Take Care

Melody Mulaik
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Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

  1. 1D AGO

    How to Find a New Doctor When You Move: A Step-by-Step Guide | Take Care Together

    Moving to a new city comes with a long to-do list, but finding the right doctor shouldn’t be left to chance. In this episode of Take Care Together, Melody Mulaik and Ashley talk through the real-life process of relocating and navigating healthcare in an unfamiliar place. From finding in-network providers to managing prescriptions across state lines, they break down what you actually need to do before, during, and after your move. If you’re moving soon, or even just thinking about switching doctors, this episode will help you stay ahead, avoid stress, and take control of your healthcare decisions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to find doctors in a new city (without feeling overwhelmed)Why starting with in-network providers saves time and moneyWhat to do about prescriptions, especially controlled medicationsHow to transfer medical records the right wayThe smartest way to choose a healthcare system and primary care doctorTimestamps: [00:01:00] Starting with your insurance provider[00:04:00] Preparing to transfer medical records[00:05:00] Planning for prescriptions[00:14:00] Scheduling primary care before you move[00:19:00] Knowing where to go for emergency careMoving doesn’t just mean packing boxes; it means rebuilding your healthcare team. Start early, stay flexible, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more prepared you are, the smoother your transition will be. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    22 min

  2. APR 28

    Interventional Radiology: Treatments You Didn't Know Exist with Dr. Matthew Hawkins, MBA

    What if some of the treatments you need… don’t require surgery at all? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik sits down with Dr. Matthew Hawkins, a board-certified interventional radiologist, to explore a powerful yet often overlooked field in medicine. Interventional radiology uses imaging modalities such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to perform procedures inside the body with few to no incisions. That means: Less painFaster recoveryFewer hospital staysIf you’ve never heard of this before, you’re not alone. And that’s exactly why this conversation matters. What You’ll Learn: What interventional radiology is and how it worksThe surprising range of conditions it can treatWhy are many patients never told about this optionHow to ask your doctor about minimally invasive proceduresThe role of interventional radiology in cancer care and pain managementWhat to do if there’s no specialist in your areaHow pediatric patients benefit from these treatmentsTimestamps: [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Matthew Hawkins [01:00] What is interventional radiology? [02:00] Common procedures and real-life examples [03:00] Why IR isn’t widely known [04:00] How patients can find IR specialists [06:00] Interventional oncology and cancer treatment options [08:00] Pain management and palliative care [09:00] What to do if there’s no specialist nearby [10:00] Telemedicine and remote consultations [12:00] Pediatric interventional radiology explained [14:00] Conditions that require specialized care [15:00] A day in the life of an interventional radiologist [17:00] The future of interventional radiology [19:00] Final advice for patients and caregivers Resources Mentioned: Society of Interventional Radiology – Find an interventional radiologist near you: https://www.sirweb.org/ Connect with Dr. Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hawkins-md-93b6b737/ Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    21 min

  3. APR 21

    What Parents Need to Know Today, Wisdom from Expert Pediatrician Dr. Robert Harrison, MPH

    Choosing the right doctor for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent, but how do you actually know who to trust? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik sits down with Dr. Robert Harrison, a board-certified pediatrician and infectious disease specialist, to break down how to choose a pediatrician and what parents should really look for beyond just convenience or referrals. From experience and hospital affiliations to ongoing medical education and access to specialists, Dr. Harrison shares what separates a good pediatrician from a great one, and why it matters more than you think. The conversation also dives into one of the most talked-about (and often confusing) topics today: vaccines. You’ll learn where to find reliable, science-based information, why misinformation spreads, and what parents need to understand to make informed decisions that protect not only their child but the entire community. If you’re expecting, a new parent, or simply want to feel more confident about your child’s healthcare, this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance you can use right away. What You’ll Learn: How to choose a pediatrician you can trustWhat makes a good pediatrician (experience, education, affiliation)Why group practices can improve your child’s careWhat questions to ask when interviewing a pediatricianWhere to find reliable vaccine informationThe truth about vaccines and common misconceptionsWhy routine checkups can catch serious health issues earlyHow to build trust and communication with your child’s doctorTimestamps: [01:00] Why choosing the right pediatrician matters and how it impacts your child’s health[02:00] What to do if access to pediatric care is limited and how to find the best option[02:40] Key qualities of a good pediatrician: experience, hospital affiliation, and continuous learning[05:40] Vaccine myths vs facts: where to get reliable information and why it matters[12:30] What parents should prioritize including trust, communication, and access to specialists[17:00] Why routine checkups, early diagnosis, and proactive care can change a child’s lifeResources Mentioned: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – Trusted source for pediatric and vaccine guidelines: https://www.aap.org/ Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    24 min

