Newsletter

Clinical Research and Drug Discovery Podcasts

Clinical Research Podcasts

Latest Episodes

Global Health Diplomats: HIV Isn’t Over – Pressing Needs in Biomedical Innovation Post 2030

Co-hosts Ben Plumley and Ambassador Eric Goosby press the case for continued major investments in biomedical innovation to treat, diagnose, prevent and ultimately cure HIV disease.  While excited by the potential of new medicines, there’s still no short term end to one of the most deadly epidemics of the modern era. A renewed strategic focus on balancing basic science with delivery and implementation is at the heart of the long term HIV response - not least the challenge of maintaining uninterrupted treatment access, especially as funding mechanisms evolve globally. Key themes include the role of advocacy, the intersection of politics and public health, and the need to empower civil society to hold governments accountable for healthcare delivery. Ambassador Goosby outlines the necessity of building coalitions that combine public, private, and multilateral efforts to ensure sustainable healthcare solutions. 00:00:00 - Introduction: Ben Plumley and Ambassador Eric Goosby discuss the high stakes of 2025. 00:02:01 - Reflecting on misinformation: The influence of tech leaders on public health narratives. 00:05:34 - Post-2030 HIV agenda: Is the focus on research or implementation? 00:08:52 - Long-acting antiretrovirals: The promise and limitations of lenacapavir. 00:20:12 - Funding the response: Challenges of sustaining global HIV treatment. 00:31:48 - Global health diplomacy: Mobilizing new donors and local government commitments. 00:39:01 - Civil society’s role: Encouraging accountability in health investments. 00:46:25 - Closing thoughts: Shaping the future of the HIV response through collaboration. Call to Action: Subscribe to A Shot in the Arm Podcast on your favorite platform and join us on YouTube for more in-depth discussions. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts on this critical global health issue. Links and Resources: Visit A Shot in the Arm Podcast on YouTube to stay updated. Follow us for future episodes addressing long-term HIV response strategies and the evolving role of global health diplomacy. Acknowledgments: Special thanks to Erik Espera of NewsDoc Media, the John Martin Foundation, and our listeners for their ongoing support.
January 20, 2025
Play now

What is needed for HCs to support routine care in clinical trials?

2025-01-17 Irfan Khan, MD (Circuit Clinical) joined hosts Craig Lipset and Jane Myles for a discussion around what HCPs think about clinical research and how to gain their support on routine care in clinical trials. We discuss the journey of HCPs becoming investigators and what we need to drive this forward in the community.You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.
January 20, 2025
Play now

NEJM This Week — January 16, 2025

Featuring articles on asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis, kidney disease, fracture prevention in women, and residual breast cancer, the future of the U.S. physician workforce, mutant KRAS signaling, and manufactured chemicals and children’s health; a review article on the identification and treatment of alcohol use disorder; a case report of a man with loss of consciousness and a fall; and Perspectives on striking a balance, on changing Medicare payment to strengthen primary care, and on Schrödinger’s cancer. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 3.
January 15, 2025
Play now

NEJM This Week — January 9, 2025

Featuring articles on transcatheter tricuspid-valve replacement, persistent chylomicronemia, multiple myeloma, myelofibrosis, and peripherally inserted central catheter materials; a review article on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction; a case report of a woman with shortness of breath and leg edema; and Perspectives on the plight of “dual noneligible” people in the United States, Texas Executive Order GA-46, improving outcomes after fragility fractures, and on seeing the harm. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 2.
January 8, 2025
Play now

2024 in Review

2024-12-20 Hosts Amir Kalali, Craig Lipset, and Jane Myles came together for the final TGIF-DTRA of the year, 2024 in Review! We shared more about what we did in 2024 at DTRA, what has been happening in the ecosystem, and some predictions for 2025!You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live Audio on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.
January 6, 2025
Play now

