Dr. Laura Porterfield and Christen Walcher, MPAff, stand side by side in a primary care clinic at UTMB Health. The pair collaborated on research published in Annals of Family Medicine examining the paradoxes of integrating social care into primary care.

UTMB Health physician explores the complex realities behind social care in primary care

A UTMB family medicine physician is helping reshape how healthcare addresses social needs. New research explores surprising paradoxes in social care — and why embracing complexity could lead to better outcomes for patients and providers.
Illustration shows people at different stages of life, with symbols representing physical activity, nutrition, preventive screening, and healthy aging. The figures appear in four connected panels with health-related icons and a tree in the background.

Health care for the ages: preventive screenings you shouldn’t skip

Staying proactive with both physical and mental health checkups is a simple step that can have a life-saving impact.
A female health care provider in a white coat sits across from an older man at a table during an office visit. The man rests a hand on their chest while the provider takes notes on a clipboard.

Talking to your primary care provider about mental health

You don’t need the perfect word — or a crisis — to start the conversation about stress, anxiety, or depression with your primary care provider.
Person seated at a desk using a keyboard and looking at a computer monitor displaying the Google homepage. Office items, including a telephone, calendar, and potted plant, are visible on the desk and windowsill.

Is it bad to eat cheese at night?

Family Nurse Practitioner Alma Chavez answers this and nine of the other most-Googled health-related questions in Texas.
Four adults stretching in a park, each performing a forward lunge on a paved path with trees and fall foliage in the background.

The most dangerous words in men’s health: ‘I’m fine’

From ED to depression to sleep apnea, the symptoms men avoid talking about with their primary care providers may be the ones that matter most.
Two clinicians seated side by side at microphones against a studio backdrop, one wearing a white lab coat and the other wearing maroon scrubs. Both face forward participating in a podcast.

Why primary care is the key to weight loss success: A conversation with Drs. Sarah Samreen, Andrea Stark, and Angela Raimer

Weight loss success isn’t built in a clinic, or an operating room, alone. Drs. Samreen, Stark, and primary care leader Angela Raimer explain why a strong primary care relationship is the foundation of safe, sustainable weight loss—before, during, and long after treatment.
Female doctor with brown hair and tablet smiling while talking to an older female patient.

Don’t wait until something feels wrong—why you need to schedule annual wellness visits

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Learn how annual wellness visits at UTMB Health support preventive care, early detection and personalized long-term health planning.
A person seated with a blood pressure cuff on the upper arm while a gloved clinician holds a digital blood pressure monitor; the person’s face is intentionally blurred.

Primary care providers help patients prevent and detect heart issues

Your heart health starts sooner than you think. Discover how a primary care provider can help prevent heart disease, spot warning signs early, and connect you to the right care—before small issues become serious ones.
Clinician in a white lab coat reviews a clipboard with an adult patient seated on an exam table in a bright medical exam room

Your annual wellness visit costs $0. Skipping it could cost you much more.

You feel fine — but are you missing something? Discover why a no-cost annual wellness visit at UTMB Health could be one of the smartest investments you make in your future health.
Health care provider in a white lab coat uses a tablet to review information with a seated patient in a medical exam room, emphasizing coordinated primary care and shared decision‑making

Primary care providers lead patients with multiple or chronic health conditions through care

When health conditions stack up, navigating care can feel overwhelming. Learn how primary care providers serve as trusted guides—coordinating treatments, simplifying decisions and keeping patients at the center of complex care.
Person wearing a patterned jacket stands with arms crossed in a bright hallway with glass walls.

Your gut may be trying to tell you something—UTMB Health explains when to listen

Digestive issues are common but often ignored. Learn which symptoms matter and how UTMB Health primary care providers offer early diagnosis and comprehensive care close to home.
White analog alarm clock rests on a light blue surface beside yellow tulips, symbolizing the start of daylight saving time and changes to sleep routines in spring

Spring forward, fall out of sync

One lost hour can throw your whole rhythm off. Learn why daylight saving time feels so rough—and how to reset faster.
Electrophysiologist in cath lab.

