Medical Matters Podcast

Medical Matters Podcast--Ebola and Hantavirus News, Updates

In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the recent rise in cases of Ebola [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ebola-disease] and Hantavirus [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hantavirus] -- the differences, symptoms, and treatments are considered. The goal of this podcast is to provide background, historical context, and explain how the viruses are taking hold. Ebola is largely active in Central and West Africa, and cases may be tracked at this website [https://ebolamap.org/] -- as for Hantavirus, cases are seen in South Africa and South America, and may also be tracked [https://hantavirus-tracker.org/]. Further, experts note that the US is likely not fully prepared to guard against an outbreak of either disease [https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/leaderless-underfunded-unprepared-experts-warn-000000914.html].

Medical Matters Podcast--Prior Authorization

In this episode of "Medical Matters Podcast," Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss Prior Authorization, the process by which a healthcare provider must obtain approval from the insurance provider. The Cleveland Clinic outlines the full definition here [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/prior-authorization]. Through experience, the doctors outline the process of prior authorization. They further cite the so-called "hidden" and administrative costs.

Medical Matters Podcast--Average Life Expectancy, Health Insurance Availability

Season 5 of the Medical Matters Podcast opens with an examination of life expectancy in the United States. Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick break down figures that confirm a record-high for both men and women in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/releases/20260129.html] released these numbers last week for the year 2024. While deaths from illnesses such as coronavirus have decreased, there is also a strong decline in drug overdose deaths. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the US, followed by cancer and unintentional injuries. The doctors also examine the availability of health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. Further, the continued increase of flu cases, including Influenza-A are discussed.

Medical Matters Podcast--Health Insurance, and the Affordable Care Act

In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the potential for issues in the wake of the federal government shutdown. The doctors discuss the Affordable Care Act, benefits and drawbacks, along with the available providers and costs. Medicare and Medicaid are also examined, and possible ways to make the programs more affordable and accessible to younger segments of the population. In addition, a cautionary tale is offered about the dangers of not signing up for Social Security, Medicare and other available benefits.

Medical Matters Podcast--Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare

In this episode of the Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the use of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare. There are concerns that mechanized treatment and therapy, when devoid of the human element, could allow AI to make value judgments, potentially resulting in less-than-ideal outcomes. A recent study by Stanford University is referenced here [https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/06/ai-mental-health-care-tools-dangers-risks]. Building on this, while the use of chatbots may be helpful for simple answers to questions or advice (as seen in recent TV commercials), the hosts point out that the nuances of patient treatment run much deeper. They also discuss mental health treatment, noting potential concerns that AI may not detect all the complexities involved. Further evaluations of AI's potential issues are examined in this article from DPA International [https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/ai-fuelling-psychosis-making-mental-161220027.html]. (Note: despite the ending of federal funding for expansion of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the service is still available, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in need, 988 is there.)