The Gist Healthcare Podcast

In today’s episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast, we look at headlines making waves in the industry: Qualtrics’ plan to acquire Press Ganey Forsta in a multibillion-dollar deal, new polling that shows a decline in public trust in the CDC, and a report revealing that some potentially unnecessary back surgeries have cost Medicare nearly $2 billion over three years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast, President Trump signals that he's open to healthcare discussions with Democratic lawmakers as part of efforts to end the government shutdown. General Catalyst’s HATCo has finalized its acquisition of Summa Health. And the CDC approves new vaccine recommendations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unpack the tense political drama around extending Affordable Care Act tax credits as lawmakers scramble to avert a shutdown. Discover how a new agreement between the Trump administration and Pfizer aims to cut drug prices for Americans. Dive into the competitive landscape of AI in healthcare, where lawsuits are flying over alleged code theft and market strategies. A mix of policy, pricing, and tech rivalry makes for a riveting discussion!

A proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B work visas may exacerbate physician shortages in healthcare. Meanwhile, the CMS pilot introducing AI-driven prior authorizations is facing criticism from Congress. Exciting news comes from Medline, hinting at a potential $50 billion IPO next month. Additionally, UnitedHealthcare has launched a new marketplace for members to purchase wellness and chronic care benefits. Stay tuned for these impactful developments!

The CDC's top vaccine panel is gearing up for crucial votes, shifting from universal COVID-19 recommendations to tailored discussions between providers and patients. Privia Health is making waves by acquiring Evolent's ACO business, expanding its value-based care model. Meanwhile, a GAO report sheds light on the troubling trend of urban hospital closures and the significant community impact, leaving many without essential emergency services. As the healthcare landscape shifts, listeners will want to stay tuned for more insights!

The discussion highlights a controversial claim linking prenatal Tylenol use to autism and ADHD, sparking debate among medical professionals. We also dive into Omnicare's recent bankruptcy filing, revealing the financial repercussions of a False Claims Act verdict. In Texas, VillageMD's sale of clinics raises questions about healthcare access amid Walgreens' ownership changes. Lastly, a teaser hints at an upcoming report on urban hospital closures and their connection to rising costs and aging facilities.

Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah, an associate professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine, shares her journey as a medical consultant for the acclaimed HBO Max series The Pitt. She discusses her surprising first encounters with Noah Wyle and the show's writers, emphasizing her contributions to storylines about the sickle cell pain crisis and its reflection of racial disparities in emergency care. Dr. Owusu-Ansah highlights how the show's structure captures the essence of a real emergency department, bringing clinical realism to the screen.

House Republicans are pushing a funding bill that keeps telehealth options but dodges Affordable Care Act subsidies. Health insurers promise to maintain coverage for vaccines despite uncertainties about future access. Meanwhile, Kaiser Permanente is expanding into Nevada through a new joint venture that enhances local healthcare services. Additionally, a survey reveals that many healthcare workers are considering job changes due to burnout and pay issues. Tune in for these insights and more!

Discover the launch of a transformative $50 billion program aimed at rural health improvement. Learn about the recent appointments to a pivotal CDC vaccine advisory panel, and the controversies surrounding their perspectives. A shocking report reveals that only 5% of plastic medical waste is currently recycled, sparking discussions on sustainability in healthcare. Plus, delve into LabCorp's strategic acquisition of oncology testing assets, highlighting the evolving landscape of medical services.

States are crafting their own vaccine guidelines to cut through federal confusion, with a West Coast alliance leading the charge. Telehealth company Remedy Meds is making waves by acquiring rival Thirty Madison. A new study reveals that the No Surprises Act is lowering out-of-pocket costs for consumers by over $500 annually. Meanwhile, leadership shifts at the CDC and various medical societies are reshaping vaccine recommendations and insurance coverage policies. Florida's move to eliminate vaccine mandates adds another intriguing twist to the healthcare narrative.