Looking Ahead: Global Health in 2025

In this first episode of 2025, A Shot in the Arm Podcast host Ben Plumley explores the major global health challenges and opportunities for the year ahead. He covers topics like politics in global health, innovations in HIV treatment, pandemic preparedness, and strategies for building trust in healthcare systems. Discussion Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction Ben welcomes listeners to the new year, setting the stage for an exciting year of accessible global health content. He encourages viewers to subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel for expanded content. [00:01:00] Policy vs. Politics Ben discusses the growing tension between policy and politics in global health, with examples from HIV denialism in South Africa and the impact of Brexit on healthcare. [00:03:00] Trans Rights and Health Equity  A new podcast series will address the challenges faced by the global trans community and explain why trans rights are essential for everyone. [00:04:00] HIV in 2025 Updates on groundbreaking HIV treatments, including capsid inhibitors for long-term injections. Ben also explores the future of PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and the rhetoric around ending AIDS by 2030. [00:06:30] Pandemic Preparedness The risks of avian flu (H5N1) are highlighted, along with lessons learned from COVID-19. Ben discusses the importance of vaccine manufacturing hubs and progress on the WHO pandemic treaty. [00:09:00] Innovations in Healthcare Exciting developments in cancer treatments, viral hepatitis research, and inflammation studies. These advancements offer hope for improving global health outcomes. [00:10:30] Elderly Care Personal reflections on caregiving and a preview of an upcoming episode on the outdated systems of elderly care. [00:11:40] Building Trust in Health Systems Ben reflects on insights from the Global Listening Project, which studied trust in medical institutions and how to combat misinformation. Check out the results of its country survey at https://global-listening.org/societal-preparedness-insights [00:13:00] Social Media and Misinformation A critical look at the role of social media in spreading health misinformation and the need for better communication strategies. [00:17:00] Partnerships for Change Ben explores collaborations with business leaders and religious organizations to address gender norms and promote health equity. [00:18:30] Expanding the Podcast’s Reach Plans to collaborate with other podcasts and bring diverse voices to global health discussions. Check out Devex at https://www.devex.com Key Takeaways: Global health faces immense challenges in 2025, from political polarization to misinformation. Innovations in treatments are promising, but equitable access and building trust in health systems remain top priorities. Listener Engagement: What topics should we explore this year? Share your ideas on BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube. Credits: Hosted by Ben Plumley. Directed and produced by Erik Espera (NewsDoc Media) with production coordination by Y-Isha Raphael. Call to Action: Like, follow, and subscribe to A Shot in the Arm Podcast on your favorite platforms. Join us in tackling the biggest health challenges of 2025 and stay engaged for more episodes!
January 6, 2025
Play now

NEJM This Week — January 2, 2025

Featuring articles on advanced melanoma, atrial fibrillation, ATTR amyloidosis, and bladder cancer; a review article on cervical cancer; a Clinical Problem-Solving describing when blurry vision clouds the bigger picture; Medicine and Society’s on transitional justice and on rethinking access to HIV medicines; and Perspectives on hepatitis C therapies, on when diversity goals meet multiregional trials, and on miles to go and nowhere to sleep. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 392, No. 1.
January 1, 2025
Play now

NEJM This Week — December 19, 2024

Featuring articles on cancer cachexia, MDR tuberculosis, Ebola virus disease, and severe asthma; a review article on the nonsurgical management of chronic venous insufficiency; a case report of a woman with end-stage liver disease and headache; and Perspectives on providing effective medical care to autistic people, on independent physician associations, on face-to-face learning, and on those who are well known to us. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 24.
December 18, 2024
Play now

The Best of Aging Fast & Slow: A Recap of Powerful Conversations

Join hosts Drs. Sarah Szanton and Deidra Crews for a special segment as they recap highlights from past episodes on structural resilience. From enlightening dialogues on health equity to inspiring advice from researchers, they revisit key moments and share their reflections on the insights gained. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode offers peak moments to savor from many perspectives. 
December 18, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — December 12, 2024

Featuring articles on PCI before transcatheter aortic-valve implantation, treatments in patients with type 2 diabetes, in leprosy, in refractory adult ALL, and in ATTR cardiomyopathy; a review article on drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms; a case report of a boy with recurrent fever; and Perspectives on an autopsy of a drug withdrawal, on clearing dense drug-patent thickets, on how a survey change sheds light on iatrogenic opioid use disorder and on being tethered. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 23.
December 11, 2024
Play now

