Jordan Birnbaum

Host

Let's All Build The Tawkers Health Channel

Oct 31, 2013·57 visitors

Kristin Ciasulli

Cohost

Stage· 273 messages

Oct 31, 2013

Kristin Ciasulli is the coolest nurse on the planet, has more information than I can comprehend, and she's ready to share the love and knowledge. So, she's going to start hosting regular Tawks to help develop a Tawkers health channel. But how should we do it? We need you to tell us what you want to know and how you want to know it. What subjects? What hosts? What format? Let's build this thing together, Tawkers!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:05 AM

Ms. Ciasulli, I presume?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:05 AM

Yes, I'm here

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:05 AM

Can you believe the reviews we're already getting? And we haven't even started yet!!!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:05 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“This is an incredible idea that can become an incredible resource!”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:06 AM

I like it. I like it a lot

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:06 AM

Me too - good for our sense of purpose!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:06 AM

So many things to tawk about!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:06 AM

So, hit me.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:06 AM

OK - so for a starter

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:06 AM

After you did a fantastic Tawk with ourdear friend C. Bri...

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:06 AM

★ Spotlighted from C. Brian Smith

“Thank you for your service.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:07 AM

you and I were on the phone, and you mentioned to me something about what you had been observing over your career. Care to take it from there?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:08 AM

spoiler alert -it has to do with health

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:08 AM

Well, there's so much. So much. Hard to cover in an hour but I guess I'll lead with the fact that there's so much information out there that people are confused about their own health and where to turn

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:08 AM

(3-0 Boston. Sorry, multitasking)

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:08 AM

impressive. you must be a nurse.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:09 AM

But you talked about all of these different topics across all of these different dimensions of health.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:09 AM

One of the greatest challenges of being a nurse is combating the myths that people hold

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:09 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“You know, I didn't realize they still held the post season when the Yankees weren't playing...”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:09 AM

same

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:09 AM

whether from TV shows or the internet or just cultural differences

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:10 AM

so as you and I were discussing al;l of these different topics you wanted to cover to combat that misinformation

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:10 AM

and we realized that uit was as though we were building a health channel

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:10 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“I heard grey's anatomy is wildly inaccurate in their medical jargon.. like ridiculously inaccurate lol”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:11 AM

fortunately my doctor hates that show!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:11 AM

Grey's isn't inaccurate with their medical jargon so much as they are how they use it

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:12 AM

and it does a disservice to nurses to show the public doctors doing everything

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:12 AM

THAT. NEVER. HAPPENS.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:12 AM

frigtgin doctors get all the credit...

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:12 AM

doctors don't run MRI machines, CT scans, or any other diagnostic equipment. Certainly not surgeons

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:12 AM

and no patient comes out of surgery with pink, flush skin in full make up .

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:13 AM

Scrubs, on the other hand, gets it right?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:13 AM

do they show episodes of Scrubs in classes at med school?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:13 AM

having ranted that, I think one of the biggest frustrations with health care and hospitalization is how long things sometimes take

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:13 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“But can you really clip Denny's LVAD wire and ruin your character in real life?”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:14 AM

It's possible that some programs would show Scrubs and the like but more for comedic relief or to isolate a specific point

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:14 AM

Yes, you would destroy your career for clipping Denny's LVAD

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:15 AM

OK - so here we are on the phone, realizing that with all the ideas Kristin had, we were programming a channel. So we figured...

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:15 AM

Why not? That's what we figured

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:15 AM

why not ask the Tawkers forum to build it with us.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:15 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“Are you talking about being a nurse, or things like vaccines?”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:15 AM

things like that

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:15 AM

Since it's cold and flu season, shall we start there? How to keep ourselves healthy?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:15 AM

David, I'm on the fence about the flu vaccine.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:16 AM

No -let's talk high level programming!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:16 AM

before we start pitching shows...

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:16 AM

There is definitely a population of people that the flu vaccine serves and we hear about them all the time, the young, the elderly, the immunocompromised

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:16 AM

OK. High level programming, Jordan. Go for it

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:17 AM

lol - OK -let me start by asking you and the forum -what is wrong with or missing from the health info and programming that is out there?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:17 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“Are you asking Kristin, or us?”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:17 AM

both

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:18 AM

Anyone with thoughts :)

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:18 AM

It's too influenced by big pharma and marketing

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:18 AM

it's that bad?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:18 AM

So do you think that side effects are under reported?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:18 AM

How about the commercial with that stupid bouncing ball or whatever the hell it is... "feeling sad...talk to your doctor about Prozac..." Or whatever is being peddaled

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:19 AM

sometimes we're just sad and that's ok

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:19 AM

Yes, side effects are definitely under reported of all medications.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:19 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“there are so many side effects I feel like people just say eh something I have to live with every med has them so they don't take them as serious as they should”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:19 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“I was listening to one of the "health" shows on the radio, and he was ranting about big pharma trying to sell cure-all drugs when all we need is vitamins.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:19 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“And then he tried to sell me vitamins.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:19 AM

Everyone is full of sh*t

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:19 AM

I second that Jordan

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:20 AM

I don't believe in vitamins either. IF you're eating a balanced diet, no need. Of course, this leaves out a huge portion of our population who can't afford to eat well

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:20 AM

So Kristin - I feel like we have two episodes

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:21 AM

The impact of pharma marketing budgets on our health, and the worth of vitamins

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:22 AM

Well, I don't have an answer for Big Pharma, until we can dissolve the whole "corporations are people" thing and disempower lobbyists

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:22 AM

bet you know people with intersting perspectives that you could ask, though...

