In The News
Understanding GERD: Why Managing Acid Reflux is Essential for Long-Term Health
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a common yet potentially serious condition affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is defined as chronic acid reflux that occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows up into the esophagus, leading to inflammation and potential complications. While occasional heartburn is common, poorly managed GERD can have significant consequences on your … Read More
Ask the Doctor: Spring Allergies
Springtime’s inspiring blooms can delight the senses – but for allergy sufferers, they can also trigger uncomfortable reactions. Is there a way to enjoy spring without suffering? “Yes,” says Farhan Ayoub, MD, an internal medicine specialist at Hoag Medical Group who practices in Huntington Beach. “The first step is determining if you have seasonal allergies.” … Read More
Skin Cancer Prevention: Answers to 3 Common Questions
May is skin cancer awareness month, but those of us in Southern California would be wise to adopt a comprehensive approach to sun protection all year long, said Steven Q. Wang, M.D., Chief of Dermatology at Hoag Family Cancer Institute. “Sun avoidance, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and, of course, applying sunscreen correctly are essential … Read More
The Heart of Healing: Celebrating Hoag’s Moms
At home, they nurture. At work, they heal. This Mother’s Day, we honor the women who carry two of life’s most meaningful callings—raising families and caring for others. From midnight fevers to emergency rooms, from homework help to holding hands through hard moments, these moms embody strength, compassion, and an unwavering sense of purpose. We … Read More
Women Deserve to Prioritize Their Health — Without Guilt
Between careers, caregiving, households and everything in between, women often carry a heavy load. It’s easy to lose sight of personal health when you’re focused on everyone else’s needs. “All people can get bogged down in the busy day-to-day of life. Women, in particular, juggle so many responsibilities that can make it challenging to develop … Read More
Stroke: Minimizing Risks and Understanding Warning Signs
While stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death and the leading cause of long-term disability, 80 percent of strokes are preventable, said the program director of Hoag’s Stroke Program. Hoag is a national leader in treating stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted or blocked, either by a blocked artery or … Read More
Hoag’s Commitment to Innovation Creates New Paths for Parkinson’s Treatment
Parkinson’s disease creates limits. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder leads to tremors, rigidity, and slow movements, which can impact a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks—such as walking up and down stairs, holding utensils, or tying their shoes. Hoag’s Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute is dedicated to removing those limits by creating innovative paths to care. The … Read More
FAQ: Hoag’s Contract Negotiations with Blue Shield
Updated June 13, 2025 After several months of negotiations with Blue Shield of California (Blue Shield), Hoag is pleased to announce we have reached a mutually beneficial agreement with commercial PPO and HMO and Medicare PPO plan. This means that all commercial HMO, PPO and Medicare PPO lines of business will remain contracted and there … Read More
Early Warning Signs of Oral Cancer: What You Need to Know
Take a minute to look inside your mouth. The lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth make up your oral cavity. Oral cancer begins when cells in any of these areas mutate and accumulate, forming a tumor. If left undetected, the cancer can grow and even spread to nearby lymph … Read More
Leading With Compassion and an Innovative Mindset: A conversation with Hoag OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Karamardian
Lisa M. Karamardian, MD, FACOG, Jeffrey M. Carlton Endowed Chair in Women’s Health, in honor of Dr. Anne M. Kent, has spent more than 25 years as one of Hoag’s beloved OB/GYNs. Below, she shares some of her favorite moments as a physician, her inspirations, and advice for those embarking on a similar path in … Read More