Yvan Baker, member of the House of Commons of Canada, joins us to talk about Canadians’ health care issues and needs. Mr. Baker discusses the benefits of Canada’s universal health care system for essential services and needs, but highlights gaps in the system like doctor shortages, delays in services, and how until recently dental care was not part of the system. He shares how he’s helped advocate for the expansion of dental care, for the government to consider patient outcomes, and his work with the older adult community.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:45: Mr. Baker shares his background, including his work as a consultant and his transition into politics, explaining how his experience in business and education led him to focus on health care in public service

01:56: Mr. Baker details why health care is a critical focus for his political career, citing personal philosophy and the universal health care system in Canada as major influences on his legislative efforts

03:29: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, and Mr. Baker discuss the unique ability of government to effect change in health care, emphasizing the necessity for patient advocacy and government responsiveness to improve health services

04:53: Mr. Baker explains ongoing efforts to close gaps in the Canadian health care system, highlighting recent initiatives to improve access to essential health services

06:08: Mr. Baker talks about government strategies to reduce wait times and improve service delivery, including funding approaches that tie financial support to specific health care outcomes

07:14: Mr. Baker and Steven discuss the expansion of Canada’s health care system to include dental care, detailing the structure and goals of the new dental care program aimed at increasing accessibility

08:28: Mr. Baker highlights his work on broader health care initiatives, including efforts to strengthen support for senior citizens and improve the overall health care infrastructure

10:45: Mr. Baker emphasizes the importance of health care advocacy, sharing insights on the impact of effective government action and the need for continued public engagement in shaping health care policies

12:34: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re joined by Amanda Krzepicki, Policy Director at the Autoimmune Association. We talk about the long process of getting legislation passed, top issues the Autoimmune Association is advocating for, and how patient groups can come together to make a difference.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:59: Amanda discusses her early career experiences and how they led her to patient advocacy, particularly focusing on autoimmune diseases

02:21: Amanda describes the work and impact of the Autoimmune Association, emphasizing its global outreach and patient support initiatives

03:08: Amanda explains the complex process of turning a bill into law and how patients can influence this process to result in more patient-friendly outcomes

05:33: Amanda gives a detailed account of recent successful advocacy efforts related to Medicaid drug rebates, highlighting the collaborative nature of these efforts

07:14: Amanda and Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, discuss the unintended consequences of rapid policy changes and the importance of thorough consideration and dialogue

08:47: Amanda and Steven stress the significance of forming coalitions among patient groups to strengthen their advocacy efforts

10:04: Amanda reveals how checking social media profiles of staff members helped reduce her nervousness before meetings with stakeholders

11:01: Steven and Amanda discuss how personal connections can aid in advocacy efforts, making legislative staff more relatable and approachable

11:22: Amanda outlines the current top issues she is working on, including the Safe Step Act and other legislative measures aimed at improving health care accessibility

14:28: Steven and Amanda emphasize the critical role of unity among patient advocacy groups in driving policy changes and achieving collective goals

15:57: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to our special episode of The Health Advocates hosted by our 50-State Network and the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC). This episode features advocates Jody Quinn, Judy Nagy, Yolanda Clay, and Alecia Smith, who share their personal journeys — how they began sharing their stories, the invaluable support of community, the challenges they faced, and their successes along the way. You'll also hear their advice for others looking to make a difference.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:17 - Judy recounts how being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis led her to advocacy and her extensive involvement with legislative support

02:12 - Jody describes her late diagnosis of psoriatic disease and her initial reluctance turned commitment to advocacy

03:14 - Alicia talks about her journey from seeking support for obesity to becoming a prominent advocate through the OAC

04:10 - Yolanda discusses her personal experiences with chronic obesity and how overcoming internal barriers propelled her into advocacy

05:22: Kendall prompts a discussion on how to get started in advocacy, with personal insights from each guest

07:00: Our guests discuss the importance of connecting with patient groups and finding communities that provide training and support for new advocates

08:56 - Alicia emphasizes the role of genuine passion in making an impact and connecting with others through advocacy

13:20 - Alicia reflects on her initial fears and how understanding the impact of personal stories helped her gain confidence in advocacy settings

