Houston Medical Times

Inside This Issue

Evaluating AI Framework – A Tool for GCs

By Matt Todd, J.D. Cat Kozlowksi, J.D. Polsinelli, PC

TOncology Research pg.3

Mental Health pg.5

Healthy Heart pg.7

The Framework pg.8

Financial Forecast pg.11

he interest and requests for guidance on artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools exploded in early 2023, with the publicity and public launch of powerful and easily applied generative AI tools. With the spotlight has come swift change. Never have we witnessed such a rapid adoption rate of a technology that has so many legal, business, technical, ethical, social and other considerations. But analyzing an AI tool does not have to be overwhelming. We have developed a framework for General Counsel (“GCs”) making “AI decisions” when presented with either a new tool or a new use case.

I. Evaluating AI Tools and Establishing a Method of Trust

Many aspects of AI (and particularly generative AI) are currently on unsettled ground, but GCs can break the practical analysis into five parts:

1. What is the tool? When reviewing a novel tool the organization wants to use, the first question is whether it is even actually AI, using underlying machine learning. If so, what type of model is it? Is it part of the newly exploding wave of generative AI models? Or a predictive model that has been around and in use for well over a decade? What are the license terms and conditions? Is it a public tool, open source, or an enterprise

instance? What protections is the vendor providing if, for example, the organization receives an IP infringement claim arising from use or distribution of the output content generated by the tool?

2. What is the use case? AI does not solve all problems, and not all problems need AI. Current AI tools and their models are, at their core, prediction machines—aids relying on mathematical statistics, probabilities, and correlations (not reasoning or certainty). The accuracy of that prediction can vary depending on multiple factors, as can the tolerance for, and type of, error within a use case. Some use cases also simply do not work well with AI because individual human judgment or empathy may be necessary. Consider also whether the tool is sufficiently transparent for the use case. Finally, use cases may be impacted by external factors such as legislation or industry trends. If companies use AI tools to process compliance activities, for example, overreliance presents legal risk to a company if there are errors in the results.

3. What is the data going into it?

Data privacy and confidentiality concerns should be top of mind for GCs when reviewing a new tool. What type of information will go through the tool? Public information? Trade secrets? Will the vendor have any rights to that information as training data? Do customers have their own enterprise instance of the tool, or is that data and/or feedback flowing through a public instance? Even with a public instance, is there any risk of sensitive or trade secret data circulating through the tool showing up in a future output or influencing another customer’s result?

4. What is the output? The “power” of an AI’s output, or risk for overreliance, can also depend on its format. Does the tool produce a report to be further analyzed by humans, an answer or decision, or perhaps a binary “yes” or “no” with little to no transparency into the probability threshold? Risk may also depend on who receives that output. Is it inward facing, for reference or additional context, or for further review? Or

UTMB School Of Nursing Ranked Among The Top Online Programs in The Nation

See pg. 10

Houston Methodist Sugar Land

Welcomes Michael Garcia as New CEO

See pg. 12

Oncology Research

Overcoming Scanxiety Today for A Healthier Tomorrow

By Antonio Nathan Villamor III, M.D., Texas Colon & Rectal Specialists–Pearland and Pasadena

when recommended cannot be overstated because early detection can significantly improve the prognosis and quality of life.

What is “scanxiety”?

What are you afraid of? Snakes and spiders? Being trapped in an elevator? Perhaps it is a fear of the dark or heights.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 12% of people in the United States have had some form of phobia in their lives. When it comes to cancer, many experience scan anxiety, also known as scanxiety, which is defined as a distress or anxiety that may occur before, during, and after cancer-related imaging and scans.

It’s understandable to be apprehensive of cancer screenings and their impending results. But the importance of getting cancer screenings

In the realm of cancer detection, the term scanxiety has become more than just a buzzword. Having tests and waiting for test results can be unnerving, especially when the outcome can alter the course of your life. Whether scans are being done to confirm a cancer diagnosis, monitor treatment, or check for recurrence, the process of undergoing imaging scans can prompt a host of emotions.

