Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) affects many patients with pancreatic cancer, yet it is often overlooked in this patient populations, which leads to malnutrition. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Shelby Yaceczko, DCN, RDN, CNSC. Yacescko is a supporting author on a recently published White Paper on the topic, and she explains what EPI is, how to screen for and treat the condition, and the essential role of dietitians in an interdisciplinary care team managing these patients.
Hosted by Kristin Houts
Biography
Dr. Shelby Yaceczko, DCN, RDN-AP, CNSC is an expert registered dietitian nutritionist, a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and has research interests in dietitian provider autonomy in advanced-level practice, gastrointestinal cancer, and complex gastrointestinal surgery conditions. She has developed numerous hospital-based nutrition programs and protocols aimed to improve nutrition care in the ICU and ambulatory care settings. Her expertise focuses on managing disorders of the pancreas, stomach, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, esophagus, and small and large bowel. Yacescko holds leadership roles in national nutrition organizations involved in nutrition support and gastrointestinal diseases and is the founder of a digital health cancer wellness company.
In this episode, we discuss:
How overlapping GI symptoms, lack of standardized screening tools, and limited guidelines contribute to missed EPI diagnoses and delayed treatment
What inspired the development of the White Paper
How to bring EPI management into everyday practice
The ready-to-use checklists, screening forms, and EHR templates within the White Paper designed to standardize treatment
The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.
For Greg Baker, Chief Executive Officer of AffirmedRx, advocacy is a responsibility. Their Patient Care Advocate (PCA) model reflects that belief, offering a unique way to think about pharmacy benefits that centers on personal connection, proactive engagement, and meaningful support for members.
AffirmedRx is a Public Benefit Corporation and a Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) committed to transparency, fairness, and improving the member experience. The company partners with employers and organizations to manage prescription drug benefits with a focus on clarity, access, and accountability. “Our purpose has always been to build trust in an area that can often feel confusing for members,” Baker says. “We are here to simplify that experience and make sure every person gets the care they need.”
At the heart of this approach lies the PCA model, a relationship-driven framework where each advocate serves as a consistent point of contact for members. Whether coordinating prior authorizations, helping locate cost-effective options, or clarifying benefit details, the advocate remains committed until the issue is fully resolved. “We don’t measure success by call length or volume,” Baker notes. “We measure it by resolution and trust.”
Technology helps make that possible. The PCA platform integrates real-time claim visibility and data-driven alerts, allowing advocates to identify when a member may need help even before they reach out. “The technology provides insight,” Baker says, “but it’s the human connection that provides the solution.”
That connection often becomes life-changing. Earlier this year, during a conversation with a member, an AffirmedRx advocate unearthed that a member’s heart failure medication was a financial barrier. Recognizing that delays could affect the member’s health, she immediately began researching alternative access options. She found a patient assistance program through the manufacturer that could supply the medication at no cost and coordinated the necessary paperwork with both the prescribing physician and the patient. To ensure continuity of care, she also arranged for the physician to provide samples during the approval process. Within days, the member was enrolled in the program and received their medication free of charge through the end of the year.
“The member didn’t have to experience the stress of waiting or worrying about affordability,” says Megan Mullaney, VP, Client Management of AffirmedRx. “That’s the impact of an advocate, someone working quietly in the background to make sure care continues without disruption.”
AffirmedRx’s approach is structured around consistency and compassion. Each advocate is trained as a community health worker, equipped with both clinical and interpersonal skills to support members in ways that go beyond pharmacy coordination. Advocates help members access assistance programs, locate community health resources, and even understand the practical steps to maintain adherence. “A PCA’s role is part navigator, part listener, part problem-solver,” Baker says. “It’s about understanding the whole person, not just the prescription.”
The data underscores the value of that approach. According to Baker, AffirmedRx’s PCAs have completed more than 52,000 proactive outreach calls so far this year, reaching members before small barriers turn into larger challenges. Baker emphasizes that these interactions are intentional efforts to anticipate needs, clarify options, and build trust. “It’s about being present before someone asks for help,” Baker says.
That attentiveness can also benefit employers. By resolving pharmacy concerns directly with members, PCAs help reduce the administrative load often placed on human resources or benefits teams. “When we take on the role of advocate, it means fewer interruptions for our clients and more confidence that their employees are being supported,” Mullaney says. “It creates a sense of assurance that the system is working as it should.”