The Future of the Global HIV Response: A Post-World AIDS Day Reflection

A Shot in the Arm Podcast is proud to bring you another installment of Global Health Diplomats! In this compelling episode, co-hosts Ben Plumley and Eric Goosby dive deep into the future trajectory of the global HIV response. Following World AIDS Day, the discussion spans a 38,000-foot view of where the HIV epidemic stands, its critical challenges, and the evolving strategies needed for a sustainable, long-term response. From the impact of geopolitical shifts on access to treatment and care to the integration of HIV programs with broader primary healthcare systems, this episode unpacks the most pressing issues in global health today. Key Highlights: HIV Goals for 2030: Reality Check Are we close to ending AIDS as a public health crisis? Dr. Eric Goosby reflects on the progress made and the significant hurdles ahead. Quote: "We've built breathtaking infrastructure over 25 years, but it’s clear we won’t cross the 2030 finish line without major shifts." (Eric Goosby, 00:01:24) The Role of Targets in the HIV Response Are political targets still relevant in today’s complex world? Ben and Eric debate the pros and cons of target-driven approaches in global health. Quote: "Targets have driven investment and expanded care, but we may need to rethink them in light of new challenges." (Eric Goosby, 00:05:26) Primary Care Integration Why the HIV response must pivot toward integrated primary healthcare to address non-communicable diseases and pandemic preparedness. Quote: "For people living with HIV, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and cancer are now the bigger threats. Primary care is key." (Eric Goosby, 00:07:46) The Geopolitical Impact on HIV Care Rising anti-rights movements and geopolitical challenges make it harder to bring marginalized populations into care. Quote: "The rights-based approach to care is under siege globally, making access for key populations even tougher." (Ben Plumley, 00:10:04) Funding Sustainability Beyond 2030 Exploring innovative funding mechanisms, domestic ownership, and the evolving role of multilateral agencies like the Global Fund. Quote: "Transitioning to country-driven funding is essential. It’s time for governments to take ownership." (Eric Goosby, 00:30:01) HIV Prevention’s Urgent Need for Innovation Despite treatment advancements, global prevention efforts lag behind, especially for at-risk populations. Quote: "Prevention needs to focus on behavior, access, and new technologies like PrEP for real impact." (Eric Goosby, 00:37:26) Upcoming Episodes in the Series: Rights-Based Approaches in HIV Care Funding the Future: Domestic Resource Mobilization for HIV Programs Prevention Innovation: From Behavioral Change to Biomedical Solutions Reimagining Global Health Architecture Post-2030 Acknowledgments: This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the John T. Martin Foundation. Produced by Erik Espera of NewsDoc Media. Subscribe and Share: Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on the future of global health. Subscribe to Global Health Diplomats wherever you download podcasts, and leave us a five-star review to support the conversation! Share your thoughts and join the discussion on social media using #GlobalHealthDiplomats and #WorldAIDSDay2024!
December 9, 2024
Play now

Investigating Data Quality in Hybrid Clinical Studies

2024-12-06 Hosts Craig Lipset, Amir Kalali, and Jane Myles were joined by Anna Yang and Elizabeth Mandel (Genentech) joined us for a discussion around defining, measuring, and benchmarking data quality with 2 ongoing hybrid studies.You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live Audio on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.
December 9, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — December 5, 2024

Featuring articles on treatments for atrial fibrillation and stable coronary disease, for chronic hepatitis B, and for metastatic breast cancer; the 30-year cardiovascular disease risk in healthy women; and prenatal screening and detection of maternal cancer; a review article on sepsis and septic shock; a case report of a woman with headache, fever, and respiratory failure; and Perspectives on Medicare’s bundled-payment programs, on handcuffs and unexpected deaths, on the Marburg outbreak in Rwanda, and on the care that saved one parent. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 22.
December 4, 2024
Play now

World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV

Episode Title: World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV Guests: Hon. Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, South Africa Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the HIV and Health Group, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Description: In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley dives deep into the intersection of human rights and global health with two inspiring leaders: Honorable Deputy Minister Steve Letsike from South Africa and Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, head of HIV at the UN Development Programme (UNDP) — Together, they explore the evolving HIV response, challenges in addressing stigma and discrimination, and the critical role of governance and community leadership in achieving the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health crisis by 2030. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Hon. Steve Letsike’s transition from LGBTQ+ and HIV activist to a key governmental leader. Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal’s insights on the UNDP's role in driving global change in HIV policies and human rights advocacy. How human rights are intrinsically linked to HIV prevention and care. The global and local implications of criminalization and stigma on HIV responses, with examples from countries like South Africa and Uganda. The significance of integrating diverse issues like gender-based violence, poverty, and structural inequalities into the fight against HIV. Key Moments: [00:01:08] Hon. Steve Letsike reflects on moving from activism to governance. [00:10:52] Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal discusses how governance and policies shape HIV responses globally. [00:22:22] Connecting human rights to effective HIV prevention and care strategies. [00:27:15] The balance between donor aid reliance and self-sustained national HIV programs. [00:30:22] The path toward achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030 and the obstacles that remain. Notable Quotes: "Governments belong to the people. We all have to contribute differently to achieve a just and equal society." - Hon. Steve Letsike "Without human rights, we won't realize the potential of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030." - Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal   Subscribe for more episodes focusing on global health equity and innovation!   Follow us on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. #WorldAIDSDay2024 #EndAIDS2030 #HumanRights #GlobalHealth #UNAIDS #HIVAwareness #UNDP
December 1, 2024
Play now

