14 - Advocating for Change in Clinical Settings: Inside Hospital Internal Medicine with Physician Assistant | Natalie Freels, PA-C

03/03/25 • 47 min

Natalie Freels, a trailblazing Physician Assistant, illuminates the pathways of hospital internal medicine with a unique blend of passion and expertise. From her beginnings as an EMT to shaping innovations in healthcare, Natalie captivates with stories of problem-solving and systems-based thinking that are reshaping medical landscapes. We promise you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the transformative potential of clinician-led initiatives as Natalie shares her significant contributions to disaster preparedness and electronic health record optimization.
How do clinicians enact meaningful change in the complex world of medicine? Natalie dives into the heart of this question, shedding light on the crucial need for advocacy, collaboration, and feedback within healthcare settings. By emphasizing the role of diverse perspectives and the integration of simple, effective solutions, she outlines a roadmap for achieving sustainable progress. Moreover, Natalie highlights the importance of understanding the everyday challenges faced by healthcare professionals, advocating for leadership that bridges the gap between administrative decisions and clinical realities.
Ever wondered what a day in the life of a hospital internal medicine PA looks like? Natalie takes us on a journey through her routine, balancing patient care, teaching, and professional development. Her dedication extends beyond the hospital, as she delves into healthcare technology and emergency management, advocating for robust electronic health record resiliency planning. From memorable interview questions to insights on patient-centered care, this episode promises a comprehensive look into the rewarding and multifaceted world of medicine through the eyes of an inspiring healthcare leader.

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. At Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and secure your place in medicine.
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13 - Finding Strength in Self-Sufficiency and Purpose in Patient Care as a Physician Assistant | Jim Allen, PA-C

Join us on Shadow Me Next as we welcome our guest, Jim Allen, a lead physician assistant who shares his inspiring journey from aspiring military service member to a dedicated healthcare professional in urgent care. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age, Jim's dream of joining the military was rerouted, leading him to discover a new path driven by resilience and an enduring passion for medicine. His story is a heartfelt exploration of how life's unexpected turns and personal challenges can forge a rewarding career path in healthcare.
Jim details the fast-paced world of urgent care, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a significant impact on patients' lives. From managing high-acuity cases to mastering the art of differential diagnosis, Jim shares the nuances of urgent care practice. He emphasizes teamwork, autonomy, and the satisfaction of accurately diagnosing serious conditions, all within the vibrant environment of a PA-owned facility. His insights are not only informative for aspiring medical professionals but also a testament to the gratifying nature of urgent care work.
For those looking to enter the medical field, Jim provides invaluable advice on succeeding in PA school interviews and the importance of building a strong community and support network. His passion for mentoring the next generation shines through as he offers tips on crafting memorable interview experiences and navigating the competitive nature of medical education. Whether you're a pre-health student or simply curious about the intricacies of clinical practice, this episode is full of wisdom and inspiration. Follow and engage with us as we explore the rewarding journey of being a clinician and the joy of sharing that passion with others.

➡️ Check out Jim's YouTube channel: Urgent Care Stories, where he reviews interesting cases and walks you through forming a differential diagnosis for each one.

https://youtube.com/@urgentcarestories?si=KfEw2ZjNT5LtZRaL

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15 - A Veteran Physician Assistant's Views on Medicine: Past, Present, and Future | Erich Fogg, PA-C

Imagine navigating nearly three decades in healthcare with the resilience and adaptability of a true innovator. That's exactly what our guest, Eric Fogg, has accomplished as a physician assistant (PA) and leader in healthcare operations. In this episode of Shadow Me Next, Eric reveals his extraordinary journey from a budding interest in sports medicine to pioneering new telehealth initiatives and leading pandemic response efforts. Eric's passion for mentoring future healthcare professionals shines through as he shares how PAs can significantly shape healthcare policy and operations.
Join us as we explore Eric's transition from clinical practice to taking on powerful roles in administrative leadership. Discover the unique dynamic of a PA-led urgent care setting where Eric excelled in managing budgets, building a network of urgent care centers, and navigating the perceptions of non-physician leadership. His story is a testament to hard work and the willingness to take risks, proving that PAs can thrive in roles traditionally reserved for physicians. Eric's commitment to providing quality care underscores the importance of seizing opportunities and building a reputable career.
Our conversation also touches on the exciting potential of technology in the healthcare landscape. From AI and wearable technologies transforming chronic disease management to the nuances of PA recertification and the recent title change from "Physician Assistant" to "Physician Associate," Eric offers insights into the innovation shaping the future of the PA profession. We highlight the role of empathy and genuine care in medicine, emphasizing the human touch that remains irreplaceable despite technological advances. Whether you're a pre-health student or simply curious about healthcare, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire.

Find Erich at Pathway To Pass!

online: https://www.erichfogg.com/
instagram: @pathwaytopass

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Shadow Me Next! - 14 - Advocating for Change in Clinical Settings: Inside Hospital Internal Medicine with Physician Assistant | Natalie Freels, PA-C

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.600

Hello and welcome to Shadow Me Next , a podcast where I take you into and behind the scenes of the medical world to provide you with a deeper understanding of the human side of medicine . I'm Ashley , a physician assistant , medical editor , clinical preceptor and the creator of Shadow Me Next . It is my pleasure to introduce you to incredible members of the healthcare field and un