  4. APR 14

    How to Navigate Your Child’s Cancer: Advocacy, Support, and Survival with Laura DeKraker Lang-Ree

    When a child is diagnosed with cancer, parents are thrown into a world they were never prepared for. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik sits down with Laura DeKraker Lang-Ree, author of The Cancer Parents Handbook: What Your Oncologist Doesn’t Have Time to Tell You, to uncover what truly happens beyond the hospital walls. Laura shares her personal journey as a parent navigating her child’s cancer diagnosis, and the critical gaps in support that inspired her to write a practical, real-life guide for families. This conversation goes beyond medical treatment. It dives into advocacy, emotional resilience, building a support system, and how to care for yourself while caring for your child. If you or someone you love is facing childhood cancer, this episode offers guidance, clarity, and hope. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to advocate for your child in a complex healthcare system—even if you feel overwhelmedHow to build a strong support system and confidently ask for help during a crisisPractical ways to manage the long journey of childhood cancer while protecting your own well-beingKey hospital and community resources most parents don’t know exist (but should use)How to prepare for life after treatment, including survivorship and long-term health considerations Timestamps: [00:00] A parent’s reality: the shock of a childhood cancer diagnosis and feeling completely unprepared[03:00] The story behind The Cancer Parents Handbook and why it had to be created[06:00] The 3 essentials: advocacy, building your support system, and self-care during the journey[09:00] Hidden resources parents should know: social workers, child life services, and support groups[12:00] Why caregivers must prioritize their own well-being (and how “tag team parenting” helps)[25:00] Looking ahead: survivorship, long-term effects, and empowering your child beyond treatmentResources: Laura DeKraker Lang-Ree’s website: https://cancerparentshandbook.com/ The Cancer Parent’s Handbook: What Your Oncologist Doesn’t Have Time To Tell You: https://books2read.com/CancerParent Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    34 min

  5. APR 7

    What Every Woman Should Know About Breast Imaging: A Conversation with Dr. Dana Smetherman, CEO of ACR

    Breast imaging can feel confusing… but understanding it could save your life. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik sits down with Dr. Dana Smetherman, CEO of the American College of Radiology (ACR), to break down what radiologists actually do and why imaging plays a critical role in early detection, especially for breast cancer. From mammograms and MRIs to dense breast tissue and insurance challenges, this conversation helps patients understand what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to advocate for their own care. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of your imaging results or felt unsure about screening recommendations, this episode gives you clarity and confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn: Radiologists are physicians who interpret imaging and help detect diseases earlyMammograms starting at age 40 significantly reduce breast cancer deathsAbout 10% of women are called back after screening, but most do not have cancerDense breast tissue can make cancer harder to detect and slightly increases riskMRI is powerful but not always necessary, and not always covered by insurancePatients must stay informed and advocate for their careTimestamps: [01:00] What a radiologist really does (and why they’re called medical detectives)[11:00] When to start mammograms and why age 40 matters[13:00] The truth about callbacks: why most are not cancer[23:00] Dense breasts explained and how they affect detection[27:00] Insurance challenges and how to advocate for better careResources Mentioned: American College of Radiology (ACR)HRSA Updates Breast Cancer Screening for Women at Average Risk GuidelineEarly detection saves lives, but understanding your options helps you take control. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, follow up on results, and advocate for the care you deserve. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    34 min

  6. MAR 17

    Understanding Medical Imaging and How to Advocate for Yourself: What Patients Should Know with Jason Newmark

