Official Interview: Barbara G. Regis

[kandscreeley]

Today's Chat with Sarah features Barbara Regis, PA-C author of Surviving the Business of Healthcare.

To view the official review, click here.

To view the book on Amazon, click here.

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1. Tell us a bit about your educational background.

I graduated from PA school with a Master of Science through Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine: AT Still University in 1997. I also took my Premed prerequisite classes at ASU and Grand Canyon University and I have duo bachelor’s degrees in music performance (euphonium and music education) from Arizona State University. I am also a Certified Medical Professional Legal Consultant and founder of Best of Health Advocacy.

2. In your life, who has influenced you most?

My parent’s hands down have influenced me the most both personally and professionally. My dad is a 3rd generation family practice provider so he is not only a huge influence in my career, but also a mentor. Another person who has had a big influence in my life is Daniel Perantoni, my Professor of Tuba and Euphonium performance when I attended ASU.

3. Let's discuss your book, Surviving the Business of Healthcare. You're a healthcare provider and cancer survivor. How did you decide to write a book about your experiences?

Through the years of practicing medicine, I was a family practice owner and teacher. I met and came to know 1000s of people and we would share stories in my office and behind the treatment room door. There were many recurrent topics and questions that I discussed with many different patients. So, while traveling (mostly in an airplane) I started writing my thoughts, stories, experiences and interactions down. I had pages of notes and I realized there was a lot good information to share that may help empower patients, families and providers. For example, many patients were constantly excepting of whatever was being said to them by other heath providers. Many times, they were frustrated, scared and disappointed and afraid to question whatever they were told. I knew I needed to do more to help so I begin writing my book. These small chapters are stories, subjects to provoke conversations, solutions and antidotes. I added the part about my cancer journey later on because while I was writing my book, I was diagnosed with stage 3 nodular melanoma. Despite this setback, I finished my book and began my journey as a cancer patient.

4. What was your biggest challenge in fighting cancer?

My biggest challenge in fighting cancer was having to come to terms that I had this rare form of melanoma and that through retrospect, I needed to change the way I looked at life. I learned quickly nothing is guaranteed and to be grateful for each day. I can still enjoy life, family, friends and my work. I was given a huge gift of immunotherapy and that likely saved my life and gave me the best chance of survival.

5. Can you share just one piece of advice for anyone newly diagnosed with cancer?

My advice is never give up! Advocate for yourself and push for treatment and answers. Reach out to others for support. Be kind to yourself and it’s ok to show one’s vulnerabilities. If in doubt, get a second opinion. We live in a time where treatments are game changers. Try to look at one positive thing in your life each day.

6. What was the hardest part of the book for you to write?

Finding the time to just get the book done. I struggled with the title because this subject is not likely not going to be the most popular. I hope readers will see the value and appreciate the information and afterwards feel empowered to advocate for themselves.

7. Your father saw patients in his home. Do you have an interesting story from that time you can share?

I share a few stories in the book but here’s another. This is back in the day when there was no EMS. So, when there was an emergency, my Dad was usually called first and he was one of the first responders. Obviously, there were no cell phones back then. My Dad was driving back from a house call and he saw his good friend, our insurance agent and my “uncle” John, off the side of the road. He was in a panic as apparently a child fell into a deep ditch where they were pouring a foundation with concrete. He and his friend frantically tried to dig the child out and render aid. They loaded him into Dads car and drove him to the hospital. Unfortunately, the child did not make it. Not all endings were happy, and my parents had so many more roles than just the physician.

8. What do you feel is the biggest issue in healthcare today?

Every American needs some form health care guaranteed in the form of minimal catastrophic health insurance. The usual and customary rates that the uninsured are billed are so inflated compared to the “insurance discount.” Just one health issue has severe consequences where families can be potentially wiped out financially and their futures now uncertain.

9. What's next for you? Any other books on the horizon?

My goal is to continue to speak to others and engage at all levels to provide encouragement and hope. I am also working on a legacy project that will hopefully provide resources and guidance to those that are not sure where to turn. Possibly, another book that will dive deeper into certain healthcare topics that I am getting feedback on; always with the desire to hear more from my readers and followers.

I like to end on a few fun questions, if you don't mind.

10. In a fair or theme park, rides, games, or shows?

I’m a huge fan of Hershey Park as worked there for 2 summers. I love the sound of old wooden rollercoasters and love old Disney - Space Mountain and my favorite character is Donald Duck. I have been known to speak like him. Also, enjoy Motown in Detroit. LOVE rhythm and blues.

11. Cat or dog person?

Dog. We had three amazing Old English sheep dogs and now a rescue. She is our 13lb poodle-mix, Jewlz.

12. What's your favorite food?

My husband’s pizza and a great steak.

[Jeff Ekpo]

This is a very impresive profile. Thanks for the book

[Blessed Hope]

I like your ideas on how every American needs some form of care guaranteed in the form of minimal form of catastrophic health insurance. Many people are suffering not only in America but even here in Kenya. They go to fundraising, sell personal and household effects and even go to the extent of paying the so called national health insurance fund now social healthcare insurance fund but to no avail.

Sorry to hear that you have cancer and i wish you a quick and very quick recovery.
And may our good Lord continuously watch over you day by day
Keep the faith and continue the fight
You shall surely win and happy again.
God bless You!

[Carole Kendall]

Thank you for tackling such a complex topic in your book. I often feel that many people need a healthcare advocate or some other person to help guide them through challenging medical terrain. I think this is especially true when the diagnosis is cancer or another emotionally laden medical issue. I’m sure that your book could be helpful to many.

[Patience Reign]

I agree with you 100% that nothing is guaranteed. Sometimes it feels, like we are let down but we should never lose hope even hope is seems unseeable and unachievable.