Virtual Curbside

In this week’s episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Arianna Nunez and Faith Smart. In this episode, youth with lived experience in foster care share their perspectives on medical care - what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish healthcare providers understood. They reflect on the importance of being spoken to directly, knowing what to expect during exams, and feeling respected as active participants in their own care. Their insights offer valuable guidance for pediatricians seeking to provide trauma-informed, patient-centered care to children and adolescents in foster care. Book: Fostering Health: Health Care for Children and Adolescents in Foster CareWebsite: https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/national-center-for-relational-health-and-trauma-informed-care/?srsltid=AfmBOoq4VarhOPz_mPemtMkydrWGDgwNj6JGH-RdqPp98oyzzccmnRAYDr. Mary Crane Fund for Lived Experience: https://aapnational.donorsupport.co/page/COFCAKC1999 CollectiveFirst Star AcademyHave a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.Acknowledgment:  Grant Funding provided by American Academy of Pediatrics Zero to Three Grant ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this week’s episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Kristine Fortin, MD. They will focus on what it takes to optimize care for children and youth in foster care. Our guest discusses how pediatricians can apply trauma-informed practices to foster trust, enhance communication, and address the distinct healthcare needs of this population. The conversation also explores common barriers foster youth face in accessing consistent, coordinated care - and highlights resources available to support pediatricians in providing compassionate, comprehensive care. Book: Fostering Health: Health Care for Children and Adolescents in Foster CareWebsite: https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/national-center-for-relational-health-and-trauma-informed-care/?srsltid=AfmBOoq4VarhOPz_mPemtMkydrWGDgwNj6JGH-RdqPp98oyzzccmnRAYDr. Mary Crane Fund for Lived Experience: https://aapnational.donorsupport.co/page/COFCAKCHave a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.Acknowledgment:  Grant Funding provided by American Academy of Pediatrics Zero to Three Grant ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode of The Virtual Curbside, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Kristine Fortin, MD. Listen in to the discussion on what is best when providing care for children in foster care with unique challenges. This week, we discuss how often these children should be seen and how to tailor visits using a trauma-informed approach. We explore when it’s appropriate to involve children in their treatment planning, and when their age or developmental stage may limit participation. Many foster youth are meeting a new healthcare provider for the first time and may have limited understanding of their own health - making trust and thoughtful communication essential. Book: Fostering Health: Health Care for Children and Adolescents in Foster CareHave a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.Acknowledgment:  Grant Funding provided by American Academy of Pediatrics Zero to Three Grant ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode of The Virtual Curbside, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Kyla Clark, Strengthening Families Program Administrator, provides an inside look at how the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) works to protect children and support families. She explains the different types of foster care placements, the circumstances under which children may be removed from their homes, and the efforts made to reunify families whenever possible. This conversation helps listeners understand the purpose of child welfare, the goals of DCFS, and how the system strives to balance child safety with family preservation. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.Acknowledgment:  Grant Funding provided by American Academy of Pediatrics Zero to Three Grant ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Bonus Episode: Book Club with Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP and Angelo Giardino, MD, FAAP In months with five weeks, The Virtual Curbside pauses clinical discussions for something a little different - a pediatric book club. This month, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, sits down with Angelo Giardino, MD, FAAP, to explore Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green. Together, they reflect on the global impact of tuberculosis, its toll on developing nations, and the challenges and opportunities physicians face in responding to this enduring public health crisis. No credit available for this episode. See vcurb.com for additional episodes.

 In the final episode of our congenital heart disease and neurodevelopment series, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by experts Kristi Glotzbach, MD, Sarah Winter, MD, and Laura Wood, PhD. Together, they answer listener questions and share practical resources to help providers support children with CHD and related developmental challenges. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode of The Virtual Curbside, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by experts Sarah Winter, MD, and Laura Wood,  PhD, who explore the connection between congenital heart disease (CHD) and neurodevelopmental challenges. The conversation highlights the outpatient resources available to help children thrive - speech, developmental, occupational, and physical therapies - as well as the role of schools and IEPs in supporting growth and learning.Listeners will also hear about the importance of early intervention programs, available in every state, and how families can be supported through the emotional and developmental challenges that often follow a traumatic birth or early months in the NICU.Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This week on The Virtual Curbside, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by experts Sarah Winter, MD, and Jori Harris, MS, to discuss the neurodevelopmental challenges frequently seen in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Together, they outline the common phenotypes associated with CHD, why these patterns matter for long-term outcomes, and how pediatricians can recognize and address concerns early. The conversation also highlights practical approaches for supporting families and connecting children with the right interventions and resources at the right time. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this week's episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, and guests Kristi Glotzbach, MD, and Laura Wood, PhD discuss recommendations for recognizing and addressing neurodevelopmental risks in infants and children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Listen in as they review strategies for risk identification, protection, screening, and evaluation, and focus on how clinicians can stratify risk for neurodevelopmental challenges in this vulnerable population. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This week, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP is joined by Albert Park, MD, and Adrienne Johnson, AuD, to answer listener questions, including how the language pediatric providers use can shape families’ understanding and follow-through with additional testing, as well as how advances in technology are transforming implants and hearing aids. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP is joined by Albert Park, MD, and Adrienne Johnson, AuD, to explore why failed newborn hearing screens should never be overlooked. The discussion covers how to interpret screening results, the most common risk factors for hearing loss in infants, and when to act quickly for follow-up testing and intervention. Learn practical tips for counseling families, coordinating timely referrals, and ensuring no child slips through the cracks during this critical developmental window. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP is joined by Albert Park, MD, and Adrienne Johnson, AuD, to explore why failed newborn hearing screens should never be overlooked. The discussion covers how to interpret screening results, the most common risk factors for hearing loss in infants, and when to act quickly for follow-up testing and intervention. Learn practical tips for counseling families, coordinating timely referrals, and ensuring no child slips through the cracks during this critical developmental window. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

