Episode 96: Weight, Wellness and the Mind: Rethinking Clinical Conversations
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Sagen Zac-Varghese, Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology, East and North Herts Teaching NHS Trust is joined by Dr Samantha Scholtz , Consultant Psychiatrist, Imperial Weight Centre, St Mary’s Hospital to explore the complex relationship between obesity and mental health. Drawing on clinical experience and recent research, they discuss the stigma surrounding obesity, its psychological impact, and how healthcare professionals can better support patients. The conversation covers the physiological drivers of weight regain, and the evolving role of bariatric surgery and GLP-1 agonists in treatment. Dr Scholtz also shares practical advice on screening for mental health disorders, managing eating behaviours, and navigating sensitive conversations in clinical settings.
Resources
RCP elearning - Obesity
Binge eating disorder:
https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/feast-resources/
Weight stigma:
https://www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/our-policy-priorities/weight-stigma
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 95: Past, present and future of HIV
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Lisa Hamza, HIV and Sexual Health Consultant at St George’s Hospital, London, joins Dr Rohan Mehra, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Registrar, to explore the evolving landscape of HIV care. Together, they delve into the virology, history, and treatment of HIV, highlighting the remarkable progress made over the past four decades - from the early days of the epidemic to today’s cutting-edge therapies and prevention strategies.
Dr Hamza shares insights from her work as HIV Network Lead in South West London and co-chair of the HIV London Forum, discussing the challenges of stigma, late diagnosis, and health inequalities. The conversation also covers the UK’s HIV Action Plan, the impact of opt-out testing, and the promise of long-acting treatments and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This episode is a powerful reminder of how far we've come and how much further we must go to reach zero transmissions, zero deaths, and zero stigma.
RCP Archive, Heritage Library and Museum
The Royal College of Physicians Heritage library, Archive and Museum are seeking to collect objects, documents and publications to reflect the experiences of physicians delivering HIV/AIDS care and people living with HIV/AIDS. Further information can be found at: https://history.rcp.ac.uk/collections/call-for-donations-related-to-HIV-AIDS
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 94: Obesity - person centred care
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, we delve into the complexities of obesity and the importance of person-centred care. Hosted by Dr Vasiliki Thanopoulou, a rheumatology and general internal medicine specialist registrar and RCP Clinical Education Fellow, she is joined by Dr Charles Fox and Dr Anne Kilverts, both retired consultant diabetes physicians with over 30 years of experience in teaching healthcare professionals how to deliver empowering, person-centred care.
Together, they explore how stigma, unconscious bias, and assumptions can hinder effective communication and care for people living with obesity. Drawing on NICE guidelines and their own clinical experiences, Anne and Charles offer practical strategies for fostering empathy, respect, and shared decision-making in clinical encounters. This episode complements the RCP’s e-learning modules on obesity and is part of the broader initiative to address health inequalities.
Whether you're a clinician, educator, or learner, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you approach weight-related discussions and empower patients to take control of their health journey.
Resources
RCP elearning - Obesity
NICE guidelines: Overweight and obesity management | Guidance | NICE
Lancet: Definition and diagnostic criteria of clinical obesity - The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology
The European Association for the Study of Obesity: A new framework for the diagnosis, staging and management of obesity in adults - EASO
Dr Charles Fox and Dr Anne Kilverts: www.diabetescounselling.co.uk
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 93 : Reusable Cartridge Insulin Pens – A Sustainable Approach to Diabetes Care
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Vincent Simpson, diabetes and endocrine registrar based in Derriford, Plymouth joins Dr Bryony Alderman, palliative medicine consultant and RCP Education Fellow in Sustainability. Together, they explore the intersection of diabetes care and environmental sustainability, focusing on Vincent’s pioneering work around reusable cartridge insulin pens.
From the initial spark of curiosity during a training session to national-level conversations with NHS England, Vincent shares his journey of uncovering the environmental impact of diabetes devices and advocating for change. The discussion covers practical steps clinicians can take, the importance of behavioural change, and how small interventions can lead to significant improvements in both patient care and environmental outcomes.
