• 01 Jul, 2024
• Vidita Kapoor

Unleashing Health: The Power of Nutrition, Mental Well-being, and AI in Healthcare

Magazica: Could you share with us your journey into becoming a successful healthcare administrator and professor? What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?

Vidita Kapoor: After completing my medical degree, I was drawn towards bridging the gap between healthcare resources and community needs through the administration lens, leading me to pursue further studies in health administration. Arriving in Canada as a newcomer in 2022, I faced the daunting task of navigating a new environment, culture, and job market. Despite being a medical graduate, securing a job within the healthcare sector proved challenging initially. However, after a month and a half, I secured a part-time role as a healthcare administrator, which provided invaluable experience and helped me develop crucial skills within the Canadian healthcare sector.

Transitioning from a clinical role as a medical doctor into an administrative position presented its own set of challenges. I had to quickly adapt to a different healthcare system, understand new regulations, and learn how to manage administrative tasks effectively. To overcome these challenges, I proactively reached out to mentors, and colleagues and sought their guidance on navigating the Canadian healthcare system. Their insights on the collaborative nature of healthcare administration were invaluable. They helped me understand the importance of building strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, which is crucial for effective healthcare management. Additionally, working in the field allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the Canadian healthcare setting. I learned about the unique aspects of the system, including its policies, procedures, and patient care standards. Additionally, I was delighted to notice that I could make a similar impact on patient care through both roles. Thus, I am grateful for this opportunity as it laid the foundation for my professional growth and taught me essential skills for the job market.

My unexpected journey into the education sector further expanded my horizons. Despite lacking prior teaching experience, I seized the opportunity to interview for a College Professor position. The initial challenge was to transition from a practitioner to an educator, learning how to design curricula, engage students, and manage classroom dynamics. My first month was particularly challenging as I navigated these new responsibilities. However, I overcame these challenges by dedicating myself to continuous learning. I attended workshops on teaching methods, sought advice from experienced educators, and actively engaged with my students to understand their needs better. This approach helped me develop effective teaching strategies and build a supportive learning environment.

Thus, I would like to take this moment to thank the individuals and mentors who gave me opportunities in roles and industries I had no prior experience. Their support and guidance were pivotal in helping me overcome challenges and achieve success in both fields.

Magazica: As a healthcare administrator, how do you see the intersection of health sciences, medicine, nutrition, and health-related services? How do these areas influence the mental and physical well-being of individuals?

Vidita Kapoor: I see the intersection of health sciences, medicine, nutrition, and health-related services as essential to overall well-being. Each area plays a crucial role- health sciences provide the research and knowledge base, medicine offers treatments and interventions, nutrition fuels our bodies and impacts health directly, and health-related services ensure that all these elements are accessible and coordinated.

When these areas work together seamlessly, they significantly improve both mental and physical well-being. For instance, good nutrition supports physical health and can prevent diseases, while also positively impacting mood and mental health. Effective medical treatments can help manage chronic conditions, reducing stress and improving quality of life. Coordinated health services ensure that individuals receive comprehensive care, addressing all aspects of their health needs. By integrating these fields, we can offer more holistic and effective care, leading to better health outcomes and overall well-being.

Magazica: Can you share some practical strategies for our readers to make healthier choices in their daily lives, especially in terms of nutrition and lifestyle?

Vidita Kapoor: Here are a few simple and practical strategies:

Magazica: What role does mental health play in your understanding of overall health? Can you share some strategies for maintaining mental well-being?

Vidita Kapoor: Mental health is a cornerstone of our overall health. It affects how we think, feel, and act, which in turn influences our physical health, quality of life, and the quality of our relationships. May, being Mental Health Month, here are some strategies for maintaining mental well-being (that worked for me):

Magazica: Could you share some insights on how technological innovations have impacted the healthcare industry? Are there any specific advancements that you’re particularly excited about?

Vidita Kapoor: Technological innovations have revolutionized healthcare in so many ways. Telemedicine, for instance, has greatly expanded access to care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, electronic health records (EHRs) have improved the efficiency and accuracy of patient data management. Before moving to Canada, I had never used Electronic Medical Records, and I was so delighted to see how convenient it was to manage health records through it.

