HEALTH MATTERS Season 2

Health Matters (醫護與你) returns for its second season in collaboration with El Camino Health. This season takes viewers behind the scenes of the hospital, offering an in-depth look at how care is delivered and how common illnesses can rapidly evolve into life-threatening conditions.

From examining how pneumonia can progress into sepsis and why it is a medical emergency, to exploring critical pediatric conditions such as respiratory distress, asthma exacerbations, and obesity, the series delivers essential and practical medical insights. It also delves into complex diseases including fibromyalgia and lupus, and highlights how traumatic events, such as car accidents, may increase the risk of carotid dissection which can potentially leading to stroke.

Beyond physical health, the program explores developmental psychology, shedding light on the unique challenges individuals face at different stages of life.

The series also addresses sensitive topics often under-discussed in the Chinese community, including end-of-life care and medical decision-making, with compassion and cultural awareness.

In addition, Health Matters shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the hospital, from dedicated volunteers and support staff to welcoming gift shops and state-of-the-art clinical laboratories, showcasing the people and systems that work together to deliver exceptional patient care.

This program is subtitled in Chinese and English.

Host: Christina Chow, RN, MSN

Guest Host: Dr. Peter Fung, MD

Episode Overview

From Trauma to Stroke: Understanding Carotid Injury

In this episode, we look at stroke risk in young people. A car accident can cause trauma that leads to carotid artery dissection, increasing the chance of a stroke. We’ll also take you inside an angiogram procedure, which helps doctors diagnose the problem and plan treatment.

Guest:

Neurologist - Dr. Peter Fung, MD

Neurologist - Dr. Paulomi Bhalla, MD

Neurosurgeon and Neuroendovascular Surgeon - Dr. Daniel Raper

Obesity:
The Weight of Health

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Manoukian explores how obesity is defined across different populations. The program takes an in-depth look at the latest breakthroughs in metabolic health, with a focus on the revolutionary GLP-1 and GIP medications. Viewers will learn how these therapies support weight loss and improve blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes. Dr. Manoukian also discusses the benefits, clinical effectiveness, and potential side effects of these treatments, helping audiences better understand their role in long-term health management.

Guest:

Internal Medicine - Dr. Mariam Manoukian

Incorrect Medications for Elderly → Medication Mistakes: A Hidden Danger

In this episode, we explore the hidden dangers of mixing medications, why some brain-acting drugs increase fall risk, and how the 4Ms framework helps make healthcare safer for older adults. Dr. Mojgan Nodoushani will take us on a tour of the inpatient pharmacy at El Camino Hospital and share insights about the residency program she implemented.

Guest:

Dr. Mojgan Nodoushani

Rheumatoid / Rheumatology: Hidden Pain: Understanding Rheumatic Disease

In this episode, Dr. Helen Feng discusses fibromyalgia and how its symptoms can mimic other conditions, often making diagnosis challenging. She also explains lupus and how it can affect multiple systems in the body, as well as clarifies the differences between rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis. Lastly, Dr. Meagan Littlepage shares exercises and practical strategies to help manage and improve these conditions.

Guest:

Internal Medicine & Rheumatology - Dr. Helen Feng

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist - Dr. Meagan Littlepage

Pediatric Respiratory Distress: When Breathing Becomes an Emergency

In this episode, we take viewers on a closer look at pediatric emergencies, including asthma exacerbations and RSV. Through reenactments, audiences will gain a better understanding of how asthma attacks present and are managed. Dr. Karen Pike and Dr. Arti Jain will also address these common pediatric emergencies and provide expert insights.

Guest:

Emergency Department - Dr. Karen Pike

Pediatrician - Dr. Arti Jain

Behind the Lens: Understanding Eye Care Specialists

In this episode, we take viewers inside the optometry and ophthalmology clinics at El Camino Health for a closer look at eye health. Audiences will learn about common conditions such as retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma, including their symptoms and treatment options. The episode also highlights advanced eye care equipment and explains the key differences between optometrists and ophthalmologists, and how they work together to provide comprehensive care.

Guest:

Ophthalmologist - Dr. Maria Govorkova

Optometrist - Nina Kligman, OD

Diabetes (Diabetes ketoacidosis) Sugar Crisis: Understanding Diabetes Emergencies

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate care. In this episode, Dr. George Lau and Dr. Damon Yu explain what diabetes is and how uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to DKA. They highlight the warning signs, risks, and how DKA is treated in the ICU, including fluids, insulin therapy, and close monitoring. The episode also emphasizes early recognition and the importance of a healthy lifestyle to prevent complications.

Guest:

Internal Medicine - Dr. George Lau

Anesthesiologist - Dr. Damon Yu

Pneumonia to Sepsis: From Infection to Crisis: The Sepsis Warning

In this episode, through realistic reenactments, we take a closer look at how pneumonia can progress into sepsis which is a life-threatening medical emergency. Viewers will learn to recognize the warning signs and understand how quickly this condition can escalate. We also take you inside the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to explore the critical measures used to treat sepsis, including early antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, close monitoring, and organ support. In addition, the episode highlights innovative approaches at El Camino Health in the early detection and management of sepsis, helping improve patient outcomes and save lives.

Guests:
Infectious Disease Specialist - Dr. Daniel Shin

Pulmonologist - Dr. Estela Ayala

Developmental Psychology : Life Stages: Navigating the Human Journey

In this episode, through engaging reenactments, we take viewers on a deeper look at the unique challenges encountered across different stages of life—from childhood and adolescence to adulthood and aging. Each stage presents its own emotional, psychological, and social transitions. Dr. Wei Chen Lee will guide viewers in recognizing these challenges, understanding how they may impact daily life and relationships, and identifying when to seek support. She will also share practical coping strategies and tools to help individuals build resilience, adapt to change, and maintain overall well-being throughout each stage of development.