In this episode, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Albert Park, MD, and Adrienne Johnson, AuD, for an important discussion on hearing evaluations for infants and children. They explore how hearing can be assessed at any age, the basics of diagnostic testing, and why early identification is crucial for a child’s development. Whether you’re a pediatrician, audiologist, or simply want to understand the process better, this episode offers valuable insights into supporting children with potential hearing concerns. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This week, we’re answering your questions about eating disorders in adolescents. From recognizing early warning signs to understanding when to seek help, host Dr. Paul Wirkus, talks with Megan Jensen, CEDS, MPH, RDN, CD, and Nicole Holland, RD Intern, to address common concerns submitted by our listeners. Tune in for practical insights to help you better support teens who may be struggling with disordered eating. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This week on The Virtual Curbside, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Megan Jensen, CEDS, MPH, RDN, CD, and Nicole Holland, RD Intern, for a thoughtful conversation on how to talk with children and families about eating disorders. Together, they discuss how pediatricians can recognize early warning signs, approach sensitive conversations with empathy, and connect families with the right resources. From disordered eating patterns to body image concerns, this episode provides valuable tools to support both prevention and treatment—while keeping relationships and trust at the center of care. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered next week.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This week, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, sits down with experts Megan Jensen, CEDS, MPH, RDN, CD and Nicole Holland, Intern (RD) to explore how pediatricians can support healthy eating patterns in children and families. From addressing common nutritional pitfalls to offering practical guidance on balanced diets, the conversation covers what works—and how to talk about food in a way that empowers rather than shames. Whether it’s food insecurity or building lifelong habits, this episode offers real-world insights for every pediatric practice.Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This month, host Dr. Paul Wirkus is joined by experts Megan Jensen, CEDS, MPH, RDN, CD and Nicole Holland, Intern (RD) to discuss how pediatric providers can better recognize the early signs and symptoms of eating disorders. They’ll cover red flags to watch for in clinical settings, subtle behavioral cues, and how early identification can lead to timely, life-saving intervention.Tune in for a practical, evidence-based conversation to help you spot disordered eating early and support adolescent patients with compassion and confidence.Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered in week four.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Bonus Episode: Book Club with Dr. Paul Wirkus and Dr. Angelo Giardino In months with five weeks, The Virtual Curbside takes a break from clinical topics for something a little different—a pediatrician book club. This month, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by Angelo Giardino, MD, FAAP, to discuss The Nature Fix by Florence Williams, an exploration of how nature impacts our brains, bodies, and overall well-being. No credit available for this episode. See vcurb.com for additional episodes.

This Week on The Virtual Curbside: Measles Q&A  In this final episode of the measles series, host Paul Wirkus, MD, FAAP, is joined by experts Andy Pavia, MD, and TW Jones, MD, to answer listener questions. The conversation covers practical clinical concerns around measles, including diagnosis, outbreak response, and prevention strategies. The group also dives into broader vaccine topics—discussing the MMR vaccine, mRNA vaccines, and lessons learned from COVID-19. Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This Week on The Virtual Curbside: Containing Measles – What Works and What Doesn’t In this episode, we focus on containing the spread of measles—what pediatricians need to know about effective infection control, public health coordination, and common missteps. Host Dr. Paul Wirkus and Andy Pavia, MD along with TW Jones, MD, and Mary Fortini, DO also tackle the misunderstood role of Vitamin A in measles treatment, dispelling myths and clarifying where it fits (and doesn’t) in clinical practice.Have a question? Email questions@vcurb.com. Your questions will be answered next week.For more information about available credit, visit vCurb.com.ACCME Accreditation StatementThis activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Colorado Medical Society through the joint providership of Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics and Utah Chapter, AAP.  Kansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics is accredited by the Colorado Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians. AMA Credit Designation StatementKansas Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.