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Healthcare for Humans

Healthcare for Humans

This show is dedicated to educating clinicians on how to care for culturally diverse communities so we can be better healers.

43 I Cross-Cultural TB Reflections—Ethiopian, Kenyan & Marshallese Perspectives w/ Duncan Reid and Franky Erra

Summary: In this reflection series, we delve into the grave impact of military occupation and nuclear testing on Bikini Atoll, as Duncan Reid links this history to the high rate of tuberculosis in the Marshallese community. We explore community beliefs and experiences with BCG vaccination and TB, confronting stigma and confusion surrounding the disease, as illustrated in deep conversations with Dr. Ejara in the Ethiopian community and Reverend Paul Karume of the Kenyan community. Navigating through stories of migration for better healthcare access, we examine the intricate challenges faced by individuals, like prioritizing health amidst concerns for housing and employment. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of cultural literacy in health communication, reflecting on how terms like "latent" and "inactive" TB shape perceptions and articulating the urgency of community engagement to foster understanding and support. Timestamped Overview: 02:14: Link between military occupation, nuclear testing, and TB rates in the Marshallese community. 06:37: Community beliefs and the impact of BCG vaccine on TB perception and stigma. 11:05: Misunderstandings around TB testing, false positives, and the BCG vaccine mark. 15:22 Exploring latent TB awareness and myths in various cultural contexts. 19:48: The role of cultural literacy and metaphors in health communication for TB. 24:33: Stigma's effect on willingness to discuss and address tuberculosis within communities. 29:15: Challenges of prioritizing health amidst critical social and economic issues. 34:12: The importance of culturally sensitive terminology in discussing latent TB. Next StepVisit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Sponsored by: Public Health – Seattle & King County TB Clinic
April 17, 2024

The Human Side of Latent TB: The Congolese Community Perspective (Ep.43)

Summary: This episode will review the complexities of managing latent tuberculosis within the Congolese community, discussing the critical need for cultural sensitivity and community engagement when addressing latent TB. With insights from Dr. Jean Jacques and host Duncan Reid, we unpack healthcare providers' challenges, from bridging language and cultural gaps to tackling the stigma associated with treatment. Our conversation highlights the vital role of Congolese clinicians, the importance of consistent funding and support from state efforts, and the unique health concerns within the community. Through Jean Jacques' personal experiences and professional background, we emphasize how tailored public health initiatives and collaboration with community and faith leaders can lead to more effective communicable and chronic disease management, ensuring that healthcare practices are respectful of and responsive to the community's history, perspectives, and needs. Timestamped Overview: 02:10 Importance of incorporating healthcare practices from the Democratic Republic of Congo. 07:35 Challenges and confusion in TB diagnosis and vaccination understanding in the Congo vs. the US. 14:15 Role of consistent funding and trust-building with African communities. 18:02 The impact of cultural gaps and misinformation on TB treatment adherence. 21:50 Utilizing foreign medical professionals for community outreach on TB. 25:40 Differences in public visibility of TB patients and treatment processes in the DRC and US. 29:05 Addressing latent TB through tailored community engagement strategies. 33:15 Conflicting social norms and religious beliefs affecting TB treatment in the African community. 37:22 Importance of connecting with faith and community leaders for authentic health issue feedback. 40:50 Need for sustained public health efforts and cultural sensitivity in treating immigrant and refugee populations. Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Sponsored by: Public Health – Seattle & King County TB Clinic
April 3, 2024

The Human Side of Latent TB: Community Insights with Franky and Mohammed (Ep. 42)

Summary: We dive into the complexities of navigating the US healthcare system with insights from Franky and Mohammad, focusing specifically on the Marshallese community's challenges and the widespread misconceptions about TB screenings in diverse populations. Together, we explore culturally responsive strategies to improve trust and treatment adherence, including employing trusted community messengers, understanding patient education needs, and addressing the nonclinical aspects of care. Our discussions underscore the necessity of patient-centered communication, acknowledging cultural beliefs and practices in treatment, and the critical role of community navigators in facilitating accessible healthcare. By acknowledging these crucial factors, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of and responsiveness to the unique healthcare needs within various communities. Timestamped Overview: 02:04 Addressing the complexity of the US healthcare system and the Marshallese community's challenges. 07:15 Tackling TB misconceptions and the impact on screenings within diverse populations. 13:30 Importance of culturally responsive care and trusted community messengers in healthcare. 17:48 Strategies for medical professionals to build trust and set proper expectations for patient care. 22:27 Role of community navigators in facilitating healthcare access and understanding. 27:35 Utilizing metaphors and visual aids for effective communication about latent TB. 32:42 Balancing respect for patients' decisions while advocating for preventive care. 37:50 Overcoming cultural and literacy barriers with diverse educational materials. 42:57 Emphasizing a collective family approach to healthcare in community engagement. 47:11 Discussing latent TB's prevalence, risks, and the necessity of screening and treatment. Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Sponsored by: Public Health – Seattle & King County TB Clinic
March 21, 2024