The ripple effects extend to overall well-being and continuity of care. Studies have shown that when medication costs exceed $125, a significant percentage of patients choose not to fill their prescriptions. AffirmedRx’s PCA model addresses this gap by identifying cost barriers early and finding alternative pathways or resources to keep members on their treatment plans. “Adherence is about removing the obstacles that keep people from getting the care they deserve,” says Baker.
As a Public Benefit Corporation, AffirmedRx integrates purpose into every level of its operations. The PCA program is an expression of that mission, a blend of technology, empathy, and accountability designed to serve both individuals and organizations. “We believe that care should always start with listening,” Mullaney says. “When we listen, we learn. And when we act on what we learn, we build a system that truly supports people.”
For Baker, that philosophy defines the future of pharmacy benefit management: one that moves forward through collaboration, transparency, and compassion. “Every time an advocate helps someone access the medication they need, it’s a reminder of why we are here,” Baker says. “It’s about care in the truest sense of the word.”
Caring for your health shouldn’t feel like a rigid series of appointments or medications; it should reflect you. A proper care plan changes with your life, taking into account your values, day-to-day challenges, and personal goals. When healthcare is tailored to who you are and what matters most, Mary Huntly says that it becomes easier to stay on track.
Vitalii Pavlyshynets | Unsplash
Why Care Should Reflect Your Personal Life and Values
When care is shaped around your daily routines, beliefs, and long-term goals, it becomes more manageable and meaningful. Healthcare is shifting toward approaches that recognize individuals as active participants, not just patients.
A person juggling work, parenting, and a health condition may need a plan that balances treatment with flexibility. Someone else might prioritize staying independent at home or maintaining energy for travel. These differences matter and should guide care decisions. It’s about honoring the life someone is already living, not asking them to fit into a one-size-fits-all model.
Knowing Your Health Goals
Health goals aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some people focus on managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, while others are more concerned with preventing illness or improving mental well-being. These goals often shift depending on age, cultural background, or life circumstances.
Someone in their 30s might aim to boost energy and stay active for work and family, while an older adult might focus on mobility or avoiding hospital visits. Preferences, beliefs, and personal priorities all influence what matters most, which is why open conversation with your healthcare provider is key.
Building a Personalized Plan That Works for You
Mary Huntly explains that creating a care plan starts with knowing where you are in your health journey and where you want to go. This means looking at current challenges, strengths, and what fits your lifestyle. Goals should be clear and practical, something you can measure and build on.
When patients and providers make decisions together, the result is a plan that feels more achievable. A person recovering from surgery might focus on regaining strength in stages, while someone managing anxiety may work toward small daily habits that reduce stress. The right plan respects your pace and your priorities. It turns healthcare into a partnership rather than a prescription.
Coordinating Support for Better Results
Health outcomes often improve when support systems work together. A care team that includes doctors, nurses, therapists, and even family members can reduce confusion and keep everyone on the same page. Digital tools like secure messaging or shared calendars help people stay connected and make updates in real time.
Someone managing multiple medications might benefit from a pharmacist checking for interactions, while a dietitian can tailor advice based on specific conditions. When different parts of your support system communicate, care feels smoother and more responsive.
How Personal Values Improve Health Outcomes
When care reflects what matters most to you, it’s easier to stay committed. A person who values independence might be more motivated to stick with physical therapy if it helps them remain in their own home. Another might focus on nutrition because cooking meals for loved ones brings joy.
Aligning care with values can also reduce unnecessary stress. When treatment plans make sense in the context of your life, they feel less like a burden and more like support. This leads to better follow-through, fewer complications, and a clearer sense of purpose in the healing process. It also builds trust between patient and provider, making long-term results more likely.
Questions to Ask When Creating or Updating a Care Plan
Good care planning starts with asking the right questions. You might want to know how a treatment will affect your daily routine, or whether there are other options that better match your needs. These conversations open the door to more personalized choices.
Mary Huntly understands that as life changes, so should your care plan. A job change, new diagnosis, or shift in personal goals might mean it’s time to revisit your strategy. Staying engaged and asking questions helps ensure your care continues to reflect who you are and where you want to go. Being proactive rather than reactive can make a big difference in the quality and consistency of care.
M&Y Care LLC understands that receiving care at home is becoming a preferred option for people seeking comfort, dignity, and personalized support in familiar surroundings. Whether someone is managing a chronic condition, recovering from surgery, or simply requiring assistance with daily routines, in-home services offer a practical alternative to institutional care.