The emotional roller coaster associated with scanxiety is not exclusive to one type of cancer or one type of scan. Mammograms, prostate exams, lung cancer screenings, and colonoscopies are among the various tests that can evoke anxiety.

Physicians have a key role to play in calming scanxiety by acknowledging the fear and working toward breaking

down barriers to encourage regular screenings across the spectrum of cancer detection.

Factors That Can Lead to Scanxiety

When scanxiety causes patients to postpone or avoid needed screenings, serious health risks can be the result. Late-stage cancer diagnoses are often associated with more complex treatment plans, reduced chances of successful treatment, and higher healthcare costs.

That’s why it is important to understand the long-term benefits of early screenings and address the source of fears or concerns and to help overcome them. Causes of scanxiety can include:

• Unknown aspects of the scan/ screening

• Concerns about what the tests will show

• Long waiting period to receive results

• The inability to understand test results

• Fear of how the results could change one’s life

How to Manage Scanxiety

Several strategies can help patients cope with scanxiety and navigate the emotional challenges associated with cancer screenings, such as:

see Oncology ...page 14

Houston Methodist The Woodlands Completes 400th LAAO Procedure

The Heart & Vascular team at Houston Methodist The Woodlands recently reached another milestone by completing its 400th LAAO (Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion) procedure. LAAO is designed to reduce the risk of strokes that originate in the left atrial appendage by implanting a device to prevent blood clots.

“This established stroke prevention strategy requires a tremendous team-based approach, and we are very proud of our team for working together to provide unparalleled heart and vascular care to our patients,” said David Bernard, senior vice president, Houston Methodist, and CEO, Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital.

Dr. Rajesh Venkataraman has been a part of more than 360 of the procedures at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital and credits the entire team for the safe and effective

approach.

“We are happy to provide both commercially available LAAOs on the market to our patients at Houston Methodist the Woodlands,” said Venkataraman. “Our team-based approach in performing LAAO with a non-invasive cardiologist has resulted in the exceptional safety and efficacy of LAAO here.”

Venkataraman also noted that it is important to acknowledge the role played by the exemplary transesophageal echocardiography imaging team of Dr. Preeti Desai and Dr. Rabab Mohsin during these procedures.

About Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital:

Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital is committed

to leading medicine in Montgomery County and the North Houston region by delivering exceptional safety, quality, service and innovation. The growing campus offers 293 beds and access to the most innovative care. A $250-million 2022 expansion project added 106 beds, medical/surgical extension and women’s services spaces along with nine operating rooms. It also included the expansion of the endoscopy center, emergency department and diagnostic imaging department.

Houston Methodist The Woodlands is a comprehensive

stroke center, an orthopedic center of excellence by DNV, a Level III neonatal intensive care unit as well as a Level III maternal care unit, and has achieved Magnet Designation for nursing excellence from the ANCC.

Houston Methodist The Woodlands is also ranked No. 1 nationally out of 181 members in the Complex Care Medical Centers cohort in the 2023 Vizient Quality and Accountability Ranking. For more information, visit houstonmethodist.org/ thewoodlands.

Dr. Venkataraman and team

Mental Health

How To Slow Down Before You Burn Out

By Eric Storch, Ph.D.

With a focus on mental health in all facets in life, it is important to recognize the signs of burnout in yourself and loved ones. An expert with Baylor College of Medicine explains the consequences of burnout if not attended to and how to have conversations with others about this phenomenon.

“Burnout is not a result of one singular thing,” said Dr. Eric Storch, professor and vice chair of psychology in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor. “Work, familial responsibilities and everyday stressors can all

contribute to a sense of depleting motivation.”

