Lunch And Learn With Dr. Berry

In today's episode, we delve into the critical issue of healthcare disparities affecting Black communities in the United States. We explore the deep-rooted connection between current health disparities and historical policies and events, shedding light on how systemic racism has played a significant role in shaping these inequalities. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: Historical Roots of Health Disparities: We'll discuss how historical policies and events, including segregation and discriminatory housing policies, have contributed to the health disparities faced by Black people today. Impact of Systemic Racism on Health: Delving into the ways systemic racism has limited access to health care and contributed to poorer health outcomes for Black communities. Addressing and Overcoming Disparities: We aim to highlight the importance of acknow

So, let’s talk about the aspect of having a non-clinical career… Attention physicians seeking a career change! Are you tired of being confined to a hospital environment? Do you yearn to explore a more diverse range of career options, but the uncertainty of what lies outside is holding you back? Do you want to transition to a non-clinical career but you just don’t know where and how to start? Well, worry no more, because on today’s podcast, we’ll have Leigh Ann Dooley MD, MPH, a board-certified psychiatrist who has more than a decade of clinical background, and just a year ago, has decided to transition into a non-clinical career. She’s here to share her journey and valuable insights with those who aspire to transition and explore the incredible possibilities the world has in store for us. So don’t miss out on this opportunity, because in this episode, not only will you get inspiration to take that shift; but you’ll also learn what career options are available for you out there as you explore the world beyond

In today's episode, we delve into a significant shift in public health policy: the CDC's decision to end the 5-day isolation protocol for individuals recovering from COVID-19. This move marks a departure from previous guidelines and raises important questions about the future management of the pandemic. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: The End of the 5-Day Isolation Protocol: We'll explore the reasons behind the CDC's decision to discontinue the isolation period, examining the data and rationale that informed this change. Understanding the Original Protocol: A review of the original 5-day isolation protocol, its objectives, and its impact on public health practices. Personal Reflections on the Changes: I'll share my thoughts on the implications of this policy shift, considering its potential effects on public health, individual behavior

So, let’s talk about the challenging journey of grief and dementia with today’s guest, Niesia Garza… Before we begin today’s episode, let me ask you for a quick favor… Imagine yourself as an artist with an amazing and delicate base…with beautiful patterns and vibrant colors, each representing the memories and experiences of your loved one… Now, continue to imagine that same base, but through time, see it starting to develop tiny cracks…the once vibrant colors and beautiful patterns now starting to fade away… Did you do it? If yes, how did it make you feel? Did it cause you emotional pain? Confusion? How about being anxious? Did it scare you? Because that experience, in essence, is equivalent to the one that your loved ones undergo while dealing with dementia. More importantly, it's the experience of the family members who have to provide care to their loved ones whose deterioration of brain functions has already begun. Yes, dementia doesn't just affect the person suffering from it, but also those around them.

So, let’s talk about the recent scandal concerning the Nepal USMLE cheating ring… For those of you who might not know, USMLE is a three-step licensing exam for physicians, residents, and aspirants alike who want to practice medicine in the United States. Here, applicants aspire to have the highest score possible, especially residents who want to attract the attention of residency program directors and get themselves onboard. And just recently, the National Board of Medical Examiners announced that they’re invalidating the USMLE scores of a group of residency applicants and current residents due to validity concerns. When I first saw it, I hate to say this but I wasn’t really shocked. I have always felt that the opportunity for an organized effort has always been there; however, I always assumed it would be difficult to bring it out. But then this recent USMLE scandal happened, and not only were there people who had an advantage; now, there’s a systemic advantage with such a coordinated effort to make it happe

So, let’s talk about the intersection of professions and other passions professionals have in life… In today's digital age, it is becoming more common for professionals to have an online presence. Whether it be through social media, podcasts, YouTube channels, or other platforms, professionals are finding ways to share knowledge, expertise, and passions with a wider audience. This online presence allows us to connect with people beyond our immediate circle and make a positive impact on a larger scale. However, there are still those individuals who question whether professionals should be engaging in activities outside of our primary roles. Others fail to realize it is not about compromising our career but rather expanding our reach and impact, leveraging on that power to make a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals. It also allows us to live a better and happier life, for we get to do and enjoy things that we love. So, if you want to step out of your comfort zone and explore avenues beyond

So, let’s talk about the leading cause of death globally – heart disease… Heart disease is a pervasive health issue with significant economic and personal impacts. Over the years, it has been highlighted as the number one killer globally, leading to a death every 33 seconds. Through my extensive experience as a physician, I’ve witnessed lots of patients across different age groups affected by this disease. And not only does it affect individuals; the economic burden of heart disease is also staggering, costing approximately $25 billion annually. This is a pressing issue that demands our attention. It is imperative to educate people about the critical importance of proactive health management. That’s why in this episode, we shed light on the prevalence, impact, and risk factors associated with heart disease, and emphasize the importance of early intervention and lifestyle modifications to combat this pervasive health issue. From patients' stories to prevention tips, we highlight the urgent need to focus on our

