Discover
Wise & Well Presented by Community Memorial Healthcare
65 Episodes
Reverse
In this episode of Wise & Well, Dr. Kay Anand discusses her role as the new Medical Director of the Community Memorial Cancer Center, marking a first-of-its-kind era for oncology in Ventura. After practicing at prestigious centers across the country, Dr. Anand explains why she chose to lead this community-focused expansion, emphasizing that high-level cancer care should be accessible close to home and support systems.She highlights her collaborative approach, noting that if a specific treatment or clinical trial isn't available on-site, she personally coordinates with regional partners to get the patient the care they need. This "open-door" approach ensures patients can receive specialized consultations elsewhere while returning to Ventura for their infusions and follow-up care. Tune in to learn more!
Learn more about Kay Anand, MD
In this episode, we explore a major medical milestone for our region with Dr. David Blitzer. Alongside Dr. Li Sheng Kong and the specialized team at Community Memorial Hospital - Ventura, they recently performed the first-ever Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE) procedure in Ventura County. This marks a shift in vascular care, allowing surgeons to repair complex, life-threatening aortic aneurysms through a single small incision rather than the traditional, high-risk open surgeries of the past.We dive into the technical precision required for this procedure, where a failing previous repair left a patient at imminent risk of rupture. Dr. Blitzer explains how this groundbreaking technology restores vital blood flow while keeping world-class, university-level intervention right here in our community. Join us to learn how Community Memorial Healthcare is leading the way as the only facility in the county offering this cutting-edge solution for complex aortic disease.
Learn more about David Blitzer, MD
Want to know what it's really like to be a Psychiatry resident at Community Memorial Healthcare? This episode of our Residency Spotlight series dives into Psychiatry with Dr. Navid, Associate Program Director, and Dr. Janet Lee-Coomes, chief resident. Learn more about the program, the curriculum, and what makes Community Memorial Healthcare a unique place to train. Visit mycmh.org/psychiatry
Learn more about Nassi Navid, MD
When it comes to cardiothoracic surgery, the language can often feel like "doctor speak." In this episode of Wise and Well, heart and lung surgeon Dr. Ryan Vela joins host Maggie McKay to bridge the gap between complex medical procedures and patient understanding.Dr. Vela discusses his unique background in the humanities and how it shapes his "patient-first" communication style. We dive into the traditional roles of cardiovascular surgeons, the revolutionary impact of the da Vinci robot in treating lung cancer, and life-saving advancements like TAVR and robotic-assisted bypass surgery. Tune in to learn how Community Memorial Healthcare is bringing world-class, tertiary-level heart and lung care directly to the Ventura community.
Learn more about Ryan Vela, MD
Dr. Yang’s journey with Community Memorial Healthcare is a remarkable full-circle story: it began in the Emergency Department as an ED scribe. Hear how his early days in the hospital shaped his perspective, the life-changing advice he received from urology mentors, and what it means to now serve the Ventura community where he grew up.Dr. Yang also shares how his Da Vinci robotic surgical expertise is providing patients with quicker recoveries and less pain, and offers powerful advice for anyone starting their career in healthcare.
Learn more about Patrick Yang, DO
In this episode, we discuss the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) at Community Memorial Healthcare. Join host Maggie McKay as she interviews Giselle Gillmon, LCSW, CPXP, and PFAC member Cassandra McCambridge, to explore how patient voices influence healthcare and improve experiences. If you are a patient, family member, healthcare professional, or simply passionate about enhancing patient experience, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to understand the power of the PFAC and learn how you can get involved and make your voice heard!
Join Community Memorial's Medical Oncologist Dr. Carlos Orejel and Ambulatory Services Clinical Manager and Tracie Funk Director of Ambulatory Services and Cancer Center as they delve into the offerings of the Community Memorial Cancer Center, highlighting state-of-the-art technology and patient-focused amenities.If you've been diagnosed with cancer, you can get the expert care and support you need through our newly expanded and enhanced cancer program, right here in Ventura. Our state-of-the-art Infusion Center allows comfortable, dedicated infusion close to home. Our Center includes a team of expert oncology nurses and physicians dedicated to supporting patients through every step of their treatment journey. We can provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan as well as the infusion, or we can take an existing plan and do your infusion at our center.
Learn more about Karlos Oregel, MD
Considering an Internal Medicine residency? Find out why Community Memorial Healthcare should be your top choice! Join Dr. Hannah Robinson and Dr. Rahul Jalota as they highlight the culture of collaboration, exceptional faculty, and diverse patient population that sets this program apart. Visit mycmh.org/internal-medicine
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and we're discussing the power of movement! We are joined by Community Memorial Healthcare's Brian Murphy, Associate Director of Rehabilitation Services, and Gabby Dobbs, physical therapist, to explore how physical therapy (PT) can help you live a healthier, more active life. We have locations in Ojai and Ventura. Visit www.mycmh.org/programs-services/rehabilitation-therapy/physical-therapy to learn more.