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:22 AM

and let us ask

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:22 AM

As for vitamins, I would advocate for their use for people who can't afford to buy fresh fruits and vegetables

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

Clarification: It's hard to know anymore who is an authority and whether they know they are right and are basing it on something short of heuristics or some other cognitive bias. But Kristin, do we still vitamin up those who don't eat well?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

good question -good answer.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“I heard a lot of vitamins have GMOs now too another way to hide them.. this pisses me off so much I like my vitamins especially C.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

How about GMOs? Much of a topic in the health industry?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“Actually, the whole GMO thing would be a great episode also.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:23 AM

great minds

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:23 AM

Yes, Rachel, that is why I don't place much value in vitamins because they're not as "pure" as we'd like to believe

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:24 AM

It would. And I'm on the fence about that as well. As someone who greatly believes in science, to develop something that's virtually impervious and indestructible is amazing

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:24 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“4-0 Red Sox Kristin”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:24 AM

see she can handle these updates because she's a nurse and can multi-task

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:24 AM

and now we're beginning to see how that manifests is our health

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:25 AM

I hope that we the people can take the baton from the European Union and completely remove GMOs from our food sources

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:25 AM

oh manh, the forum is on fire...

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:25 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“And just for synergy, Jordan, GMO is one of those things where I see both Tea Party people and Occupy people railing against the same thing.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:26 AM

throw in climate change, and we may have the basis of an alliance!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:26 AM

Please elaborate, David

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:26 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“I also believe in great science.. but "great" science takes longer than a few years to test, especially with something so vulnerable to our bodies as food”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:26 AM

I think Rachel response to the enthusiasm for science is one you agree with, right?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:27 AM

GMO's need to be operationalized though. GMOs as in the result of purposefully selecting the stronger and better strains or GMOs as in adding questionable pesticide resistant genes. I hate the term GMO because it's a loaded term in all the wrong ways

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:27 AM

Sort of. It does take years because of our gov't red tape

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:27 AM

However, did any of you know that pediatric oncologists in Philadelphia have genetically modified HIV and are now using it to cure childhood leukemia??

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:27 AM

SCIENCE!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:28 AM

What you need are more meta studies, a single study could have design or methodological flaws. Science is more vulnerable than people think (The Economist's second-latest issue covered that)

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:28 AM

I believe this study is in its final phase of clinical trials

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:28 AM

It is and everything comes down to study design and eliminating bias

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:28 AM

ok -back to the political implications:

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:29 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“Most of the Tea Party forums will often have the same anti-Monsanto pictures as the Occupy forums. The prohibition on suing Monsanto is big government at its worst. Which pisses off both sides.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:29 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“Monsanto owns a lot of politicians, and they sello t very cheaply”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:29 AM

Unfortunately, doesn't Monsanto "own" Obama? Didn't he put a former Monsanto lawyer in charge of something?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:29 AM

By the way, I hate politics

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:29 AM

to what degree would you say that government supports and / or impedes health?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:30 AM

which is the reason why I've never agreed to hold a position other than staff nurse

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:30 AM

Good question, Jordan. And I don't know

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:30 AM

I see both sides, where it helps, where it impedes

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:30 AM

on the whole -which is of greater impact: research grants or corruption?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:31 AM

For example, let's say you come into the ER complaining of cough, fatigue and fever

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:31 AM

Jordan! Stop! I'd like to say research grants

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:31 AM

I think what is emerging in the forum comments is that GMOs are a broad topic. There are questions science and questions of politics, and it's hard to discuss both at the same time.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:31 AM

but for every honest researcher out there, there are dubious entities undercutting the good

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:32 AM

Yeah, douchebaggery is rampant. That's a popular topic around here.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:32 AM

Rachel, that's the thing. How do you find/know a reputable company?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:32 AM

Question for Kristin, would you envision seeing a decrease in ER visits as a result of the Affordable Care Act (there's an expansion of medicaid to 133% above the poverty line as a component in the legislation)

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:32 AM

great question.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:33 AM

Not at first, Jonathan. For many people, 40 million or so, that's the only system they know

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:33 AM

so now that they have insurance, they have to find a primary doctor which sounds simple but isn't

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:34 AM

Ah, so would you see the bottleneck be in education?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:34 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“It seems to me it's just breaking old habits.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:34 AM

Because even though everyone will have health insurance,there just aren't enough doctors to accept all these new patients. And that's what I envision happening. Joe Smith calls to establish a primary doctor (PMD) and is told by a receptionist that Dr

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:35 AM

Jones isn't accepting new patients. Joe continues to make phone calls until he finds a physician but in the meantime continues to use the only system he knows, the ER

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:35 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Ah! I'm here! Missed you guys an hour ago!”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:35 AM

(missed you too, btw!)