World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV

Episode Title: World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV Guests: Hon. Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, South Africa Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the HIV and Health Group, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Description: In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley dives deep into the intersection of human rights and global health with two inspiring leaders: Honorable Deputy Minister Steve Letsike from South Africa and Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, head of HIV at the UN Development Programme (UNDP) — Together, they explore the evolving HIV response, challenges in addressing stigma and discrimination, and the critical role of governance and community leadership in achieving the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health crisis by 2030. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Hon. Steve Letsike’s transition from LGBTQ+ and HIV activist to a key governmental leader. Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal’s insights on the UNDP's role in driving global change in HIV policies and human rights advocacy. How human rights are intrinsically linked to HIV prevention and care. The global and local implications of criminalization and stigma on HIV responses, with examples from countries like South Africa and Uganda. The significance of integrating diverse issues like gender-based violence, poverty, and structural inequalities into the fight against HIV. Key Moments: [00:01:08] Hon. Steve Letsike reflects on moving from activism to governance. [00:10:52] Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal discusses how governance and policies shape HIV responses globally. [00:22:22] Connecting human rights to effective HIV prevention and care strategies. [00:27:15] The balance between donor aid reliance and self-sustained national HIV programs. [00:30:22] The path toward achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030 and the obstacles that remain. Notable Quotes: "Governments belong to the people. We all have to contribute differently to achieve a just and equal society." - Hon. Steve Letsike "Without human rights, we won't realize the potential of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030." - Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal   Subscribe for more episodes focusing on global health equity and innovation!   Follow us on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. #WorldAIDSDay2024 #EndAIDS2030 #HumanRights #GlobalHealth #UNAIDS #HIVAwareness #UNDP
December 1, 2024
Play now

2024 UNAIDS World AIDS Day Report: The Rights Way to End the Epidemic?

Episode Title: 2024 UNAIDS World AIDS Day Report: The Rights Way to End the Epidemic? Host: Ben Plumley, Global Health Strategist Guest: Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director, UNAIDS Episode Summary: Welcome to A Shot in the Arm Podcast! In this first of a set of special World AIDS Day 2024 episodes, host Ben Plumley chats with Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director of UNAIDS. They delve into the key themes of this World AIDS Day’s UNAIDS report, "Taking the Rights Path to End AIDS", which profiles the critical role of human rights in tackling the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Christine highlights the intersection of biomedical interventions and human rights, explaining why creating an enabling environment is essential for ending the AIDS epidemic. A skeptical Ben asks if this is possible by the international target of 2030. Other topics include the challenges posed by stigma, discrimination, and policy barriers, and how countries can ensure equitable access to prevention and treatment services. Key Takeaways: The 2030 Goal: is it possible? What does it mean to end AIDS as a public health threat? Human Rights Approach: Why protecting human rights is as crucial as advancing biomedical interventions. Global Challenges: Updates on rights rollbacks, policy barriers, and their impact on HIV prevention in countries like Uganda and the Philippines. Country Leadership: How UNAIDS supports nations in creating sustainable, inclusive HIV responses. Bright Spots: Positive changes in Botswana under new leadership with a strong human rights focus. Additional Insights: The episode also touches on global advocacy strategies for HIV prevention amidst political and social challenges, including UNAIDS' role in navigating shifting donor priorities and supporting countries to take ownership of their epidemic responses. Resources Mentioned: UNAIDS 2024 Report: Taking the Rights Path to End AIDS Learn more about UNAIDS’ global initiatives: UNAIDS Website Producer: Erik Espera, NewDoc Media   Subscribe for more episodes focusing on global health equity and innovation!   Follow us on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. #WorldAIDSDay2024 #EndAIDS2030 #HumanRights #GlobalHealth #UNAIDS #HIVAwareness
November 29, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — November 28, 2024