Don’t miss these subtle heart rhythm symptoms, according to UTMB Health experts

UTMB Health specialists reveal how faint, easily overlooked heartbeat changes could point to hidden rhythm issues—and why early attention matters.
Doctor talking with patient about new year health goals.

Overwhelmed by New Year health resolutions? Here’s how UTMB Health’s primary care can help

UTMB primary care turns New Year motivation into realistic plans, steady progress, and long-term wellness.
Nurse coaching patient on an exercise bike

Ready for a Health Reset? UTMB Experts Share How to Start 2026 Strong
An adult and a toddler sit together on the floor of a living room, looking at an open picture book, with a couch and houseplant visible in the background

Houston Moms + UTMB Geneticist Dr. Erin Cooney talk about new treatments that are changing the future of patients with genetic conditions

Parents shouldn’t have to navigate genetic conditions alone. In this month’s Houston Moms + UTMB Health video, Dr. Erin Cooney explains how her team walks alongside families — helping them find clarity, treatment options, and support for the future.
Two circular portrait photos displayed side by side on a teal background — one showing a person wearing a white coat and glasses, and the other showing a person resting their chin on their hand

Houston Moms talks with Pediatric Urologist Dr. Jonathan Gerber

UTMB Pediatric Urologist Dr. Jonathan Gerber spoke with Houston Moms host Meagan Clanahan, covering topics like circumcision, bedwetting, and other common urological issues in children. Get expert insights and practical advice every parent should hear.
Three circular headshots displayed on a teal background show two UTMB child psychologists and a Houston Moms host as part of a discussion on helping children cope with traumatic events and disasters

Healing After Mass Traumas and Disasters: A conversation with Houston Moms

UTMB child psychologists Dr. Claire Kirk and Dr. Cody Dodd spoke with Houston Moms Meagan Callahan about how to help children navigate traumatic events and disasters. They shared expert advice on fostering resilience, having age-appropriate conversations, and recognizing when it's time to seek professional support.
Two circular headshot photos displayed side by side on a teal background, showing UTMB Health licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Kim Gushanas and a Houston Moms host as part of a mental health discussion graphic

Mental Health Awareness Month- a conversation about death and grief with Houston Moms

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, UTMB Health's Dr. Kim Gushanas sat down with Houston Moms for a heartfelt discussion about grief, mourning and how to speak about death of loved ones to your children.

Autism Awareness - a conversation with Houston Moms

UTMB's Dr. Melissa DeFilippis joined Houston Moms for an conversation about what it means to have autism, recognizing signs that your child may have autism, available treatments, and how you can find support as a parent of a child with autism.
Person wearing glasses and a long-sleeve shirt holding a tissue over their nose outdoors, with green foliage in the background, suggesting sneezing or nasal irritation during allergy season

Houston is an ‘allergy capital,’ UTMB allergist offers survival tips

The blooming season in Houston is long, so those with multiple allergies can suffer all year with drainage, congestion, sinus infections, and sore throats. UTMB allergist Dr. Jennifer McCracken offers tips and guidance on how to cope.
Empty outpatient infusion room with several gray reclining chairs, IV poles, medical equipment and privacy curtains, set on a wood‑tone floor in a clean, clinical environment

Infusion centers deliver convenience, care to patients across specialties

Infusion therapy, the administration of medication through a needle or catheter, offers vital treatment for patients with a wide variety of medical conditions, including chronic and rare disorders.
Several people seated around a table play harmonicas during a support group meeting, with papers, water bottles and cups on the table. Two participants wear Santa and Mrs. Claus holiday attire

COPD patients find healing, community through harmonicas

UTMB patients with COPD are eligible to participate in the free support group that meets monthly in Galveston.
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Local mom shares bariatric weight loss journey

UTMB Health Bariatrics patient Felicity Cunningham joined Houston Moms to share her journey of losing half her body weight after having bariatrics surgery at UTMB Health.
Upward view of tall trees in a forest, with sunlight filtering through green leaves and slender trunks, creating a calm, natural outdoor setting