Burnout manifests in numerous ways, and there are various signs to indicate you are on the pathway to being burned out. Mentally, people will feel overwhelmed or anxious while going about their everyday lives, while physical symptoms include tenseness, difficulty relaxing, issues with sleep and overall fatigue. The key indicator in determining if you are burned out is a lost sense of satisfaction in successes at work or spending time with loved ones at home. When left unaddressed, burnout can lead to depression or other serious mental health issues and have detrimental effects on others.

beginning to show signs of becoming burned out at work, speak with a trusted colleague for their advice or talk to a supervisor about what you both can do to change your work environment into one that allows for a healthier balance between personal and professional responsibilities,” Storch said.

meant to be hostile and is coming from a place of concern. Use “I” statements to convey your observations and worries and let your loved one share as much information as they’d like. Try to end these conversations with action points or solutions to work toward, together if possible.

There are many preventative measures against burnout, and the first step is to have a conversation.

“If you find that you are

If loved ones begin showing signs of burnout, Storch also encourages you to reach out and have conversations with them to ensure their well-being. Articulate that the conversation is not

Addressing mental health is becoming more widely accepted; however, some people may be hesitant

see Mental Health ...page 14

Experimental Compound Extends Life in ALS Mouse Model

Molecule Discovered by UTSW Researchers Could Lead To New Therapies For Devastating Motor Neuron Disease

UTSouthwestern Medical Center researchers have identified an experimental molecular compound that improved survival among cellular models and mouse models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the fatal neurodegenerative disease. Their findings, reported in Cell Death & Disease, offer promise for the potential development of treatments for ALS, which has no effective therapy.

“This study will significantly advance the ALS field by providing a leading compound and a signaling pathway for future investigations,” said study leader Chun-Li Zhang, Ph.D., Professor of Molecular Biology and a W.W. Caruth, Jr. Scholar in Biomedical Research at UT Southwestern. Dr. Zhang is also an Investigator in the Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute at UTSW.

ALS, also known as Lou

Gehrig’s disease, affects hundreds of thousands worldwide. With onset in midlife, ALS kills motor neurons over time, gradually depriving patients of the ability to walk, talk, swallow, and breathe. Life expectancy is two to five years after diagnosis and hasn’t changed despite decades of research, Dr. Zhang explained.

Searching for potential therapies that might extend the lives of ALS patients, Dr. Zhang and his colleagues tested compounds from a pharmaceutical library on a cellular model of ALS. Because it is impossible to sample motor neurons directly from ALS patients, previous studies have largely used neurons that were derived from pluripotent stem cells. However, Dr. Zhang said, these neurons were reset to an embryonic stage, losing age-related

changes.

For the new study, the researchers used a different approach that converted ALS patients’ skin cells into motor neurons that bore marks of aging, providing a more realistic model. After dosing these cells with about 2,000 compounds, the researchers identified a promising one they dubbed Hit3. This compound reversed some of the cells’ ALS-related morphological changes, causing them to grow larger cell bodies, develop more complicated branching in their extensions, form more connections with muscle cells, and live significantly longer than cells that didn’t receive Hit3.

A closer look showed that Hit3 acts on cell proteins called MAP4Ks, which play key roles in cells’ responses to stress. Once activated, MAP4Ks regulate a cascade of other proteins involved in this role, a molecular pathway that appears critical in deciding whether motor neurons live or die and has been implicated in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.

To determine what effect manipulating this pathway could have on ALS animal models, the researchers dosed mice that had mutations in a gene called SOD1 – considered the see ALS ...page 13

Chun-Li Zhang, Ph.D., Professor of Molecular Biology, is a W.W. Caruth, Jr. Scholar in Biomedical Research at UT Southwestern and an Investigator in the Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute.

Healthy Heart Heart Disease Risk Factors in Women Highlight Need

For Increased Awareness, Prevention

By The American Heart Association

Despite the fact that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, only 22% of primary care physicians and 42% of cardiologists in a nationwide survey reported that they felt prepared to address cardiovascular disease risk in women.

High blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease, accounts for 20% of deaths in women, and obesity has a particularly high impact on the development of high blood pressure in women.

Previous national educational advocacy programs improved awareness of heart disease as a major health risk for women, yet that awareness has decreased over the past decade. A 2019 survey found that most women were unable to identify the signs or symptoms of a heart attack, with recognition lowest among young Asian, Black and

Hispanic women. These disparities in awareness of heart disease risk factors and knowledge of symptoms affect treatment strategies, which may lead to poorer outcomes.

