Becker’s Payer Issues Podcast

In this episode, Rushil Desai, President and CEO of Aetna Better Health of Illinois, discusses key trends in Medicaid managed care, including the integration of behavioral health and social needs, the impact of digital health solutions, and the future of value-based care. He also shares insights into the innovative programs improving access and equity for Illinois' most vulnerable populations.

In this episode, George Halvorson, Chair and CEO of the Institute for InterGroup Understanding and former CEO of Kaiser Permanente, shares insights on the evolution of Medicare Advantage, its success in delivering quality care, and its role in shaping the future of healthcare. Halvorson delves into key topics like capitation, healthcare cost management, and the ongoing challenges facing the Medicare system.

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In this episode, Chronis Manolis, Senior Vice President, Pharmacy and Chief Pharmacy Officer at UPMC Health Plan, shares his perspective on the evolving pharmacy and drug access landscape. He discusses the challenges surrounding rising drug costs, GLP-1 medications, and the future of pharmacy benefit management in a complex healthcare environment.

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In this episode, Laura Dyrda speaks with Joanne McFall, Market President of Keystone First and AmeriHealth Caritas Pennsylvania. Joanne shares her insights on post-pandemic Medicaid unwinding, rising healthcare costs, and the role of managed care in addressing social factors like housing and food insecurity to improve health outcomes.

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In this episode, Joe Glinka, Director of PA HealthChoices at Highmark Whole Care, delves into the complexities of managing Medicaid in Pennsylvania, addressing issues like rising healthcare costs, the impact of social determinants on health, and the innovative community initiatives Highmark is undertaking to support vulnerable populations.

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 In this episode, Dr. Lisa Saul, UnitedHealthcare’s National Medical Director of Maternal Child Health, discusses the key findings from the 2024 Maternal and Infant Health Disparities Data Brief. Dr. Saul highlights persistent disparities in health outcomes and shares how UnitedHealthcare is working to improve maternal and infant care through community engagement and collaborative efforts.