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Jun 12
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Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp: A Gateway to Future Health Professionals

By Blogs, Community Outreach No Comments

Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp: A Gateway to Future Health Professionals

Recently,  I had the distinct honor of participating in the Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp sponsored by the Webb Family Foundation, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Antonio Webb. This incredible event brought together middle and high school students to immerse them in the diverse and dynamic world of healthcare. The camp, held at the picturesque Estancia Del Norte Hotel in San Antonio, Texas, offered the perfect setting for an intellectually stimulating and inspiring experience.

As a cardiologist with a focus on sports cardiology, I was thrilled to join a distinguished roster of healthcare professionals, including spine surgeons, pharmacists, physical therapists, psychiatrists, and many others. Our collective goal was to provide students with an unparalleled exposure to various medical fields, sparking their interest and igniting their passion for a future in healthcare.

My role was particularly unique, as I had the opportunity to delve into the fascinating field of cardiology. I provided an overview of what cardiologists do, with a special emphasis on sports cardiology—my area of expertise. To make the experience more interactive and engaging, I conducted a live demonstration of echocardiography, commonly known as a heart ultrasound. This hands-on session allowed students to observe cardiac anatomy in real-time, offering them a glimpse into the intricate workings of the human heart.

One of the highlights of my participation was introducing the students to one of my signature programs, Everyone Can Assist (E.C.A.). This initiative is designed to teach individuals the fundamentals of emergency response in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. E.C.A. simplifies the critical components of emergency response into three key steps:

1. Emergency Response Activation (E): Recognizing the signs of sudden cardiac arrest and activating the emergency response system immediately.
2. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (C): Performing effective chest compressions to maintain circulation and oxygenation until professional help arrives.
3. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) (A): Using an AED to deliver a potentially life-saving shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

By introducing E.C.A. to these young minds, we provided them with essential life-saving skills and reinforced the idea that anyone, regardless of age, can make a significant impact in an emergency situation.

The camp was more than just an educational event; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The students’ enthusiasm, curiosity, and eagerness to learn were truly inspiring. They left the camp with a newfound appreciation for the field of medicine and a clear understanding that with dedication and hard work, they too can achieve their goals in STEM.

I am deeply grateful to Dr. Antonio Webb and the Webb Family Foundation for organizing such a transformative event. It was a privilege to be part of an initiative that not only educates but also empowers young people to pursue their dreams in healthcare. The Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp was a resounding success, and I look forward to seeing the incredible achievements of these future healthcare leaders.

May 02
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Heart of the Mission: Pioneering Cardiac Care for Tactical Athletes at the American College of Cardiology

By Blogs, Medical Education No Comments

Heart of the Mission: Pioneering Cardiac Care for Tactical Athletes at the American College of Cardiology

I recently participated in an important event organized by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) focused on tactical athletes.  How are tactical athletes defined?  Tactical athletes are a unique group of individuals whose professions demand not just skill and strategy but also significant physical exertion. They include a host of  individuals, such as: military personnel, law enforcement officers, fire/rescue workers and emergency response personnel.

The symposium was held at the ACC’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., led by sports cardiology experts Dr. Ben Levine, Dr. Beth Dineen, Dr. Mark Haigney and one of my mentors, Dr. Richard Kovacs. We gathered with over 50 of the world’s leaders in sports cardiology to discuss and improve how we manage heart health for these professionals. The energy and dedication to improve health outcomes for those who serve us were clear throughout the event.

We covered many topics, including how to evaluate these athletes before they participate in their roles, the ethical considerations of their health eligibility, and how to interpret heart tests like ECGs. We also looked into heart disease genetics and discussed the needs of older athletes who are still active.

The collaborative spirit of the event was one of its best parts. Everyone was eager to share knowledge and work together. By the end of the symposium, we had developed new strategies and guidelines to better care for tactical athletes, ensuring they can do their jobs safely and effectively.

This event was just the start. We not only want to provide excellent medical care but also to honor the commitment of tactical athletes by making sure they have the best support to keep them healthy. This has been a great learning experience, and I’m excited to continue this work. This commitment to service is central to our mission in medicine and in supporting our communities.

This initiative has been a remarkable journey of learning and collaboration, and I look forward to continuing this important work. At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to service, both in medicine and in our communities, and this symposium has reinforced that commitment with every discussion, every strategy, and every heart we aim to protect.

Mar 12
Love0

Go Red: Battling Heart Disease in Women One Step at a Time

By Blogs, Community Outreach

Go Red: Battling Heart Disease in Women One Step at a Time

In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, a significant event unfolded, marking a milestone in the journey towards better cardiovascular health for women. The Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (MBC), under the spiritual leadership of Rev. Dr. Jerry W. Dailey, hosted the Go Red Event, an initiative focused on shedding light on the critical disparities in heart disease and women’s health. With a ministry foundation built on intentional love and a commitment to discipleship, MBC provided the perfect backdrop for this vital conversation.

