In the first episode of the Modern Medicine Podcast, host Dr. Dennis Teehan is joined by Dave Yas of the Boston Podcast Network. They aim to shed light on the complexities of navigating the medical world in 2024. Dennis discusses the evolving landscape of healthcare, the impact of policy and science on medical practices, and introduces the show's different segments, including 'In the News' and 'Drug Rep Pitch of the Week.' The episode features a special guest, Dr. Sal Napoli, a neurologist from Foxborough, who discusses a promising clinical trial for an Alzheimer's treatment. Other topics covered include the unionization of primary care doctors at Mass General Brigham, Medicare and Medicaid's coverage of obesity drugs, and the closure impacts of Steward hospitals. The show wraps up with a personal Thanksgiving discussion, highlighting what the hosts are most and least looking forward to during the holiday. Topics 00:00 Introduction to the Modern Medicine Podcast 00:55 Navigating the Medical Universe 03:17 Upcoming Segments and Guest Introduction 05:56 In-Depth Discussion on Alzheimer's Disease 06:49 Exciting Clinical Trials and New Treatments 20:07 Advice for Families and Lifestyle Tips 22:36 In the News: Unionizing Doctors 27:17 Obesity Drugs and Modern Medicine 28:29 The Benefits and Potential of New Diabetes Medications 29:03 Challenges and Controversies in Obesity Treatment 32:19 Impact of Local Hospital Closures on Community Healthcare 34:59 RFK Jr.'s Controversial Nomination for Health Secretary 39:40 Introducing Nexlital and Nexlizet: New Cholesterol Treatments 44:07 Thanksgiving Traditions and Black Friday Woes