Dr. Marc S. Berger, MD
Presentation Title:
Cannabis Uncovered: Diagnostic Challenges, Clinical Innovations for Long Covid, and Implications for the Elderly
Dr. Marc S. Berger, MD
Abstract:
This talk, titled "Cannabis Uncovered: Diagnostic Challenges, Clinical Innovations for Long Covid, and Implications for the Elderly," delves into three pivotal areas at the intersection of cannabis science and clinical practice. First, we explore the complexities of urine drug screening, highlighting instances of false positive results for non-THC cannabinoids and the diagnostic challenges they pose. By examining current laboratory methodologies and potential confounding factors, we aim to provide clarity on how clinicians can navigate these pitfalls to ensure accurate patient assessments.
Next, the talk presents a comprehensive overview of an innovative clinical trial design aimed at investigating the efficacy of medical marijuana in alleviating symptoms of Long Covid. With emerging evidence suggesting that cannabinoids may play a role in modulating inflammation and immune response, our discussion will focus on the rationale behind the trial, key design considerations, and the challenges inherent in studying a multifaceted condition like Long Covid.
Finally, the talk addresses the nuanced role of cannabis in elderly care. A review both the therapeutic potential and the risks associated with cannabis use in older adults, emphasizing the need for tailored dosing, awareness of drug interactions, and age-specific considerations in treatment protocols.
By integrating these three themes, this presentation offers a multidimensional perspective on cannabis—from its diagnostic implications to its emerging therapeutic roles—aiming to foster informed discussion and guide future research directions in this evolving field.
Bio:
Marc S. Berger, M.D., C.M., FAAFP is an “Old Fashioned, yet New-Fangled” general Medical Physician, Board Certified in both Geriatrics and Family Medicine. Dr. Berger, a “baby-boomer,” grew up in California, graduated from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and then attended medical school at McGill University, in Montreal, Canada. He finished his Residency in Family Medicine at St. Joseph’s Hospital, in Yonkers, New York in 1986. They started a “mom and pop” Family Practice in Stroudsburg, in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. After almost 10 years of rural practice, they moved to Reading, PA to work in academia and consulting, and then moved to Florida in 2000.
Dr. Marc S. Berger was Associate Program Director at The Reading Hospital and Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency Program, and later an Associate Professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Medical School, and recently Associate Professor at another residency program. Dr. Berger has working in many different medical situations, including Private Practice, Group clinics, Hospital wards, Intensive Care Units, Pediatric and Newborn care, Geriatrics, Nursing Homes, Public Health clinics, Hospices, the Veterans Administration, and MacDill Air Force Base. Now he is starting a unique consulting practice in Safety Harbor, Florida: Hourly Medical Consulting.
Disclaimer: Marc has never inhaled Marijuana!