The Heart of Healthcare | A Digital Health Podcast

Thomas Goetz, a journalist and entrepreneur, co-founded Building H to address corporate health accountability. He discusses how many products prioritize profits over wellness, making healthy choices tough for Americans. Goetz introduces a corporate health index aimed at evaluating companies' impact on consumer health. He highlights successful models like Pokémon Go that encourage healthier behavior. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to integrate health metrics into their models and the potential of public benefit corporations to lead this shift.

2025 brings both challenges and innovation in healthcare. The sobering aftermath of a CEO's murder looms over UnitedHealth. Technology plays a crucial role in crisis management with the Watch Duty app, aiding Californians during wildfires. The FDA proposes new health initiatives, while concerns rise about healthcare consolidation. Investing in women's health shows a promising economic return, spotlighting the urgent need for funding and support in this vital area. The intersection of climate change and public health poses significant risks that cannot be ignored.

Dr. Vikas Saini, President of the Lown Institute and a clinical cardiologist, dives into the shocking world of healthcare profiteering. He discusses the annual Shkreli Awards, spotlighting cases like a Texas school selling deceased body parts and an oncologist's harmful practices. The conversation also touches on the controversial rise of unnecessary infant procedures and the role of private equity in bankrupting community hospitals. Through these alarming examples, Dr. Saini reveals critical insights about the ethical dilemmas and future of the American healthcare system.

Andrew Hedin and Morgan Cheatham from Bessemer Venture Partners share their insights on the future of healthcare innovation. They discuss the evolving implications of Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements for Obamacare and how shifting employment dynamics will impact health insurance. The duo delves into the role of AI in home healthcare, improving caregiver support, and enhancing family interactions with aging relatives. Optimism shines through as they highlight emerging therapies, new payment models, and the exciting potential for startups by 2025.

D.A. Wallach, a venture capitalist at Time BioVentures and former frontman of Chester French, dives into the murky waters of healthcare ethics. He draws fascinating parallels between music and medicine, questioning outdated titles like 'doctor' and advocating for AI's role in patient care. With a focus on the need for a universal, evidence-based standard of care, he critiques the current profit-driven systems and urges a reevaluation of healthcare relationships. Wallach's insights promise a provocative peek into a future where compassion meets innovation.

Thousands of healthcare leaders gather in San Francisco, sparking discussions on digital health trends. The podcast tackles the political heat on pharmacy benefit managers from figures like Trump and Warren. There's a deep dive into surprising patient satisfaction levels contrasted with systemic complaints. We learn about UPS's innovative healthcare logistics shift and the controversial $50 fee for patient messaging. Plus, the acquisition of Accolade by Transcarent hints at a wave of M&A in the health sector, reshaping the landscape.

Annie Lamont, co-founder of Oak HC/FT and a five-time Midas List investor, shares her extensive experience in healthcare investing. She discusses the transformative potential of AI in American healthcare and the possible resurgence of IPOs by 2025. Annie also warns entrepreneurs about the 'revenge of the incumbents' and emphasizes the importance of strong business models for attracting investment. Furthermore, she reflects on the implications of new healthcare policies and the challenges posed by hospital monopolies in the industry.

Megan Zweig, President and CEO of Rock Health Advisory, dives into the captivating shifts in digital health for 2024. She discusses how funding rebounded to $10 billion with a focus on sustainability. AI made waves, capturing 40% of investment dollars despite fierce competition. Additionally, Zweig highlights the surprising resilience of past unicorns and strategic partnerships, like Eli Lilly's with Ro, which signals a new era in weight care. The conversation also touches on the growing importance of women's health and innovative care solutions.

Seth Sternberg, Co-founder and CEO of Honor, previously led Meebo before pioneering changes in home care. He discusses how AI rescued Honor from collapse and transformed the industry, utilizing 22 models to enhance care and retention. Interesting insights include why caregiver satisfaction goes beyond pay, the shift to W2 employees, and how 'revealed preferences' match caregivers and clients. He also contrasts international home care practices and explores expanding services to address aging challenges.

Dr. Sachin Jain critiques the 'toxic positivity' in healthcare, urging for radical changes rather than minor tweaks. He highlights challenges in Medicare Advantage, including benefit cuts and market exits, alongside the failures of healthcare consolidation. Jain points out the flaws in value-based care that prioritize short-term metrics over meaningful long-term health improvements. He also shares insights on SCAN’s mission to help seniors age at home and calls for innovative leadership to revolutionize the healthcare landscape.