Studies show the lifetime stroke risk is comparable for women and men, but women with ischemic stroke are less likely to be transported to the hospital by emergency medical services and to receive prompt imaging and blood thinners. Women are also more likely to die within 30 days of stroke hospitalization.

Wenger said, “About 80-90% of cardiovascular disease is preventable. Implementing preventive strategies early could have a significant impact on reducing premature cardiovascular disease, stroke and related mortality for women.”

Public health interventions focused on social determinants of health are needed to optimize cardiovascular

health across a woman’s life span. More research on cardiovascular prevention and treatment for women is needed, focusing on people in under-resourced communities.

Improving heart health for pregnant and post-partum women is critical

An estimated 10%-20% of women experience pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes and/or preterm birth (delivery before 37 weeks). These complications often arise due to metabolic and vascular changes during pregnancy. Adverse pregnancy outcomes are becoming increasingly common and are considered significant risk factors for future long-term complications,

heart disease, heart failure, stroke, chronic kidney disease or vascular dementia.

Early detection and treatment of heart disease risk factors after pregnancy may help prevent future heart attack, heart failure and stroke, especially among those who have experienced one or more complications during pregnancy.

Social determinants of health, such as race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status and geography (rural vs. urban communities), also affect the prevalence of pregnancy complications and are key contributors to disparities in prenatal heart disease

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Located near The Woodlands, Texas, ranked #3 among the “Best Cities to Live in America”

Received an A+ for schools, family friendliness, and jobs

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for Huntsville Family Medicine Residency

• Teaching Faculty of Osteopathic Principles & Practices/Physician

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of Graduate Medical Education

• Director of SHSU Physicians

Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Opens Location in Rice Village with Focus On Women’s Health

Kelsey-Seybold Clinic opened a 15,000-square-foot clinic today in the historic Rice Village shopping district. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic – Rice Village is located at 2414 University Blvd., Suite 200. This location replaces Kelsey-Seybold Clinic – Woman’s Center on Fannin Street.

“Delivering convenient, comprehensive care that is tailored to meet the needs of our patients is a

value-based care for patients living and working in the area,” said Joseph Salinas, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., managing physician at Rice Village Clinic. “We look forward to having a presence in Rice Village, and our team is committed to providing compassionate, coordinated care.”

Rice Village Clinic continues the legacy of excellence established by Kelsey-Seybold’s Woman’s Center OB/GYN providers. Patients have

Rice Village Clinic has nine women’s health providers specializing in obstetrics, gynecology, and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. The clinic is easily accessible from the Rice Village parking garage.

“The addition of Rice Village Clinic will improve access to

access to an on-site laboratory and an extensive referral network of Kelsey-Seybold specialists with offices at neighboring clinics, including West University Clinic, Spencer R. Berthelsen Main Campus, Downtown Clinic, Greater Heights Clinic, and River Oaks Clinic.

Rice Village Clinic is the latest clinic opened by Kelsey-Seybold. Other recently opened clinics include South Shore Harbour Clinic, West University Clinic, Eldridge Clinic, and Springwoods Village Campus.

Brandy Bellow Spinks | Senior Vice President | +1 713 577 1642 | brandy.bellow@cbre.com

Angela Barber | Vice President | +1 713 577 3818 | angela.barber@cbre.com

UTMB School Of Nursing Ranked Among the Top Online Programs in The Nation

The University of Texas Medical Branch’s School of Nursing online program was ranked No. 4 for veterans and No. 12 for its online graduate nursing program, according to U.S. News & World Report 2024 Best Online Programs rankings.

“Our UTMB School of Nursing has a strong commitment to student success and preparing nurses to provide competent and compassionate care,” said Dr. Deborah J. Jones, Dean of the School of Nursing and UTMB Chief Integration Officer. “Many colleges in the country provide graduate nursing education, but our rankings continue to demonstrate that we provide the high-quality training that patients in our community not only need but deserve.”