Whether you're a physician, policymaker, or someone living with diabetes, this episode offers valuable insights into how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into clinical practice.
Dr Vincent Simpson and team recently won an RCP Excellence in Patient Care award for Sustainability – reducing the environmental impact of healthcare
Resources
Paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dme.15409
Local guidelines: https://sustainablediabetes.short.gy/guidelines
Website: https://sustainablediabetescare.com
Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dr-vincent-simpson
Bluesky:https://bsky.app/profile/drvsimpson.bsky.social
Credits
Dr Bryony Alderman, consultant in palliative medicine, is the RCP Sustainability Fellow. Financial support for this clinical fellowship was provided as an Independent Medical Education Grant from Pfizer Limited. Pfizer Limited had no involvement in candidate selection, and no influence on the work of the clinical fellowship.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 92: Respiratory - diaphragm palsy
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Consultant Respiratory Physician Milind Sovani joins Respiratory Registrar Daniella Draicchio and Foundation Doctor Masooma Ali to explore a compelling case of progressive breathlessness in a 45-year-old woman. What begins as a seemingly routine presentation unfolds into a diagnostic journey.
Together, the team discusses the challenges of diagnosing chronic type 2 respiratory failure, the importance of recognising paradoxical breathing, and the role of non-invasive ventilation and surgical intervention. This episode is a masterclass in clinical reasoning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the value of thorough bedside examination.
We would like to acknowledge Dr Patience Ehilawa, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Nottingham University Hospitals , for her contribution to the content design and planning of this podcast.
References
- A retrospective cohort study of idiopathic diaphragmatic palsy: a diagnostic triad, natural history and prognosis ERJ Open Research 2021 00953-2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1183/23120541.00953-2020
- Diagnosis and management of nontraumatic unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis (complete or partial) in adults - UpToDate
- Treatment of diaphragmatic paralysis using an expanded surgical protocol: review of the largest worldwide experience European Respiratory Journal 2018 52 (suppl 62): PA806; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.congress-2018.PA806
- Diaphragm dysfunction: how to diagnose and how to treat? Breathe 2025 21(1): 240218; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1183/20734735.0218-2024
This podcast has been made with an educational grant from Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited (“BMS”). BMS has had no input or involvement in the design, development or content of the podcast whatsoever.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 91: Giant cell arteritis
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this RCP Medicine podcast and BSR Talking Rheumatology podcast collaboration Dr Pip Watson and Dr Rik Patel discuss an interesting case of a patient presenting with headache to the acute take. Topics include tips on history and examination, an update on treatment including the use of tocilizumab and the role of fast-track pathways. Pip is a Rheumatology Consultant in Manchester, BSR Digital Learning Editor, and Talking Rheumatology host, Rick is a Rheumatology and Acute Medicine consultant in Manchester, working at one of the specialist centres for vasculitis.
If you liked this check out related Talking Rheumatology spotlight episodes
- Episode 6 giant cell arteritis
- Episode 14 polymyalgia rheumatica
- Bonus case non GCA headache
Resources
NICE GCA guideline https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/giant-cell-arteritis/
BSR GCA guideline https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article-abstract/59/3/e1/5714024?redirectedFrom=fulltext
GCAPS paper https://ard.bmj.com/content/83/Suppl_1/1100.2
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 90: Sustainability in the NHS
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Professor Mark Harber, nephrologist, and RCP sustainability advisor, is joined by Chris Gormley, Chief Sustainability Officer at NHS England, to explore the NHS’s groundbreaking journey toward net zero.
Together, they discuss the origins of the NHS’s green strategy, the global health implications of climate change, and the ambitious targets set for 2040 and 2045. Chris shares insights into the NHS’s leadership on sustainability, the economic and health drivers behind the movement, and the practical steps being taken - from decarbonising the supply chain to rolling out solar energy across NHS estates.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in embedding sustainability into clinical practice, the importance of international collaboration, and how clinicians and staff can get involved through green plans and toolkits.
