Newsletter
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.

57 I Food is Medicine: How UC Davis is Bridging Healthcare and Community w/ Dr. Reshma Gupta

We delve into the "Food is Medicine" concept with Dr. Reshma Gupta, Chief of Population Health and Accountable Care at UC Davis Health, exploring how culturally appropriate food programs can enhance health outcomes and bolster local economies. Our discussion highlights the importance of cultural connections, integrating economic and environmental factors, and addressing food insecurity through innovative healthcare models. By sharing patient stories and program successes, we illuminate the transformative power of culturally relevant, nutritious food in healthcare settings. We envision a future where healthy food is accessible and affordable and examine the need for policy advocacy, better data collection, and community collaboration to achieve it. Overview: 03:29 Food empowers health, community, climate, and economy. 06:11 Connect with communities for culturally palatable food. 12:51 Food unites communities through cultural cooking classes. 14:57 Understanding, connecting, and revitalizing community food initiatives. 19:42 Deliver local, healthy, affordable foods to schools. 22:35 Medicaid targets disparities; Medicare lacks similar policies. 26:52 Early adopters invest in wellness, promising results. 28:56 UC Davis cafeteria offers gourmet-quality meals. Resources: Food is Medicine - UC Davis Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ 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
November 26, 2024

56 I Food is Medicine (& Relationship) — Indigenous Wisdom on Food Sovereignty w/ Feed 7 Generations

Join us as we delve into the pressing issues of food sovereignty, nutrition, and cultural revitalization with our guests Romajean Thomas and Valerie Segrest from the Muckleshoot Tribe. We explore the challenges of accessibility and cost of fresh produce, the critical role of education in understanding cultural ecosystems and ethical harvesting practices, and the powerful impact of the Indigenous-led food movement. Learn about innovative initiatives like the Feed 7 Generations Poster, Native Grown and Gathered Project, and Feed 7 Generations Youth Program, designed to reconnect communities with traditional food systems and sustainable practices. Hear firsthand experiences of integrating traditional knowledge into modern healthcare, advocating for food is medicine, and promoting preventative health through ancestral diets. Our discussion underscores the importance of collective action, community engagement, and the interconnectedness of humans and ecosystems in creating a holistic approach to health and nutrition. Overview: Accessibility and Cost of Fresh Produce Consumer Education and Sustainable Resources Feed 7 Generations Poster and its Principles Indigenous-Led Food Movement and Healing from Colonization Resources and Accessibility through Feed 7 Generations Native Grown and Gathered Project during the Pandemic Feed 7 Generations Youth Program and Future Stewards Food as Medicine Discussion critiques and approached Produce Prescriptions vs. Traditional Food Preferences Roma Jean's Experience with Non-Traditional Healthcare. Resources: Feed 7 Generations Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ 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
November 4, 2024

55 I Food is Medicine: Reclaiming Culture, Restoring Dignity – Feeding Feasible Feasts with Angel Swanson

Our episode "Final Feeding Feasible Feasts" explores vital issues surrounding food insecurity and dignity through an enlightening conversation with Angel Swanson, founder of Feeding Feasible Feasts. We uncover the importance of shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, the environmental benefits of food recovery programs, and the implementation of electric vehicles for CO2 reduction. Angel shares the significance of food sovereignty and nutritious food within the African American community, cultural nuances in food preparation, and adapting traditional Black cuisine for better health. We discuss her innovative 24/7 food hubs, which restore dignity by avoiding rigid criteria, and the challenges traditional food banks face. The dialogue also delves into the broader impact of food distribution, gardening as a means of self-sufficiency, and the need for compassionate guidance in food assistance programs. Through Angel’s experiences and insights, we emphasize a holistic and collaborative approach to addressing food insecurity while maintaining cultural identity and dignity. Overview: Introduction and Context Guest Introduction: Angel Swanson Understanding Food Hubs Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset Food Recovery Programs Food Sovereignty & Nutritious Food Food as Medicine Challenges of National Programs Trust and Dignity in Food Distribution Innovative Community Programs Over-Collection Solutions Angel's Favorite Meal Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action Resources: Feeding Feasible Feasts Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn 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
October 25, 2024

54 I Ukraine— Building Resilience: Peer Support and Post-Traumatic Growth

We delve into the multifaceted challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees, focusing on mental health, identity, and community resilience. Our guests, Olga and Tamara, discuss the emotional burdens of displacement and the efforts to foster hope and belonging through peer support and cultural activities. Addressing issues ranging from trauma and domestic violence to the stigma surrounding mental illness and disabilities, we emphasize the importance of post-traumatic growth and psychoeducation. By spotlighting the Ukrainian community's adaptability and the vital role of support networks, we explore the complexities of resettlement and the pursuit of a nurturing environment for all generations. Join us in understanding the intricacies of mental health care and community building for refugees. Overview: 00:00 Challenges faced by refugees, loss of hope, and difficulty in returning home 06:13 Importance of activities that foster belonging and community resilience 11:42 Stigma surrounding mental illness and disabilities, psychoeducation differences 15:27 Role of the warm line and confidential support for Ukrainians 18:50 Use of peer support activities to build community connections 22:31 Addressing Domestic and inter-partner Violence within cultural contexts 27:00 Coping mechanisms, post-traumatic growth, and community efforts 31:14 Identity and language struggles impacting mental health 35:42 Mental health access barriers and systemic challenges 39:28 Faith-based community support and historical religious influences. Resources: NASHI Immigrants Health Board Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn 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
October 10, 2024

