On this episode of The Deep Six Podcast, Dr. James Lewerenz welcomes emergency medicine physician Dr. Roya Caloia for a powerful conversation about the realities of life in the ER. Dr. Caloia shares how her journey shifted from public health and OB-GYN aspirations to discovering her passion for emergency medicine, where every day offers an opportunity to impact lives during their most critical moments. She explains the challenges of modern healthcare, including the decline of long-term patient–doctor relationships, increased ER demand, and the troubling rise of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.Dr. Caloia also offers practical advice for patients, including the importance of bringing medication lists, being patient with wait times, and trusting the ER team’s priorities. This episode highlights both the intensity and honor of emergency medicine, blending honesty with hope. Timestamps00:00 Welcome & ER Doctor’s Journey04:15 The ER as a ‘Dumping Ground’11:13 Healthcare System Challenges19:20 ER Stories and Realities27:06 DO Training and Philosophy32:25 Dr. Caloia’s Leadership Role34:51 Navigating the ER: A Patient’s Guide39:39 Essential ER Preparedness Tips43:06 Don’t Fear the ER46:02 Rising Mental Health Crisis50:08 Gratitude and Life’s Simple Pleasures About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well! Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/