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:36 AM

so has there been any planning for this?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:36 AM

programs set up to proactively address this issue?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:36 AM

I don't think so, Jordan

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:36 AM

seems dumb. they should have talked to you!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:36 AM

Ha. Maybe but they wouldn't have liked what they heard

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“A lot of doctors have been adding PA's (physician assistants) and NP's (nurse practitioners) to handle the increased demand, not to mention they can pay them less”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“SOunds like the education system - hire more aids and pay them poverty-level wages.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:37 AM

Yes, Seth, they have. And they are every bit as valuable and skilled as an MD. And for general complaints should be utilized.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Obviously you see the value of patient advocation and self-education...otherwise you wouldn't be here. DO you feel it's helpful (empowering, even?) for people to show up at the doctor's office with plenty of info already?”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:38 AM

Please define what you mean by "Plenty of info already", Rebecca

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:39 AM

And on the NP/PA front, Seth, my preference would be to see an NP. NPs MUST be a nurse before they can be an NP. PAs can be an electrician first, no medical background required

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:39 AM

I would imagine she means knowing something about symptoms, an illness, a process, etc.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:39 AM

That's not to say PAs don't have value, knowledge, or skill. I'm just biased that way.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:39 AM

so an electrician wouldn't be good to ask for medical advice?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:39 AM

I mean, aren't wires kind of like veins?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:40 AM

Well, he knows about wiring so if you have a nervous system issue, he might be your man

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:40 AM

or woman

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:40 AM

OK -so to this point we have been talking mainly about the industry, but I know...

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:40 AM

you have a great deal of insight into the patient experience

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:41 AM

in fact, quite a few of the ideas you shared with me were from the patient perspective. Is that perspective underserved?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:41 AM

Yes. Fortunately and unfortunately

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:42 AM

I just want to say that there are so many great comments. I wish I could address them all

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:42 AM

that's why we need an entire channel!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:42 AM

this is just our kick-off party

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:42 AM

I think the perspective on the patient perspective is changing, Jordan. But not enough

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:42 AM

but I think the idea is for you to find people who are well positioned to address all of the issues we're bringing up here.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:43 AM

(I agree on the forum, btw - you guys are VERY smart...)

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:43 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“I think that's sort of what I was asking, Kristin - are we moving more toward patient empowerment, both through the increased access to information and support groups, but also toward putting more responsibility on the patient for self-care.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:43 AM

Many of us think we know better than the patient because we have dedicated our lives to education, training, and caring for the ill

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:44 AM

many of us will hear some buzz words and think we have a diagnosis without listening to the full story

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:44 AM

as providers or patients?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:45 AM

Yes, Rebecca, patient empowerment! For me that means knowing your risk factors for certain diseases, knowing how to keep yourself healthy, and knowing which questions to ask

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:45 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“As in, taking preventaive measures: diet, exercise, not just pills and band-aids.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:45 AM

and not being intimidated by your doctor

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:45 AM

how big a problem is doctor intimidation?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:45 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“And on the flip side, when I WebMD, I inevitably have African Sleeping Sickness together with a brain tumor.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:45 AM

lol

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:46 AM

Well, I think a lot. Or maybe patients get tongue tied. I'll be at the bedside with patient/family and discussing the plan of action, etc. In those moments I have great dialogue and thoughtful questions. I always encourage the patient/family to talk

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:47 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“That's why I chose a midwife for birth - midwives LISTEN and spend time with you, they don't just jab instruments at your lady miracle parts.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:47 AM

to the doctor as they just did with me, ask questions. The doctor comes in, gives a 1 minute spiel of an update, asks if there are questions and No ONE asks a question, the doctor leaves

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:48 AM

when I ask why they didn't ask a question, they say "I didn't want to take up his time" or something in that vein

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:48 AM

Has there been a psych study on what happens to patients when they talk to doctors? (I'm lookin at you, @Rachel McDonnell!)

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:48 AM

we call it "white coat syndrome", Jordan

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:49 AM

what happens to us? why do we shut down? does it feel more secure to blindly trust?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:49 AM

I think blind trust is an element which floors me

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:49 AM

I'm greatful but it just floors me how much people are willing to give up of themselves

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:50 AM

plus there's an element of "I don't want to know so if I don't ask I won't have to hear bad news?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:50 AM

OK - so what are some of the subjects that you've had in your head for a long time that you want people to understand?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:50 AM

First, know the hospitals in your area. They are not all created equal.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:51 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“sorry Jordan I was catching up... psychologically I think it would go to the authority figure role, doctor's are seen as "in charge" and all others underneath them”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:51 AM

there are teaching hospitals, non-teaching hospitals, public, private, non profit, profit

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:51 AM

(I knew you'd have something!)