Resources
- Greener NHS plan website - https://www.england.nhs.uk/greenernhs/
- Greener NHS – case studies https://www.england.nhs.uk/greenernhs/whats-already-happening/
- 12 things we can do as individuals to become greener
- RCP view on healthcare sustainability and climate change
- CSH Courses Courses | Centre for Sustainable Healthcare
- e-learning for Health – Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare - elearning for healthcare (e-lfh.org.uk)
- SusQI.org (step by step guide) Step-by-step guide | Centre for Sustainab (susqi.org)
- Greener NHS Greener NHS (england.nhs.uk)
CSH Resource Library Resource library | Sustainable Healthcare Networks Hub - CSH Networks Networks | Sustainable Healthcare Networks Hub
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 89: Stroke neurorehabilitation
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Dr Helen Banks, Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine and Training Programme Director for Rehabilitation Northwest/Mersey, talks to Dr Ganesh Bavikatte, Consultant and Clinical Lead for Rehabilitation Medicine at The Walton Centre in Liverpool. They discuss disability after stroke and the role of specialist rehabilitation to help patients optimise their activity and independence. Their discussion describes the rehabilitation pathway, from acute and through to the community, and highlights medical issues that may arise along the way.
Dr Ganesh Bavikatte has been a consultant and clinical lead at The Walton Centre NHS Trust and Cheshire and Merseyside Rehabilitation Network since 2012. The Walton Centre is a Neuroscience Specialist NHS Trust, and the Cheshire and Mersey rehabilitation network has a pathway from hyperacute to community care for patients following severe injury, illness, and injuries, including those with stroke.
Resources
- Spasticity in adults: management using botulinum toxin | National Guidelines
- Spasticity in adults: management using botulinum toxin | RCP
- Cheshire and Mersey rehabilitation network https://www.cmrehabnetwork.nhs.uk/
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 88: Mycology Unmasked: What Every Clinician Should Know
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Neil Stone, consultant in infectious diseases and microbiology at University College London Hospitals and associate professor at UCL, joins host Dr Rohan Mehra to explore the often overlooked and increasingly important field of clinical mycology.
The conversation covers a wide spectrum of fungal infections—from diagnosing and managing invasive candidiasis to understanding the global emergence of Candida auris, and the clinical complexities of Cryptococcus and Aspergillus infections. Dr Stone also sheds light on dimorphic fungi, discussing their unique biology, geographical distribution, and the diagnostic challenges they present. Beyond individual pathogens, the episode emphasizes the broader environmental and global health implications of fungal disease, highlighting the need for a One Health approach.
Whether you're a clinician, student, or simply curious about the fungal kingdom, this episode is rich with clinical insights, diagnostic tips, and global perspectives on one of medicine’s most challenging and evolving frontiers.
Resources
WHO Antifungals Report 2025 Antifungal agents in clinical and preclinical development: overview and analysis
WHO Antifungal diagnostics report 2025 Landscape analysis of commercially available and pipeline in vitro diagnostics for fungal priority pathogens
WHO Priority Fungal Pathogens list https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240060241
IDSA Aspergillosis Guidelines 2016 https://www.idsociety.org/practice-guideline/aspergillosis/
Global Guideline for Candiasis 2025 Lancet 2025 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(24)00749-7/fulltext
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 87: Sickle cell
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Dale Seviar a Consultant Haematologist at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust is welcomed by Dr Rebecca Kuruvilla, a previous RCP clinical education fellow and an ST7 Clinical Pharmacology and GIM registrar. Together, they discuss the management of sickle cell disease using a hypothetical case study, providing valuable insights and practical tips for medical professionals.
Sickle cell disease is one of the fastest growing genetic conditions that there is, and it's likely that many of you will be exposed to people living with sickle cell. This episode aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition, acute complications and management strategies.
Funding
This episode was funded by Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Limited. Vertex had the opportunity to suggest the topic of this episode only, with no further involvement in its creation and elaboration, and all views and opinions expressed by the presenter and guests are solely their own.