These services are not limited to seniors; people of all ages with disabilities or health challenges can benefit from tailored support. Families also gain peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for in a setting that feels safe and familiar.
From therapy that enhances mobility to daily assistance that encourages self-reliance, home-based care offers a comprehensive approach to wellness. A coordinated blend of personal care and clinical services ensures that individuals not only get help with tasks but also make meaningful progress toward their health goals.
Dominik Lange | Unsplash
Independence in Daily Living
Independence means being able to manage daily tasks and make choices without constant assistance. For older adults and individuals with disabilities, this often includes dressing, preparing meals, or moving safely around their homes.
Health conditions such as arthritis, stroke, or memory loss can make these activities more difficult, leading to frustration or a loss of confidence. A person who once enjoyed cooking may begin to rely on frozen meals due to limited mobility. Over time, this shift can also affect emotional well-being and create a sense of isolation.
Maintaining autonomy supports emotional well-being and gives people a sense of control over their lives. Even small adjustments, like using adaptive tools or receiving help at key times, can make a meaningful difference in maintaining daily routines.
Services Provided Through In-Home Care
In-home care is designed to support individuals who need help with everyday tasks but wish to remain in familiar surroundings. Services often include assistance with grooming, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and transportation to appointments or social outings.
A caregiver might visit daily to help a person with mobility challenges get dressed and prepare a warm breakfast. Gradually, this consistent presence eases physical strain and provides dependable companionship. That social connection can be just as important as physical care in maintaining a person’s overall well-being. In some cases, the caregiver may become a reassuring presence who notices subtle changes in health early on.
Caregivers often become trusted figures, offering encouragement and helping clients feel more secure in their routines. Their role is to promote independence, not replace it by providing the right level of support while respecting personal choices and preferences.
How Home-Based Therapy Improves Function
M&Y Care LLC explains that therapy delivered at home focuses on helping individuals regain or maintain their ability to perform essential tasks. Physical therapy might address balance issues to reduce fall risk, while occupational therapy can help someone relearn how to use kitchen tools after a stroke. Speech therapy may assist with communication or swallowing difficulties, depending on the person’s condition.
Receiving therapy in a home setting allows for one-on-one attention in a familiar setting, which can increase comfort and reduce anxiety. A person recovering from hip surgery may feel more at ease practicing exercises in their own living room, leading to better participation and faster improvement. Familiar surroundings help individuals stay consistent with their routines.
Therapists also tailor their approach to each individual’s surroundings and lifestyle, making their interventions more practical and easier to apply. This personalized care helps individuals build confidence in their abilities and stay engaged in their recovery. It also allows therapists to identify environmental hazards or suggest modifications that can prevent setbacks.
Combining Care and Therapy for Better Outcomes
When caregivers and therapists work together, individuals often see faster progress and more reliable results. A therapist may design exercises to strengthen leg muscles, and a caregiver can then support those routines throughout the week, ensuring consistency and safety. This type of collaboration helps bridge the gap between medical goals and day-to-day support. The continuity of care promotes better adherence to therapy plans.
Open communication among everyone involved, including family members, means care is aligned and more responsive. Adjustments to routines or therapy plans can be made quickly if something isn’t working or if progress stalls. That shared understanding creates a smoother home environment and a more effective path toward greater independence.
Who Benefits from In-Home Support Services
Those recovering from illness, managing chronic health conditions, or simply facing the challenges of aging often benefit most from in-home care and therapy. Whether someone is healing after surgery or navigating early memory changes, the ability to receive help at home can reduce stress and support better outcomes. The sense of familiarity and control often leads to better emotional stability.
Younger individuals with disabilities also find value in these services, especially when care is flexible and tailored to their specific routines. Rather than uprooting daily life, in-home support adapts to it, helping people keep their sense of identity and continue doing the things they enjoy. This adaptability makes it easier for individuals to remain active in their communities and maintain social relationships.
Planning, Access, and Payment Options
Finding the right in-home support starts with an assessment of needs. Professionals may evaluate mobility, safety risks, and personal goals to create a plan that fits the individual rather than forcing one-size-fits-all solutions. Involving the person receiving care in the planning process also ensures their preferences are honored.
M&Y Care LLC suggests that many families explore a mix of funding options, such as private pay, long-term care insurance, or publicly funded programs. Medicare or Medicaid might cover certain services depending on eligibility and medical necessity. Understanding what’s available can ease the financial burden and open doors to the right level of care.