Guest:

Psychologist and Therapist - Dr. Wei Chen Lee

Sleep Apnea : Sleepless Nights, Hidden Danger

In this episode, a patient shares a personal testimony about living with sleep apnea, offering insight into its impact on daily life and overall health. Dr. Philip Ho explains the causes of sleep apnea, including airway obstruction, and discusses its effects on long-term health. He also demonstrates the equipment and tools—such as sleep studies and monitoring devices—used to diagnose the condition. The episode aims to raise awareness and encourage early detection and treatment.

Guest:

Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist - Dr. Philip Ho

End of Life: Final Choices, Conversations That Matter

In this episode, we explore the sensitive and often challenging topic of end-of-life care—an issue many in the Asian community may find difficult to discuss. Through reenactments, viewers will gain insight into the emotional and family conflicts that can arise during end-of-life decision-making. Dr. Alan Chausow, an internal medicine physician, will provide guidance on navigating these conversations with compassion, understanding, and respect. Dr. Amrita Sabharwal will also discuss the role of palliative care in supporting patients and their families during this stage.

Guest:

Pulmonary and Critical Care Specialist - Dr. Alan Chasow

Internal Medicine - Dr. Amrita Sabharwal

Cancer Prevention: Preventing Cancer: What You Need to Know

In this episode, Dr. Chan discusses common cancers among the Chinese population, including liver and nasopharyngeal cancers, and emphasizes the importance of early screening. He will also explain practical ways to screen for cancer and how early detection can improve outcomes. In addition, Dr. Chan explores the role of diet and nutrition in cancer prevention, as well as oral cavity cancer trends in Taiwan, helping viewers better understand how lifestyle choices can reduce cancer risk.

Guest:

Oncology and Internal Medicine -

Dr. Edward Yiu-Cheung Chan

Hospital Heroes:
Heroes Behind the Healing

In this final episode of the season, we go behind the scenes to highlight the dedicated staff who work tirelessly behind the doors at El Camino Health. Ms. Linda Heider shares her experience serving in the hospital auxiliary and introduces volunteer services such as the information desk and Java Coffee. We then visit the gift shop, where Ms. Cleofe Nogavich gives us a tour.

Next, Ms. Laura Gutierrez takes us inside the clinical laboratory to show how testing and diagnostics support patient care. Finally, Christina Chow, producer and director of Health Matters, reflects on the journey of this episode and the impact of the series.

Guests:

Enterprise Director of Laboratory Services, Laura Gutierrez

President of the El Camino Hospital Auxiliary, Linda Heider

About the Hosts

Christina Chow, RN, MSN

Program Host

Christina Chow Leung Chin-wing is a registered nurse with frontline experience in both the Emergency Room and Intensive Care Unit.

While working at the hospital, she was recognized with Tenet Hospital’s Hero of the Year award, and she served as Vice President of the local chapter of the Critical Care Nurses Association"

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she began writing about her experiences in healthcare and childhood stories. Her heartfelt stories gained public attention. This led to invitations to appear as a guest on ViuTV programs and interviews with various media outlets, allowing her to bring the voices of healthcare workers to a wider audience.

Later, Christina came across an opportunity at KTSF Channel 26 in the U.S., which was recruiting news reporters and contributors. She was fortunate to be selected and began working at the station. She eventually took on roles as the host of “Music Express” and “Entertainment Express,” and also became involved in the station’s marketing department.

Christina believes that few people truly understand the inner workings of the healthcare system or the diverse roles within a hospital setting. Through her media work, she hopes to give the public a closer look at the responsibilities, dedication, and resilience of medical professionals. From frontline staff to support teams, every department plays a vital role in improving patient outcomes and offering comprehensive care and support to patients and their families.

Dr. Peter Fung, MD

Guest Host

Peter C. Fung, MD, MBA, MS, FACP, FAAN, FAHA has dedicated his life to medicine, healthcare leadership, and community service. Born in China and raised in Hong Kong, Dr. Fung earned his medical degree from the University of Hong Kong and completed advanced training in internal medicine and neurology at the University of Michigan, where he also received a Master of Science in Neurology. He is board-certified in both specialties, with additional qualifications in stroke neurology, pain medicine, and clinical neurophysiology.

From 2005 to 2015, Dr. Fung served as Medical Director of the Stroke Program at El Camino Hospital, transforming it into one of the nation’s top 5% stroke centers. In recognition of his leadership, the program was renamed the Peter C. Fung, MD Stroke Center.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Fung has played a vital role in healthcare governance. He was elected to the El Camino Healthcare District Board in 2014 and has served on the boards of El Camino Hospital and El Camino Health Medical Network. He is a founding director of the El Camino Chinese Health Initiative, promoting culturally sensitive health and wellness programs in the Bay Area.

After retiring from clinical practice, Dr. Fung earned an MBA with honors from the University of California, Berkeley – Haas School of Business, further strengthening his contributions to healthcare leadership.

Awards Recognition

Health Matters has been recognized by many platforms and film festivals across the United States:

Best Producer Award and Finalist at the Chicago Women Film Festival
Best Actress Award and Semi-finalist at the California Women Film Festival
Finalist at the San Francisco International New Concept Film Festival
Finalist at the Taste Awards
Distinctions for "Campaign Healthcare & Pharma Marketing" and "Campaign Cultural Institutions" Awards at the Communicator Awards
Best Producer Award at the San Francisco International Film Awards

With compassion at its core, the program aims to inspire audiences to value health, care for their loved ones, and spread hope throughout the community.