Resources
Sickle Cell Disease - RCEMLearning
RCEM_BPG_Sickle-Cell-Disease_v3.2.pdf
Inherited anaemias: sickle cell and thalassaemia - ScienceDirect
Overview | Sickle cell disease: managing acute painful episodes in hospital | Guidance | NICE
Management of Acute Chest Syndrome in Sickle Cell Disease
Hemolytic transfusion reactions in sickle cell disease: underappreciated and potentially fatal - PMC
Sickle cell disease (SCD) and stem cell transplant | Anthony Nolan
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 86: Taking action on health and healthcare inequalities
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode RCP Medicine Podcast, we are joined by Dr John Dean, Clinical Vice President at the Royal College of Physicians and a physician in East Lancashire, and Dr John Ford, an academic public health doctor and Senior Clinical Lecturer at Queen Mary University. Together. They explore the multifaceted nature of health inequalities and discuss actionable steps physicians can take to address these disparities. Both share their personal experiences and professional insights into health inequalities and how it shaped their understanding of social and economic disadvantages. They discuss the structural factors within society that lead to health inequalities and emphasise the importance of creating a fairer, more inclusive society. The conversation focusses on the role of clinicians in addressing health care inequalities and the need for continuous improvement in healthcare design and delivery.
Resources
Bridging the gap: a guide to making health inequalities a strategic priority for NHS leaders
A snapshot of UK doctors: experiences of health inequalities
Supporting clinicians to address health inequalities in practice
RCP view on health inequalities: a call to action for a cross-government strategy
Funding
This episode was funded by Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Limited. Vertex had no involvement in the creation and elaboration of this episode and all views and opinions expressed by the presenter and guests are solely their own.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 85: IBD - Crohn's disease (part 2)
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Professor Ailsa Hart and Dr Eathar Shakweh discuss how to approach managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in the acute medical setting. This is the second episode of a 2-part series, with a focus on Crohn's disease.
IBD is a common condition, affecting 1 in 123 people in the UK. The 2024 State of the IBD Care in the UK report highlighted the urgent need to shorten time to diagnosis and initiate early treatment to minimise the risk of IBD-related complications. Acute and general medicine physicians have an important role to play in diagnosing and managing IBD. This podcast will equip medics at all stages of training with the necessary knowledge to approach this heterogenous and complex condition.
Professor Hart is Director of IBD Research at St Mark’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom and a world-leading expert in IBD. Eathar is an IBD Clinical Research Fellow at St Mark’s and Imperial, with a special interest in perianal fistulising Crohn’s disease.
Crohn's & Colitis UK (CCUK) Website
https://crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/
This is a valuable resource for patients and healthcare professionals alike, containing a wealth of information on IBD investigation and management.
British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - 2019
Lamb, Christopher Andrew et al. “British Society of Gastroenterology consensus guidelines on the management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults.” Gut vol. 68,Suppl 3 (2019): s1-s106. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318484
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31562236/
For interested listeners, these are the national guidelines for IBD diagnosis and management. Please note, the new guidelines for 2025 are pending release.
ECCO Guidelines on Therapeutics in Crohn's disease: Medical Treatment
Torres, Joana et al. “ECCO Guidelines on Therapeutics in Crohn's Disease: Medical Treatment.” Journal of Crohn's & colitis vol. 14,1 (2020): 4-22. doi:10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjz180
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38877997/
ECCO Guidelines on Surgery in Crohn's disease: Surgical Treatment
Adamina, Michel et al. “ECCO Guidelines on Therapeutics in Crohn's Disease: Surgical Treatment.” Journal of Crohn's & colitis vol. 18,10 (2024): 1556-1582. doi:10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjae089
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38878002/
These are the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO) guidelines on therapeutics in Crohn's disease, divided into medical and surgical treatment.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 84: IBD - Ulcerative colitis (part 1)
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Professor Ailsa Hart and Dr Eathar Shakweh discuss how to approach managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in the acute medical setting. This is the first episode of a 2-part series, with a focus on ulcerative colitis.