53 I Ukraine—How History and Culture Shape Ukrainian Health Choices (Tamara Cunitz, Part II)

In part two of our four-part series on caring for Ukrainians, we explore the intricate relationship between the Ukrainian community's history and their health beliefs, focusing on the American healthcare system's impact. Hosts Dr. Raj Sundar and guest Tamara discuss the challenges of translating preventive care practices like vaccination and mammograms to a community with deep-rooted self-reliance and government mistrust. We delve into the significance of culturally sensitive language, the effect of false information on healthcare decisions, and practical strategies for building trust and effective communication with Ukrainian patients. Through vivid examples and personal anecdotes, we emphasize the importance of understanding and integrating cultural nuances to provide better patient care. Overview: 01:21 Discussing historical context influencing Ukrainian health beliefs 01:57 Challenges in demographic categorization and socioeconomic status 03:32 Perceptions of the term "refugee" and its connotations 06:35 Ukrainian community's health beliefs and self-reliance 10:16 Vaccination hesitancy and preventive care challenges 15:01 Importance of in-language consultations and community health workers 17:44 Main health concerns within the Ukrainian community 20:00 Negative personal experience with culturally insensitive healthcare 21:36 Insufficient communication and understanding in medical encounters Resources: NASHI Immigrants Health Board Music: Temperance The Griffiths Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn 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
September 16, 2024

[Trailer] Healthcare for Humans—What to Expect

Discover 'Healthcare for Humans,' a podcast revolutionizing culturally competent and responsive care. Host Dr. Raj Sundar challenges healthcare norms, exploring how cultural understanding improves patient outcomes. From food practices to belief systems, each episode uncovers insights for healthcare professionals, patients, and anyone passionate about health equity. Biweekly episodes feature expert guests and real-life stories, equipping listeners to provide more inclusive care. Subscribe now to join the movement towards a healthcare system where everyone feels seen and valued.
September 16, 2024

52 I Ukraine—Rooted in Resilience: Exploring the Nation’s Historical Journey (Tamara Cunitz, Part I)

Summary: We dive into Ukrainian immigrant's and refugees' experiences and historical context with our guest, Tamara Cunitz. She shares her family's journey from Ukraine to the US during World War 2 and how it has fueled her passion for nursing and community health. As the executive director of the NASHI Immigrants Health Board, Tamara illuminates the cultural diversity within Ukraine and explains the waves of immigration driven by political and social upheaval, from the forced famines under Stalin to the recent conflicts triggered by the Russian invasion. We also explore how language, religion, and resilience shape Ukrainian identity and diaspora communities in Washington state, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging both the challenges and the strengths of the Ukrainian people. Overview: Introduction to Tamara and her work, background, and refugee context Barriers to vaccination and creation of NACI Immigrants Health Board Diversity in Ukraine: ethnic groups and languages Language politics and identity in Ukraine Historical waves of Ukrainian immigration to the US Impact of historical trauma and Holodomor famine Distinction between immigrants' and refugees' experiences Ukraine’s independence and current invasion by Russia The current wave of Ukrainian refugees and settlement patterns Resilience and strength of the Ukrainian community Resources: NASHI Immigrants Health Board Music: Temperance The Griffiths Next Step: Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn 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
September 3, 2024

51 I Equity as Value — Integrating Cultural Inclusivity in Healthcare Reform

Summary: We discuss the importance of understanding the diverse demographic makeup of patients and tailoring healthcare metrics like A1c and blood pressure to community needs. We explore the challenges of engaging immigrant communities, emphasizing trust and cultural inclusivity. We'll hear about successful community-driven initiatives, the shift from volume-based to value-based care, and the pitfalls of targeting system-level metrics over patient well-being. Hiroshi shares his personal journey of reclaiming his Japanese identity and his community-centered work at Valley Medical Center, while Raj offers insights into delivering culturally responsive care. Overview: Understanding the demographic makeup of patients to address community needs Challenges in engaging with immigrant communities and establishing trust Importance of a patient-centered approach over a deficit mindset Developing community-driven ideas and recognizing community strengths Critique of the volume-based healthcare system and the shift to value-based care Addressing culturally responsive care within a value-based system Hiroshi's journey of reclaiming ethnic identity and its impact Community health centers' unique governance structure and community-centered approach Potential for traditional health systems to adopt community-centered models Examples of successful community health initiatives across the country. Next Step Visit our website, Healthcare for Humans, and join our community to enjoy exclusive benefits at https://www.healthcareforhumans.org/support/ Earn 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
August 20, 2024
View All Episodes

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.

You may also like

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