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:51 AM

cardiac specialty centers, stroke centers

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:51 AM

trauma centers

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:51 AM

so should people make a list for the fridge? and what if they have to call an ambulance?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:52 AM

I know. My personal preference is always for Level 1 trauma centers because they are full service all the time. Have chest pain at 2 am, at a level 1 center, you can get that cardiac catheterization that will save your life

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:52 AM

not so if you pop into your local community ER

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:53 AM

can you instruct the ambulance where to take you?

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:53 AM

Depending on what the ambulance is being called for, it will take you to the nearest medical facility

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:53 AM

if you're life is in immediate danger, meaning you'll die in an hour or so if you don't get to a hospital, any hospital

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:54 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“speaking of which.. holy cow are ambulance rides expensive! LO”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:54 AM

yeah but when you only have an hour to live...who cares?!

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:54 AM

party it up!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:54 AM

Yes, you can state your preference for hospitals but ambulances work in catchment zones, like districts and usually won't take you outside of their zone

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:54 AM

ambuilances should come with champagne!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:55 AM

or weed

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:55 AM

good point. you must be from California.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:55 AM

Connecticut, actually

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:55 AM

same thing.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:55 AM

where marijuana laws were just passed

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:55 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“Just wondering why most seniors in the US take a dozen pills or so on average? They're much worse than they ever started”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:55 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Seth! I know! My Grandma is on so many pills! It makes me crazy!”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:56 AM

are seniors over-medicated?

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:56 AM

I mean, we are all living loinger...

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:56 AM

It seems so. One of my frustrations when a senior comes to the ER is taking down their med list. It's. So. Long

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:56 AM

and depending on their disease and it's severity, yes, they need all those meds

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:57 AM

especially if it's a heart related problem

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:57 AM

but yes, many seniors are overmedicated

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:57 AM

ok, I'm about to pivot...

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“The only thing I could think of was that there was a concern that I had a brain bleed, since I hit my head, though I had a helmet on. (They had to do a scan when I got to the hospital to make sure.)”

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:58 AM

Yeah, David, you really don't want to mess around with head injuries.

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:58 AM

I just have to take a moment to acknowledge the helmet law that you oppose that saved your life. Carry on.

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:58 AM

And even with a helmet, you can sustain a brain bleed, concussion, or worse

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:58 AM

(Don't lose it David -I realize you're going to say that you chose to wear the helmet, and there shouldn't be a law taking that choice away from you...)

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“Score one for JB”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:59 AM

yeah I felt like that too

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“all they had to do was hand granny a joint, same increase in quality of life and possibly health and no side effects... except they eat, which is good for those in nursing homes”

Jordan Birnbaum · 1:59 AM

don't know where this came from, but I LIKE IT!

Kristin Ciasulli · 1:59 AM

I cringe every time I see someone on a bike, skateboard, rollerblades, etc without a helmet

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:00 AM

Lots of great medical research about the medical usefulness of weed. Israel is conducting A LOT of great studies

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:00 AM

OK -that's DEFINITELY an episode.

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:00 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“They must have had a lot of "volunteers" for the research team Kristin”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:00 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“lol Seth started the green talk.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:00 AM

Well, I would

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:01 AM

But in Israel, their subjects are actual hospitalized patients. Pretty cool.

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:01 AM

OK -so I think we're going to start winding down by tawking strategy for moving forward.

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:01 AM

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:01 AM

So you're going to start hosting Tawks on the reg, correct?

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:01 AM

I would love to

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:02 AM

I can come up with 2 topics per tawk, spend 30 minutes on each?

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:02 AM

So will you recruit some subject mater experts from your field, and let us at 'em?

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:02 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Please do, Kristin!”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:02 AM

Yes. I can find people on policy, on health care delivery, on anything

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:03 AM

I mean, I figure the forum floated at least 10 topics tonight, not to menhtion what has been building up in your brilliant brain all these years...

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:03 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“We could go all night on this Tawk”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:03 AM

One thing about health, there's plenty to talk about

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:03 AM

What would be cool is if Kristin has any particular stories to provide a tawk could center around the issues that arose from that story

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:03 AM

sorry that came out grammatically weird, it's the alcohol

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:03 AM

We could, Seth, we certainly couldn

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:04 AM

Jonathan, I have A LOT of stories. Jordan's heard a few

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:04 AM

what's the effect of alcohol on grammar? (joke question - don't answer)

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:04 AM

Sadly, most are about the end of life

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:04 AM

★ Spotlighted from David Kaufman

“Well, it would depend on the story, Jonathan -- I don't really need to hear a Tawk on the weird growth you have or anything.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:04 AM

And SOX 6-0!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:05 AM

Congrats!

