PermanenteDocs Chat
Permanente physicians and other leaders come together in an unscripted live chat session, creating conversations among doctors about timely issues facing health care. Our PermanenteDocs Chat, a live chat and podcast, is hosted by Alex McDonald, MD, a family medicine physician with the Southern California Permanente Medical Group, and grew out of our award-winning #JustTheVaxx chat series.
Conversations every physician should have about aging
September 2, 2026
Learn how age-friendly care emphasizes dignity, independence, and choice for older adults while addressing their unique health needs.
How patient education drives lasting behavior change
July 14, 2026
Learn how effective health education can enhance physician-patient partnerships and promote healthier habits for better outcomes.
Prescribing GLP-1s: Evidence, limits, expectations
February 16, 2026
How physicians integrate GLP1s into long-term weight management GLP-1 medications are reshaping the conversation around metabolic health and weight loss — but questions remain. In this PermanenteDocs Chat, Alex McDonald, MD, speaks with Sean Hashmi, MD, nephrologist and obesity medicine specialist, about how clinicians should prescribe GLP-1 and other…
The future of care at home
November 13, 2025
Dr. Hemali Sudhalkar, discusses the future of care at home programs, including the evolving role of the physician, virtual care, and home visits — plus the policy steps needed to expand and sustain this model nationwide
Leading the future of pediatric care
October 7, 2025
A conversation on the present and future of pediatric care with Dr. Eloa Adams, addressing pediatric deserts, the role of value-based care, and ensuring community-based access for children.