M&Y Care LLC understands that receiving care at home is becoming a preferred option for people seeking comfort, dignity, and personalized support in familiar surroundings. Whether someone is managing a chronic condition, recovering from surgery, or simply requiring assistance with daily routines, in-home services offer a practical alternative to institutional care.
These services are not limited to seniors; people of all ages with disabilities or health challenges can benefit from tailored support. Families also gain peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for in a setting that feels safe and familiar.
From therapy that enhances mobility to daily assistance that encourages self-reliance, home-based care offers a comprehensive approach to wellness. A coordinated blend of personal care and clinical services ensures that individuals not only get help with tasks but also make meaningful progress toward their health goals.
Dominik Lange | Unsplash
Independence in Daily Living
Independence means being able to manage daily tasks and make choices without constant assistance. For older adults and individuals with disabilities, this often includes dressing, preparing meals, or moving safely around their homes.
Health conditions such as arthritis, stroke, or memory loss can make these activities more difficult, leading to frustration or a loss of confidence. A person who once enjoyed cooking may begin to rely on frozen meals due to limited mobility. Over time, this shift can also affect emotional well-being and create a sense of isolation.
Maintaining autonomy supports emotional well-being and gives people a sense of control over their lives. Even small adjustments, like using adaptive tools or receiving help at key times, can make a meaningful difference in maintaining daily routines.
Services Provided Through In-Home Care
In-home care is designed to support individuals who need help with everyday tasks but wish to remain in familiar surroundings. Services often include assistance with grooming, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and transportation to appointments or social outings.
A caregiver might visit daily to help a person with mobility challenges get dressed and prepare a warm breakfast. Gradually, this consistent presence eases physical strain and provides dependable companionship. That social connection can be just as important as physical care in maintaining a person’s overall well-being. In some cases, the caregiver may become a reassuring presence who notices subtle changes in health early on.
Caregivers often become trusted figures, offering encouragement and helping clients feel more secure in their routines. Their role is to promote independence, not replace it by providing the right level of support while respecting personal choices and preferences.
How Home-Based Therapy Improves Function
M&Y Care LLC explains that therapy delivered at home focuses on helping individuals regain or maintain their ability to perform essential tasks. Physical therapy might address balance issues to reduce fall risk, while occupational therapy can help someone relearn how to use kitchen tools after a stroke. Speech therapy may assist with communication or swallowing difficulties, depending on the person’s condition.
Receiving therapy in a home setting allows for one-on-one attention in a familiar setting, which can increase comfort and reduce anxiety. A person recovering from hip surgery may feel more at ease practicing exercises in their own living room, leading to better participation and faster improvement. Familiar surroundings help individuals stay consistent with their routines.
Therapists also tailor their approach to each individual’s surroundings and lifestyle, making their interventions more practical and easier to apply. This personalized care helps individuals build confidence in their abilities and stay engaged in their recovery. It also allows therapists to identify environmental hazards or suggest modifications that can prevent setbacks.
Combining Care and Therapy for Better Outcomes
When caregivers and therapists work together, individuals often see faster progress and more reliable results. A therapist may design exercises to strengthen leg muscles, and a caregiver can then support those routines throughout the week, ensuring consistency and safety. This type of collaboration helps bridge the gap between medical goals and day-to-day support. The continuity of care promotes better adherence to therapy plans.
Open communication among everyone involved, including family members, means care is aligned and more responsive. Adjustments to routines or therapy plans can be made quickly if something isn’t working or if progress stalls. That shared understanding creates a smoother home environment and a more effective path toward greater independence.
Who Benefits from In-Home Support Services
Those recovering from illness, managing chronic health conditions, or simply facing the challenges of aging often benefit most from in-home care and therapy. Whether someone is healing after surgery or navigating early memory changes, the ability to receive help at home can reduce stress and support better outcomes. The sense of familiarity and control often leads to better emotional stability.
Younger individuals with disabilities also find value in these services, especially when care is flexible and tailored to their specific routines. Rather than uprooting daily life, in-home support adapts to it, helping people keep their sense of identity and continue doing the things they enjoy. This adaptability makes it easier for individuals to remain active in their communities and maintain social relationships.
Planning, Access, and Payment Options
Finding the right in-home support starts with an assessment of needs. Professionals may evaluate mobility, safety risks, and personal goals to create a plan that fits the individual rather than forcing one-size-fits-all solutions. Involving the person receiving care in the planning process also ensures their preferences are honored.