U.S. News & World report assesses over 1,800 online degree programs to determine their rankings. The rankings rated education programs on a scale,

including program reputation, faculty credentials, retention rates and graduate debt loads – to earn a qualifying Best Online Programs ranking.

“This is an exceptional accomplishment by our School of Nursing and speaks to the high quality of education and the significant expertise of our faculty who are educating the workforce of the future, not only for Texas but truly for our nation and world,” said Dr. Jochen Reiser, president of UTMB and CEO of the UTMB Health System. “I am proud of the great work being done in the School to ensure that all of our students— whether they attend online or in person—are receiving a top-notch health care education.”

This year’s ranking isn’t the first for the UTMB School of Nursing. Consistently, the school’s online nursing program has been ranked among the best in the

nation by the publication for several consecutive years.

“We focus on creating and sustaining an environment that allows our community to thrive in pursuit of their professional goals,” said Jones. “This ranking reminds us that the hard work of our faculty who educate the next generation of nurses and scientists, is recognized far beyond our school. I have immense gratitude to our supportive and dedicated faculty and am proud

of our passionate and driven students who become leaders in their field.”

The School of Nursing opened its doors in 1890 as the John Sealy Hospital Training School for Nurses and was the first nursing school west of the Mississippi. Today, UTMB School of Nursing graduates nearly 550 students each year and has more than 15,500 alumni worldwide.

Financial Forecast

First-Time Investors: 5 Tips for Financial Success

By Grace S. Yung, CFP Midtown Financial Group, LLC

Newto investing? In the world of investing, the power of compounding is a force to be reckoned with. Learn how you can unlock this power.

Unpacking the Power of Compounding Compounding in investing is a remarkable phenomenon that goes beyond simple interest, earning returns on both the initial investment and

power of compounding.

Prioritizing Saving: Buckets of Money and Paying Yourself First

Many people postpone investing, often citing pending expenses and debts or waiting for additional income. However, adopting a mindset of paying yourself first can revolutionize your approach to saving. This strategy involves setting aside a portion of your income before addressing other financial obligations.

Consider creating distinct savings buckets for specific goals such as vacations or a new car. For example, if you’re planning a $3,000 vacation in a year, allocate $250 per month to a dedicated savings account. By

the previously acquired returns. For example, imagine investing $1,000 at a 7% annual interest rate. In the first year, you’d earn $70 in interest, bringing your total to $1,070. However, in the second year, you’d earn 7% not just on your initial $1,000 but on the $1,070, resulting in $74.90 in interest. This compounding effect snowballs over time, highlighting the importance of a more extended time frame for exponential financial growth.

Doubling Investments: The Rule of 72

The Rule of 72 is a valuable tool for investors to estimate how long it takes for an investment to double. By dividing 72 by the annual interest rate, you can get a rough idea of the doubling period. For instance, if you achieve an average annual return of 7.2%, your investment would double in approximately 10 years (72 ÷ 7.2 = 10). This rule emphasizes the significance of initiating investments early, as time is a crucial factor in leveraging the

automating this process, you ensure consistent contributions and build a financial cushion for your goals. The same principle applies to longer-term objectives, such as saving for a car purchase in three years. Allocate funds monthly to match or approach your anticipated future car payment, fostering disciplined saving habits.

Allocating Assets: A Strategic Approach to Diversification

Asset Allocation — diversifying funds across various asset classes — is a cornerstone of a sound investment strategy to mitigate risk. It involves distributing your funds across various asset classes to mitigate risk. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for risk tolerance; it’s a personalized aspect of financial planning.

For instance, consider a young investor with a longer time horizon.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land

Welcomes Michael Garcia as New CEO

Houston Methodist’s Michael Garcia, A Senior Vice President, Is the New Chief Executive Officer Of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Effective Feb. 5, 2024.

