The Doc Talk Podcast
Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe have spent years navigating the health care system. Not just as doctors for their patients, but as moms for their kids, and patients themselves. And they know it's not always straightforward.
Every two weeks they'll take a real question from a real patient, and provide in-depth answers with a clear path to action, with help from other trusted experts.
No jargon. No time wasted. Just real talk about real issues from two doctors who've seen it all. And they'll give you the inside scoop on how to navigate the health care system like a pro.
This is The Doc Talk.
Disclaimer: The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.
The Doc Talk Podcast
The Doc Talk × The Pitt Recap: Episodes 6 & 7
These two powerful episodes of The Pitt take us into the heart of moral distress in medicine, from abortion care and teen consent to burnout, privatization, and the emotional cost of caring deeply in a strained system. We break down the ethical dilemmas, procedural details, and the moments of humanity that keep healthcare real. We break down the key themes, our favourite cases and discuss what's accurate and what really hit home for us. And stay tuned to the end for our personal MVPs and teaching corners for patients and healthcare workers.
We also talk about burnout in medicine, and the reality that so many healthcare workers are struggling. Please reach out for help if you are. You’re not alone.
Health Resources for Canadian Healthcare Providers
For All Frontline Providers (Free & Confidential):
- 988 Suicide and Mental Health Helpline: Call or text 988 anytime (bilingual, nationwide).
For Physicians, Residents & Medical Learners:
- Provincial Physician Health Programs: Confidential counselling and peer support.
- Canadian Medical Association: Mental health hub: https://www.cma.ca/physician-wellness-support-services
For Nurses & Allied Health Professionals:
- Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions: nursesunions.ca — “Mental Health at Work” campaign and crisis text line (text FRONTLINE to 741741).
- RNAO Mental Health & Substance Use Program: rnao.ca — Toolkits, webinars, and practice supports.
For Paramedics, Fire, Police & First Responders:
- Wounded Warriors Canada: woundedwarriors.ca — Trauma-informed counselling and family programs.
For Dentists & Dental Teams:
- Canadian Dental Association Wellness Support Line: cda-adc.ca — 24/7 confidential counselling for dentists, students, and staff.
For All Healthcare Workers:
- Mental Health Commission of Canada – Care for Health-Care Workers: mentalhealthcommission.ca — Practical workplace-wellness resources.
- Healthcare Excellence Canada – LTC+ Resiliency Hub: healthcareexcellence.ca — Mental-health and resiliency resources for care teams and leaders.