On this episode of CommonHealth, host Tracy Douglas talks about coal worker's pneumoconiosis, or “black lung disease,” with three folks impacted by black lung in different ways: Dr. Drew Harris, medical director of the Black Lung Program at Stone Mountain Health Services, and Mr. John and Mrs. Vonda Robinson, a husband and wife duo who have advocated for miners affected by black lung since Mr. John’s diagnosis at 47 years old after working almost three decades in the mines of southwestern Virginia.

Together, Tracy, Dr. Drew, and the Robinsons give intimate insight into black lung disease: Its misconception as one disease, what it’s like living with black lung, and how difficult it is for miners and their families who are impacted by black lung to get a disability stipend and insurance coverage for their care. You won’t want to miss this incredible and important conversation.

With special guests:

Dr. Drew Harris, Medical Director, Black Lung Program at Stone Mountain Health Services, Vonda Robinson, Vice President, National Black Lung Association, and John Robinson, Retired Coal Miner and Coal Miner Advocate

In this episode of CommonHealth, guest host Rae Carkhuff talks with three wonderful guests about the Check It Out program at Petersburg Public Libraries. Join Rae along with Robin Gahan from the American Heart Association, Tabitha Goode of Molina Healthcare of Virginia, and Tera James of Central Virginia Health Services, Inc., as they discuss heart health statistics in Petersburg, VA, dive into the ins and outs of the program, and share their firsthand experiences with the community members who utilize the program. You won't want to miss this one!

With special guests:

Robin Gahan, Vice President of Community Impact for Central Virginia, American Heart Association; Tabitha Goode, Manager of Growth and Community Engagement, Molina Healthcare of Virginia; and Tera James, Community Health Worker, Central Virginia Health Services, Inc.

Join host Tracy Douglas as she talks with Travis LeFever and Brad Watson of Mission Mobile Medical. This organization creates mobile healthcare units at a fraction of the typical cost. Listen as Travis and Brad discuss their “why” and their passion for providing healthcare to all communities, especially the ones who might not have access to the care they need. Learn with Tracy about the nurse in North Carolina who inspired the inception of Mission Mobile Medical, and the leap of faith that Travis took to begin this important work. Most importantly, hear the gratitude from patients and providers and the impact mobile units have on the communities they serve.

With special guests:

Travis LeFever, CEO, Mission Mobile Medical and Brad Watson, CRO, Mission Mobile Medical

On this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy along with her guests, Dr. Theresa Burriss (Emory & Henry College), Jane Sage, FNP, and Dr. Paige Billman (Tri-Area Community Health), shed light on the diverse and dynamic nature of Appalachia. Together, they dispute the monolithic stereotype of Appalachian culture and delve into the intricacies of Appalachian life and the triumphs and challenges of rural healthcare in such a tight-knit and targeted area. As natives of Appalachian cultures, these guest experts teach how to build trust with patients and deeply listen to them to best collaborate on their care. You won't want to miss this crucial conversation!

With special guests:

Dr. Theresa Burriss, Jane Sage, FNP, and Dr. Paige Billman

On this enlightening episode of CommonHealth, host Tracy Douglas chats with VCHA's Nutritionist and Registered Dietician, Adrienne Harden. Adrienne shares her knowledge and hacks on how to have a balanced, nutritious diet, and myth-busts what we think we know about eating well. She also teaches listeners how to stop feeling guilt or shame after eating. Tune in to discover more about maintaining a healthy relationship with food with Adrienne!

With special guest:

Adrienne Harden, RDN, Virginia Community Healthcare Association

In this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy talks with Melina Davis, CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia (MSV), about the SafeHaven Program, which supports the needs of clinicians struggling with stress, burnout, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen as Melina discusses why this program is necessary, and the wonders it's working for medical practitioners around the commonwealth.

With special guest:

Melina Davis, CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia

In this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy talks with Dr. Mark Fleming, a board-certified medical oncologist, about the importance of getting screened and tested for prostate cancer. Dr. Fleming offers insight into his personal connection to the disease, emphasizing his mission to provide state-of-the-art care for the vulnerable communities served by community health centers. This enlightening dialogue particularly underscores the higher risks faced by Black men and what is important to know for individuals who are transitioning - but may have a prostate. You'll want to check this one out!

With special guest:

Dr. Mark Fleming

In our latest episode, Tracy Douglas, VCHA's CEO, welcomes WAVY-TV (Channel 10) morning and midday news anchor, Katie Collett, who shares her journey from being a small-town girl with dreams of journalism to a prominent news reporter - an inspiring story about overcoming obstacles, connecting with and reporting on a diverse, rural community, and the power of resilience in the broadcasting industry.

With special guest:

Katie Collett