Physician Says FDA Menthol Ban Will Have Major Public Health Impacts in Indiana

April 29, 2022

The FDA is slated to ban menthol in cigarettes. A new study projects over 1 million Americans will quit smoking as a result. A majority will be Black. In this week’s episode I speak Dr. Cynthia Meneghini, physician and smoking cessation specialist at Community Health Network. She tells me about the major public health impact the menthol ban could have considering smoking is a major risk factor for almost every chronic illness in Black Americans.

Indiana Broadcast Hall of Famer, Patty Spitler, Shares Her Battle with Breast Cancer

April 22, 2022

Patty Spitler is a TV icon and Indiana Broadcast Hall of Famer. She's known for her charisma, charm and brutal honesty. But there's also another side to Patty--one that she wants to welcome you into. In this week's episode, I speak with Patty about her battle with breast cancer. 

One of the Leading Causes of Fires in Indiana May Surprise You

April 15, 2022

Smoking is dangerous to begin with. But if you've ever considered lighting up while wearing a home oxygen tank, you might want to think again. When the two are in close proximity, the result can lead to a fire that is more intense and severe than others. In this week's episode of Medical Minutes, I speak with Dr. Graham Carlos, executive medical director at Eskenazi Health, who tells me about the dangers of smoking while wearing the medical device. 

WISH-TV medical contributor Dr. Jerome Adams with latest on COVID-19 pandemic

April 05, 2022

We have a very special edition of Medical Minutes this week with Dr. Jerome Adams, WISH-TV's medical contributor and a former U.S. surgeon general. In this episode, Adams and I talk about the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact it's had on mental health, and the need for improved equity when it comes to access to care.

COVID Makes Comeback in the Form of ‘Deltacron’ Causing Massive Surge in Global Cases

April 01, 2022

Omicron is out and 'deltacron' is in. Scientists describe this latest variant as a marriage between delta and omicron. In this week's episode, I speak with Dr. Christopher Doehring, vice president of medical affairs at Franciscan Health about what we know so far about the mutation, how fast it spreads and if we can expect another COVID surge. 

Doctor says it’s possible to reverse Type 2 Diabetes; Here’s how

March 18, 2022

Over 34 million people across the country have type 2 diabetes. This is equivalent to 1 in 10 and rates are set to rise. Indiana ranks as one of the top states with the highest percentages of diabetes cases. In this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. John Whyte, Chief Medical Officer at WebMD about how you can take control of your type 2 diabetes and why it's possible to actually reverse it. We also talk about how to avoid the diagnosis in the first place.

Doctors brace for COVID-19 induced multi system inflammatory syndromes after child hospitalization surge

March 11, 2022

With the surge in child hospitalizations, doctors are bracing for a wave of COVID induced multi system inflammatory syndrome–a post-coronavirus condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs and kidneys. In this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Colin Rogerson, Pediatrician at the Regenstrief Institute, about why this is happening, if parents should be concerned and what they need to know should they suspect their child is suffering from this multi-system inflammatory syndrome.

Doctor explains how pandemic transformed health care industry, says telemedicine is here to stay

March 04, 2022

COVID-19 sparked innovation in the health care industry when doctors were no longer able to see patients in person for fear of infection. So, practitioners and patients took to technology. In this week's episode, I speak with Dr. Dawn Haut, CEO of Eskenazi Health Center, who tells me while pandemic fears may be fading, telehealth is here to stay. 

Separated Couples Clash Over Getting Their Children Vaccinated

February 25, 2022

Deciding whether to get your child the coronavirus vaccine can be a difficult one, especially if separated parents disagree.One parent says yes to the shot. For the other parent is a hard no..So, what can couples who are no longer together do when facing this challenge? In this week's episode I speak with spoke with Dr. Heather Fretwell, psychiatrist at Eskenazi Health, who says it’s possible to find common ground, but it’ll take some work.

Mental Health Counselor Gives Tips to Fight Pandemic Fatigue

February 18, 2022

The nation is into year three of the pandemic. However, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the end is near. So, how do we stay strong until we reach the finish line? In this week’s episode, I speak with Kimble Richardson, licensed mental health counselor at Community Health Network, who provides tips on how to hold on until the pandemic is in the past.

Doctor warns of hypothermia during cold weather

February 11, 2022

The snowstorm may have passed…but not the frigid temperatures. That raises the concern about a serious medical condition: hypothermia.  In this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Tyler Stepsis, medical director of the Michael and Susan Smith emergency department at Eskenazi Health about the potential deadly condition if you don’t understand the warning signs of hypothermia.

