Welcome back to the Second Season of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for our Third Episode. Today, Norm Volsky interviews Steve Blumenfield, the global head of partnerships and alliances at Willis Towers Watson. Steve shares his journey from strategy consulting to benefits consulting, discussing the evolution of the healthcare landscape, innovations in the early 2000s, and the challenges faced by health plans in engaging consumers. He reflects on his experiences in the PBM industry, the importance of building partnerships, and the trends shaping digital health today. Steve also offers insights into the future of benefits consulting, the role of AI in healthcare, and shares his personal wellness practices.

Takeaways

🧳 Steve's journey into healthcare was inspired by personal experiences and family health issues.
📊 The benefits consulting landscape has evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on innovation and client-specific solutions.
🤯 Engagement remains a critical challenge for health plans, as consumers often feel overwhelmed by options.
🤝 Building partnerships and alliances is essential for navigating the complex healthcare ecosystem.
📱 The rise of digital health solutions has transformed the way benefits are delivered and managed.
🤖 AI is poised to play a significant role in enhancing patient care and engagement.
🔑 Vendors must focus on delivering real value to gain trust and establish long-term relationships with clients.
🌀 Point solution fatigue is a common issue, and effective navigation tools are needed to help clients manage their options.
🔮 The future of benefits consulting will involve increased accountability and a focus on cost management.
💪 Personal wellness practices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, are crucial for maintaining health in a high-stress industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Steve Blumenfield and His Journey

02:30 Transitioning from Strategy to Benefits Consulting

06:04 Innovations in the Early 2000s Benefits Landscape

07:30 Insights from the PBM Industry

09:22 Challenges in Health Plan Engagement

11:42 Returning to Willis Towers Watson

13:43 The Evolution of Digital Health

15:21 Building Strategic Partnerships

17:12 Lessons Learned from the Past Decade

21:58 Proud Accomplishments and Industry Impact

26:17 Identifying Durable Digital Health Solutions

27:02 Evaluating Solutions for Durability and Engagement

29:35 Navigating Point Solution Fatigue

31:47 The Challenge of Vendor Promises

33:59 Advice for New Vendors in the Market

36:26 Current Trends in Digital Health

38:29 The Future of Selling to Benefits Leaders

40:37 Predictions for Accountability and AI in Healthcare

45:03 Personal Wellness Practices and Philosophy

49:16 Outro

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Episode 3: Steve Bluemenfield, Global Head of Partnerships and Alliances at Willis Towers Watson