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:05 AM

Thanks but I have nothing to do with this outcome

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:05 AM

yeah, but you're from there, so there's that

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:05 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“I was literally reading that SOX 6-0 in computer code.. I need to study less stats lol”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:05 AM

it's like you're reading the Matrix

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:06 AM

all right forum - Kristin and I will re-read this and write down all the topics and do our best to get them all covered!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:06 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Nerd points for Rachel! <3”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:06 AM

Rebecca, part of the reason some of us lack faith is because we see a lot of the same thing over and over and over again and don't see people making many changes

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:06 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“It seems that doctors have a lack of faith in patients, like, they don't really think that they will follow instructions or go above and beyond, like ACTUALLY exercising or changing diet - so they don't invest any time in giving them all the info.”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:07 AM

Yes, I will go back through the transcript and make notes

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:07 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“I understand. i have the same crisis of faith with parents of special needs students.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:07 AM

OK -well this was EXTREMELY fun!

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:07 AM

It really is challenging to effect change

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:07 AM

I hope so!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:07 AM

The forum was amazing!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

Plus I just came here from Rachel's Tawk which was super fun too.

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:08 AM

I can't wait to go back and read through all the comments that we weren't able to address. That is anxiety ridden

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

So I am on a Tawker's high right now!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

Thanks Kristin! :)

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“this was a great tawk thanks everyone! And thanks Jordan and Kristin! :)”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Yes! THANK YOU! I think this is the beginning of something BEAUTIFUL!”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:08 AM

You're welcome!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:08 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“That's the medical marijuana talking Jordan!”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:08 AM

I will have an anecdote for you next time Jonathan

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:09 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“another great tawk idea Seth ;)”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:09 AM

nothing wrong with that, Seth, nothing at all.

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:09 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Kristin, don't worry. We understand that you can't get to everyone. It's better for flow and cohesion if you get to finish your own thoughts in the Tawk. Great job!”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:09 AM

she's exactly right.

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:10 AM

Well, it's a little like the anxiety I feel when I can't reach a patient in crisis no matter what I do

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:10 AM

I'm trying to go out on a happy note here...

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:11 AM

Ok, how's this. RED SOX 6-!!!!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:11 AM

that will do! you all are hilarious and I adore you all. thanks for helping me realize I am not alone!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:11 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Luckily, we're not in crisis. You can relax here and get ready for the nest one!”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:11 AM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“we are just blabber mouths Kristin lol”

Kristin Ciasulli · 2:11 AM

Ok, good night then. I'm off for a haunted hayride.

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:11 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“No we're just Tawkers Rachel”

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:12 AM

REALLY? quick description!

Jordan Birnbaum · 2:12 AM

★ Spotlighted from Seth Hochman

“Happy Halloween on that note!”

Forum · 168

Forum· 168 comments

57 visitors

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 22, 2013, 7:38 PM★ Spotlighted

This is an incredible idea that can become an incredible resource!

Tawkers AdminOct 30, 2013, 10:49 PM

Welcome to the Forum! To get involved, click "Who's Here" and then FOLLOW people.

Tawkers AdminOct 30, 2013, 10:49 PM

Once 25 people gather in the audience, a comment needs at least one LIKE to become visible to the two Hosts and any non-Followers. So LIKE the comments you want the Hosts to see!

Lucy DyerOct 31, 2013, 1:06 AM

i miss anything?

C. Brian SmithOct 31, 2013, 1:06 AM★ Spotlighted

Thank you for your service.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:09 AM★ Spotlighted

You know, I didn't realize they still held the post season when the Yankees weren't playing...

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:10 AM★ Spotlighted

Are you talking about being a nurse, or things like vaccines?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:10 AM★ Spotlighted

I heard grey's anatomy is wildly inaccurate in their medical jargon.. like ridiculously inaccurate lol

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:13 AM★ Spotlighted

But can you really clip Denny's LVAD wire and ruin your character in real life?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:15 AM

noo Denny :'( lol

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:16 AM

do they really put formaldehyde in vaccines?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:17 AM★ Spotlighted

Are you asking Kristin, or us?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:18 AM

See, my concern is that we end up going the other way, also.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:19 AM★ Spotlighted

there are so many side effects I feel like people just say eh something I have to live with every med has them so they don't take them as serious as they should

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:19 AM★ Spotlighted

I was listening to one of the "health" shows on the radio, and he was ranting about big pharma trying to sell cure-all drugs when all we need is vitamins.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:19 AM★ Spotlighted

And then he tried to sell me vitamins.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:20 AM

And that's kind of the thing -- I don't think there's sufficient balance out there between the sort of holistic or naturopathic approach and the allopathic approaches.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:20 AM

Or at least it's hard to find.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:21 AM

It's usually either "Here's the drugs" or "Drugs are bad, just have some green tea and meditate."