Spawn of omicron detected in the United States; has 60% more mutations

February 04, 2022

Another COVID-19 mutation has been identified in 26 states across the U.S. Scientists call it the BA.2 variant also known as the “stealth omicron” because it is difficult to detect with the nation’s current testing capacity. Researchers have likened it to the fraternal twin of omicron, but with one significant difference. BA.2 has 60% more mutations than omicron, which had until now the highest number of mutations to date since the pandemic began. In this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Brian Dixon at the Regenstrief Institute about the possible threat BA.2 poses to the nation.

I’ve done everything I could to avoid COVID. So why did I still get infected?

January 28, 2022

You've gotten vaccinated, boosted, masked and socially distanced. Still, the coronavirus found you. So, why is it when people do everything they can to avoid the virus, they still get infected? In this episode of Medical Minutes, I speak with Dr. Christopher Doehring, vice president of medical affairs at Franciscan Health, who explains.

Was the Coronavirus Vaccine Testing and Development Connected to Aborted Fetal Tissues?

January 18, 2022

A pediatric physician at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital lost his job for refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19 citing a religious conflict. Dr. Paul Halczenko claims aborted fetal tissue was used in the testing and development. This process, he says, goes against his Christian faith. So, was vaccine testing and development connected to aborted fetal tissue? Find out in this episode of Medical Minutes. 

Medical Researcher Shares Top 3 Pandemic Surprises of 2021

January 07, 2022

Doctors and researchers have been working around the clock to uncover the mysteries that remain about COVID-19. And while this past year has been marked by death and sadness, it’s also been a year of incredible progress. One Indiana scientist shares the most shocking things he's learned about COVID-19 in 2021.

Pediatrician shares top 3 pandemic surprises of 2021

December 31, 2021

The coronavirus pandemic has turned the world upside. It’s been almost two years of loss and suffering. However, it’s also been a year of incredible strength and discovery. Parents and doctors were especially concerned about how kids would be affected by the virus. An Indiana pediatrician reveals the top three things that surprised him most about the pandemic with regards to the younger age groups. He also discusses the latest results from Pfizer’s vaccine clinical trials in toddlers ages 2 to 5 and when this group is slated to be eligible for vaccination. 

Moderna’s Chief Medical Officer Talks Omicron, One-Year Anniversary of Vaccine EUA and Holiday Safety Tips

December 24, 2021

Omicron has taken root in the U.S. Hospitalizations are on the rise across the country with nearly all beds taken up by the unvaccinated. In this episode, I speak with Dr. Paul Burton, chief medical officer at Moderna, about the future of the pandemic. We also discuss the one-year anniversary since government regulators gave emergency approval to the Moderna vaccine as well as tips to prevent COVID-19 infection this holiday season.

Scientists identify symptoms of long-haul COVID in kids

December 17, 2021

Scientists are beginning to uncover symptoms of long-haul COVID in kids. But what should parents and caretakers look for? In this episode, I speak with Dr. Chris Bethel, a pediatrician at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital, Bethel says while no patient is alike, there are common symptoms he sees in his practice. Bethel also says the anxiety and fear a child feels not knowing if they will ever be fully healthy again weighs heavily on them. We also discuss what you--as a parent or caretaker--can do about this.

Moderna developing shot targeting omicron, but is it necessary?

December 10, 2021

Moderna’s CEO came out with a bold statement predicting existing vaccines will struggle against the omicron mutation. These remarks come at a time when virtually no evidence exists that current shots will not protect against omicron. The company is currently developing a vaccine designed specifically to target the mutation. But is Moderna moving too quickly or is this a sound measure of precaution given the unknown potential impact of omicron?

Child health specialist gives tips to prepare kids for COVID-19 vaccine

December 03, 2021

While some kids may tolerate shots just fine, others will be anxious and fearful. So, what can parents do to ease the fear and anxiety? In this episode, I speak with Jenna Yarnell, certified child life specialist at IU Health. Yarnell provides four key tips to prepare your child for vaccination. She also explains why transparency is key. 

Indiana doctor talks importance of lung screenings

November 26, 2021

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The disease is responsible for the most cancer-related deaths in the U.S.--more than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined. In this episode I speak with an oncologist about the importance of lung screenings and why everyone should get a yearly exam Because whether you're a smoker, are chronically exposed to secondhand smoke or have never picked up a cigarette in your life this cancer spares no one. 