16:36 - Judy emphasizes the critical role of fellowship and mentorship in navigating the complexities of advocacy and building resilience

20:25 - Jody highlights how mentors have supported her through her advocacy journey, sharing their knowledge and boosting her confidence in various advocacy activities

23:34 - Yolanda discusses her ongoing efforts to manage expectations and maintain motivation despite the slow pace of change in advocacy work

26:20 - Judy reflects on the need for patience in advocacy, sharing her long-term experience with legislative processes and the eventual rewards of persistent advocacy efforts

28:05 - Each guest offers their advice to those considering advocacy, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and personal growth

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

Special Episode Co-Hosts

Kendall Griffey, Communications Manager at OAC

Erik Stone, Associate Director, Learning Experience Design at GHLF

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Stephens, a weight loss surgery patient, and an active advocate with the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC). In this episode, we learn about Kevin’s struggle with his weight since childhood and the many health issues that come along with obesity. We talk a lot about the importance of health insurance coverage and reducing barriers to accessing treatment.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:05: Kevin shares how he got involved with OAC and his personal connection to obesity advocacy

02:44: Kevin reflects on how his professional experience in health care policy complements his advocacy work

04:19: Kevin discusses his lifelong struggle with obesity, the decision to undergo weight loss surgery, and the transformative impact it had on his health and lifestyle

06:22: Kevin talks about the support he received from his workplace and the challenges he faced in accessing necessary treatments

09:04: Kevin highlights how obesity has affected various aspects of his health and the importance of recognizing obesity as a chronic disease

12:16: Kevin discusses his experiences with health care providers and insurance barriers in accessing new treatments for obesity

15:34: Kevin speaks on the importance of advocacy in overcoming health care biases and improving access to treatments

18:32: Kevin offers advice to other patients on how to start advocating for themselves and the impact of sharing personal stories

23:14: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the current viral landscape, focusing on COVID-19, mpox, norovirus, bird flu, and pertussis. We will discuss the unique challenges these viruses pose to immunocompromised individuals and offer practical advice on how to stay protected from viruses during this hot summer. We also recap the recommendations from the recent ACIP meeting, the advisory committee to the CDC on vaccines.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:10: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, begins the discussion on the current state of COVID-19, noting that while cases are rising, the levels are still much lower compared to the pandemic’s peak

02:11: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, discusses the emergence of new COVID-19 variants and the importance of adapting vaccinations to combat these changes effectively

03:16: Our hosts talk about the specific challenges facing Hawaii, including higher COVID-19 rates possibly due to less community immunity and challenges in vaccine distribution

05:22: Zoe highlights the rise in norovirus cases and reminds listeners about the simple yet effective measure of handwashing to prevent spread

07:13: Steven updates on the latest bird flu cases, reassuring that the transmission remains from animals to humans, not between humans

08:19: The discussion shifts to the ongoing heatwave, with advice on how medications might interact with high temperatures and the importance of staying hydrated

09:53: Steven provides a summary of the latest CDC recommendations for vaccinations, including the new directives for COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal vaccines

11:09: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, breast surgical oncologist and president of the Black Physicians' Association of Ontario, Dr. Mojola Omole, joins us to talk about her advocacy work. She shares how she aims to increase the percentage of Black physicians in Ontario, reduce systemic barriers and racism in medicine, and support Black mental health. We also discuss the need for more robust data that accounts for racial differences to inform screening recommendations.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:50: Dr. Omole shares her reasons for specializing in breast cancer, emphasizing her enjoyment of its multidisciplinary approach and the opportunity it presents for impactful advocacy and community outreach

04:31: Dr. Omole discusses the systemic barriers preventing Black individuals from entering the medical field

06:08: Dr. Omole talks about her work with the Canadian Medical Association Journal

07:10: Dr. Omole explains the misconceptions around 'over-screening' and emphasizes the importance of recognizing biological differences across populations in medical treatment and screening practices

09:15: Dr. Omole discusses the lack of training in medical schools regarding the variations in disease presentation across different populations, emphasizing the need for medical education to incorporate diverse biological and social contexts