Hepatitis B—Culturally Responsive Care to Address the Stigma & Silence (H. Nina Kim, Ep.41)

Summary: We sit down with H. Nina Kim to explore the delicacy of discussing hepatitis B without trigger, the consequential distrust in healthcare within immigrant communities tied to historical traumas, and the necessity for culturally sensitive approaches. We delve into the responsibility of healthcare providers to empower and educate patients using relatable metaphors and community-led initiatives, emphasizing the importance of dismantling stigma and fostering hope. In our conversation, we underscore the significance of precise communication, including the use of high-quality interpreter services and the shift towards inspiring campaigns that feature community leaders. Moreover, we discuss the role of organizations like the Hepatitis B Foundation in providing a voice to those affected by the virus, creating a supportive online network, and the potential for future inclusive health programs informed by affected communities themselves. Join us as we advocate for a more understanding and equitable healthcare landscape that prioritizes the human element at the heart of care. Timestamped Overview: 02:10 The detrimental effects of military metaphors and historical trauma on immigrant trust in healthcare. 07:35 The negative impact of US atomic bomb testing on Marshall Island communities' health and trust. 12:50 Shifting hepatitis B campaigns towards inspiring messages and empowerment. 17:30 A discussion on the use of fear in healthcare messaging and the importance of community-led approaches. 22:42 Providing resources and education to clinicians for better hepatitis B counseling. 28:15 The role of the Hepatitis B Foundation in combating stigma through storytelling. 33:28 Normalizing hepatitis B, emphasizing commonality, and ensuring patient understanding of treatment. 38:40 Tackling stigma, discrimination, and the need to educate about transmission in vulnerable communities. 44:15 Explaining asymptomatic diseases and bridging patient skepticism with trust-building methods. 49:50 Decolonizing healthcare by involving community members and culturally responsive programs. Helpful Links: Hepatitis B Online Curriculum - Free CME Curriculum Edited by Dr. Kim Hepatitis B Hub - Resource for Patients in Multiple Languages Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Sponsored by: Public Health – Seattle & King County TB Clinic
March 7, 2024

50 Years Later—Michael Byun Reflects on ACRS Approach to Addressing Holistic Health of AAPI Communities (Ep. 40)

Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Summary: We dive deep into the nuanced world of healthcare interpretation and cultural competency with Michael Byun, exploring the critical role language and cultural understanding play in delivering care to diverse communities. Michael reflects on his experience at ACRS and their 50 years of service, addressing the challenges faced by Asian American Pacific Islander communities, from misconceptions in traditional healing practices to the stigmatization of mental health. We examine the importance of inclusive services, highlighting programs like Club Bamboo, and share personal stories that underscore the need for empathy, patience, and tailored approaches to healthcare. Our conversation spans the difficulties in mental health care within tight-knit communities, generational differences in treatment acceptance, and the potency of community-based healing strategies, all through the lens of Michael's rich background as an immigrant from Korea and a leader in community-centric healthcare initiatives. Timestamped Overview: 02:34 Emphasizing the importance of cultural nuances and interpreter proficiency in healthcare. 08:15 Discussing interpreter complexities and the mental health needs within the AAPI community. 14:50 Celebrating ACRS's 50th anniversary and its impact on community services for Asian and Pacific Islander communities. 22:07 Addressing the stigma around mental health and implementing community-oriented solutions. 29:15 Examining the necessity of culturally sensitive practices in mental health care. 34:40 Exploring the social aspects of healthcare and combating isolation through Club Bamboo. 41:38 Integrating traditional and culturally informed approaches to mental health treatment. 47:50 Highlighting the role of community in processing feelings and healing from trauma. 53:27 Discussing the importance of community-level strategies for intergenerational support and leadership.
February 21, 2024

The Founding of Asian Counseling & Referral Services (ACRS): A Conversation with Theresa Fujiwara (Ep. 39)

Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Summary: On this episode, we interview Theresa Fujiwara, co-founder of the Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS). We discuss the grassroots origins of ACRS and its pivotal role in providing culturally responsive mental health care to the Asian Pacific Islander community, filling a void left by national institutions. We then talk about the organization's approach, which blends Eastern and Western medicine, and the significance of community engagement in healing from trauma. The episode also explores the challenges of addressing stigma, language barriers, and diverse needs in mental health care while emphasizing the importance of integrated support and the role of community-based solutions. Timestamped Overview: 05:46 Learning about Japanese American incarceration, becoming an activist 12:45 International Community Health Services, International Examiner, and ACRS celebrate 50 years. 19:20 Holistic approach to mental health treatments. 23:23 Ensuring trust, support, and interpretation for clients. 26:21 Difficulty creating a pipeline for mental health workers. 28:33 Communities organize around church, club, and assistance. 31:58 Gathering should have a purpose and healing.
February 7, 2024