M&Y Care LLC suggests that many families explore a mix of funding options, such as private pay, long-term care insurance, or publicly funded programs. Medicare or Medicaid might cover certain services depending on eligibility and medical necessity. Understanding what’s available can ease the financial burden and open doors to the right level of care.
When Dr. Rahul Bansal left India to continue his research at one of the universities in Pittsburgh, he carried with him not only a passion for medicine but also a deep desire to make a positive impact in the world. That commitment has shaped his career as a respected child and adolescent psychiatrist and inspired him to create MindWeal, a company aiming to redefine how America responds to the growing mental health crisis.
Dr. Bansal’s path has been rooted in both scholarship and service. Over the years, he has treated patients from diverse backgrounds. He has also worked at some of the nation’s leading hospitals. His wide-ranging experience across inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient, and residential care settings gave him unique insight into the systemic gaps in mental health delivery.
“Everywhere I practiced, I saw the same problem: demand for child psychiatry was overwhelming, and supply was painfully limited,” Dr. Bansal explained. “We cannot bridge the gap unless we empower mid-level providers with the right training and tools.”
That conviction became the foundation of MindWeal. Founded in 2020, the organization was born from Dr. Bansal’s earlier outpatient practice, BanCAPs, and has since evolved into a comprehensive platform that blends technology, training, and clinical care. At its core is the 1300-touch-point diagnostic tool designed to help nurse practitioners achieve the same level of diagnostic accuracy as psychiatrists. The tool has been used in clinical settings and has shown promising results in improving diagnostic consistency.
But for Dr. Bansal, innovation is not just about numbers; it’s about people. “Families don’t come to me asking about the latest treatment trend,” he said. “They come asking what’s wrong with their child. Diagnosis is the first and most important step, and we built a tool to get it right.”
Beyond technology, Dr. Bansal has also prioritized education and training. Recognizing that nurse practitioners often receive limited exposure to child psychiatry during their schooling, MindWeal developed structured rotations and mentorship programs. Providers are supported in learning how to use the tool and in developing confidence around prescribing, managing medications, and engaging with families in meaningful ways.
“You cannot build a sustainable system without empowering providers,” Dr. Bansal emphasized. “Mid-level providers are the backbone of mental health care. By giving them the right resources, we give children and families better outcomes.”
Dr. Bansal’s influence extends beyond the clinic. He has authored multiple papers in psychiatry and is known for his research in autism and developmental disorders. His academic background continues to inform his vision for MindWeal, where evidence-based practice is a guiding principle.
Under his leadership, MindWeal has grown into four practices across Illinois and Missouri, with plans to expand nationally. The company offers in-person, hybrid, and virtual care, balancing local trust with scalability. Patients and families have responded positively to MindWeal’s approach.
Despite his success, Dr. Bansal remains grounded in his mission. “My inspiration is simple, I want to make a positive difference every day,” he reflected. “If we can bring clarity to families, empower providers, and create better outcomes for children, then we are doing something that truly matters.”
Colleagues and collaborators echo his impact. Dr. Bansal’s efforts have begun to draw interest from healthcare systems and insurers, who see the potential of the new tool and MindWeal’s ecosystem to transform psychiatric care delivery at scale.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bansal is focused not only on expanding MindWeal’s reach but also on shaping the national conversation about mental health. He is a vocal advocate for closing the gap between traditional psychiatric care and the innovative solutions emerging from technology and training. “The system is fragmented,” he said. “But we have the opportunity to rebuild it in a way that prioritizes accuracy, accessibility, and compassion.”
From his early days training in child psychiatry in Michigan to his current role as CEO and thought leader, Dr. Rahul Bansal’s journey has been defined by vision, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to children’s well-being. With MindWeal, he is demonstrating how individual determination can contribute to broader change, and that the future of mental health care can be both innovative and deeply human.
When Cynthia Piccini purchased a new building for both of her businesses, Breathe Easy Therapy Services and Breathe Easy Wellness, in January, it was not just a business decision; it was a declaration. A declaration that mental health deserves space. That healing is multifaceted with proactive care.
“We needed a space where therapy and wellness could truly work hand-in-hand,” says Piccini, a marriage and family therapist. “So I designed one.”