The event, aptly titled “Having Babies, Health, and Hormones,” took center stage, addressing the black maternal fetal health crisis and the cardiovascular risks tied to hormonal changes in women. Dr. Travis Batts, a prominent figure in the health community, played a pivotal role in spearheading the discussions and activities throughout the day. His expertise, combined with the collective efforts of various partners, underscored the community’s dedication to tackling these issues head-on.

The collaborative spirit of the event was evident in the participation of the MBC Health Care Ministry, MBC Social Justice Ministry, Dr. Keisha Loftin of Lumina Wellness & Aesthetics Center, members of the San Antonio Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, and the Theta Eta chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, who co-sponsored the event. This wide-ranging support highlighted the communal approach to health advocacy and education.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was the exercise session led by Dr. Batts. Shifting gears from his usual role, he energized the crowd with a heart-pumping Zumba class, demonstrating the importance of physical activity in maintaining heart health. This engaging session not only brought smiles and laughter but also emphasized the practical steps individuals can take towards a healthier lifestyle.

The success of the Go Red Event at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church was palpable, with attendees leaving empowered and informed about the critical health issues facing women today. The discussions initiated and the partnerships forged set the stage for ongoing efforts to address health disparities and promote well-being within the community.

As we reflect on the achievements of this event, it’s clear that the journey towards better health is a collective one, requiring the support, dedication, and passion of individuals and organizations alike. The Go Red Event is just the beginning, with hopes of expanding its reach and impact in the years to come. Through education, advocacy, and actionable initiatives, we can continue to make strides in improving women’s cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

In a world where health disparities continue to pose significant challenges, events like the Go Red at MBC stand as beacons of hope and action. They remind us of the power of community, the importance of informed discussion, and the undeniable impact of taking intentional steps towards a healthier future for all women.

Sep 29
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Decoding Prostate Cancer: Understanding Screening, Surveillance, and Surgery with Urologist, Dr. Dieter Bruno

By Blogs, Medical Education, Podcast No Comments

Decoding Prostate Cancer: Understanding Screening, Surveillance, and Surgery with Urologist, Dr. Dieter Bruno

In a recent episode of my podcast, About that L.I.F.E., I had the honor of sitting down with the esteemed urologist and prostate cancer specialist, Dr. Dieter Bruno. Our conversation navigated through the critical realms of prostate cancer screening, surveillance, and the various treatment options available. Dr. Bruno, with his vast expertise in robotic surgery for urologic conditions, illuminated the crucial role of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) in early detection and emphasized the importance of shared decision-making between doctors and patients.

The episode is crafted to provide a comprehensive understanding of prostate health, stressing the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and a healthy lifestyle. We also touched upon the alarming disparities in prostate cancer care within the African American community, highlighting the dire need for increased awareness and accessible healthcare.

Key insights from our discussion include the instrumental role of PSA in early detection, the essence of collaborative decision-making in treatment planning, and the promising realm of robotic surgery in managing urologic conditions. We also delved into how lifestyle modifications can significantly mitigate the risks associated with prostate cancer.

This enriching dialogue bridges the fields of cardiology and urology, offering a 360-degree view on managing prostate cancer. I invite you to delve into this insightful conversation.

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/mygExuOJNGY?si=ub0Id1cvG_1STvNQ or catch the podcast version on all major platforms. For more expert insights into healthcare and well-being, subscribe to my YouTube channel, Dr. Travis Batts.

This episode is more than just a discussion; it’s a resourceful guide aimed at empowering individuals to navigate the complex journey of prostate cancer with informed and expert advice.

Aug 28
Love0

Haircuts & Heartbeats: Build Health in the Barbershop

By Blogs, Community Outreach

Haircuts & Heartbeats: Build Health in the Barbershop

Dr. Travis Batts was a dynamic presence at the Haircuts & Heartbeats Event, an integral part of House of Styles Barbershop’s 2023 Customer Appreciation Day. Collaborating with distinguished guests like Macedonia Mission Baptist Church Health Care Ministry, The Mission Kitchen, and the Batts Media Group, Dr. Batts lent his expertise as a cardiologist to create a truly impactful event.

At the heart of the event was the essence of customer appreciation, a sentiment that resonated throughout the day. Attendees were treated to an array of offerings, including complimentary back-to-school kits, delectable food, engaging games, and valuable health screenings. Dr. Batts played a pivotal role in aligning these offerings with a critical health message.

Dr. Batts shed light on the importance of emergency response, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the effective use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Through his signature program, “Everyone Can Assist” (E.C.A.), he empowered attendees with the knowledge and skills to make a life-saving impact during emergencies.

The inspiration for this event stemmed from the groundbreaking Barbershop Study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2018. This pivotal study highlighted the significant reduction in blood pressure among black male barbershop patrons through health promotion efforts by barbers, coupled with medication management by specialty-trained pharmacists.

Dr. Travis Batts’ participation in the Haircuts & Heartbeats Event added a layer of expertise and purpose. His insights into emergency response, coupled with the collaborative efforts of all participants, exemplified the power of community and health consciousness. The Batts Media Group’s coverage captured these meaningful moments, immortalizing an event that not only appreciated customers but also demonstrated the potential of partnerships in promoting health and well-being.