In today's episode, we delve into a significant controversy that's rocked the medical education community: the USMLE cheating scandal. Recent revelations have exposed a cheating scheme involving the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), raising serious questions about the integrity of the testing process and its implications for US medical graduates and the broader medical field. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: Overview of the USMLE Cheating Scandal: We'll provide a summary of the recent news surrounding the cheating scandal, highlighting the key facts and developments. Understanding the USMLE: A brief explanation of what the USMLE is and its importance in the medical education and licensing process. Impacts of Cheating: We'll discuss the potential effects of the cheating scandal on the credibility of the USMLE, the medi

So, let’s talk about the Autism in Black Conference for the year 2024… The Autism in Black Conference is rooted in our own family's journey. It all began when our daughter was diagnosed with autism at 18 months, and not long after that, we discovered that my wife shares the same journey. Seeking proper healthcare for our daughter, we encountered numerous hurdles, made a lot more difficult by the unique challenge of being Black. And that is the gap that my wife, Maria Davis-Pierre, really wanted to bridge. Maria Davis-Pierre is a licensed mental health counselor and is the founder and CEO of Autism in Black, an organization that aims to provide support to parents who raise autistic children through educational and advocacy services. Every year, they do an Autism in Black Conference, aiming to provide a safe space for those within the spectrum. The conference, born from our experiences, is more than just an event; it is a beacon of understanding and compassion, connecting those facing similar struggles, and ens

In today's episode, we're tackling a pervasive and systemic issue that's affecting millions of Americans: medical debt. Despite being one of the wealthiest nations, the U.S. grapples with the crippling effects of medical debt, a problem so widespread it's become normalized. This issue not only underscores the inequality of healthcare access but also contributes to a broader health crisis by forcing individuals and families into financial instability. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: The Crippling Effects of Medical Debt: We delve into how accumulating medical bills are more than just numbers; they lead to devastating consequences for individuals' health, livelihoods, and futures. Inequality in Healthcare: This segment explores how medical debt exacerbates health disparities, creating a vicious cycle where the economically disadvantaged

So, let’s talk about Tony Snell’s fight for an NBA contract and how it could help not only him but also his autistic sons… The news of the former NBA player desperately looking for teams to be part of has recently gone viral. According to reports, he’s trying to secure his 10th year of service to be eligible in the premium health benefits program of the NBA. Just last year, not only did he learn that he’s autistic; but he also discovered that both of his sons are autistic as well. And by being eligible for the NBA’s medical program, he would be helping his family receive the needed services. Unfortunately, especially in this country, the experience of being part of the autism spectrum is not an easy feat. Not to mention how the journey gets a lot more difficult when you’re Black. But here we have a father whose children have autism, and who is actually autistic himself, and he’s recognizing the burden, and taking action for his loved ones. As a father of two autistic children and husband to an autistic wife,

In today's episode, we focus on a crucial health concern that affects the African American community: prostate cancer, with a special emphasis on its prevalence and impact following the recent passing of Dexter Scott King. This poignant event brings prostate cancer and its disproportionate effects on Black men into the spotlight, reminding us of the importance of awareness, early detection, and addressing the disparities in healthcare. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: Remembering Dexter Scott King: Reflecting on his life and legacy, we discuss the profound impact of his loss and how it highlights the broader health challenges faced by the African American community, especially concerning prostate cancer. Prostate Cancer in Black Men: We'll delve into the statistics and facts, shedding light on why prostate cancer disproportionately affe

So, let’s talk about your mental readiness to get healthy… Since we are in January, that also means that it is New Year’s resolution season again. And in my ten years of experience as an attending physician, I’ve heard countless people say “This year, I want to be healthier.” But really, most of those people lose track of their New Year’s resolutions around February and March. That raises the question: Are you really mentally ready to get healthy? Because getting healthy is not going to happen overnight; it is a process that involves many steps and may take a long time. So join me in this episode as I help you answer that question, and enlighten you about the true essence of setting goals for yourself. Why you need to check this episode: Why do you need to get rid of the New Year’s resolution setup in setting goals for your health? What are the steps on how to become mentally fit to get healthy? Why you should always consider and celebrate the steps and processes that you need to do to achieve your goal of g

In today's episode, we turn our attention to a critical and pressing health issue – the recent measles outbreak in Philadelphia. Amidst growing concern and the backdrop of vaccine misinformation, this outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and the real-world consequences of anti-vaxxer rhetoric. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: The Philadelphia Measles Outbreak: We'll dive into the current situation, exploring the scope and severity of the outbreak, and the immediate actions taken by health authorities. The MMR Vaccine and Disinformation: Tracing the history and impact of disinformation surrounding the MMR vaccine, we'll discuss how myths and baseless fears have fueled vaccine hesitancy, leading to preventable outbreaks. The Anti-Vaxxers' Response to Outbreaks: We aim to critically analyze the silence or na

