Speak Up for SaferCare

Rural Digital Literacy

Libraries are for checking out books, right? Think again! In this episode, learn how rural librarian Dianne Connery became a community advocate in Pottsboro, Texas. In this retirement community, many residents cannot utilize technology for information/education. Find out how this community pioneer meets the needs of rural community members and the impacts of her efforts.

Preventing Harm from Opioids with Dr. Emanuel George

Pain management is a delicate practice, as accidental overdoses have quadrupled over two decades. How do prescribers balance pain relief without harm? In this episode, Dr. Emanuel George, an Associate Professor in the HSC College of Pharmacy, contrasts the differences between opioid and non-opioid pain medications and introduces non-pharmacologic methods for pain management. He also touches on legislation that promotes/hinders safety. Download this episode to learn more!

Age Friendly Health Systems with Dr. Kate Taylor

What is important to geriatric populations? Are there common patient safety risks they encounter at home? Learn about Age-Friendly Health Systems, an Institute for Healthcare Improvement initiative, and how it applies to this ever-growing vulnerable population. In this episode, Dr. Kate Taylor, Clinical Executive for SaferCare Texas and Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, explains how healthcare professionals should listen to what matters to them.

From Routine Tonsillectomy to Steven Johnson Syndrome with Karen Sims

Listen to SaferCare Texas’ Director John Sims interview his wife, Karen Sims, as she shares her challenging healthcare journey. Her story began with a “routine” tonsillectomy which resulted in Steven Johnson Syndrome -- a rare and serious disease which usually presents itself as a severe reaction to medication -- and, eventually, cataracts. Listen to her story today!

Knee Surgery Complications Seen Through a Patient's Lens with Brett Wells

Many people express pain following knee replacement surgery, but they report improved quality of life after rehabilitation. Typically, individuals have no more than two surgeries (one on each knee). In our second patient experience episode, meet Brett Wells as he shares his twelve-year journey following 39 surgeries! Brett talks about the circumstances leading to his injuries, how his journey reduced his quality of life, and both the positive and questionable experiences he had with healthcare providers.