DIA’s Post

Recently, I came across 2 interesting reads on clinical trial diversity: STAT: https://lnkd.in/eDJJaM-N and a piece from our previous CEO: https://lnkd.in/e3apfY7a which are pointing out the importance of clinical trial diversity, but also that it isn’t enough to eliminate health disparities. While clinical trial diversity is certainly an important part of the solution, we need to be prioritizing health equity and strong patient care in all settings, beyond clinical trials, to create a health system that truly supports patients from all backgrounds and all walks of life. #ClinicalTrialDiversity #BMS_Employee

As treatment options for #GIST advance, now is the perfect time to keep up with the latest research. Check out this interview with Alexander Helfand, MD of Allegheny Health Network, to learn about promising research to improve care for patients with GIST: https://ow.ly/oLg050PHP58.

Second opinions impact health outcomes. Seeking a second opinion can be a good thing in many instances as it helps you figure out what treatment option is best, or if there are others that might be available. It may reassure you that the right tests and diagnostics have been completed, so you feel more comfortable about your diagnosis and treatment decisions. Most importantly, it increases the odds that the chosen treatment path is the most appropriate, effective and provides the best shot at a good outcome. However, many of us seem to be quite uncomfortable or unsure about asking for a second medical opinion from our care teams 😕 We tend to feel that seeking a second opinion may be offensive and insulting to the doctor we are working with, or worse, it will make future interactions with them awkward. This Healthing article suggests that an easy way to diffuse any awkwardness is to ask your doctor directly whether a second opinion might be worthwhile. And if they aren’t receptive, throw in some context as to why you’re asking. If they refuse, you could say you feel your request is reasonable and ask them the reason why they think a second opinion isn’t necessary. Reach out to our Advica navigation team to learn more about how second opinions can be a helpful tool for your healthcare journey. #SecondOpinions #PatientAdvocacy

Failure to communicate with patients effectively can be medically significant, negatively impacting the patient-provider relationship and leading to worse health outcomes. Clinicians who want to ensure shared understanding with patients should focus on four areas: 1. Discover what the patient understands and why. 2. Provide accurate information in a simple, easy-to-understand way. 3. Promote the credibility of the given information. 4. Check for shared understanding. #Communication #PatientExperience #PatientEngagement

Preventative medicine is key to a healthy society. It's encouraging to see experts come together to understand rising cancer rates in young adults. As physicians are the backbone of our health system, appropriate payment methodologies need to be created to support their efforts. Are there any positive trends happening in your region related to physicians, value-based care, preventative medicine, and payer support? Share your thoughts. #physicians #VBC #Preventativemedicine #payersupport

While there is still no known cure for mesothelioma, researchers keep pushing for answers – meaning the range of possible treatments continues to expand. Read our blog to learn how many clinical trials are focused on mesothelioma treatment and how to advocate for your health! https://loom.ly/x4Iloho

What does it take to lead with #empathy in modern healthcare? The #NHS should strive to improve the #health and #wellbeing of people as well as the experiences of health and care. We should do this with compassion, humanity and kindness, respecting people’s values and their right to make choices about their care. Read our article at the National Health Executive which includes the link to the Yes to Life Charter for Oncology. https://lnkd.in/eM9--3yZ

Do you know that now patient navigators can help people of color (POC) find a path to better care? Patient navigators play a crucial role in reducing racial disparities in cancer care. They provide personalized support, improve outcomes, and offer emotional and culturally appropriate care. Studies show that patient navigation can reduce healthcare expenses. You can read more about it here: https://lnkd.in/ei4P_8DF #Health #Equity

October is #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth and a great time to get tup to speed on the latest developments in diagnosis and treatment with the The National Institutes of Health. #breastcancer #cancerresearch #medicalresearch #medicine #medicalsciences #health EVERY WOMAN CAN Inland Imaging https://lnkd.in/dfzPEfmN.

In Western countries, rates of #OesophagealCancer and #GastricCancer have surged over the past five decades. Early detection is essential in empowering patients to take proactive steps to help prevent the onset of these diseases. Discover how a new tool, driven by #ArtificialIntelligence and integrated into electronic health records, could close the awareness gap between providers and at-risk #patients. Learn more in this Medical Xpress article: https://ow.ly/4EZR50R480h #CancerPrevention #EarlyDiagnosis #MedicalResearch