IBD is a common condition, affecting 1 in 123 people in the UK. The 2024 State of the IBD Care in the UK report highlighted the urgent need to shorten time to diagnosis and initiate early treatment to minimise the risk of IBD-related complications. Acute and general medicine physicians have an important role to play in diagnosing and managing IBD. This podcast will equip medics at all stages of training with the necessary knowledge to approach this heterogenous and complex condition.
Professor Hart is Director of IBD Research at St Mark’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom and a world-leading expert in IBD. Eathar is an IBD Clinical Research Fellow at St Mark’s and Imperial, with a special interest in perianal fistulising Crohn’s disease.
Crohn's & Colitis UK (CCUK) Website
https://crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/
This is a valuable resource for patients and healthcare professionals alike, containing a wealth of information on IBD investigation and management.
British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - 2019
Lamb, Christopher Andrew et al. “British Society of Gastroenterology consensus guidelines on the management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults.” Gut vol. 68,Suppl 3 (2019): s1-s106. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318484
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31562236/
For interested listeners, these are the national guidelines for IBD diagnosis and management. Please note, the new guidelines for 2025 are pending release.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 83: Diarrhoea
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine podcasts Dr Racheal Cheek and Dr Ben Chadwick discuss a common presentation to Acute Medicine. We use this as a springboard to discuss the differences that near patient testing can make in assisting rapid diagnosis and management on the Acute Medicine Unit, and how this can influence length of stay.
Dr Ben Chadwick is an Acute Medicine Consultant at Southampton General Hospital. He has a specialist interest in Medical Education and has previously been Training Programme Director for Acute Internal Medicine in Wessex and has chaired the Acute Internal Medicine Specialist Advisory Committee. He has recently been appointed to the Deputy Registrar role at the Royal College of Physicians.
Dr Racheal Cheek is an Acute Internal Medicine Registrar training in Wessex. She has been Chief Resident at University Hospitals Dorset, leading projects focused on improving patient safety. She is embracing new adventures whilst currently on maternity leave.
Resources
Clinical impact of syndromic molecular point-of-care testing for gastrointestinal pathogens in adults hospitalised with suspected gastroenteritis (GastroPOC): a pragmatic, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Brendish, Nathan J et al. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, Volume 23, Issue 8, 945 - 955
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 82: Alcohol
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Rebecca Kuruvilla, a previous RCP clinical education fellow and an ST7 Clinical Pharmacology and GIM registrar talks with Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, an honorary consultant physician with a specialist interest in liver disease. They discuss the rising issue of alcohol-related harm in the UK, the impact of Covid-19 on alcohol misuse, and the role of regulation in reducing health harms. Professor Gilmore also shares insights on the changing drinking culture, the influence of the alcohol industry, and the importance of evidence-based policies to address this significant public health challenge.
Professor Sir Ian Gilmore is an honorary consultant physician at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital and holds an honorary chair at the University of Liverpool. With a specialist interest in liver disease, he has served as the president of the Royal College of Physicians and is the founding chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance UK, a coalition of over 50 organizations working together to reduce the harm caused by alcohol. Professor Gilmore has been a vocal advocate for evidence-based policies to tackle alcohol misuse and has contributed significantly to public health research and policy.
Resources
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 81: Sepsis
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine podcasts Dr Racheal Cheek and Dr Ben Chadwick discuss an interesting case involving a deteriorating patient and the challenges around appropriate escalation of care in the acute setting. We discuss the difficulties that can occur when dealing with a deteriorating patient, and think about different strategies to ensure that the right care can be given in the right environment.
Dr Ben Chadwick is an Acute Medicine Consultant at Southampton General Hospital. He has a specialist interest in Medical Education and has previously been Training Programme Director for Acute Internal Medicine in Wessex and has chaired the Acute Internal Medicine Specialist Advisory Committee. He has recently been appointed to the Deputy Registrar role at the Royal College of Physicians.