The newly opened building, which officially launched in June and houses both of her businesses, reflects this vision. Visitors step into a central waiting area, then enter a serene square layout that seamlessly connects wellness and therapy. There’s a yoga studio, meditation room, massage space, salt cave, and across the hall, a suite of therapy offices. “You don’t know why someone’s here,” Piccini notes. “It might be for breathwork. It might be for trauma therapy. But it’s all part of the same conversation.”
This integrative approach responds to a significant need. According to Mental Health America, over 28 million adults in the U.S. with a mental illness do not receive treatment. And many of those who do only seek care when in crisis. “We want to change that,” Piccini emphasizes. “Therapy doesn’t have to be about fixing a problem. It can be about learning more about yourself, gaining tools, building relationships, or simply feeling good.”
That’s why Breathe Easy Therapy Services offers far more than traditional therapy. Recent events include a “Relax, Reset, Recharge” day for educators, with group yoga, massage, skincare, and breathwork sessions. The main goal is to help teachers enter the school year grounded and emotionally equipped.
Other offerings include a hybrid chronic illness support group, children’s yoga, a 55+ yoga class, and an upcoming premarital workshop led by Piccini herself. “We are teaching people how to have healthy conflict in a relationship,” she said. “No one teaches you that.”
And it’s not just the offerings that make the business unique; it’s the philosophy. “We are not here to replace therapy,” Piccini says. “We are here to expand it.” Breathwork, yoga, mindfulness, and massage are not just add-ons. They are interventions, especially when therapy sessions happen just once a week. These wellness practices fill in the gaps, giving clients tools they can use daily.
Breathe Easy also reduces the mental barrier to care. “Many people are still hesitant to ‘go to therapy,’” she explains. “But they will go to a yoga class. They will get a massage. And through that, they start to feel better. They start to open up to the idea that healing can take many forms.”
The business has grown with intention. Every staff member, from the yoga instructors to the therapists, was handpicked for their dedication to healing. “I don’t hire for resumes alone,” Piccini says. “I hire for energy.”
Looking ahead, Cynthia sees this building as just the beginning. “I would love to open more,” she says. “Each one can serve as a sanctuary, where people don’t come to fix themselves, but to understand themselves.”
The expansion of Breathe Easy Therapy Services is more than a new address. It’s a new chapter in how we think about mental wellness. Therapy doesn’t start when something breaks. It starts the moment someone takes a breath and chooses to care.
In this special episode for National Diabetes Week, we’re joined by dietitian, diabetes educator and self-proclaimed tech nerd, Amy Rush. With over a decade of experience, Amy shares how dietitians can confidently navigate the ever-changing world of diabetes technology to deliver more personalised care.
Hosted by Brooke Delfino
Biography
Amy Rush is an experienced dietitian and diabetes educator with a passion for improving the lives of people living with type 1 diabetes. As Clinical Director of the Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre, she brings over a decade of expertise to her work, combining evidence-based care with a deeply personalised approach. A recognised leader in therapeutic carbohydrate reduction, Amy was a lead author of the 2024 international Therapeutic Carbohydrate Reduction (TCR) guidelines. She’s known for helping people fine-tune the food-insulin relationship using tech like CGMs and pumps, and continues to educate healthcare professionals on practical, person-centred strategies for optimising diabetes care.
In this episode, we discuss:
The evolution of diabetes tech (CGMs, insulin pumps and beyond)
Using CGM data to tailor nutrition advice
Supporting behaviour change and avoiding tech overwhelm
Access, equity and future trends in diabetes care
Additional resources
The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.
With the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards coming into effect on 1st November 2025, dietitians are more central than ever to aged care quality. In this episode, we’re joined by Louise Murray, APD and Principal Consultant at Nosh Dietitians Co. to unpack what’s changing and how dietitians can step confidently into their evolving roles. Louise explores how we can use our seat at the table to advocate, influence foodservice, and bridge the gap between clinical and catering. From screening to resident feedback loops and 24/7 snack access models, this episode is packed with practical takeaways.
Hosted by Rebecca Sparrowhawk
Biography
Louise Murray is an Accredited Practising Dietitian, specialising in aged care nutrition and food services. She started her career in the hospital setting, but through family connections she started assessing menus in residential aged care 6 months after graduating. This ignited her mission to remove party pies and sausage rolls from aged care menus, and to improve food quality for older people over the past 23 years. Louise’s consultancy Nosh Dietitians specialises in consulting to aged care organisations, seeing clients in the community and mentoring dietitians to become leaders in aged care nutrition.