11:15: Dr. Omole discusses the Canadian taskforce on preventative health care’s recommendations on breast cancer screening, arguing they do not reflect the earlier ages at which women of certain ethnic backgrounds typically present with breast cancer

13:20: Dr. Omole suggests that economic considerations heavily influence national screening recommendations in Canada, which may lead to later diagnoses and poorer outcomes in underrepresented populations

15:00: Zoe reflects on the conversation, noting the critical shortage of family physicians in Canada, which impacts routine screening and health care access

15:19: Dr. Omole offers advice to other health care providers on staying informed and understanding the unique risk factors and needs of diverse patient populations to provide better, more personalized care

16:19: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, The Health Advocates are joined by their colleagues Kelly Gavigan, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, and Adam Kegley, Associate Director of Global Partnerships at GHLF. Together they delve into the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Based on the analysis of the results from a survey GHLF recently conducted, they explore how identity impacts health care experiences and treatment outcomes. This episode shines a light on the critical need for inclusive health care practices and offers valuable insights on improving patient-provider relationships. Join us as we uncover the lessons learned and steps forward for LGBTQ+ individuals living with IBD.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:52: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, provides an overview of IBD, explaining the types and common symptoms

03:14: Adam discusses general and specific challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in health care settings, focusing on the impact of discrimination and the importance of inclusive practices

06:05: Kelly explains the objectives behind the survey and the methodology used to capture data from LGBTQ+ individuals with IBD

06:41: Kelly details the main findings from the survey, including demographic information and the impact of disclosing sexual and gender identities to health care providers

09:07: Adam discusses the apprehension LGBTQ+ individuals may feel about disclosing their sexual and gender identities to health care providers and explains the impact of anticipated discrimination, which can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical care

10:36: Kelly highlights the intention behind the survey to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals with IBD

11:50: Kelly shares some surprising findings from the survey, such as the high percentage of participants who identified as gender other than cisgender man or woman, noting the importance of this diversity in respondents to gain a comprehensive understanding of the community’s needs

13:01: Adam reflects on the positive outcomes reported by survey participants who disclosed their LGBTQ+ identity to their health care providers, emphasizing how openness can lead to more personalized and effective health care, reducing the incidence of discrimination and improving overall patient satisfaction

14:23: Adam offers advice to LGBTQ+ patients who may be hesitant to disclose their identity to health care providers

15:40: Kelly discusses the next steps following the survey, focusing on how the findings can be used to develop targeted resources and educational materials for LGBTQ+ individuals with IBD

16:55: Adam and Kelly express their hope that the survey findings will lead to meaningful changes in how health care is delivered to LGBTQ+ individuals with IBD

18:51: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, join The Health Advocates as they dive into the latest health news with a focus on the emerging H5N1 bird flu and its implications. They discuss the virus's potential to affect humans, current states with detected cases, and public health strategies to mitigate its spread. The hosts also touch on recent COVID-19 variants and the development of combined COVID and flu vaccines, reflecting on public health lessons learned from past pandemics and how these insights are shaping responses to new threats.

Tune in as our hosts discuss ongoing infectious disease challenges and the proactive measures in place to protect public health.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:45: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, discusses the emergence of H5N1 bird flu affecting dairy cattle and notes human infections linked to farms

02:15: Steven reflects on public health responses to infectious diseases and the importance of early containment

03:24: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, discusses a new COVID variant, KP3, highlighting its characteristics and impacts

05:11: Steven and Zoe discuss new vaccine strategies for COVID-19, including an FDA panel's recommendations and the development of a combined COVID and flu vaccine by Moderna

06:21: Zoe highlights the potential public health benefits of a combined COVID and flu vaccine

07:08: Steven mentions a new FDA approval for an RSV vaccine for adults aged 50-59

08:01: Zoe and Steven discuss recent congressional hearings on COVID-19 origins and public health responses, emphasizing the importance of accurate public health information and reflection on past actions

10:19: The hosts discuss the impact of public perception on trust in public health officials and the need for balanced scrutiny

12:07: Zoe reflects on the eroding trust in public health and ways to rebuild it

14:23: Steven stresses the importance of preparing for future health crises based on past experiences

15:45: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.