The Illinois Pulse: Family Medicine Insights

Illinois Academy of Family Physicians
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The Illinois Pulse: Family Medicine Insights explores the evolving landscape of family medicine in Illinois. Hosted by leaders of the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, each episode features timely conversations with physician leaders, public health experts, advocates, and policymakers on the issues shaping primary care across the state.   From legislative and regulatory updates to clinical best practices, physician wellness, professional development, and public health initiatives, The Illinois Pulse delivers relevant, practical insights for family physicians, residents, medical students, and other primary care professionals.   Produced by the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, this podcast is educational in nature and is intended to inform and connect the family medicine community across Illinois. No CME credit is offered for participation.

Episodes

  1. Oct 28

    Ep 4: GLP-1s and Lifestyle Medicine: Better Together

    GLP-1 medications are transforming obesity treatment—but medication is only part of the story. In this episode, we explore how lifestyle medicine can complement GLP-1 therapy to support healthy nutrition, preserve muscle, improve metabolic health, and build sustainable habits. We’ll also discuss what happens when medications are stopped and how clinicians can help patients achieve health benefits that go beyond the number on the scale. Join us as we discuss the science and practical application of combining GLP-1 therapy with nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and behavior change strategies. Learn how to help patients preserve lean muscle, build sustainable habits, navigate discontinuation, and focus on meaningful health outcomes that extend far beyond weight alone. Hosts: Christina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, Second Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansSyed Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, First Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansGuests: Robert F. Kushner, MD Professor Emeritus, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, ILRobert Kushner, MD, MS is Professor Emeritus of Medicine and Medical Education at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and former Director of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine in Chicago, IL. After finishing a residency in Internal Medicine at Northwestern University, he went on to complete a postgraduate fellowship in Clinical Nutrition and earned a master’s degree in clinical nutrition and nutritional biology from the University of Chicago, IL. Dr Kushner is past President of The Obesity Society, the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, and the American Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists, and a founder and first Chair of the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). Dr Kushner has authored over 300 original articles, reviews, books and book chapters covering obesity, nutrition and medical education, and is an internationally recognised expert on the care of patients with overweight or obesity. He is author/editor of multiple books; current books include Lifestyle Medicine - Closing Research, Practice, Knowledge Gaps (2025) and Patient-Centered Weight Management: The Six Factor Professional Program and Toolkit (2025). Share Your Ideas Join Us as We Explore the Pulse of Family Medicine

  2. Oct 7

    Ep. 3: Contract Negotiations for Family Physicians

    Learn how to navigate employment contracts with confidence as a healthcare attorney shares practical advice on contract review, negotiation strategies, red flags to watch for, and options for physicians facing challenging workplace situations. Navigating an employment contract can be challenging, but understanding what is negotiable can have a lasting impact on your career. In this episode, we sit down with a healthcare attorney to discuss why having a lawyer review your contract is a worthwhile investment, common red flags to watch for, and key terms beyond salary that may be open for negotiation. We'll also explore strategies for advocating for yourself professionally, balancing negotiation with relationship building, and options for physicians who need to exit a difficult work environment while managing contractual obligations. Whether you're signing your first contract or considering a career move, this conversation offers practical guidance for family physicians at every stage. Guest:  Mghnon I. Martin, J.D. Operations Director, Intuitive MD  "Where Health Meets Hope" UIC Law (formerly The John Marshall Law School) linktr.ee/mghnonmartin Mghnon I. Martin is an experienced attorney and operations professional with a background spanning government, large law firms, healthcare, and business. As a former Senior Attorney at a prominent Midwest law firm, Mghnon handled complex matters involving medical malpractice, insurance, contracts, intellectual property, risk management, and litigation, including high-stakes matters involving Fortune 100 companies. In addition to serving as Operations Director at Intuitive MD, Mghnon advises physicians, professionals, individuals, and businesses on contract negotiations, employment concerns, intellectual property matters, risk management, and litigation. She works closely with clients to understand not only what a contract says, but how its terms can affect their professional options, financial interests, and ability to navigate difficult situations when problems arise. Her diverse legal and professional background gives her a practical approach to helping physicians understand their contracts, advocate for themselves during negotiations, recognize potential legal and professional risks, and make informed decisions throughout their careers. Hosts: Syed Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, First Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansChristina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, Second Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansShare Your Ideas Join Us as We Explore the Pulse of Family Medicine

  3. Sep 4

    Ep. 2: The Family Physician's Role In Achieving Birth Equity In Illinois Through Preconception Counseling And Prenatal Mental Health

