rethinking Hospital DVT Practices 25:42 — Sedation Considerations Before Intubation 27:20 — Reducing Delirium in ICU Care 32:57 — Sedation: Not Just Laughing Gas 36:24 — Rounding Culture and ICU Challenges 39:08 — Improving ICU Care: ABCDEF Protocol 41:23 — Rethinking Patient Sedation Practices 44:14 — Improving ICU Patient Care 47:38 — Revolutionizing Awake ICU CareDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    50 m
  • Healing Hospitals from within Georg Haymerle

    Healing Hospitals from within Georg Haymerle
    Jul 23 2025
    On this episode of Ditch the Lab Coat, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Georg Haymerle—once a top head and neck surgeon in Europe and Australia, now a dedicated advocate for culture change in medicine. Georg’s journey is anything but typical: after reaching the pinnacle of surgical mastery, he made the radical decision to walk away—not because of burnout or failure, but to confront the invisible crisis unraveling healthcare teams from within.Join us as we dive into Dr. Haymerle’s powerful story: from the grueling demands of 14-hour cancer surgeries and the accidental discovery of high-functioning, trust-based teams, to the moment when his own department’s spirit collapsed under uncertainty. We’ll explore why human factors like psychological safety and simple acts of gratitude can impact patient outcomes just as much as surgical skill. Dr. Haymerle takes us inside the often-overlooked world of healthcare team dynamics, revealing why he left the operating room behind to fix something even more delicate than anatomy: the fractured culture that shapes how care is delivered.If you’ve ever wondered whether culture truly matters in medicine—or how speaking up, vulnerability, and a heartfelt “thank you” might just save a life—this episode will stay with you long after you listen. Tune in for a heartfelt, evidence-based conversation about what really keeps healthcare teams—and their patients—thriving.Episode Highlights1. Team Spirit Transforms Outcomes — Cohesive, trusting teams dramatically improve surgical efficiency and patient safety, sometimes reducing surgery times by hours.2. Culture Changes Everything — Good workplace culture is just as critical as skill—loss of hope or toxic environments erode performance and morale.3. Technical Skill Isn’t Enough — High technical mastery won’t guarantee success if team dynamics and relationships are neglected or dysfunctional.4. Vulnerability Builds Excellence — When team members can safely show weaknesses and ask for help, everyone benefits, including patient outcomes.5. Money Isn’t the Motivator — Financial rewards alone don’t solve morale or performance issues; intrinsic motivators and appreciation matter more.6. Gratitude Is Powerful Medicine — Simple, genuine thank-yous are rare but transformative, fueling motivation, engagement, and mutual respect in healthcare teams.7. Speaking Up Saves Lives — Creating environments where all voices are heard—regardless of hierarchy—prevents errors and fosters innovation.8. Change Requires Leadership Buy-In — Cultural shifts succeed only when leaders acknowledge problems and model openness to feedback and improvement.9. Early Intervention Matters — Recognizing “the spiral” of team dysfunction early and addressing it promptly can prevent long-term damage and staff turnover.10. Healthcare Must Evolve — Emphasizing the human side of medicine—connection, gratitude, honest conversation—represents the future of safe, effective healthcare.Episode Timestamps03:58 — Career Shift in Healthcare Path06:41 — From Timid to Skilled Surgeon10:12 — Human Factors Impact Medical Outcomes14:33 — Creating a High-Performing Team19:10 — Building Trust for Departmental Progress22:37 — Surgical Trainee Silence Dilemma23:26 — Breaking Hierarchies: Encouraging Open Dialogue26:56 — Healthcare Organizations’ Capacity for Change32:49 — Austrian Healthcare's Resistance to Change34:26 — Revolutionizing Healthcare Through Change37:54 — Targeting Female Leaders in HealthcareDISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.
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    45 m