Physicians Fill Gap In Region's Healthcare Information Presentations

Nearly every day in the southwest and southern suburbs, there are seminars and presentations providing information about a myriad of healthcare topics. Audience members are hearing about heart disease, diabetes, joint replacement and more in community centers, churches, senior centers and restaurants. “It is wonderful that our healthcare professionals understand the importance of educating our community,” says Dr. Georgios Karanastasis of Zmedi Group. “However, most of these presentations are in English, with just a sprinkling in Spanish.” Dr. Sandhya Nagubadi, also of Zmedi Group, agrees, “Significant, growing numbers of our population who also need this information are being left out.”

Dr. Karanastasis is particularly sentimental about the Greek-speaking community. He was born on Kos Island in Greece, which was also home to Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine. He graduated from University of Athens Medical School, holds a Research Fellow in cardiovascular medicine, and is board-certified. Residing now in Orland Park, he is on staff at Palos Community Hospital, Advocate Christ Hospital, and Advocate South Suburban Hospital.

Dr. Nagubadi graduated from Osmania Medical College in India and completed her externship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, with a focus on general surgery, cardiology and dermatology. She served her residency at Wright State University in Ohio and is board certified. She is on staff at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, Palos Community Hospital and Ingalls Hospital.

Dr. Karanastasis and Dr. Nagubadi are committed to filling the language gaps in south and southwest suburban healthcare presentations.

Personable and compassionate, with an innate curiosity about science and technology, Dr. Karanastasis is fluent in Greek and in English. Engaging, charismatic and always willing to explain further, Dr. Nagubadi is fluent in English, Hindi and Telegu. These physicians present up to an hour of information, followed by lively Q & A sessions. Because both physicians practice internal medicine, the range of topics addressed is wide. “Health challenges like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can sometimes be managed through better nutrition and exercise, but often they require medication and careful monitoring. We want to be sure members of all communities understand what they can do to help themselves and when they need to see a physician,” said Dr. Karanastasis.

Of special concern for both physicians is the need for information about regular screenings. Dr. Karanastasis noted, “For many, to get your blood pressure checked, to have a mammogram, to get your blood sugar and cholesterol levels checked; they are scared to have these tests because they are afraid of the results.” Dr. Nagubadi adds, “It’s vital to long-term health to get those regular screenings and quickly take the steps necessary to correct any issues.”

Dr. Nagubadi is especially concerned with the lack of information about screenings and preventative care for women in minority communities. “Most Indian and East Asian women are comfortable getting a mammogram, but that’s about it. While that is, of course, important, a mammogram only covers a small portion of your health. Women in these communities will not get PAP tests or DEXA scans to measure bone density. They are especially resistant to colonoscopies. These screenings are very simple; early detection and prompt treatment can be the difference between life and death.”

Dr. Karanastasis said, “These communities often dismiss the dangers of smoking and need to understand the symptoms and treatment for lung disease, asthma and COPD. Everyone should be aware of the danger signs and risks of stroke.” Both physicians also speak about congestive heart failure management, women’s health and chronic kidney disease.

They agree that there is an appalling lack of communication about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) in minority communities. “The younger members suffer because of an unwillingness to get screened and an absence of accurate information,” said Dr. Nagubadi. “No one wants to talk about these things openly.”

The Zmedi Group includes Dr. Karanastasis, Dr. Nagubadi and group founder Dr. Asad Zaman. The group focuses on helping patients establish and maintain healthy lives and meet their life and fitness goals. Zmedi has offices in Tinley Park, in Hazel Crest’s Waterford Estates and is now accepting appointments for their upcoming facility in Palos Heights. For more information and to contact Dr. Karanastasis or Dr. Nagubadi to arrange a presentation for a group or organization, visit www.zmedigroup.com.