Better Health Now

With summer here and families spending more time on the water, in boats, and riding ATVs, this episode is a reminder that simple safety measures can make a big difference. Wearing a properly fitted life jacket or helmet may seem small, but it can help prevent serious injuries and save lives. Thank you to our Child Safety Series sponsors: Cullman County District Attorney's Office Cullman Count...

As children get older and summer schedules fill up, it can be harder to keep up with annual checkups. In this episode of Better Health Now, pediatrician Dr. John Licata talks about why it’s never too late to get back on track with your child's healthcare and how regular visits can help address questions about their health, growth, and development along the way. Call 256-735-5430 to schedule a...

From young athletes to active adults, no two ACL injuries or recovery plans look the same. On this episode of Better Health Now, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Eric Goodrich discusses ACL injuries, the latest surgical techniques, and what recovery after surgery looks like for everyone from children, to desk-job workers and high-performance athletes. 

In this episode Brett Kelley, Director of Cullman Regional Emergency Medical Services, explains how pre-hospital blood transfusions are helping trauma patients survive by receiving life-saving blood products before they even reach the hospital. He highlights how in 2022, former EMS Director James Curtis launched the region’s first blood program, transforming EMS from a “treat and transport” model...

On this episode of Better Health Now, Executive Director Maria Stanford discusses the mission and impact of the Cullman Regional Foundation. She shares how community support and fundraising efforts help provide resources that benefit patients and healthcare services throughout Cullman County.   Maria also highlights one of the hospital’s most impactful traditions—the Cullman Regional Foundation Ga...

In this episode, Nichole Brooks, CRNP, breaks down common misconceptions about overactive bladder (OAB) and reminds listeners that bladder changes aren’t simply something to “live with” as you age. She discusses what causes OAB, how it can impact daily life, and the effective treatment options available to help you regain control and confidence.

Dr. Carlin Tighe, Assistant Medical Director of Cullman Regional ER, joins us to discuss two of the most critical emergencies treated in the ER—heart attacks and strokes. He breaks down the risk factors and warning signs to watch for, how these conditions are diagnosed through screenings and imaging, and what treatments patients can expect once they arrive. Dr. Tighe also emphasizes why every seco...

In this episode, we sit down with Eric Goodrich, DO, MS, Cullman Regional Medical Group's newest orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Goodrich shares his journey from playing college football to serving as a Navy flight surgeon, and how those experiences shaped the way he connects with and cares for patients today. While we touch on the surgeries he performs, this episode is more about getting to know the...

Dr. Ramitha Nyalakonda, ophthalmologist at Holcomb Laser Center in Cullman, talks with us about cataracts, how they impact your vision, and when it might be time to consider surgery. She also shares treatment options and what to expect from the process.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Cullman Regional Medical Group pediatrician John Licata, MD shares essential summer safety tips for families. From spotting dehydration and preventing sports injuries to practicing smart sun and water safety. Whether you're a parent or not, this episode offers practical, lifesaving advice to help you enjoy a safer summer.

In this episode, General Surgeon Dr. Bailey Meherg explains what gallbladder symptoms typically feel like, how imaging plays a key role in diagnosis, and what patients can expect if surgery is recommended. She also discusses how robotic surgery has improved outcomes and made recovery smoother for patients. Whether you're currently dealing with abdominal discomfort or simply want to better und...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Stephen Gould, board-certified orthopedic & sports medicine surgeon with Cullman Regional Medical Group. Dr. Gould shares insight into the specialized world of sports medicine, discussing what he treats and the injuries he sees most often on and off the field. He also shares how his advanced fellowship training in sports medicine and how it enhances the car...

In this episode, General Surgeon Dr. D’Lisa Bitterly explains some very common medical conditions that may require surgery. She shares what can cause them, the symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to seek help. Dr. Bitterly also walks us through the treatment options and surgical approaches she uses to help patients find relief and get back to feeling their best.

In this episode, Dr. Ryan McMorries, a south Morgan County resident and board-certified emergency medicine physician, shares what makes Hartselle ER a trusted choice for emergency care. He discusses the full range of critical conditions we treat, including chest pain, stroke, breathing problems, seizures, and more. 

Join Dr. Leor Arbel, Cullman Regional Medical Group's newest urologist, as she causes of blood in urine, also known as hematuria. Hematuria can indicate conditions like infection, stones, or even cancer. Dr. Arbel explains the importance of evaluation, what patients can expect during the diagnostic process, and how early detection can make a difference.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Adam Crisologo, anesthesiologist at Cullman Regional, walks us through what patients can expect when it comes to anesthesia before, during, and after a procedure or surgery. From the different types of anesthesia to what happens in the operating room, Dr. Crisologo breaks it down so patients know what to expect and feel more confident going into their proc...

Bringing home a newborn can be so exciting, but it also comes with lots of questions. In this episode, Cullman Regional Medical Group pediatrician Chris Dodd, MD, PhD shares helpful guidance for new parents navigating those first few months, from choosing a pediatrician to managing common sleep and feeding challenges. He also covers essential infant safety tips and discusses how Cullman Regional i...

In Episode 25 of Better Health Now, OB-GYN physician and gynecologic surgeon Dr. Lance Justice talks with us about the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. He explains how this advanced technology enhances the precision of gynecological surgeries, while giving patients the benefits of smaller incisions, less discomfort, and a quicker recovery. Dr. Justice also shares what it means to offer this advan...

Join us on Better Health Now as we welcome Katie Basch, ONP-C, one of only four Certified Orthopedic Nurse Practitioners in Alabama. Katie shares insights into her unique role in orthopedic care, explaining what she can do as an ONP-C and how her specialized training benefits her patients.

Sleep is essential to overall health, yet many people struggle with getting quality rest. In this episode, sleep medicine specialist Desiree Washburn joins us to discuss the benefits of a good night's sleep, the signs that you might need a sleep study, and how sleep disorders can impact your health. She breaks down common symptoms like snoring, fatigue, and difficulty staying asleep and expla...

In this episode of Better Health Now, we sit down with Dr. Blake Tennant, a psychiatrist with Cullman Regional Medical Group who is leading the hospital’s participation in Vital Alabama’s Zero Suicide Project. Dr. Tennant explains how the initiative is being implemented at Cullman Regional and the benefits for patients and the community. For more information about the Zero Suicide Project, please...

In this episode of Better Health Now, we sit down with Dr. Connor Ojard, an orthopedic surgeon at Cullman Regional Medical Group, to discuss all things shoulder health. Dr. Ojard breaks down common misconceptions about shoulder and joint health, explains how arthritis impacts the shoulder joint, and shares ways younger adults can protect their shoulders to delay or avoid surgery.

Join us as experts from Cullman Regional's Bariatric Center of Excellence walk us through every step of the weight loss surgery—from the initial consult to surgery day. Our team is here to support you with expert care and personalized guidance. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery or just curious about the process, this episode offers insights to help you take the next step.

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Chris Dodd, a pediatrician with Cullman Regional Medical Group, explains common seasonal respiratory illnesses in children. He discusses how to recognize symptoms, when to seek care, and tips for managing your child’s health during peak seasons. Tune in to stay informed and keep your family healthy!

In this episode of Better Health Now, Dr. Greg Thompson breaks down the difference between endoscopies and colonoscopies, why regular colonoscopy screenings are so important for early detection, and what to expect if you’re scheduled for one. Whether you’re preparing for a procedure or curious about how these screenings can save lives, Dr. Thompson provides clear, reassuring information to help yo...