‘Heart to Heart’ talks with nurse-scientist Dr. Balas

Michele Balas, PhD, UNMC’s 18th Scientist Laureate, and UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, talk during the latest latest “Health Care Heart to Heart” podcast.

Michele Balas, PhD, UNMC’s 18th Scientist Laureate, and UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, talk during the latest latest “Health Care Heart to Heart” podcast.

In his latest “Health Care Heart to Heart” podcast, now streaming, UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, speaks with Michele Balas, PhD, UNMC’s 18th Scientist Laureate.

Dr. Balas, the first nurse-scientist to be honored as Scientist Laureate, talked with Chancellor Gold about the award.

“To my knowledge, it’s the first time someone from the College of Nursing, but most importantly a nurse-scientist, has received the award. So that is what I find most thrilling,” she said.

Dr. Balas also discusses her background, her decision to become a nurse, what lured her into research and the exciting trial she is working on now, something she calls her “dream research,” examining the effects on new technology compared to an extra nurse on patient health outcomes. The project grew from an earlier study, which was funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, that Dr. Balas said led to a change in the standards of care in hospitals throughout the country.

“Health Care Heart to Heart” posts new podcasts every other week, as Dr. Gold speaks to national, regional and local health care leaders on issues of importance. On each new episode, Dr. Gold and his guests will share information, explore health care challenges and opportunities and leave listeners thinking about how they, too, can make a difference. 

“Health Care Heart to Heart” episodes will be updated on the official podcast website and can be streamed on the following platforms: SpotifyApple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.  

5 comments

  1. Amy Steinauer says:

    Wow! Congratulations! I love her enthusiasm for improving care through nursing practices.

  2. Heidi Keeler says:

    Love this! It is so energizing to see our beloved leader and role model featured.

  3. Kathryn Fiandt says:

    Great role model on the impact of nurse-scientists on health care. Congratulations Michele! we are so lucky to have you at the College of Nursing and leading our research enterprise.

  4. Marna says:

    Go Michele! You are an incredible asset to our College of Nursing, university, and world.

  5. Mariya Kovaleva says:

    Very interesting conversation and the study!

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