    Medical imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing injuries, detecting disease, and guiding treatment decisions. Yet many patients feel confused about what happens during imaging tests and who is actually involved in their care. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik is joined by Jason Newmark, Executive Director of the Association for Medical Imaging Management (AHRA). Jason explains the different types of medical imaging, the professionals involved behind the scenes, and why patients sometimes face delays when scheduling exams like MRIs. They also discuss the importance of safety in imaging, the difference between technologists and radiologists, and practical tips patients can use when trying to schedule an imaging appointment sooner. Whether you're preparing for a scan or simply want to understand how medical imaging works, this conversation offers helpful insights into one of the most important areas of modern healthcare. In this episode, Melody and Jason discuss: Medical imaging includes many types of scans, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, PET scans, and nuclear medicine studies.The person taking your scan is usually a technologist, while a radiologist is the physician who interprets the images.Some imaging exams use radiation (like X-rays and CT scans), while others, such as MRI and ultrasound, do not.Safety protocols are built into every imaging procedure to protect both patients and healthcare staff.Staffing shortages and the complexity of some exams, especially MRIs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments.Patients may sometimes find earlier appointments by asking about cancellations, different locations, or alternative scheduling times.Resources: AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management: https://www.ahra.org/homeConnect with Jason Newmark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-newmark-9846055/ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Medical Imaging 02:30 – What Medical Imaging Actually Means 03:30 – Types of Imaging Modalities 04:30 – Imaging Safety and Radiation 05:30 – Who Works in an Imaging Department 07:00 – Technologist vs Radiologist 08:00 – Why Imaging Appointments Can Take Time 10:00 – Career Opportunities in Medical Imaging 12:00 – Why MRIs Take Longer 13:00 – Tips for Getting an Imaging Appointment Sooner 16:00 – The Stress of Diagnostic Imaging 18:00 – Managing Access to Imaging Services 21:00 – The Importance of Patient Communication 22:00 – Human Connection in Healthcare Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    24 min

  7. MAR 10

    Hospital to Rehab/Skilled Nursing Facility: Steps Caregivers Need to Know

    When a loved one is hospitalized, caregivers often face the question: ‘What happens next?’ In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik shares her experience helping her 90-year-old mother transition from the hospital to a rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility. Melody explains key steps caregivers should know, including Medicare’s ‘three-day hospital stay rule’, the role of hospital case managers, and how early communication with the care team can help make the transition smoother. What You’ll Learn: Caregiving decisions after a hospital stay. Understanding the challenges of caring for aging parents and deciding between home care or rehabilitation services.Medicare rules for rehab coverage. Why the three-day hospital stay requirement and admission status matter for skilled nursing or rehab eligibility.Working with the hospital care team. How case managers, therapists, and caregivers help coordinate rehab placement and support recovery.Timestamps: 00:00 – Melody shares her experience caring for her 90-year-old mother.01:00 – Hospital admission and evaluating care options after discharge.02:00 – Medicare’s three-day hospital stay rule for rehab coverage.03:00 – The role of hospital case managers in coordinating rehab placement.04:00 – Why communication with therapists and caregivers matters.05:00 – Transitioning successfully to a rehab or skilled nursing facility.06:00 – Encouragement for caregivers navigating similar situations.If this episode helped you, share it with someone who may be caring for an aging loved one. Have questions or experiences to share? Leave us a comment on our website. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    6 min

  8. MAR 3

    How to Choose a Hospital With Confidence Using Data and Reviews

    How do you know if a hospital or doctor is actually “good”? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik answers a listener's question about where to find trustworthy information when choosing a provider or hospital. With so many ratings, reviews, and opinions online, it can feel overwhelming. This episode breaks down the difference between official quality data, independent rankings, and patient reviews, and how to use them wisely. You’ll learn how to research hospital performance, what CMS star ratings really measure, how physician review sites work, and the most powerful question you can ask your doctor when you need a referral. This episode will help you move from confusion to confidence when making healthcare decisions. In this episode, you’ll learn:  [00:00:45] Where to find official hospital quality data (CMS and Medicare Care Compare)[00:01:35] What CMS star ratings actually measure (mortality, readmissions, patient experience, timely care)[00:02:20] How to interpret hospital outcomes and complication rates[00:03:05] What Healthgrades and Vitals can — and cannot — tell you about physicians[00:03:45] Why patient experience does not always equal clinical quality[00:04:15] How US News & World Report hospital rankings are developed[00:04:50] The role of local “Best Doctor” publications (and what to watch for)[00:05:15] The single best question to ask your doctor when you need a referral[00:05:50] Why your own patient reviews and surveys matter more than you thinkOnline ratings are a starting point, not the final answer. The smartest approach combines official quality data, patient experiences, and trusted personal recommendations. If you’ve ever wondered how to evaluate a doctor, compare hospitals, or avoid poor healthcare outcomes, this episode gives you practical tools to make informed decisions. Have a question you’d like answered on the podcast? Visit the Take Care website and submit it for a future episode. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    7 min
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5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

Information

  • Creator
    Melody Mulaik
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Take Care
  • Show Website
    Take Care