Doc Talk with Monument Health

Steven Frost, M.D., Anesthesiologist and fellowship-trained Pain Management Specialist at Monument Health Pain Management Clinic in Rapid City reveals innovative methods that have helped patients suffering from chronic pain to live more comfortably. Dr. Frost focuses on the intrathecal pain pump, which provides targeted relief by delivering medication directly to the spinal cord. He also highlights the role of a multi-disciplinary team in managing complex pain and the importance of a personalized approach to care.

Interested in pursuing medicine or simply curious about the path to becoming a doctor? Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look with Bobbie Schneller, D.O., Program Director, and Matthew Rakaba, D.O., Associate Chief Resident, at Monument Health Family Residency Clinic in Rapid City. The duo cover the competitive match process which determines where future physicians will train and discuss the importance of finding the right mutual fit for both resident and program. Dr. Rakaba also relates his plans to pursue his passion for working with athletes as a Sports Medicine Specialist.

Kyle Larson, D.O., board-certified Obesity Medicine Physician, and Danielle Heins, PA-C, both from the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at Rapid City Hospital, join Mark Houston to explore the growing role of medications like Ozempic in treating obesity and managing diabetes. They discuss how these medications work in the body, address common misconceptions and stress the importance of an individualized approach to weight loss that includes medication, diet, exercise and mental health.

Luis Hernandez, M.D., FACC, fellowship-trained Cardiologist and Medical Director of the Advanced Heart Failure Program at Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute, gives insight on how devices like defibrillators, pacemakers and pulmonary pressure sensors manage heart failure and help prevent hospital readmissions. He also outlines the importance of medication and patient monitoring in improving heart failure outcomes. Dr. Hernandez brings plenty of visual aides in this episode so be sure to check out the video version on YouTube!

Patrick M. Tibbles, M.D., Emergency Medicine, Wound & Ostomy Care, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at Rapid City Hospital and Medical Director of Monument Health Foundation, discusses his role with the Foundation and the critical impact it has on health care in the Black Hills. The Foundation supports vital projects like expanding Women’s and Children’s services, improving access to primary care and funding cutting-edge medical equipment—all through local donations. Dr. Tibbles and the Foundation’s mission is to ensure that our communities continue to have access to top-tier services close to home. Learn more about Monument Health Foundation here: monument.health/foundation.

Recorded with a live audience at Black Hills Stock Show. Pial Hope, D.O., Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery at Rapid City Hospital, discusses the evolving role of robotic-assisted surgery, specifically the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, and its impact on patient care. Dr. Hope highlights advancements in surgical technology and shares insights into how the next generation of medical professionals can be inspired by these innovations.

Joy Falkenberg, M.D., Family Medicine Physician at Monument Health Custer Clinic, joins host, Mark Houston, to dive into the challenges and rewards of rural health care in this first ever episode of Doc Talk Live!. Dr. Falkenberg reflects on her years of experience caring for patients in a rural setting, from mentoring young physicians to providing compassionate, personalized care to individuals in small communities. They discuss the unique obstacles rural doctors face, including recruitment, access to care and the importance of technology in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Falkenberg highlights the fulfillment and human connection that come from working in rural medicine and the critical role it plays in the future of health care.

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.

Bobbie Schneller, D.O., Program Director, and Jennifer Callahan, M.D., Primary Care at Rapid City Hospital Family Medicine Residency Clinic, not only care for patients but also train the next generation of doctors. Find out how the program prepares residents for everything from delivering babies to emergency medicine, all while building lasting relationships with patients. The duo discuss the unique challenges and rewards of practicing in a rural setting and how hands-on training is shaping the future of health care.