Dr Racheal Cheek is an Acute Internal Medicine Registrar training in Wessex. She has been Chief Resident at University Hospitals Dorset, leading projects focused on improving patient safety. She is embracing new adventures whilst currently on maternity leave.
Resources
IDSA/ATS 2007 - NICE suggest for decisions regarding ICU admission that this clinical decision aid should be considered superior to PSI/CURB-65 for pneumonia
https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/44/Supplement_2/S27/372079
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 80: Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine podcasts Dr Racheal Cheek and Dr Ben Chadwick discuss a challenging case of Deep Venous Thrombosis in a young patient. We discuss potential causes, and options for treatment, with reference to NICE guidance
Dr Ben Chadwick is an Acute Medicine Consultant at Southampton General Hospital. He has a specialist interest in Medical Education and has previously been Training Programme Director for Acute Internal Medicine in Wessex and has chaired the Acute Internal Medicine Specialist Advisory Committee. He has recently been appointed to the Deputy Registrar role at the Royal College of Physicians.
Dr Racheal Cheek is an Acute Internal Medicine Registrar training in Wessex. She has been Chief Resident at University Hospitals Dorset, leading projects focused on improving patient safety. She is embracing new adventures whilst currently on maternity leave.
References
Editor's Choice – European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2021 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Venous Thrombosis - https://www.ejves.com/article/S1078-5884(20)30868-6/fulltext
NICE: Venous thromboembolic diseases: diagnosis, management and thrombophilia testing - https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng158
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 79: Understanding Behavioural Science to Address Health Inequalities
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr. Rohan Mehra, an Infectious Diseases/Microbiology SPR, discusses the critical role of behavioural science in addressing health inequalities. Decreased vaccine uptake and lack of engagement with healthcare services are pressing issues, particularly among those affected by health disparities. To shed light on these challenges, Rohan is joined by Professor Susan Michie, a leading expert in health psychology and behaviour change from University College London. With her extensive research and practical expertise, Professor Michie explores how we can apply behavioural science to improve healthcare engagement and design effective interventions. Tune in to discover how understanding human behaviour can drive meaningful change in health outcomes.
References:
A synthesis of evidence for policy from behavioural science during COVID-19, Ruggeri et al.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06840-9
The human behaviour change project
Complex Systems for Sustainability and Health
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/complex-urban-systems/cussh.
Behaviour Change Wheel: A Guide to Designing Interventions
WHO behavioural science group
https://www.who.int/initiatives/behavioural-sciences
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 78: Stroke and neurology
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP medicine podcast, Dr Zeina Al-Matlik is joined by Dr John Williamson, a consultant Neurologist and Stroke Physician working in Liverpool, to discuss one of the leading causes worldwide for disability - Strokes. Whether you are a healthcare provider, caregiver, or a stroke survivor, this podcast covers everything you need to know about the vital ins and outs of stroke.
This episode unpacks essential topics such as recognizing the warning signs of strokes and acting FAST, ( Face, Arm, Slurred speech, Time - acronym used for identification of potential stroke), understanding the difference between TIAs ( Transient Ischemic Attacks) and Ischemic and haemorrhagic strokes and their managements, prevention of strokes including lifestyle and medical modifications of risk factors, and finally discussing common Stroke mimics and how to recognize them. Listeners will also get a chance to explore the latest breakthrough advancements and guidelines in stroke research and treatments such as life saving thrombolysis - also known as clot busting medication and thrombectomies - whereby a catheter is inserted into blood vessel to help retrieve and remove clots.
This episode is designed to educate, empower, and provide practical tips for both healthcare providers and patients to spread awareness, understand strokes and take prompt action to improve outcomes as Time is brain. 🧠
Resources
National Clinical Guideline for Stroke for the UK and Ireland - https://www.strokeguideline.org/
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) - https://neurosymptoms.org/en/
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 77: Sustainable QI
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine podcasts, Dr Rebecca Kuruvilla discusses Sustainability in Quality Improvement, also known as the SusQI Framework with Dr Ayoma Ratnappuli. Ayoma is an HIV/Genitourinary Medicine specialist registrar working in South London has an out of programme experience with the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare as an Education Fellow, a role she now continues with alongside her clinical training. The Centre for Sustainable Healthcare works to embed and spread SusQI into undergraduate and postgraduate education as well as healthcare delivery organisations
The SusQI Framework aims to deliver the best possible health outcomes with minimal financial and environmental costs whilst adding positive social value at every opportunity. This framework has been pioneered by the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare. During their conversation Ayoma breaks down the steps of the SusQI framework, explains the benefits of using this alongside traditional QI methodology, and explores an example of one of Rebecca’s own QI projects and how it could be adapted to add more sustainable value.