One advancement I’m particularly excited about is the use of AI in diagnostics and personalized medicine. It can apparently analyze vast amounts of data quickly, identify patterns, and lead to early diagnosis and customized treatment plans. However, I am a little nervous about this technology as when it comes to patient care, we cannot always rely on technology, human intervention is certainly needed.

Magazica: What are some common misconceptions about health and wellness that you’ve encountered in your career?

Vidita Kapoor: One common misconception I’ve encountered is the idea that health and wellness are all about strict diets and intense exercise. Many people think they need to overhaul their entire lifestyle overnight to be healthy, which can be overwhelming and discouraging. I

always emphasize that health is about balance and making small, sustainable changes. Simple things like eating more fruit and vegetables, staying active in ways you enjoy, and getting enough sleep can make a big difference. Some people believe that wellness trends or supplements can replace a healthy lifestyle, however, while some supplements can be beneficial, they shouldn’t replace a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep. It’s important to focus on the basics of healthy living rather than looking for quick fixes.

Magazica: How do you stay updated with the latest research and trends in health and wellness? Can you share some strategies that our readers might find useful?

Vidita Kapoor: Staying updated with the latest research and trends in health and wellness is essential, and I have a few go-to strategies that might be helpful for your readers. Firstly, I regularly read reputable health journals and websites, to stay informed about new studies and findings. Subscribing to newsletters from trusted health organizations also keeps me in the loop.

I also attend conferences and webinars whenever possible. These events are great for learning about the latest trends and connecting with other professionals in the field. Following experts and organizations on social media platforms like LinkedIn can also be a quick and easy way to get updates. Podcasts are another fantastic resource- many health and wellness podcasts cover the latest research and provide insights from experts. They’re perfect for listening to while commuting or exercising. Last but not least, joining professional groups can provide valuable information and support – engaging with a community of like-minded individuals helps me stay motivated and informed.

Magazica: In your journal article titled ‘Effect of complications of diabetes mellitus on the mental health of a patient’, you’ve explored the intersection of physical and mental health. Could you share some key findings from your research and discuss how understanding these effects can help our readers manage their health more effectively?

Vidita Kapoor: In our research, we found that individuals with diabetes complications scored lower on cognitive assessments compared to those without complications. According to the World Health Organization, about 300 million people will suffer from diabetes by 2025, which is a huge chunk of the population. This suggests that complications can exacerbate the impact of diabetes on mental health.

Understanding these effects is crucial for individuals to manage their health effectively. By recognizing the potential cognitive implications of diabetes complications, individuals can be more proactive in their healthcare. This may involve adhering to prescribed treatment plans, closely monitoring blood sugar levels, and regularly attending medical appointments to detect and address complications early. Along with this, integrating lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can also help mitigate the risk of cognitive decline associated with diabetes. Thus, awareness of these findings may incline individuals to take a holistic approach to their health, addressing both physical and mental well-being to optimize their quality of life.

Magazica: Could you share some success stories from your career where your work significantly improved someone’s health and well-being?

Vidita Kapoor: I would not call them success stories, however, there have been several instances where I could be of some help to others (not particularly for health and wellness though). One of the rewarding experiences was when an elderly patient was struggling to navigate the healthcare system. As a healthcare administrator, I helped coordinate their care, ensuring they received timely access to the necessary medical services and support. This included arranging appointments, managing their medical records, and providing education about managing their condition.

In my role as an educator, I have mentored several students as well who were facing significant challenges in adjusting to the rigorous demands of the healthcare field in Canada. These instances are extremely rewarding to me as I feel delighted to be able to make a difference in someone’s journey.

Magazica: Finally, what is your vision for the future of health and wellness, and how do you plan to contribute to it through your work?

Vidita Kapoor: My vision for the future of health and wellness is one where holistic care is accessible to all individuals, focusing on prevention as much as treatment. I aim to contribute by advocating for patient-centered care, promoting health education, and bridging gaps between healthcare sectors. I see myself fitting into a collaborative model where multidisciplinary teams work together to address all aspects of patient health. To increase system efficiency, I am inclined towards streamlining communication between healthcare providers and emphasizing preventive care to reduce the burden of chronic diseases. I intend to contribute by mentoring and educating future healthcare professionals on the importance of an integrated approach to health and wellness.