Mental health benefits from nature

UTMB Licensed Clinical Psychologist Dr. Kimberly Gushanas shares insights on how time outside can impact one's existential, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. The researcher also shares tips for those looking to increase their exposure to nature.
An adult and a child sit at a table with a laptop and papers, reviewing school materials together in a home setting with a brick wall in the background

Make an action plan for back to school

Think ahead and use our back-to-school action plan to help you and your crew stay healthy and happy this school year.
A person stands behind a table displaying planners, small gifts, brochures, and baskets at an indoor event. The table is arranged with colorful materials and supplies against a plain wall and chairs in the background.

Community Engagement team shows up for area school districts

From new teacher welcome luncheons and vendor fairs to pop-up events, the UTMB Community Engagement team is coming to these events bearing goods and resources to help educators, students and families prepare for the academic year ahead.
close shot at sand level of red first aid bag with white cross on it. waves are crashing in the background

Learn how to treat seven summer medical situations and other common misconceptions

Dr. Urvashi Barua-Nath, medical director with the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Department at the UTMB Health Clear Lake Campus, busts myths and shares advice for how to handle summer-related medical incidents.
A clinician appears on screen during a television interview, speaking from an indoor setting with large windows in the background. A lower‑third graphic reads “For Your Health: Taking Care of Your Pelvic Floor.”

Taking care of your pelvic floor

During an interview with Houston Life, two UTMB Health clinicians shared tips and insight on how to have a healthy pelvic floor.
A newborn lies on the chest of a parent on a hospital bed, while gloved medical staff support the baby during moments immediately following childbirth

Nurses take action by advocating for maternal mental health awareness

Clinicians at UTMB Health are working to shine light on perinatal mood and anxiety disorder, to help moms understand the feelings they may encounter throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Two adults sit side by side on stools against a pink gradient background, facing forward. One wears a light green polo shirt, and the other wears a dark blue floral dress, suggesting an interview or filmed conversation setting.

Aneurysm survivor, family share kudos about UTMB Health neurologist

When Billy Plite had an aneurysm in 2019, UTMB Neurologist Dr. Hashem Shaltoni jumped in to action to save his life & helped ensure he made a full recovery. Today, Billy is happy & healthy & recently had the chance to honor Dr. Shaltoni for all he's done.
Medical monitor displays multiple brain scan images alongside bright surgical lights inside an operating room, illustrating neurological imaging and care in a clinical setting

There’s nothing benign about a brain injury

UTMB Health neurologist Dr. Brent Masel shares important information about both mild and severe brain injuries, including what to do if you or a loved one experience one and signs and symptoms there may be something more serious developing.
Dr. Victor Sierpina stands at a clinic reception desk at UTMB wearing a white lab coat, with a patient care area visible in the background

Retiring doc advises developing long-term doctor/patient relationships

Doctor with decades of experience shares advice for developing and building long-term provider/patient relationships.
Health care provider uses a stethoscope to listen to a seated patient’s chest during a hospital visit, with medical equipment and monitors visible in the background, illustrating cardiovascular care during pregnancy or postpartum care

How UTMB Health is combating the rising cardiovascular maternal mortality rate

As the rate of heart-disease related deaths continues to rise for pregnant and postpartum mothers and women during childbirth, cardiologist Dr. Danielle El Haddad is laying the foundation for a cardio-obstetrics program to care for at-risk patients.
Melanie Camp, wearing black sitting in chair on the left, talking with Dr. Carlos Dostal, wearing a blue tie and gray blazer, seated in a chair on the right

Follow these tips for a healthy 2024

During an interview with Houston Life, Dr. Carlos Dostal shares tips for how to have a healthy 2024.
RSV vaccine vial labeled “RSV Vaccine” next to a syringe, protective gloves, and a small medicine vial on a clean white surface, representing immunization and respiratory virus protection