    This episode highlights how family physicians can advance birth equity in Illinois through preconception counseling and perinatal mental health care. Our guests discuss practical ways to support patients before, during, and after pregnancy, including managing chronic conditions, addressing mental health concerns, and coordinating care across the continuum. Learn how family physicians can use their long term relationships with patients to improve maternal and infant health outcomes and promote health equity in their communities. Guests: Kristina Dakis, MD, FAAFP – Rural Full Scope Family Physician, Gibson City, Illinois.Rahmat Na’Allah, MD, MPH, FAAFP – Professor of Clinical Family Medicine and Director, Family Medicine Obstetrics Fellowship, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria.Hosts: Syed Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, First Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansChristina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, Second Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansResources: AAFP Preconception Counseling and Care AAFP Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Resources for Family Physicians   AAFP Neighborhood Navigator ACOG eModule - Addressing Perinatal Mental Health Conditions in Obstetric Settings CDC Hear Her Campaign  HRSA National Maternal Mental Health Hotline Illinois DocAssist  IAFP Family Physicians Delivering Babies Member Interest Group  NIH Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)   Share Your Ideas The Illinois Pulse is designed to serve Illinois family physicians, and we want to hear from you.   Have a topic suggestion? Know an expert who would make a great guest? Want to share feedback on a recent episode? Click here to submit a podcast suggestion. Share Your Ideas Join Us as We Explore the Pulse of Family Medicine

  4. Season 1, Episode 1 Trailer

    Welcome to The Illinois Pulse!

    Welcome to The Illinois Pulse: Family Medicine Insights, the podcast of the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians. Join hosts Christina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, and Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, for conversations on clinical care, advocacy, public health, physician wellness, and the issues shaping family medicine in Illinois. Stay informed, connected, and inspired wherever you listen. Share Your Ideas Join Us as We Explore the Pulse of Family Medicine

  5. Jul 22

    Ep. 1: Advocacy in Action: A Family Medicine Advocacy Summit Debrief

    Episode 1: Advocacy in Action: A Family Medicine Advocacy Summit Debrief In the inaugural episode of The Illinois Pulse: Family Medicine Insights, hosts Christina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, and Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, discuss their experience at the 2026 Family Medicine Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., with special guest David Tully, Vice President of Government Relations for the American Academy of Family Physicians. Together, they explore why advocacy matters for family physicians, what happens at the summit, and the key federal issues currently shaping the future of primary care.  The conversation highlights legislative priorities affecting family medicine, including chronic care management, Medicare Advantage reform, and physician workforce challenges. The episode also features Amro ElSharoud, MD, who shares his personal experience navigating the H‑1B visa process and the important role international medical graduates play in serving communities across the country.  Whether you are already involved in advocacy or are looking for ways to get started, this episode offers practical insights into how family physicians can use their voices and experiences to influence healthcare policy and improve patient care. Guests: David Tully, Vice President of Government Relations, American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)Amro ElSharoud, MD, Congress Observer, Illinois Academy of Family Physicians; Family Medicine Physician, OSF HealthCareHosts: Christina Wells, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAFP, Second Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family PhysiciansSyed Mustafa Alavi, MD, FAAFP, First Vice President, Illinois Academy of Family Physicians Episode Resources AAFP Advocacy Ambassadors Program  AAFP Speak Out Advocacy Center 2026 Clinics to Congress: August Recess Advocacy Campaign  August Recess Advocacy Challenge During the episode, guests discuss opportunities for family physicians to engage with lawmakers during the congressional August recess.  Key Dates July 21, 2026: Begin requesting in district meetings with members of CongressJuly 27, 2026: August Recess Advocacy Challenge opens in the Scavr appJuly 29, 2026 (8:00 PM ET): Official August Recess Campaign Kickoff MeetingJuly 27 to August 31, 2026: Complete Advocacy Challenge activitiesSeptember 2, 2026 (8:00 PM ET): Advocacy Ambassador Meeting and Challenge winners announcedWays to Get Involved Schedule or attend an in district meeting with your member of CongressComplete an AAFP Speak Out advocacy actionRecord a Video Ask for lawmakersParticipate in social media advocacy activitiesShare your story as a family physicianJoin the August Recess Advocacy Challenge    Share Your Ideas Join Us as We Explore the Pulse of Family Medicine

    Ep. 1: Advocacy in Action: A Family Medicine Advocacy Summit Debrief
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    4 Episodes

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The Illinois Pulse: Family Medicine Insights explores the evolving landscape of family medicine in Illinois. Hosted by leaders of the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, each episode features timely conversations with physician leaders, public health experts, advocates, and policymakers on the issues shaping primary care across the state.   From legislative and regulatory updates to clinical best practices, physician wellness, professional development, and public health initiatives, The Illinois Pulse delivers relevant, practical insights for family physicians, residents, medical students, and other primary care professionals.   Produced by the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, this podcast is educational in nature and is intended to inform and connect the family medicine community across Illinois. No CME credit is offered for participation.

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