Featuring articles on pembrolizumab perioperative therapy in breast cancer, reduced dose schedules or fractional doses of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and nivolumab plus ipilimumab in colorectal cancer; a review article on degenerative rotator-cuff disorders; a case report of a man with seizures and agitation; a Clinical Implications of Basic Research on boning up on boning up; and Perspectives on the Duffy null phenotype; on sickle cell trait, inequity, and the need for change, on “target trial emulation” for observational studies, and on a good day. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 21.
November 27, 2024
Play now

Increasing Adoption of Wearables in Clinical Trials

2024-11-22 Hosts Craig Lipset, Amir Kalali, and Jane Myles were joined by Keith Robinson, MD, MS, FCCP and Megan Parisi, MS, CCRP from Syneos Health and Nick Delmonico from Strados Labs for a discussion around wearables. We discussed challenges in increasing adoption of wearables, factors that are holding things back from greater widespread adoption, and the benefits/ROI of wearables and novel measurements.You can join TGIF-DTRA Sessions live on LinkedIn Live Audio on Friday's at 12:00 PM ET by checking out our LinkedIn. Follow the Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA) on LinkedIn and X. Learn more about Membership options and our work at www.dtra.org.
November 25, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — November 21, 2024

Featuring articles on a nationwide couple-based genetic screening; adjunctive embolization for subdural hematoma; a late-liver-stage attenuated malaria vaccine; and climate change, floods, and human health; a review article on Candida auris infections; a case report of a girl with abdominal pain; and Perspectives on Medicare’s first round of drug-price negotiation; on invisible deaths; on minding the sentinel; and on Saint Didacus, fetal death, and dual loyalty. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 20.
November 20, 2024
Play now

Ebola, Bombs, and Migrants: A Conversation with Dr. Joanne Liu

Title: Ebola, Bombs, and Migrants: A conversation with Dr. Joanne Liu Host: Ben Plumley Guest: Dr. Joanne Liu, Pediatric Emergency Physician and Former International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) Episode Summary: In this episode, Ben Plumley interviews Dr. Joanne Liu, a pediatric emergency physician from Montreal, Quebec, and former international president of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Dr. Liu discusses her new book, "L’Ebola, les bombes et les migrants," which delves into the interconnected crises of pandemics, conflict, and migration. The conversation covers her experiences and insights from her tenure at MSF, the impact of global crises on public health, and the importance of recognizing our common humanity. Key Topics: Introduction to Dr. Joanne Liu: Her background as a pediatric emergency physician and former president of MSF. New Book Discussion: "L’Ebola, les bombes et les migrants" and its exploration of the polycrises of pandemics, conflict, and migration. Pandemic Preparedness: Reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of public health awareness, and the need for better preparedness for future pandemics. Climate Crisis: The impact of climate change on health and the emergence of new diseases. Migration: Dr. Liu's personal connection to migration, the challenges faced by migrants, and the need for a rights-based approach. Conflict and Health: The targeting of health facilities in conflicts, the importance of international humanitarian law, and the role of international institutions in addressing these issues. Call to Action: Dr. Liu emphasizes the need for individual and collective action to address global challenges and uphold our common humanity. Notable Quotes: "We need to recognize the humanity in the other person, the person we call other, because if we don't, we are denying our own humanity." "Wishful thinking is not a strategy, and it's not an operational plan." Production Team: Director and Producer: Erik Espera of NewsDoc Media Assistant Producer: Y-Isha Raphael Links: Link to Dr. Liu's book https://editionslibreexpression.groupelivre.com/products/lebola-les-bombes-et-les-migrants Connect with Us If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate us five stars, and share the conversation on global health equity. For more updates, follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Spotify. Facebook and Instagram: @ShotArmPodcast Youtube: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shotarmpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69XpqCLn9oL2yU3votRIlO?si=8c14b13f7b8b48b3
November 18, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — November 14, 2024

Featuring articles on perioperative durvalumab in bladder cancer, transcatheter valve repair for mitral regurgitation, chemoradiotherapy in gastric cancer, and lessons from England’s National Health Service; a review article on lung transplantation; a case report of a newborn with hypoxemia and a lung opacity; and Perspectives on our latest brief case studies on efforts toward equity and on forensic nurse examiners. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 19.
November 13, 2024
Play now