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:21 AM

And neither are really the correct approach all by themselves.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:21 AM

Eating healthy diets...have you seen what the average American eats Kristin...bring on the vitamins

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:21 AM★ Spotlighted

I heard a lot of vitamins have GMOs now too another way to hide them.. this pisses me off so much I like my vitamins especially C.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:22 AM

That I have not heard Rachel, because most GMO's are in corn or soy, which is excluded in most vitamins

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:23 AM★ Spotlighted

Actually, the whole GMO thing would be a great episode also.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:23 AM

@Seth I have an article somewhere in my computer saved

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

4-0 Red Sox Kristin

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

And just for synergy, Jordan, GMO is one of those things where I see both Tea Party people and Occupy people railing against the same thing.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:24 AM

and they aren't regulated like other things right? so I heard you don't even know if you are getting the amount of the vitamin that it says on the bottle, one time they found one company substituting a filler

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:25 AM★ Spotlighted

I also believe in great science.. but "great" science takes longer than a few years to test, especially with something so vulnerable to our bodies as food

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:25 AM

Also a good point, and why it would be a great topic.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:25 AM★ Spotlighted

Ah! I'm here! Missed you guys an hour ago!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:25 AM

@Jonathan I agree

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:26 AM

@Rebecca missed you too! :)

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:26 AM

GMO's should be labeled and called what they're Franken-Foods

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:26 AM

yes Kristin! we need to ban GMOs! I think Us and Canada are the only major nations to do so

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:27 AM★ Spotlighted

Most of the Tea Party forums will often have the same anti-Monsanto pictures as the Occupy forums. The prohibition on suing Monsanto is big government at its worst. Which pisses off both sides.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:28 AM

And dwarf wheat saved thousands of lives, although it has been implicated in the growing gluten intolerance problem as well.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:28 AM★ Spotlighted

Monsanto owns a lot of politicians, and they sello t very cheaply

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:28 AM

Banning GMOs is an issue most Americans should be able to get behind - they are offensive on the political and the health fronts.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:28 AM

that's awesome see like Jonathan said lumping all genetic modification in with the GMOs from Monsanto is dangerous because science can help us progress but I don't think that is Monsanto's goal but for other scientists it is

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:29 AM

Rebecca I'm always surprised at the people who could completely care less about what they eat

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:29 AM

@David the gluten intolerance research they have been finding lately is interesting stuff

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:29 AM

But Jonathan's point from before is a good one -- there is a difference between using gene technology to sort of shorten the selection processes that farmers have always used, and the transmutation of a mosquito into a tomato or something.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:30 AM

Own Obama, they own almost everyone. About half of the Supreme Court worked for Monsanto

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:30 AM

yeah they own most of our gov I think.. douchebags. :p

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:30 AM

Why do you think Monsanto got away with being able to Patent their seeds and have them protected in the US but almost nowhere else

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:30 AM

Also a good topic -- the FDA saves lives, presumably, but at the same time, it delays treatments.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:31 AM

People die waiting for the FDA to approve something.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:31 AM

The largest problem I can see with vitamins, Kristin, is that they are often formulated in ways that make most of the nutrients inaccessible by the human body. Bioavalable formulations are key, as well as not combining exclusive nutrients and making

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:31 AM

sure to combine dependent nutrients.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:31 AM

Jon if you own an organic farm and Monsanto seed happens to fall on your farm you could owe Monsanto damages

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:31 AM

Sorry - I'm catching up!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:32 AM

@Rebecca do you take vitamins? if so what kind is best then?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:32 AM

we are use to discussing douchebaggery around here lol ;)

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:34 AM★ Spotlighted

It seems to me it's just breaking old habits.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:34 AM

You go where you've always gone.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:34 AM

I assume the same way anybody else does -- ask around.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:35 AM

will everyone seriously be forced to go to the doctor after this?

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:35 AM★ Spotlighted

Obviously you see the value of patient advocation and self-education...otherwise you wouldn't be here. DO you feel it's helpful (empowering, even?) for people to show up at the doctor's office with plenty of info already?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:36 AM

@Rachel -- Actually, I think there's a small part of the APA that requires you to go to see Monsanto.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:36 AM

That's funny, David. But it hurts a little.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:36 AM★ Spotlighted

A lot of doctors have been adding PA's (physician assistants) and NP's (nurse practitioners) to handle the increased demand, not to mention they can pay them less

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:37 AM

Those aren't legal in a lot of states, Seth -- NY, for example.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:37 AM★ Spotlighted

SOunds like the education system - hire more aids and pay them poverty-level wages.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:37 AM

They're in Florida and I believe most states now

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:38 AM

@David motherf***** nooo! They will have to drag me away

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:38 AM

Out in NJ, we have CVS which has PAs staffing little clinics in the drugstore for when you want to run over and check to see if you have Strep. In NY, there are a handful of Duane Reades that have them, but they are actually MD offices, so much more

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:38 AM

expensive.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:38 AM

A lot of CVS and Walgreens have NP's in the pharmacy to take care of people with minor problems

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:39 AM

I mean having researched about what they believe migt be wrong, maybe having documented symptoms, etc. Having a pretty good idea of what's wrong and bringing that info to the doctor.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:39 AM