So, let’s talk about how we’ll change it up for 2024... Welcome to the first episode of Medicine Mondays for this year! Entering 2024, we will now be on season seven, episode 347. It’s wild to even say it out loud, and I’m really excited to see how high that number could go by the end of this year. But first things first: In this episode, I’ll be talking about the new plans I have for this year – plans that were not part of my agenda in the previous year. So join me today and find out what to expect from me for the year 2024. Why you need to check this episode: Find out Dr. Berry’s general plans for 2024; Learn about his main focus for this year; and Discover new ways to get information from Dr. Berry “I want you to feel comfortable not only listening to me, or hearing me, or watching me, but when you actually go to talk with your doctor… That when you go to your doctor, you’d feel like ‘I have something I can say here, I have the voice that I can project here as well, too because Dr. Berry gave me the tool

In today's episode, we're examining a trending health product that's been gaining traction on social media: coconut pulling oil, particularly the one offered by Guru Nanda amidst a flurry of claims about its effectiveness in oral hygiene, we delve into the science to see if it lives up to the hype. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: The Guru Nanda Coconut Pulling Oil Phenomenon: We'll take a closer look at the rise of this product in the market and on social media, discussing its purported benefits for oral health. Scientific Comparison: Coconut Oil Pulling vs. Traditional Methods: Drawing insights from a recent study, we'll compare coconut oil pulling with established oral hygiene practices, such as the use of Chlorhexidine, to evaluate their effectiveness.  Decoding Oral Hygiene Myths and Facts: We aim to dissect and understand the scie

In today's episode, we're focusing on a vital health topic as we enter the peak season for cold, Covid, and influenza. With CNN reporting high respiratory virus activity across the country, it's crucial to arm ourselves with knowledge and strategies to stay healthy. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: Current Respiratory Virus Activity: We'll start by examining CNN's latest update on the rise in flu, Covid, and RSV cases, understanding what this means for our everyday health. Tips for Staying Healthy During the Viral Season: From hygiene practices to lifestyle adjustments, we'll cover essential tips that can help you avoid falling ill during this intense viral season. Vitamins and Minerals in Disease Prevention: We’ll dive into the role of diet, particularly focusing on vitamins and minerals, in boosting your immune system against these

So, let’s talk about the anticipation and enthusiasm for the upcoming year… How many of you are actually excited about going into 2024? Looking back at the beginning of 2023, we might have had some goals, some aspirations, or some things we wanted to do. Were you able to do them all? Were you successful? I know you guys say it every year — “I don’t know where the time went.” Well, I don’t know where time went, either. But one thing’s for sure: I don’t want us stuck, unhealthy, and just going through the flow. The Lunch and Learn Community likes to get moving, to empower themselves for better health. If you did not get the opportunity to do what you got to do, guess what? You got yourself another chance with another year. In 2024, what are you going to do so that 2024 looks amazing for you at the end of the year? Why you need to check this episode: Understand the importance of self-evaluation, as well as being excited for the year to come; Discover questions you can ask yourself to help you self-evaluate for

In today's Real Physician Reacts episode, we delve into a groundbreaking development in the treatment of sickle cell disease – the FDA's approval of Casgevy, a revolutionary gene editing therapy. This significant advancement opens new doors for those who have long battled the challenges of sickle cell disease, offering hope and a potential paradigm shift in treatment. Please SUBSCRIBE for new videos every Monday afternoon and Thursday Evening https://www.drberrypierre.com/YTsubscription​ Let's Connect: Instagram TikTok Lunch and Learn Patreon Family Key Discussion Points: The Plight of Sickle Cell Patients: We’ll explore the struggles faced by individuals with sickle cell disease and the historical context of their treatment. Gene Editing Therapy Revolution: Delving into the science behind gene editing therapy, we'll discuss how Casgevy represents a new frontier in medical treatment. FDA's Approval of Casgevy: Analyzing the implications of this approval, we'll examine what it means for the future of sickle c

So, let’s talk about osteopathic medicine and why Sunny Hostin’s remarks should be debunked and called out… In a recent episode of The View, one of the most-watched daytime talk shows to date, host Sunny Hostin left a comment on former President Trump’s physician not being a medical doctor because he is a Doctor of Osteopathy. While discussing the report on the former President’s health, Hostin claimed that being a Doctor of Osteopathy and being a medical doctor are two different things. Unfortunately, this notion about having an MD degree vs. a DO degree has been going on for years, with some of the prejudice even presenting itself within the industry. But are osteopathic medicine physicians really NOT medical doctors, as thought by Hostin and the general public? Is the practice of osteopathy, not real medicine? Are MDs and DOs really different, especially regarding one’s qualifications to do patient care? Join me in today’s episode of Medicine Mondays as we shed light on this philosophical clash. Why you ne