Doc Talk with Monument Health

Recorded with a live audience at Black Hills Stock Show. Pial Hope, D.O., Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery at Rapid City Hospital, discusses the evolving role of robotic-assisted surgery, specifically the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, and its impact on patient care. Dr. Hope highlights advancements in surgical technology and shares insights into how the next generation of medical professionals can be inspired by these innovations.

Joy Falkenberg, M.D., Family Medicine Physician at Monument Health Custer Clinic, joins host, Mark Houston, to dive into the challenges and rewards of rural health care in this first ever episode of Doc Talk Live!. Dr. Falkenberg reflects on her years of experience caring for patients in a rural setting, from mentoring young physicians to providing compassionate, personalized care to individuals in small communities. They discuss the unique obstacles rural doctors face, including recruitment, access to care and the importance of technology in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Falkenberg highlights the fulfillment and human connection that come from working in rural medicine and the critical role it plays in the future of health care.

In this conversation with Amy Iversen, CEO of West River Mental Health, Dr. Tamang delves into the mental health challenges facing Rapid City. He explores broader national trends shaping the field, from shifting diagnoses to the rise of AI-driven therapy. Together, they unpack the complexities of trauma-based treatment and the growing role of technology—discussing AI counseling, mental health apps, and what the future might hold. Along the way, he seeks insights on how Monument Health and the city of Rapid City can better support mental health initiatives and improve outcomes for those in need.

Bobbie Schneller, D.O., Program Director, and Jennifer Callahan, M.D., Primary Care at Rapid City Hospital Family Medicine Residency Clinic, not only care for patients but also train the next generation of doctors. Find out how the program prepares residents for everything from delivering babies to emergency medicine, all while building lasting relationships with patients. The duo discuss the unique challenges and rewards of practicing in a rural setting and how hands-on training is shaping the future of health care.

Jennifer Knowles, CNP, board-certified Nurse Practitioner at the Cancer Care Institute in Rapid City, discusses the growing field of cancer genetics with host, Mark Houston. Jennifer gives her insights on genetic cancer testing and how it helps with early detection and prevention of hereditary cancers. She also explains genetic counseling and why it is important to take a proactive role in understanding your cancer risks and the available prevention and treatment options. To learn more about Cancer Genetics and Testing, please visit: monument.health/cancergenetics

Mark Houston welcomes David Kovaleski, M.D., FASN, Critical Care Doctor at Rapid City Hospital, and a true Renaissance man. Dr. Kovaleski recounts his journey to becoming an ICU Physician, relates the challenges of Critical Care and touches on the delicate nature of end-of-life discussions. Beyond the ICU, Dr. Kovaleski, a passionate painter and photographer, credits creativity with helping him navigate the intense nature of Critical Care. He shares his Western-themed artwork and his upcoming portrait series, which features medical professionals.To learn more about Dr. Kovaleski’s artwork, visit www.kovaleskiphoto.com

Catherine Fernandez-Aristy, M.D., Sleep Medicine at Neurology and Rehabilitation in Rapid City, breaks down healthy sleep habits with host, Mark Houston. Dr. Fernandez-Aristy discusses how late-night screen time and irregular sleep schedules can disrupt our natural sleep rhythms. She also shares her insights on common sleep issues like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and the impact of daylight savings time.

Kyle Lemley, M.D., Amy Morrill, RN, and Amanda Horsley, RN, return to discuss the challenges and rewards of working in the Pediatric Critical Care Unit at Monument Health Rapid City Hospital. They discuss the differences between NICU and PICU and the complexities of treating chronically ill children. The trio share the path's that led them to the joining the PICU team. They emphasize the importance of clear communication with families, setting small goals to maintain hope and providing emotional support.

Non-Invasive Cardiologist Stephen Wasemiller, M.D., at the Heart and Vascular Institute in Rapid City defines the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and the roles they play in keeping your heart healthy. He also explores the connection between mental health, social isolation and the role of spiritual well-being and advocates for compassionate care and open communication to improve heart health and quality of life.