Speak Up For Your Health

In Part 2 of our conversation, Catherine McKenzie discusses the unique format of GMA3 and how health topics are a foundational element of the show. She explains how the team selects health topics, the real-world impact of their health stories, and the media’s role in public health. She shares her views on the influence of social media, the challenges of combatting misinformation, and the importance of non-partisanship in health reporting. Key Takeaway Access credible health news, whether it's on TV, online, or in print. Rely on information that's science-based – vetted by clinical professionals and experts, Even when the source is credible, read beyond the headlines. The devil is always in the details. Links GMA3: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/author/gma3 Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth #GoodMorningAmerica #catherinemckenzie #healthnews #ABCnews #publichealth #medicalreporting #jenniferashton #dariensutton

When Good Morning America's executive producer saw her doctor for joint pain, she never expected to be diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis—or that the medication prescribed to help her would trigger a life-threatening drug reaction. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, she shares her harrowing medical journey, from missed warning signs and delayed diagnosis to a year-long battle with the powerful steroid prednisone. We break down DRESS Syndrome, why medications are often overlooked as the cause of new symptoms, and the serious risks of steroids. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we explore how Cat’s personal health crisis now shapes the national health news she brings to audiences on GMA3. Key Takeaways Don't ignore persistent symptoms. If you have fever, vomiting, or other concerning signs for more than 2 days, get medical care. Medications should always be on the suspect list. Adverse drug reactions don't always show up as a rash. They are great imitators of disease and may involve any organ system and without a rash. Oral steroids are powerful, but risky. They should never be the automatic go-to. If your doctor prescribes steroids, ask about alternatives and make sure there's a clear plan to taper off. Links GMA3: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/author/gma3 Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth #arthritis #jointpain #sulfadrugs #drugallergy #GoodMorningAmerica #patientcare #patientadvocacy #prednisone

How can you tell if your child's behavior and development are on track? What early signs might indicate the need for an evaluation? In this episode, Ruby Manoles, an early childhood special education teacher, shares how she is often the first to recognize when a child may need extra support. She explains how teachers serve as a crucial bridge between families, schools, and healthcare, advocating for children and connecting them to services to help them thrive. Key Takeaways Recognize Red Flags: Watch for behaviors that may indicate a need for evaluation, such as: Difficulty adjusting after 6–8 weeks in a new environment Inability to clearly communicate needs Lack of responsiveness to safety cues CDC Developmental Milestones Share Concerns Early: If you notice red flags, communicate with the school team. Providing information can enhance the quality of the educational assessment. Understand the Difference: An educational diagnosis is not the same as a medical diagnosis, and having a medical diagnosis does not automatically qualify a child for educational services. Focus on the Child, Not the Label: Use person-first language (e.g., "a child with a disability" instead of "a disabled child") to emphasize the individual, not the disability. Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth #special education #child development #parenting #neurodiversity #early childhood education #special needs children #autism spectrum disorder

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Peter Bornstein has treated countless patients with sepsis. Despite his expertise, Peter found himself battling this condition as a patient, sharing how he ignored the early symptoms until they escalated rapidly. Peter talks openly about the lessons he learned about navigating healthcare as both a doctor and patient. Key Takeaways: Sepsis is serious. Early signs include shaking chills, rapid heart rate, and lightheadedness. Don’t hesitate to seek urgent care. Your medical history matters. Even minor procedures weeks prior can be critical to diagnosis. UTIs require attention. Symptoms like pain or frequent urination shouldn’t be ignored, especially for men. Advocate for yourself. If antibiotics don’t work within 3–4 days, ask for an infectious disease consultation. Links Dr. Peter Bornstein's Blog: https://peterbornstein.substack.com/ Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth #sepsis #infectious disease #healthcarecommunication, #patientcare #self-care #prostate biopsy #healthcarepodcast

How do you advocate for someone you love when they struggle to follow their treatment plan? In this episode, Cherri Furness, a nurse specializing in chronic kidney disease, shares her deeply personal story. Cherri’s son, Jeff, is not just one of her patients—he’s also navigating his own journey with kidney failure. Tune in to hear how Cherri balances being both a caregiver and advocate, even when Jeff resists taking care of himself. Key Takeaways: Don’t Ignore Subtle Changes: Pay attention to small signs—they often signal bigger problems. While pain is an obvious warning, the absence of it doesn’t mean all is well. Conditions like worsening kidney function, high blood pressure, or glaucoma often progress silently. Early detection can make all the difference. Make Treatment Plans Work for You: Adhering to a treatment plan is essential, but it also needs to fit your lifestyle. If it doesn’t, speak up! Simple adjustments—like changing medications, reducing doses, or modifying the schedule—can make it easier to stay on track without compromising effectiveness. Honor the Angels in Your Life: Caregivers are the the angels – the unsung heroes – who often put their own needs aside to support your recovery. While your health is your journey, remember that you’re not in it alone. Appreciate the angels in your corner who walk this path with you. Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

The death of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO has reignited backlash against health insurance practices, particularly prior authorization rules. This episode explores the parallels between today’s outrage and the late 1990s backlash. Archelle sits down with Dr. Lee Newcomer, a fellow former Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare during that era, to share their unique insights. Together, they examine the pros and cons of prior authorization policies and discuss the urgent need for reforms to enhance access to medical care and restore public trust in the healthcare system. Key Takeaways: A Recipe for Navigating Your Prior Authorization Step 1: Have 5-7 days of patience. Step 2: After 5-7 days, call your doctor’s and verify that the prior authorization was submitted. Make sure all the info is correct. Step 3: Call customer service and ask for the status of the request. If they don’t have an answer, get a commitment on when they will follow up. Mention your intention to contact the Attorney General's Office Step 4: Escalate if there is no follow up within the time promised. Options (you can do all 3) ·     Call the Health Insurance Company CEO and request a referral to the Expedited Appeal Unit ·     Contact the Human Resources Department of your employer ·     Submit a complaint to the Attorney General’s office in your state. Here's a link for the AG in each state: https://projects.propublica.org/claimfile/   Don't Forget: Keep your calm and be rationale. You’ll get more accomplished that way. If your doctor believes that the medical test or procedure you need is urgent or emergent….don’t wait for the prior authorization. Get the medical care you need and if its denied, you can appeal it later. Links: Attorney General Offices in each state State: https://projects.propublica.org/claimfile/ Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter Email: SpeakUpForYourHealth@gmail.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth

Perimenopause and menopause involve much more than just hot flashes. Symptoms like brain fog, insomnia, and mood changes can profoundly impact women’s personal and professional lives, especially when they go undiagnosed and untreated. For Joanna Stober, it took a frustrating year to find the help she needed. Fueled by her experience, she channeled her frustration into action, founding Midi Health—a virtual care platform dedicated to improving women's health.

Stress can worsen or exacerbate almost any medical condition. This doesn’t mean that your symptoms are all in your head but it does mean that having a healthy outlet for your stress is an important part of your treatment plan. Paul Folger is a journalist/news anchor who has ulcerative colitis – and lots of stress. He's talks about how he's navigated having this condition while also having a successful career in broadcast news.