If I’ve had COVID-19 do I still need the vaccine? Two studies differ

November 19, 2021

A new study by scientists out of Israel found natural immunity from a previous infection is 13 times more effective than the coronavirus vaccine. At the same time, the CDC came out with a study saying the vaccine is 5 times more effective than natural immunity. So, which one is it?

New COVID-19 variant in U.S. contains traces of delta

November 05, 2021

A new, possibly more dangerous COVID-19 variant has made its way to the United States and scientists say it may soon take hold and add to a surge in coronavirus cases. 

Researcher explains rigorous FDA approval process

October 29, 2021

What does it take for a vaccine to get FDA approval? The undertaking--to put it mildly--is rigorous. In this episode of Medical Minutes, I speak with Dr. Aaron Lottes, a research professor at Purdue University, who explains the process. 

These 2 conditions may reduce the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines

October 22, 2021

The immunity as a result of vaccination may not be as strong for people suffering from anxiety and depression. This is according to a study out of The Ohio State University. I speak the lead study author about how vaccine effectiveness and the two conditions are linked. We also talk about what you can do to strengthen your immune response should you find yourself suffering from either (or both) conditions.

Child psychologist empowers kids to take a stand against mask bullying

October 15, 2021

Schools and parents are divided. While some kids may be required to wear masks in schools others may not have the option. This got one Indiana doctor concerned about mask bullying. Kids can be cruel and bullying has always been an issue. However, not if parents can empower their children to remember why they are wearing masks in the first place. 

Schools encourage kids to have Individualized Health Plans for coming year

July 29, 2021

There are so much unknowns going into the 2021-2022 school year, and we all want our kids to have the most enjoyable and safest year possible, especially considering the challenging and unpredictable events of 2020. In this episode, I speak with Brenda McCLean, the Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center's school counselor, about how to create what's called Individualized Health Plans for children so they can stay engaged, have fun and stay protected.

Doctor Says to Think Twice Before Getting Your Child Vaccinated

July 23, 2021

One of the most influential doctors, Dr. Marty Makary, researcher at Johns Hopkins, has a message for parents: Think twice before getting your child vaccinated for COVID-19. We go into detail and also talk about the origins of the virus.

Indiana facing blood shortage; here’s how you can help

July 08, 2021

Meet our new investigative reporter, Jasmine Minor

June 08, 2021

On this episode, we welcome a new face to WISH-TV, Jasmine Minor. She’ll be joining Richard Essex as part of News 8’s iTeam. We talk about her Indy roots, her career as a professional tennis player and her path to investigative reporting. 

Centers for Disease Control Exaggerating Outdoor COVID-19 Transmission

May 12, 2021

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control says the risk of an outdoor COVID-19 infection could be as high as 10%. But reports are circulating the actual number is much lower. In fact, it could be as little as 0.1%. In this episode of Medical Minutes, I speak with Dr. Cole Beeler, infectious disease expert at IU Health. Beeler says the federal agency's estimation is grossly misleading and he's just not buying it.

Thriving Post-Pandemic: Why One Psychiatrist Says You Will

May 10, 2021

We've heard of post-traumatic stress. But what about post-traumatic growth? It's a term used to describe feelings of joy, creativity and purpose people feel following a devastating event. On this episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis, D.Ed., speaks with Dr. Heather Fretwell, psychiatrist at Eskenazi Health, about why the psychological struggle resulting from the pandemic will help us become better people moving forward.

How to Keep Cool When You Feel You’re About to Snap

May 03, 2021

Health experts have referred to this time as a 'nation on edge.' Everything from the pandemic to politics, the economy to climate change--not to mention everyday life--people seem to be losing their cool over what could be considered minor things. On this episode, I speak Vanessa Enos, mental health counselor at Community Health Network, to get her tips on how to stay calm when we feel we're about to explode.

Talking to kids about tragedy

April 22, 2021

Active-shooter situations are difficult for everyone, particularly children. With 24/7 news coverage and social media, it's nearly impossible to protect them from hearing about tragedies such as the mass shooting at FedEx in Indianapolis on April 15. News 8 spoke with Jenny Volker, a licensed clinical social worker at Community Health Network, about how to talk to young ones about tragedy.

What does the future hold for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?