Resources
CSH Courses Courses | Centre for Sustainable Healthcare
e-learning for Health – Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare - elearning for healthcare (e-lfh.org.uk)
SusQI.org (step by step guide) Step-by-step guide | Centre for Sustainab (susqi.org)
Greener NHS Greener NHS (england.nhs.uk)
CSH Resource Library Resource library | Sustainable Healthcare Networks Hub
CSH Networks Networks | Sustainable Healthcare Networks Hub
This episode was funded by Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Limited. Vertex had no involvement in the creation and elaboration of this episode and all views and opinions expressed by the presenter and guests are solely their own.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 76: Smoking and vaping
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of RCP Medicine podcasts, Dr Rebecca Kuruvilla discusses e-cigarettes and vaping with the RCP’s special advisor on Tobacco, Professor Sanjay Agrawal. It is an area that many physicians are unclear on how to advise their patients on. In this episode, Sanjay aims to shed a light on e-cigarettes and their role on health and he will also discuss the recent report he has co-authored “E-cigarettes and harm reduction: an evidence review” for the RCP. Sanjay will explain how we should be advising our patients on e-cigarettes looking at the current evidence.
Sanjay is a Consultant in Respiratory and Critical care medicine at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust. He has a specialist interest in treatment of tobacco dependency and NHS financial management, alongside clinical care for patients with interstitial lung disease, lung cancer and patients with critical illness. Sanjay Chairs the RCP Tobacco advisory group and is the National Speciality Advisor on Tobacco to NHS England.
This podcast has been made with an educational grant from Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited (“BMS”). BMS has had no input or involvement in the design, development or content of the podcast whatsoever.
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 75: Health Inequalities and Corporate Influence: Unveiling the Food Industry's Impact
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast's Health Inequalities series, Dr. Rohan Mehra delves into the commercial determinants of health—how private sector activities influence health outcomes and deepen inequalities. This episode focuses on the food industry, examining how corporate actions like product design, marketing, and lobbying can negatively impact public health.
Joining Rohan is Dr. Chris Van Tulleken, an infectious diseases consultant at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in London, associate professor at University College London, and an acclaimed researcher and BAFTA wining broadcaster. Chris’ work, including his bestselling book Ultra-Processed People, shines a light on how corporations, particularly in the food industry, affect health, especially in the context of child nutrition. Together, they explore the pressing issue of corporate influence on health and discuss practical ways to address these challenges.
Resources:
Lancet commercial determinants of health series:
https://www.thelancet.com/series/commercial-determinants-health
Commercial determinants of health- WHO fact sheet
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/commercial-determinants-of-health
LSHTM research on commercial determinants of health (CDRG workgroup)
https://www.lshtm.ac.uk/research/centres-projects-groups/cdrg
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 74: Osteoporosis
RCP Medicine Podcast
Osteoporosis
Listen along to Dr Sagen Zac-Varghese, Dr Amy Purohit and Dr Elinor Roderick as they discuss osteoporosis.
They discuss identifying people with osteoporosis, investigating for causes of falls and secondary causes of osteoporosis, use of FRAX, understanding bone mineral density, and, management to reduce fracture risk, including diet, exercise and medications.
Sagen Zac-Varghese is a consultant in diabetes, endocrinology and general internal medicine and lead for undergraduate students at the East and North Herts NHS Trust. She is the RCP education representative for the RCP Advisory Group on Nutrition Weight and Health.
