Dhruv Khullar, a physician and health policy expert who writes for The New Yorker, explores the complexities of modern medicine, comparing it to a Gilded Age. He discusses how groundbreaking innovations often obscure deep systemic issues like rising costs and misaligned incentives. The conversation dives into the effects of private equity on healthcare, the pitfalls of Medicare Advantage, and the significance of clinicians engaging in health policy debates. Khullar emphasizes the need to address access and equity in the healthcare system.

Dr. Dhruv Khullar discusses the impact of medications like Ozempic on diabetes, weight loss, heart health, and addiction treatment. They explore societal perceptions of weight, body image, and the challenges in healthcare. The episode also covers the economic influence of Novo Nordisk and concerns with drug manufacturing and compound pharmacies.