Episode 53 - Bud Flagstad, Chief Executive Officer at Empower Health

Welcome back to Episode 53 of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast! In today’s episode, Norm Volsky interviews Bud Flagstad, CEO of Empower Health. Bud shares his journey from a young tech enthusiast to a leader in healthcare technology, detailing his extensive experience at UnitedHealth Group and the innovations he spearheaded. He discusses the challenges of working in large organizations versus startups, the role of AI in healthcare, and how Empower Health is leveraging technology to improve patient engagement and reduce costs. Bud also opens up about his personal health journey, stress management techniques, and the importance of healthy living.

Takeaways

 🤖 Bud's early exposure to technology shaped his career in healthcare.

 🏥 His experience at UnitedHealth Group provided valuable insights into the healthcare system.

💡 Innovation in telehealth was a significant achievement during his tenure at UHG.

🤖 Empower Health focuses on AI-driven solutions to enhance patient engagement.

🌱 Bud emphasizes the importance of adaptability in different organizational environments.

 🩺 AI can help reduce clinician burnout and improve care delivery efficiency.

🌐 The platform developed by Empower Health supports multiple languages and modalities.

 🏃‍♂️ Bud's personal health journey highlights the impact of lifestyle changes on well-being.

 🔮 The future of AI in healthcare is promising, with potential for significant advancements.

 🍳 Bud's passion for cooking serves as a stress relief and a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Chapters

00:00 UPDATED Animation INtro.mp4

00:10 Bud Flagstad's Journey in the Healthcare Industry

03:12 Building an Innovation Team at UnitedHealth Group

05:57 Developing Telehealth Solutions

13:09 Building Mobile Solutions in Healthcare

20:23 Identifying Gaps in the US Healthcare System

23:14 Becoming CEO of Empower Health

25:16 Empower Health's Solutions for Care Manager and Nurse Shortages

30:46 Impressive Results: Cost Savings and Engagement

35:54 Empower Health's Vision for the Future of AI in Care Delivery

39:31 Bud Flagstad's Role as a Board Member and Advisor

45:00 Managing Stress and Practicing Wellness in a Stressful Job

47:38 Healthy Recipes and Lifestyle Changes

49:11 Outro

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