Garcia, JD, RN, NE-BC, has more than a decade of experience within Houston Methodist, having started his career as vice president of operations at Houston Methodist Hospital in 2013. He was promoted to chief operating officer in 2015 and served in that role throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am honored to join Houston Methodist Sugar Land as its new CEO. The hospital has a rich history in Fort Bend County – providing unparalleled and compassionate care to our community,” Garcia said. “One of my key priorities is to build upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessor, Chris Siebenaler. As he moves into his new role within

the Houston Methodist system, I’m excited I’ll still be able to collaborate with him as we embrace opportunities for growth.”

While at Houston Methodist Hospital, Garcia managed multiple hospital programs including the J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center, the Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, the Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, the Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Disorders, Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine and the Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center.

“Michael’s 32 years of health care experience, combined with his exceptional commitment to Houston

Methodist, ensures his success as a CEO in our system,” stated Marc L. Boom, president, and chief executive officer of Houston Methodist, in an email to all employees. “Houston Methodist Sugar Land will benefit from Michael’s understanding of hospital operations and his ability to develop personal relationships with his employees, staff and physicians. He has the perfect mix of skill, talent and personality for this top leadership job.”

Garcia is excited to begin his new role and develop new relationships across Fort Bend County as the new leader of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

“I believe in a collaborative approach to health care, working closely with our talented staff, physicians and community partners.

By working together, we can address the evolving health care needs of our community and enhance the overall well-being of our patients.” 

Michael Garcia

ALS

Continued from page 6

most aggressive form of ALS with a compound related to Hit3 called MAP4Ki. Mice that didn’t receive this compound had a dramatic loss of motor neurons and died at an average of 129 days. However, mice that received MAP4Ki maintained significantly more motor neurons and lived 10 days

Healthy Heart

Continued from page 7

risk factors, access to care, and outcomes for both the mother and infant.

The first year after delivery is a critical time to assess long-term heart disease risk and implement lifestyle changes and treatment, if needed, to improve heart health for women and reduce the risk of future pregnancy

UTMB

Continued from page 10

“This achievement by UTMB’s outstanding School of Nursing demonstrates the excellent training that our nursing faculty and our

Financial Forecast

Continued from page 11

They might opt for a more aggressive asset allocation, emphasizing growth-oriented financial investments that carry higher risk but offer greater potential returns. On the other hand, an older investor approaching retirement may prefer a more conservative approach to protect their accumulated wealth. Collaborating with a CFP® professional can help tailor an asset allocation strategy that aligns with individual risk tolerance and financial goals.

Enlisting Professional Guidance:

longer. “Even though MAP4Ki extended survival by just a short time, our results suggest treatments that block the MAP4K pathway could one day be useful therapeutically,” Dr. Zhang said.

Because MAP4Ki isn’t optimized for pharmaceutical use – it degrades

quickly and can’t cross the blood-brain barrier, limiting its absorption – this compound has significant room for chemical manipulations that could improve its activity, Dr. Zhang said. In addition, he noted, because targeting the MAP4K pathway has shown promise, researchers could eventually

develop other drugs designed to affect this pathway more successfully. The hope is that this could potentially extend ALS patients’ life span.

complications for individuals who plan on future pregnancies.

However, many women face significant barriers in accessing primary care after delivery. Up to 40% of women do not access postpartum care, and only an estimated 18% to 25% of postpartum patients with pregnancy

complications or chronic health conditions are seen by a primary care clinician within 6 months of delivery.

Lifestyle interventions based on the AHA’s Life’s Essential 8 cardiovascular health metrics are urged to optimize heart health, particularly during the first 12 months after delivery.

Evidence-based approaches that target achieving a healthy weight, healthy diet and regular physical activity can help reduce short- and long-term heart disease risks associated with adverse pregnancy complications.

nursing leadership provides,” said Dr. Charles P. Mouton, Executive Vice President, Provost and Dean, John Sealy School of Medicine

at UTMB. “UTMB’s School of Nursing matriculates individuals that embody this quote: ‘Nurses are a unique kind. They have this

insatiable need to care for others, which is their greatest strength.’”