In this episode, we discuss:
What FPIES is and how it differs from other food allergies
Recognise the dietitian’s role in diagnosis, nutrition support and care planning
Explore approaches to feeding challenges and supporting parent confidence
Gain practical guidance for safe and structured food reintroduction
Additional resources
Click here to learn more about Dairy Farmers High Protein milk
To connect with your colleagues, join our Australian Aged Care DietitiansLinkedIn Group
The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.
For many people, food allergies are a year-round problem. The fear of accidentally exposing themselves to foods they are allergic to, stomach pains, and even more severe reactions can make every meal feel like a gamble. Even small amounts of allergens in everyday meals can cause a lot of distress, turning something as simple as enjoying food into a stressful and cautious experience. Avoiding the food their entire life may be impossible, which causes significant distress for people with food allergies. Going to restaurants is like playing a game of Russian roulette, as very few kitchens are pure from cross-contamination.
The first treatment that has emerged to combat food allergies has been oral immunotherapy, or OIT. It is administered in the office by an allergist, who, after conducting testing, creates a cocktail of allergens and asks the patient to drink it. Most doctors mix their own cocktails from ingredients they buy in a store, which is not a precise process and frequently causes significant side effects and even anaphylaxis. While OIT is effective for those who persevere and complete the treatment, few do because of painful side effects.
Fortunately, a new treatment for food allergies, sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), has become a popular and practical solution for many. Through drops applied under the tongue, the treatment exposes the immune system to small, regulated amounts of common food allergens like peanuts, dairy, or shellfish. Unlike OIT, SLIT is created by specialized pharmacies like Allergychoices. They mix clinical-grade allergenic extracts to create a highly precise dosage of immunotherapy mix. The medication is taken under the tongue—where a smaller dose is effective—instead of being drunk like OIT. The immune system becomes desensitized over time, which reduces the extremity of allergic reactions. Allergy drops like these treat the root cause of food allergies, offering a long-term solution compared to short-term fixes like avoiding trigger foods and constantly carrying an EpiPen for emergencies.
SLIT allergy drops have been used widely for environmental allergies. Studies have shown that allergy drops work just as well as traditional allergy shots for treating conditions like pet allergies, dust allergies, and hay fever. With SLIT, patients can handle their treatment from their own homes without having to deal with needles or numerous clinic appointments, making it easier to stay consistent and add it to their busy schedules.
Recent studies have also shown that sublingual allergy drops are effective for food allergies. They rarely produce side effects—owing to much lower controlled dosage—which in turn results in a high completion rate. Patients who complete treatment can tolerate accidental exposure to a few peanuts or similar quantities of other foods in question, leading some to introduce the food into their diet or getting a peace of mind.
Fewer severe reactions and the ability to enjoy meals without fear are two key benefits of using SLIT drops for food allergies. Many patients report getting confidence in dining out, better energy levels, and improved peace of mind when managing their allergies. Allergy drops don’t just reduce symptoms—they address the root cause, giving patients the freedom to live their lives without constantly having to worry about accidental exposure. For many, it represents a transformation in how they approach food allergies—from a constant source of stress to a manageable part of their daily lives.
Making Allergy Care More Accessible
Curex has been leading in the effort to increase the number of people who can benefit from SLIT drops. Curex’s patient-focused approach and scientific innovation have made at-home allergy therapy easier than ever. A telemedicine consultation is the first step in the process, in which certified allergists evaluate the individual needs of each patient. Curex customizes each treatment plan to target specific allergy triggers—whether food-based, seasonal, or pet-related—and changes in the seasons using AI-driven data analysis, guaranteeing optimal effectiveness.
Curex sends tailored allergy drops directly to 50,000 patients’ homes when the treatment plan is finalized by its clinical team. Regular usage of allergy drops under the tongue is meant to raise tolerance to allergens like specific foods, dust, pollen, or pet dander. “We want to make allergy care less complicated and give patients a solution that works for them,” says Curex’s founder, Gene Kakaulin. Curex gives patients the ability to manage their allergies without the inconvenience and time commitment associated with traditional treatments thanks to this simpler process.
Curex patients often describe their experience as life-changing. Besides the ease of at-home care, many people report noticeable changes in as little as a few months, such as increased energy, fewer symptoms, and the ability to completely and continuously enjoy life’s moments, including dining and eating out without fear. Curex provides a customized, scientifically supported method of managing allergies for those who are prepared to go beyond band-aid solutions.
