Doc Talk with Monument Health

Michael Huot, M.D., Director of Pain Management, Pain Specialist, Anesthesiologist and Chief of Staff of Rapid City Hospital reveals the responsibilities of a hospital Chief of Staff. Referencing Rapid City Hospital’s vast improvement in safety ratings, Dr. Huot provides insight on his approach to leadership and reflects on how he has made an impact during his tenure. He also gives historical details and legal reasons for why the position of Chief of Staff came to be important, how the position is chosen at Monument Health and the learning curve that comes along with accepting the role.

This is a conversation between Dr. Stephen Tamang, Monument Health physician and Director of Addiction Medicine and Community Health Services—and Brian Mueller, the Pennington County Sheriff. They go deep into the role the Sheriff’s Office plays in shaping public policy, tackling controversial topics ranging from magnet services to ICE enforcement. They take a hard look at homelessness, exploring the services available in our community, the gaps that still exist, and what real solutions might look like. Expect an unfiltered, thought-provoking discussion about the intersection of law enforcement, public health, and the systems that shape our community’s most pressing challenges.

Lawnmowers, snakes and the sun, oh my! Tamra Lemley, M.D, board-certified Pediatrician and Kyle Lemley, M.D., a fellowship-trained Pediatric Critical Care Specialist and Pediatrician, both of Monument Health Children’s at Rapid City Hospital, spotlight some important kid summer safety concerns including lawnmower injuries, snake and spider bites and the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They also share what it’s like being a doctor who is married to a doctor. An essential listen for parents of kids growing up in the Black Hills.

In this episode of Vital Conversations, a Doc Talk community series, Dr. Tamang welcomes Tim Trithart, CEO of Complete Health, for a deep and candid discussion about the evolving landscape of healthcare in western South Dakota. From expanding access and breaking down insurance barriers to the critical role of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), this episode explores the challenges and opportunities shaping care delivery in our region.Trithart shares insights on the benefits of integrated care models, the misconceptions surrounding FQHCs, and the importance of addressing mental health, especially among vulnerable populations. The conversation also touches on the impact of third-party payers, the potential of value-based care, the role of technology, and how organizations like Complete Health navigate financial sustainability while staying mission-driven.Whether you're a healthcare provider, policymaker, or community advocate, this conversation offers thoughtful perspectives on how to build a more accessible, equitable, and effective healthcare system.

Riley Goodwin, PA-C, Family Medicine and Primary Care, and Abigail Lambert, Clinical Dietitian, both of Rapid City Clinic, Flormann Street, outline the complicated overlapping concerns that inform eating disorders and treatment, including mental health and access to healthy foods. They distinguish between eating disorders and disordered eating and unpack some of the harmful myths and social stigmas around those who suffer from an eating disorders.

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.

Kenneth Milligan, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, and Eric Krohn, D.O., Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Monument Health Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City share their vision in starting the Hip Preservation Institute. Typically only available in larger metropolitan areas, the Hip Preservation Institutes team brings much needed and highly specialized hip care to the Black Hills and the surrounding region with the goal of preventing long-term hip deterioration to patients through early intervention, monitoring and minimally-invasive surgery, when required.

Join Dr. Stephen Tamang in this insightful 8-part podcast series called Vital Conversations, where he tackles pressing issues impacting Rapid City and beyond. From local government and housing to mental health challenges and the future of healthcare, Dr. Tamang engages in deep discussions with community leaders and experts.In this conversation with Jason Salamun, the mayor of Rapid City, Dr. Tamang explores a range of important topics, including housing, homelessness, city expansion, and the philosophy behind local government. He also shares his insights on local and state politics, discussing school vouchers, short-term rentals, and the leadership of South Dakota's new governor, Larry Rhoden—along with much more.

Measles is in the Black Hills, so don’t miss this very important discussion with Pediatrician Paula Marsland, M.D., of Spearfish Clinic, North Avenue, a United States Army veteran who is passionate about keeping your kiddos healthy. She gives host Mark Houston the facts about measles symptoms, long term concerns of an infection, the safety and efficacy of vaccination and why she wants to start the conversation with families who have vaccine concerns in order to effectively fight to bring measles back under control.