A breakdown of the newly approved RSV immunizations

Throughout 2023, three injections offering protection against RSV were approved. Learn more about each type and what, if any, might be right for you and your loved ones.
Person wearing a blue sleeveless shirt gives a thumbs‑up, showing a small adhesive bandage on their upper arm after receiving a flu vaccination

The cumulative effect of annual flu shots

Did you know annual flu shots can have a cumulative effect that can protect you beyond the current flu season? Pediatrician Dr. Manuela Murray shares her first-hand experience with the proven theory.
An athlete wearing a medical walking boot and using crutches stands on a sports field with the UTMB Health logo, symbolizing sports injury care and recovery support

Student athletes and sports injuries

From concussions to injuries that may require surgery, Dr. Stacy Leung covers what to do if your student athlete is injured playing or practicing their favorite sport.
Person wearing a white lab coat, glasses and a striped tie standing in a clinical setting, with medical imaging displayed on monitors in the background

Prostate cancer treatment options

Surgeons Dr. Stephen Williams and Dr. Laith Alzweri share insights and information on prostate cancer and its potential treatment options.
image of blood cells with text "Sepsis Know the Facts" in the middle

Sepsis - A silent killer and leading cause of death

To prevent sepsis, which claims approximately 11 million lives each year, early awareness is key.
image of adolescent brunette girl with glasses and a red and white striped shirt coughing while sitting at a table covered in books and notebooks.

Respiratory viruses and back-to-school

Communities in the area are seeing an uptick in individuals with COVID-19, and with that experts are reminding it's not too soon to think about other respiratory illnesses like the flu and RSV.
boy with glasses lying in bed holding a tablet in front of his face

Screen time guidelines for kids

According to the American Academy of Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry, children should have no more than two to three hours of screen time a day. It's important to monitor not just how long children are on devices, but also what content they're consuming during that time.
image of someone walking spraying bug spray on their ankles. they have gray denim pants on with ankle high hiking boots.

Outdoor bug safety

From wearing bug spray with DEET in it to avoiding overgrown and heavily wooded areas, family nurse practitioner Taylor Little offers families a variety of tips to keep the bugs away while outdoors.
Young child seated at a table looks at a piece of broccoli being offered by an adult hand, with a plate of food in front of the child in an indoor dining setting

Healthy eating for children

A well-balanced diet is essential for healthy growth and development, so be sure your child is getting a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
image of mom and two daughters selecting clothes for the day. all three have strawberry blonde hair. The girls are sitting on a bench by their clothes while the mom holds up a jacked on a hanger to the right.

Morning routines and back to school

A good morning routine starts at night. Learn what steps you can take to help make getting out the door easier for everyone in the family.
Illustration of an adult sitting in bed reading a book with a child during a bedtime routine in a softly lit bedroom

Bedtime tips from a pediatrician

Dr. Linda Neely-Shelmire knows sleep is a pillar of a child's good health, so she's passionate about helping parents establish solid bedtime routines.
School‑aged child wearing a backpack walks toward a school building, with a small adhesive bandage visible on the upper arm, suggesting a recent vaccination before returning to class

Back-to-school immunizations

Pediatrician Dr. Lee Elam offers a high-level breakdown of some of the typical vaccinations needed throughout childhood.
Two children play basketball on an outdoor court under bright sunlight, with a hoop and school building in the background, illustrating physical activity during warm weather

Avoiding sports-related heat injuries

Signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses include nausea, fatigue, headaches and muscle cramps. Staying hydrated, taking breaks and seeking shade are just some ways to beat the heat and stay healthy.
Three people run along a sandy beach flying a colorful kite, with the ocean and calm sky in the background on a sunny day

Tips to ensure a trip to the beach is safe

Dr. Monica Thint has five tips to keep you and your family safe when heading to the beach.
Bottle of sunscreen on a bright yellow background beside white sunscreen arranged in the shape of a sun

Staying safe in the sun

When shopping for sunscreen, Dr. Raimer-Goodman urges individuals to consider broad-spectrum options that are free of oxybenzone.
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