Pediatric Perspectives: Musings, Insights, and Encouragement

From Measles to Mass Epidemics: This episode is dedicated to a pediatrician’s journey through medical challenges and advocacy. Join host Dr. Lia Gaggino this week, as she features heartfelt conversations with renowned pediatricians, Dr. Bravo and Dr. George Rogu. Listen in as they share personal stories from their medical careers and highlight the importance of preventive care. From preventing infectious diseases to the struggles of combating mental health crises, they stand at the frontline of pediatric care. Pediatricians feel their call of duty is to advocate for the health and wellbeing of their young patients. But pediatricians will say “we must never lose sight of why we chose this path in the first place. Our purpose is greater than any obstacle, and our dedication to the health and wellbeing of children is unwavering”. So, as they continue to stand strong, united in their mission, always remember that the impact that just one pediatrician can make extends far beyond the confines of a podcast episode, and together, their voices will be heard.

[00:33 -24:56]  The Winding Path of Personal and Professional Growth

  • Herb’s unconventional career path with unexpected turns
  • Motivation to create their own narrative
  • The dare that led to starting the podcast
  • Overcoming the challenge of being unheard and finding a voice

[24:57 – 33:14]  Mental Health Crisis and the Need for Support

  • The rising rates of mental health issues among individuals, including children
  • Importance of early intervention and access to mental health services
  • Strategies for promoting mental well-being and resilience in families
  • Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting open conversations

[33:15 – 39:23]  Addressing Pediatric Healthcare Challenges

  • Allocate budget to pay off pediatricians’ student loans.
  • Provide financial aid to hospitals with pediatric beds.
  • Improve public health outcomes, not shift funding constantly.
  • Invest in pediatric healthcare to reduce respiratory illness risks and worries for families with young children.

[39:24 – 45:00]  Importance of Pediatrician Voices at the Table

  • Pediatricians provide expertise on child health and development in decision-making.
  • They ensure children’s unique needs are considered in policy and decision-making.
  • Pediatricians promote evidence-based practices for children’s health and well-being.
  • Pediatricians educate parents and the public about child health issues. 

[45:01 – 50:55]  Closing segment Takeaway

You can reach Dr. Bravo and Dr. Rogu

Links to resources mentioned on the show

Pediatric Lounge Podcast

Other episodes you may like:

Key quotes for Twitter:

“I think Chuck Chavanau. He’s a brilliant pediatrician. He was extremely obsessive/compulsive. He would call the NiCU 4 times before he went to bed and he’d be like, yeah. Anything I need to know?” …Dr. Bravo talking about doctors who have made an impression on him in his early years

“…And he told me, George, never be afraid of giving medications. Never be afraid of the patient. We’ll do whatever it takes to make the patient better”… Dr. Rogu talking about Dr. Jez, a Polish physician that had a great influence on him in his early years

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Dr Lia Gaggino

Dr Lia Gaggino Host of the Pediatric Meltdown Podcast

Dr. Lia Gaggino has worked as a pediatrician for over 30 years on the west side of Michigan. During her career as a primary care physician, she has been privileged to care for children and adolescents, and know that their success is closely tied to mental wellness.

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About

Dr. Lia Gaggino has worked as a pediatrician for over 30 years on the west side of Michigan. During her career as a primary care physician, she has been privileged to care for children and adolescents, and know that their success is closely tied to mental wellness.

Recent Episodes

  • All Post
  • ADHD
  • Advocacy
  • Aggression and Disruptive Behaviors
  • Anxiety
  • Autism
  • Building Better Workflows
  • Depression
  • Genetics
  • healthcare disparities and inequalities
  • LGBTQIA+
  • Medications
  • Mental Health
  • Other
  • Pain
  • Parent/child
  • Physician Well-Being
  • Schizophrenia
  • Sleep
  • Social Media
  • Substance Abuse
  • Suicide Prevention
  • Trauma

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