April 15, 2021

Both the CDC and the FDA have advised states to temporarily suspend administering the Johnson and Johnson vaccine because of a rare, but potentially deadly side effect. Indiana is one of them. But why such a rush to press pause? And what does this mean for vaccination roll outs moving forward? On this episode, we spoke with Dr. Christopher Doehring, vice president of medical affairs at Franciscan health, to explain.

Vaccines & Menstruation

April 13, 2021

Some women are reporting unusual side effect after getting their COVID-19 shot. These women are getting their period soon after vaccination. They are also experiencing much heavier menstruation. So, why is this happening? And what might the long-term effects be? In this episode, we asked  Dr. Camueal Wright, an O-B-G-Y-N at CareSource to answer these questions...and more. 

Infection after COVID-19 vaccination is possible; here’s why

April 08, 2021

Can you get infected with COVID-19 even after being vaccinated? The answer is yes. Health experts are referring to these patients as "breakthrough" cases. So, why is this happening? Dr. Paul Driscoll, medical director for Franciscan Physician Network, provides some answers.

Where exactly did COVID-19 come from?

April 06, 2021

Coronavirus origins have remained a mystery to scientists. According to the World Health Organization it came from animals. But others aren't as convinced insisting it was released from a lab in Wuhan to wreak havoc on the world... In this week's episode we spoke with Dr. Ana Bento, infectious disease specialist at IU School of Public Health.

Why returning to normal may be as stressful as the pandemic itself

April 01, 2021

While some of us might be thrilled to unmask and not have to socially distance, others are not so sure they want to take that next step forward...figuratively and literally. In this week's episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis, D.Ed., speaks with Dr. Jay Hamm, Ph.D., clinical psychologist at the Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center about what some are referring to as "post-pandemic anxiety."

Flu numbers are low, but doctors warn it will be back

March 30, 2021

Influenza cases are at an all-time low this season in Indiana. It's almost as if the virus has disappeared. Doctors say this was expected because of the mild season in the southern hemisphere. However, they also say we can't forget about it. In this week's episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis, D.Ed., speaks with Dr. Amy Beth Kressel, infectious disease specialist at Eskenazi Health, about why we can't discount the flu and what we need to know how to prepare for next year. 

March Madness, aka The Season of Vasectomies

March 25, 2021

The NCAA tournament is in full swing and it’s a great time of year to sit back, relax and watch the games. But March Madness also happens to coincide with a certain medical procedure. In this week’s episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis, D.Ed. speaks Dr. Ryan Berglund, a urologist at the Cleveland Clinic, who’s been studying the link between what some call the “swish and snip” for almost a decade. 

Preparing for Change in 2021

January 28, 2021

It's been a year of changes and if 2021 is going to be anything like 2020, we know there's much to come. In this episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis, D.Ed., discusses how to prepare for the unknown as well as the importance of acknowledging and labeling our emotions. This, she says, will help us better respond to what's to come.

Embracing Winter Exercise

January 21, 2021

Let's face it: winter is here and it's not going anywhere any time soon. When we're tempted to cuddle up with a good book and a cup of tea...we have to remember: health is a year-round commitment not just when the sun is shining. Dr. Mary Gillis, D Ed. talks about how to embrace exercise in the cold weather by making each workout feel like an adventure.

Happy New Year and You’re Fabulous

January 08, 2021

The new year brings a new start and with 2020 behind us, we're all revved up and ready to roll with resolutions. On this week's episode of Medical Minutes, Dr. Mary Gillis talks about why it's important to celebrate last year's wins while working towards new ones and how--with a simple shift in thinking--you can look at every day as if it were New Year's Day.

Medical Minutes Trailer

July 14, 2020

HI, I’M WISH-TV MEDICAL REPORTER, DR. MARY GILLIS. JOIN ME EVERY WEEK FOR THE PODCAST, MEDICAL MINUTES, HERE ON THE ALL INDIANA PODCAST NETWORK. WE’LL DISCUSS JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING INCLUDING THE LATEST MEDICAL NEWS, GENERAL HEALTH AND MEDICINE, BEST PRACTICES, TRENDING ISSUES, LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND MORE … PLUS, I’LL INTRODUCE YOU TO MEDICAL EXPERTS AND ADVISORS IN THE HOOSIER STATE TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS AND DISCUSS EVEN MORE! … I’M WISH-TV’S MEDICAL REPORTER, INVITING YOU TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AND JOIN ME EVERY WEEK FOR MEDICAL MINUTES HERE ON THE ALL INDIANA PODCAST NETWORK!