Navigating Machismo, LGBTQ+ Identity, and Mental Health in Latino Communities (Fernanda Mazcot, Ep 38)

Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Summary: In this episode, we continue the conversation with guest Fernanda Mazcot about the challenges of mental health accessibility, focusing on the value of drop-in services in breaking down barriers and making mental health more approachable and inclusive. The discussion also delves into the specific approaches to addressing mental health for the youth in the Latino community, including nonclinical methods such as workshops, book clubs, and cultural events. The conversation addresses sensitive topics such as machismo and the LGBTQ+ identity within the religious and faith-based Latino community. Fernanda shares insights on supporting smaller communities within the larger community, addressing generational trauma, and the importance of understanding and respecting cultural beliefs and practices when providing mental health services. Timestamped overview: 00:00: Continuing mental health accessibility discussion, including inclusivity. 06:01: Cultural events foster belonging and youth mental health. 08:40: Supporting marginalized groups within the Latino community. 12:36: Respect culture, understand religion, and challenge traditional gender roles. 13:35: Educating parents and building acceptance in the community. 18:27: Concerns about elder care and child safety
January 24, 2024

Solutions to the Mental Health Crisis—Culturally Responsive Mental Healthcare by BIPOC, for BIPOC Communities (Fernanda Mazcot, Ep 37))

Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn CME Credits: Clinicians, enhance your learning by earning valuable continuing education credits while listening. Utilize your CME funds to join our community. Support Our Mission: Non-clinicians, explore exclusive content and contribute to our collective journey. Be an Active Participant: Go beyond listening. Shape our narrative by co-creating episodes with us. Be part of our community by visiting https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/. Follow us on Instagram @healthcareforhumanspodcast Summary: In this episode, we discuss the challenges and barriers individuals from different cultures face in accessing mental health support, featuring guest Fernanda Mazcot. We explore the stigma and perceptions of mental illness within Latino communities, emphasizing the need for better understanding and conversation around mental health. Mazcot shares her personal experience as a caregiver and the impact of limited access to mental health resources, advocating for tailored mental health services for BIPOC communities and a holistic approach to mental health care. We discuss a model for connecting individuals to telehealth sessions for mental health care and stress the necessity of understanding individuals' cultural and linguistic backgrounds in providing mental health care. The episode concludes with a call for representation and better support for caregivers, emphasizing the role of peer counseling and intensive case management. Timestamped overview 00:00 Mental health care faces accessibility, affordability, approachability challenges. 03:06 Fernanda shares transformative peer support model. 09:16 Navigating family and culture without defined boundaries. 12:16 Latino mental health barriers: access, stigma, resources. 13:10 Access to mental health is a global issue. 16:14 Hospital released me with baby and machines. 20:01 Mom's mental health struggles during son's illness. 22:56 Advocating for peer support through Medicaid reimbursement. 28:30 Navigating cultural nuances in accessing mental healthcare. 30:23 Survivor of car accident, mother and I. 35:03 Casual step-by-step care for mental health. 36:26 Emphasize need for comprehensive healthcare access and sharing.
January 18, 2024
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Healthcare for Humans

My name is Dr. Raj Sundar, a family physician and community organizer. This is an independent project that I created, so I can become a better healer to the many different communities that I care for. Like many of you, I've fallen short in caring for and healing many of my patients, especially when their values and beliefs seem foreign to me.

We all have felt those large gaps between our agenda as clinicians and the lives of our patients.

These gaps, sometimes an abyss, are exacerbated by our contemporary systems. This show is my creative power restive and uprising to help address this gap. In this podcast, as I learn, I hope to educate clinicians on how to care for culturally diverse communities so we can all be better healers for all patients, no matter who they are. I hope this podcast re-orients us to what's important to our patients and how they came to be where they are now.

By better understanding their worldview, we can better care for those patients we struggle to help, within the context of their own struggle, and thereby, even ameliorate our own struggle.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Host

Raj Sundar, MD

Raj Sundar, MD

Raj Sundar is a family physician and a community organizer, dedicated to creating systems that prioritize the dignity of each individual.

His leadership approach is rooted in enabling and facilitating others to achieve a shared purpose, and his goal is to contribute to the creation of institutions and communities that are diverse, equitable, and inclusive by honoring people's histories and uplifting their hopes.

He strives to empower others to create meaningful change and cultivate conditions that enable individuals to flourish.

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