Integrating Diagnostics for Global Health Equity with Dr. Ben LaBrot

Ben Plumley sits down with Dr. Benjamin LaBrot to discuss innovation and equity in global health diagnostics, focusing on diagnostics' pivotal role in addressing HIV Disease. The conversation covers key themes in diagnostic integration, barriers in middle-income countries, and the critical role of diagnostics in disease prevention and management for other conditions as well, like hepatitis, and tuberculosis. Host: Ben Plumley, Global Health Strategist Guest: Dr. Benjamin LaBrot, Physician and Global Health Advocate, Roche Diagnostics Key Topics Covered Diagnostics and Patient Empowerment Diagnostics are essential for individual treatment and monitoring, especially for diseases like HIV. LaBrot emphasizes that diagnostics need to evolve to provide integrated testing options for a holistic patient approach. Integration in Global Health Services Dr. LaBrot highlights the need for integrated diagnostic services to reduce fragmentation in healthcare, where separate tests for HIV, STI, hepatitis, and TB are offered. This integration can streamline diagnosis and improve patient care, particularly in low-resource settings. Middle-Income Country Challenges Middle-income countries feel underserved in global health funding and support, often excluded from international resources aimed at lower-income nations. Dr. LaBrot advocates for a more inclusive funding approach, arguing these countries have the infrastructure to maximize benefits from increased diagnostic support. Advances in Diagnostic Technology Dr. LaBrot shares how innovative approaches like plasma data separation cards offer practical solutions for remote and low-resource settings, enabling stable blood sample transport without refrigeration. This innovation bridges the gap between point-of-care testing and lab-based diagnostics, crucial for rural and underserved areas. The Role of Influencers and Education in Health Communication Both Ben Plumley and Dr. LaBrot stress the importance of reaching patients through trusted community influencers and digital platforms. Highlighting Panama’s COVID-19 communication strategy, they underscore how trusted leaders and influencers can combat misinformation and promote health education effectively. Memorable Quotes “In a fragmented healthcare system, diagnostics integration is not just optimal; it’s essential for the effectiveness of any treatment.” - Dr. Ben LaBrot “Middle-income countries feel left out—too well-off to receive international aid but lacking resources to implement comprehensive healthcare.” - Dr. Ben LaBrot Connect with Us If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate us five stars, and share the conversation on global health equity. For more updates, follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Spotify. Facebook and Instagram: @ShotArmPodcast Youtube: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shotarmpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69XpqCLn9oL2yU3votRIlO?si=8c14b13f7b8b48b3 Website: www.ashotinthearmpodcast.com Production Team Produced by Erik Espera (NewsDoc Media)  Assistant Producer: Y-Isha Rafael
November 11, 2024
Play now

Post Election Blues & Reds

In this episode, Ben reflects on the recent US Presidential Election and its implications for democracy and global health. Key points discussed include: Democracy in Action: The election showcased the importance of daily democratic engagement in a divided country. Transition Team Priorities: The new administration must focus on health, including rebuilding trust in medical science, pandemic preparedness, and funding frontline services. Global Risks: The triple threats of pandemics, climate change, and conflict pose unprecedented risks to our way of life. AIDS Response: Concerns about the US investment in PEPFAR and the Global Fund, and the need for shared global responsibility to end AIDS. Future of AIDS Response: Plans to launch a dedicated podcast series addressing the long-term AIDS response post-2030, costs, and protecting vulnerable communities. Digital Technology's Role: The significant impact of digital technology and social media on our lives and the need to understand and utilize them effectively. Call to Action: Join Ben, Eric, and the team on this essential journey. Stay tuned for ways to get involved and support their mission. Subscribe: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast
November 7, 2024
Play now

NEJM This Week — November 7, 2024

Featuring articles on an invasive treatment strategy in older patients with myocardial infarction, a randomized trial of very early medication abortion, therapies in stage III melanoma, and on long Covid defined; a review article on uterine fibroids; a Clinical Problem-Solving on two sides to the story; and Perspectives on the U.S. Latino HIV crisis, on reframing cerebral palsy as a lifelong disability, and on an older patient and his physician finding an immediate, resonant connection in a haunting song recalled from long ago and far away. Supplement to the New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 391, No. 18.
November 6, 2024
Play now

Join our community and never miss
your favorite episodes

Join Our Newsletter

We gratefully acknowledge the many organizations that have generously supported our podcasts and platform.

Network Sponsors and Advertisers

Event and Media Partners