In this episode of Wise & Well, Breast Center Medical Director Dr. Dansby walks us through the entire process of getting a mammogram, from arrival to results. Get insight into how the Community Memorial Hospital Breast Center aims to provide a quick, comfortable, and supportive experience for every patient. To learn more & schedule your mammogram, visit mycmh.org/breasthealth.
Join us for a timely and information conversation with Dr. Alison Shuman, pediatrician and Chief of Staff at Community Memorial Healthcare, about the upcoming flu season in Ventura County.
For more information, visit mycmh.org/vaccines.
On today’s episode, we’re discussing our recent recognition in geriatric care. More than 150,000 people over the age of 65 live right here in Ventura County, and that number is growing. To meet this critical need for older adult-focused care, Community Memorial Hospital-Ventura has been awarded the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation. This is a national accreditation for organizations that demonstrate a commitment to providing the best care possible for our senior community. Joining us today is Bret McClure, Director of Emergency Services at Community Memorial Healthcare, to talk more about what this prestigious accreditation means for our patients and our community.
As the county's premier birthing center, Community Memorial Hospital - Ventura provides award winning care and extensive support to newborns and families in our community. In this episode, we sit down with Anna Haas, MSN, Community Memorial's Clinical Nurse Specialist in our Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Anna provides insight into the technology, physician expertise, and specialized nursing care that makes the Community Memorial NICU one of the best in the region. She also discusses how our family-centered approach to care empowers parents to take and active role in caring for their premature or ailing infant and keeps families together throughout the process. You don't want to miss this special episode! To learn more about all the resources, support, and services available to expectant and new families at Community Memorial, visit mycmhbaby.org.
Community Memorial Continuing Care Center in Ojai has once again earned the prestigious Five-Star Rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). We are joined by Rob Zitsman, Administrator of Community Memorial Continuing Care Center, to discuss this achievement and its criteria, including health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. Rob also discusses the CCC’s commitment to excellence and the factors contributing to its consistent recognition as the leading skilled nursing facility in the Ojai Valley.
To learn more Community Memorial Continuing Care Center
This May, Community Memorial will launch MyChart, your new patient portal. MyChart is a simple, seamless, and secure way to view everything related to your health. Join Community Memorial's Dr. Robert Streeter, Chief Medical Officer, and Dr. Raagav Mohanakrishnan, Associate Chief Medical Information Officer, as they discuss how MyChart simplifies care for you and your whole family. To learn more, visit mycmh.org/mychart
Join us as Dr. Matthew Hakimi, Community Memorial cardiologist, reveals the latest advancements in AFib treatment. From groundbreaking leadless pacemakers to complex cardiac ablations, we explore the leading-edge of electrophysiology at Community Memorial. Discover how wearable technology is transforming patient care and learn lifestyle choices to manage AFib. Find out why Community Memorial Healthcare is Ventura's leading heart program.
Want to know what it's really like to be a General Surgery resident at Community Memorial Healthcare? This episode of our Residency Spotlight series dives into General Surgery with Program Director Dr. Javier Romero and resident physicians, Dr. T'Keyah Gray and Dr. Diego Monasterio. Learn more about the program, the curriculum, and what makes Community Memorial Healthcare a unique place to train.
To learn more, visit Community Memorial Healthcare
In this episode of Wise & Well, Dr. Christopher Fernandez discusses addiction, its impact on individuals and families, and the link to mental health. He highlights new substance concerns like Kratom and the unique care offered at Community Memorial Healthcare, along with local resources for those seeking help.
Are you or a loved one recovering from heart surgery? In this insightful conversation with Kelli O'Harrow, Cardiac Rehab Nurse, we uncover the numerous benefits of cardiac rehabilitation, specifically designed to help you recover stronger and live better after a cardiac incident.
To learn more, visit https://www.mycmh.org/programs-services/heart-vascular/cardiac-rehabilitation.
At Community Memorial, we want you to have the best experience possible while you’re in our care. That’s why we partnered with Teladoc® to bring our talented, compassionate staff and the latest in virtual nursing technology together. Our Virtual Nursing program gives you immediate access to your nurse at the click of a button, while allowing our in-person team members to spendmore time at your bedside when needed.Join Diane Drexler, Chief Nursing Officer & Vice President, Patient Care Services, for more about the impact of virtual nursing on patient satisfaction, nurse retention, and overall healthcare delivery at Community Memorial Hospital — Ventura.