I know, Seth -- that's what I'm talking about (not PAs -- NPs). In NY, NPs are not allowed to practice like that. You need to be seen by and MD.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:39 AM

Rebecca don't feel sorry for them, most NP's and PA's make over six figures :)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:40 AM

Oh. Well, I'll feel sorry for classroom aides, then. Because they don't.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:40 AM

It's a great trend. I think another great trend is the loss leader generic drugs for $4 that Wal-Mart started.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:40 AM

Incredibly huge thing for health care, and done entirely to get people into the store.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:41 AM

I have worked with both, Kristin. If I had to choose, I would choose a PA since they can prescribe just about everything. When I saw a NP at Walgreens there was almost nothing she could prescribe, and she was researching the flu online while I was

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:41 AM

there

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:43 AM★ Spotlighted

I think that's sort of what I was asking, Kristin - are we moving more toward patient empowerment, both through the increased access to information and support groups, but also toward putting more responsibility on the patient for self-care.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:44 AM★ Spotlighted

As in, taking preventaive measures: diet, exercise, not just pills and band-aids.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:45 AM

I agree Rebecca, real healthcare needs to merge more with the natural healers instead of so much pill popping!

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:45 AM

Honestly, that is the largest reason I avoid the medical system: I feel like most doctors are ego-driven douche-canoes who DO NOT LISTEN. I'd rather handle it myself if it's not an emergency, thanks.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:45 AM★ Spotlighted

And on the flip side, when I WebMD, I inevitably have African Sleeping Sickness together with a brain tumor.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:45 AM

I agree Rebecca I can't stand the doctor experience

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:45 AM

LOL, David.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:46 AM

Well let's remember what drives healthcare in the US: Big Pharma, hospitals and insurance, and y're not about to lose any business to natural remedies. It's all about the Benjamins

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:47 AM★ Spotlighted

That's why I chose a midwife for birth - midwives LISTEN and spend time with you, they don't just jab instruments at your lady miracle parts.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:47 AM

Ah, lady miracle parts...

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:47 AM

I think a lot of us don't know our bodies enough either, just in the sense that we should have a the very least minimal medical knowledge for ourselves just a common sense thing, it's a part of helping to care for ourselves...

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:47 AM

doctors should be for the real emergencies.. if you ask me.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:48 AM

Rachel for a lot of people who have had no insurance...they are

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:48 AM

Actually, Rachel, that's been one of the arguments against creating the type of health insurance we have.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:48 AM

@Seth another reason to be skeptical the health care industry is a multi-billion dollar industry does it care about me or my $ more? and that influences how they treat us unfortunately :/

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:48 AM

That we tend (those of us with insurance, I mean) to go to the MD for everything, because it's still just $20.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:48 AM

And it's more expensive to NOT go to the MD.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:49 AM

So we go to what is actually the most expensive health care provider right off the board.

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:49 AM

Because the copay is less than seeing, say, a nutritionist.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:50 AM

@David yeah I feel like we have become a society who can't have a runny nose without running to the doctor and it's like, really??

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:50 AM

Medicine is the only business in America where you don't get an estimate of how much things will cost...just a bill at the end that usually causes sticker-shock and need for a diaper

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:50 AM

And Seth and I have finally found something related to health care that we agree on. Stupidest system ever.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:51 AM

What do you guys think, then, about working more on the education end of things? If people can take better care of themselves - as in, feel that it's a responsibility and within their reach. THAT would be cheaper than ER or MD.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:51 AM★ Spotlighted

sorry Jordan I was catching up... psychologically I think it would go to the authority figure role, doctor's are seen as "in charge" and all others underneath them

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:51 AM

No doubt David...it's the worst of capitalism combined with the worst of socialism

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:51 AM

Yup.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:52 AM

we can't go against authority Jordan! they have been teaching us that since grad school! lol. we are conditioned to accept what those in charge say and do

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:52 AM

Wow, David agreeing with Jordan and me in the same night...is it a full moon?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:53 AM

I'm not myself today...

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:53 AM

All the meds are getting to you :)

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:53 AM

That must be it. That and the GMO-laden foods I've been eating.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

speaking of which.. holy cow are ambulance rides expensive! LO

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:54 AM

:O is what I meant lol

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:54 AM

I don't know after seeing a bill like THAT??...

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

Just wondering why most seniors in the US take a dozen pills or so on average? They're much worse than they ever started

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:55 AM

Actually, that's an interesting point, too -- I had a motorcycle accident, and the policeman told me I HAD to use the ambulance -- my wife couldn't just take me to the hospital. I had a broken hand, but I had to go in an ambulance.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:55 AM★ Spotlighted

Seth! I know! My Grandma is on so many pills! It makes me crazy!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:55 AM

@David that's ridiculous, they can force you BY LAW to take an ambulance? for real?

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:56 AM

David, that sounds like BS. Why in the world would they tell you that???