The Role of a CFP® Professional

Navigating the complexities of financial planning can be challenging, particularly for first-time investors. Getting help from a CFP® professional adds a necessary layer of expertise to your investment journey.

A CFP® professional considers various factors when crafting a financial plan, including risk minimization strategies, asset allocation and diversification across different account types (taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free). Their expertise allows for

a holistic approach, ensuring that your financial goals align with a comprehensive and well-thought-out investment strategy. As part of the CFP® certification, CFP® professionals make a commitment to CFP Board to always act as a fiduciary when providing financial advice to a client. This means they have agreed to put their clients’ best interests first.

In conclusion, first-time investors can embark on a successful financial journey by understanding and harnessing the power of compounding,

prioritizing saving, strategically diversifying investments and seeking the guidance of a CFP® professional. These pillars lay the foundation for building wealth and achieving long-term financial success.

AI Framework

Continued from page 1

is it outward-facing, a result given to customers that can potentially influence their choices, even if they lack expertise in the tool’s subject area?

5. Is it accurate? Accuracy is and will be the most critical factor in analyzing any AI tool. The tool’s accuracy must meet or exceed applicable thresholds based on the application (otherwise, it could be more problematic than beneficial).

Oncology

Continued from page 3

• Engaging in mindfulness and relaxation techniques

• Seeking support from friends and family

• Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers

In addition, by communicating clearly about what the procedure entails and the timeline for results and follow up, physicians can alleviate fears and support patients with the information they need to follow through with getting a screening.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Colonoscopies

The observance of colorectal cancer awareness in March is an ideal time to acknowledge and address the scanxiety associated with colonoscopies. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal

Mental Health

Continued from page 5

to understand its impact on work or life. Storch still encourages conversations with these individuals, but he advises trying to skew conversations to more objective and logical reasoning. Emphasize that individual success is important to programmatic success and that leaving your concerns unaddressed will harm the system. Self-advocacy skills are crucial to navigating difficult conversations. Practice having those conversations

Where an AI tool appears more accurate than not, the level of effort to check results degrades. To prevent blind trust, accuracy in AI results must not be presumed; rather, there should always be a “trust but verify” mentality that confirms accuracy and reinforces the users’ understanding of the AI tool and the potential errors that may arise in use.

II. Conclusion

cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. among men and women combined and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Colonoscopies can prevent colorectal cancer through the detection and removal of precancerous growths at an early stage when treatment is usually more successful. For those at average risk, colonoscopies are recommended beginning at age 45. However, people with concerning symptoms (such as rectal bleeding, unintentional weight loss, or changes in bowel habits), inflammatory bowel disease, those with inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome, and individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are considered higher risk and should consult with their doctor to determine

When considering the nascent regulatory field for use of generative AI in business and the potential pitfalls of AI use—this framework for AI assessment reduces risk and error. A comprehensive, balanced approach will be needed as AI technology, regulations and industry-specific considerations continue to evolve.

with someone you trust before speaking with more intimidating individuals.

“Remember, no one can look out for you like you can for yourself,” Storch said.

Some people may find themselves in situations where others rely on them, and they do not feel as if taking a break is even possible. If conversations do not prove fruitful in this situation, Storch says to encourage

the appropriate age to begin colorectal cancer screening.

Colonoscopies often have a reputation for being stressful, painful, or embarrassing. This common procedure is usually quick and can be done under different types of anesthesia. The prep ahead of the procedure is typically the most difficult part and can be handled in the privacy of the patient’s home.

Scans are an essential part of cancer treatment and survivorship care, so recognizing and managing scanxiety is essential to help patients get the care they need. By appreciating the courage, it takes to get screened, one is already on the path to winning the fight against cancer. 

them to take a break anyways to show them that their world will not crumble if they are not present.

“You can go at life at 90 miles-an-hour, but you’ll quickly find out that you won’t be able to maintain that pace for long,” said Storch. “Once you learn effective self-care, which often means stopping for breaks, you’ll find out that you’re able to go further than you thought possible.” 