Elinor Roderick is an academic foundation doctor at the East and North Herts Trust.
Amy Purohit is an academic foundation doctor at the East and North Herts Trust.
Links
Royal Osteoporosis Society - https://theros.org.uk/
National Osteoporosis Guideline Group - https://www.nogg.org.uk/
FRAX - https://frax.shef.ac.uk/FRAX/
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 73: Hyponatraemia (a five-step approach)
RCP Medicine Podcast
Listen along to Dr Sagen Zac-Varghese and Dr Elinor Roderick as they discuss hyponatraemia. Using analogies and a structured framework (a five-step approach), they talk you through diagnosing and managing people with hyponatraemia, walk you through a case and, illustrate how to discuss this with your patients.
Sagen Zac-Varghese is a consultant in diabetes, endocrinology and general internal medicine and lead for undergraduate students at the East and North Herts NHS Trust. She is the RCP education representative for the RCP Advisory Group on Nutrition Weight and Health.
Elinor Roderick is an academic foundation doctor at the East and North Herts Trust.
Links
European Society of Endocrinology Clinical guideline for the management of hyponatraemia
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 72: Pandemic Preparedness: Are We Ready for the Next Global Threat?
RCP Medicine Podcast
In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Dr Rohan Mehra, an Infectious Diseases and Microbiology registrar with an interest in conflict and catastrophe medicine, delves into the critical issue of pandemic preparedness. As we reflect on the challenges faced during the COVID-19, and other pandemics, the question remains: how ready are we for the next inevitable outbreak? Joining Dr. Mehra is Professor Tom Solomon, a leading expert with nearly three decades of experience in emerging infections.
Professor Solomon is the Professor of Neurological Science and Head of the Brain Infections Group at the University of Liverpool. He led the University of Liverpool’s Institute of Infection and Global Health and founded the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections. His work has been pivotal in responding to Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, and mpox (formerly monkeypox).
As Director of The Pandemic Institute in Liverpool and Vice President (International) of the Academy of Medical Sciences, Professor Solomon is a leading expert in pandemic preparedness. He also engages with the public through his media appearances and the Scouse Science Podcast.
Together, they explore the lessons learned from past pandemics and discuss what needs to be done to safeguard our future.
Links and resources:
The pandemic institute - https://www.thepandemicinstitute.org/
The WHO pandemic hub - https://pandemichub.who.int/
CEPI (coalition for epidemic preparedness Innovations) - https://cepi.net/
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas
Episode 96: Weight, Wellness and the Mind: Rethinking Clinical Conversations
56:35
Episode 95: Past, present and future of HIV
1:02:23
Episode 94: Obesity - person centred care
58:14
Episode 93 : Reusable Cartridge Insulin Pens – A Sustainable Approach to Diabetes Care
28:59
Episode 92: Respiratory - diaphragm palsy
47:41
Episode 91: Giant cell arteritis
38:34
Episode 90: Sustainability in the NHS
46:20
Episode 89: Stroke neurorehabilitation
50:40
Episode 88: Mycology Unmasked: What Every Clinician Should Know
1:35:40
Episode 87: Sickle cell
35:31
Episode 86: Taking action on health and healthcare inequalities
51:34
Episode 85: IBD - Crohn's disease (part 2)
24:55
Episode 84: IBD - Ulcerative colitis (part 1)
23:44
Episode 83: Diarrhoea
27:47
Episode 82: Alcohol
42:33
Episode 81: Sepsis
43:38
Episode 80: Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
31:49
Episode 79: Understanding Behavioural Science to Address Health Inequalities
1:19:42
Episode 78: Stroke and neurology
31:36
Episode 77: Sustainable QI
51:58
Episode 76: Smoking and vaping
38:04
Episode 75: Health Inequalities and Corporate Influence: Unveiling the Food Industry's Impact
54:51
Episode 74: Osteoporosis
35:50
Episode 73: Hyponatraemia (a five-step approach)
28:59
Episode 72: Pandemic Preparedness: Are We Ready for the Next Global Threat?
1:11:13