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:56 AM

Do you think it was an insurance issue?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:56 AM

No idea -- but that's what the cop said. The ambulance was called.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:56 AM

They've all these pills they take, and each one has a lot of side effects, than combining it with other drugs in a cocktail makes the side effects five times worse

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

The only thing I could think of was that there was a concern that I had a brain bleed, since I hit my head, though I had a helmet on. (They had to do a scan when I got to the hospital to make sure.)

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:57 AM

at what point does one become more pill than person?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:57 AM

But I was annoyed, since I knew it was gonna cost a fortune.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 1:57 AM

I feel like, for seniors, there are so many situations in which combining meds create side effects that aren't documented...because the risks of medicines are often under-studied andunder-reported!

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:57 AM

A big reason marijuana has remained illegal in most states is because of Big Pharma, not liking the competition, and For-Profit Prisons, which don't want to lose customers

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:58 AM

Oh, dear, Seth, are we going to agree again?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:58 AM

@David I would have tried to fight that, like who is he to tell me what to do? that is something I don't get about the system how they can force you to do things that are supposedly "our choice"?

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:58 AM

;)

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:58 AM

I would have worn the helmet anyway.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

Score one for JB

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 1:59 AM★ Spotlighted

all they had to do was hand granny a joint, same increase in quality of life and possibly health and no side effects... except they eat, which is good for those in nursing homes

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 1:59 AM

Now, now, let's not Tawk-jack this...

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 1:59 AM

But Merck or Pfizer lose out Rachel, shed tear, shed tear

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 2:00 AM

One wonders why Merck or Pfizer don't just go into the weed business, though.

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

They must have had a lot of "volunteers" for the research team Kristin

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

lol Seth started the green talk.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:00 AM

Oh, that would bode well. No room for error or scandal if Big Pharma takes over dealing. ;D

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:01 AM

I am loving all the studies I have seen so far.. and they keep coming.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:01 AM

@Rebecca - that can't happen. lol

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:02 AM★ Spotlighted

Please do, Kristin!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:02 AM

GMOs I wanna see one on that! an HONEST one. ;)

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:02 AM★ Spotlighted

We could go all night on this Tawk

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 2:03 AM

Rachel -- but for it to really be honest, you'd need someone who isn't particularly stressed about GMOs as well, n'est pas?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:03 AM

is there someone specific who's job it is to balance the people / profit part of the company.. were you have to balance what you can afford with quality of care someone like that would be cool to hear from

David KaufmanOct 31, 2013, 2:04 AM★ Spotlighted

Well, it would depend on the story, Jonathan -- I don't really need to hear a Tawk on the weird growth you have or anything.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:04 AM

@David lol!

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:05 AM★ Spotlighted

It seems that doctors have a lack of faith in patients, like, they don't really think that they will follow instructions or go above and beyond, like ACTUALLY exercising or changing diet - so they don't invest any time in giving them all the info.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:05 AM

Could someone Tawk about that?

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:05 AM★ Spotlighted

I was literally reading that SOX 6-0 in computer code.. I need to study less stats lol

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:06 AM

Well let's remember Rebecca that doctors do want you to comeback and pay another copay, so if they over-educate you they may lose business

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:06 AM

Hate to say that but it's true

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:06 AM★ Spotlighted

Nerd points for Rachel! <3

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:07 AM

I agree with Rebecca's recommendation there needs to be more room for patient education and advocating health from inside and outside the walls of the hospital

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:07 AM★ Spotlighted

I understand. i have the same crisis of faith with parents of special needs students.

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:07 AM

aww. yes I am a nerd you are correct. ;)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:07 AM★ Spotlighted

Yes! THANK YOU! I think this is the beginning of something BEAUTIFUL!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:08 AM★ Spotlighted

this was a great tawk thanks everyone! And thanks Jordan and Kristin! :)

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:08 AM

(aww thanks Jordan :) )

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:08 AM★ Spotlighted

That's the medical marijuana talking Jordan!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:08 AM★ Spotlighted

another great tawk idea Seth ;)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:09 AM★ Spotlighted

Kristin, don't worry. We understand that you can't get to everyone. It's better for flow and cohesion if you get to finish your own thoughts in the Tawk. Great job!

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:09 AM

That's what Colorado and Washington said

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:09 AM

Seth you just transformed the "that's what he said" joke lol ok now I'm rambling thanks everyone night :)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:10 AM

LOL, Seth!

Rebecca Westbrook TokerOct 31, 2013, 2:11 AM★ Spotlighted

Luckily, we're not in crisis. You can relax here and get ready for the nest one!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:11 AM★ Spotlighted

we are just blabber mouths Kristin lol

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:11 AM★ Spotlighted

No we're just Tawkers Rachel

Seth HochmanOct 31, 2013, 2:12 AM★ Spotlighted

Happy Halloween on that note!

Rachel McDonnellOct 31, 2013, 2:12 AM

you are correct, gah! off my game tonight lol.