The Strategy of Health

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Don Berwick—Senior Fellow at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and former Administrator of CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)—for an in-depth conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing U.S. healthcare.Dr. Don Berwick shares firsthand insights on running CMS during the rollout of the Affordable Care Act, the founding of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation, and what it means to shift an agency’s culture toward quality and patient-centered care. The discussion explores Medicare Advantage, payment reform, and how privatization and policy changes have shaped the healthcare landscape over the last decade. Dr. Berwick offers a candid assessment of the impact of political leadership, the influence of moneyed interests, and the need for a renewed social contract to achieve meaningful change.Listeners will also hear Dr. Berwick’s advice for the next generation of healthcare leaders: why collaboration, crossing disciplinary boundaries, and holding onto core values are key to progress. This episode is a must-watch for healthcare executives, policymakers, and anyone interested in healthcare strategy, Medicare, health policy, and leadership.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 Dr. Don Berwick's Background and Career02:22 Impact of the Affordable Care Act03:50 Challenges and Achievements at CMS06:04 Current State and Future of Healthcare13:04 The Role of Money in Healthcare22:22 Advice for Future Healthcare Leaders24:41 Cross-Disciplinary Learning and Innovation31:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we sit down with Shlomit Schaal, MD, PhD, MHCM, to explore the Joy in Medicine Initiative at Houston Methodist, a transformative program aimed at improving physician wellbeing and restoring meaning in medical practice. Dr. Schaal, a respected leader in healthcare innovation, shares insights into the real-world challenges of driving engagement—even when programs are mandatory—and offers a firsthand look at how organizations can build momentum in both primary care and specialty care settings.We discuss the nuances of physician burnout, the cultural barriers to participation, and the importance of synergy across departments. Dr. Schaal also reflects on the early results of the initiative and what the future may hold as Houston Methodist continues to scale its efforts. Whether you're a healthcare executive, clinician, or strategist, this conversation offers practical takeaways for designing more effective wellness programs.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:55 Dr. Schall's Journey to Houston Methodist02:21 Houston Methodist's Leadership and Culture04:19 Joy in Medicine Initiative07:55 Challenges and Solutions in Physician Wellness10:41 Implementing the Joy in Medicine Initiative26:50 Results and Future Plans30:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From the battlefield to the boardroom, Justin Cauthen’s journey offers a masterclass in leadership transformation within healthcare.In this episode of Clinicians in Leadership, we sit down with Justin Cauthen, a retiring U.S. Army flight medic turned clinical executive, to explore how military leadership principles translate into the civilian healthcare landscape. Cauthen shares powerful lessons from leading medevac units and advising the Afghan Surgeon General, all the way to managing a 2,700-person, multi-state healthcare system. His insights highlight the often-unspoken divide between clinicians and executives—and how to bridge it with empathy, structure, and trust.We dive into pressing topics like clinician burnout, moral injury, retention, and the importance of psychological safety. Cauthen explains why leadership must be professionalized, how executives can become true advocates, and how understanding the “love language” of clinicians leads to better operational alignment. He also unpacks how fostering empowerment, educational investment, and real presence on the floor leads to higher retention—like the 94% rate he helped achieve.Whether you're a clinician stepping into leadership or an administrator eager to support your staff more effectively, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:50 Guest's Military and Medical Background01:21 Transition to Civilian Life and Leadership Roles03:23 Bridging the Gap Between Clinical Staff and Administration04:27 Common Misunderstandings and Communication Gaps06:40 Importance of Financial Literacy for Clinicians10:27 Advocating for Clinical Staff15:07 Creating a Culture of Safety and Support19:27 Addressing Burnout and Retention Issues24:28 Daily Routines and Long-term Culture Building29:00 The Burden of Meetings29:30 Empathy and Presence in Leadership30:30 Effective Decision Making31:12 Bridging the Gap Between Leaders and Staff32:35 Empowering Frontline Staff33:49 Handling Criticism and Building Trust44:42 Innovative Support Programs49:19 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders

Discover how healthcare transformation takes root from the top in this inspiring conversation with Marna Borieux, DHA, MBA, Chief of Staff, Vice President for Executive Administration, and now Vice President & Administrator for the Primary Care Service Line at Inova Health System. In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy Podcast, we explore Inova’s multi-year transformation journey built on systemness, stewardship, and a relentless focus on culture.Marna shares how her decision to pursue a Doctor of Healthcare Administration at MUSC shaped her leadership philosophy and equipped her to lead through complex change. She details her transition from Cleveland Clinic to Inova, the organizational redesign sparked by new executive leadership, and how Inova accelerated its “Drive to Excellence” strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic.Key themes include healthcare system integration, margin improvement without sacrificing morale, employee engagement through purpose and joy, and the importance of consistent operating rhythms in sustaining culture and outcomes. Whether you're an emerging healthcare leader or a seasoned executive, Marna's perspective offers invaluable insights on leading transformation with empathy, strategy, and intention.00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Lifelong Learning00:29 Meet Marna Borieux: Career and Expanded Role (Chief of Staff, VP for Executive Administration, and now VP & Administrator, Primary Care Service Line)Note: At the time of recording, Marna was Chief of Staff and VP for Executive Administration. She has since accepted the position of Vice President & Administrator for the Primary Care Service Line at Inova Health System.01:03 Inova Health System: Mission and Impact02:22 Marna's Educational Journey and Leadership Development05:48 Transition to Inova Health System08:32 Leadership Traits and Career Decisions11:31 Inova's Transformation Journey24:18 Sustaining Organizational Excellence26:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for Emerging Leaders

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Weshler, Vice President of Outpatient Solutions at Siemens Healthineers, to explore how health systems can leverage smarter technology and global best practices to meet rising demand, workforce shortages, and growing complexity—without losing sight of outcomes. With over 20 years of experience spanning biotech, diagnostics, and medical devices, Jason shares lessons from the front lines of outpatient transformation, including Siemens’ global approach to decentralized care and value-based innovation.We dive into practical examples of how health systems are extending high-quality care into rural and underserved communities, implementing AI to streamline workflows, and designing sustainable technologies that reduce costs while improving patient outcomes. From helium-free MRI scanners to mobile breast and lung cancer screenings, Jason outlines what it takes to modernize operations in an increasingly resource-constrained industry.This conversation is a must-watch for healthcare executives, strategists, outpatient leaders, and innovators focused on the future of care delivery. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into where healthcare strategy is heading.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks00:26 Meet Jason Weschler: A Journey in Healthcare01:20 The Evolution of Outpatient Care04:20 Technological Innovations in Healthcare08:12 Global Perspectives and Sustainability13:09 Future Trends and Challenges in Healthcare22:08 Closing Thoughts and Optimism for the Future

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Eric McNulty, a seasoned leadership expert and educator, to explore how values-driven leadership shapes stronger, more cohesive healthcare teams. Drawing from his experience in high-stakes environments, Eric shares how aligning teams around shared principles leads to more productive conversations, reduced conflict, and ultimately better outcomes for both staff and patients.We discuss the difference between destructive and constructive conflict, the power of leading with integrity, and why consistent values are essential in complex, high-pressure healthcare settings. Eric emphasizes that when teams rally around a shared mission, disagreements shift from divisive debates to collaborative problem-solving.Whether you're a healthcare executive, clinical leader, or aspiring strategist, this episode delivers actionable insights on how to build resilient, values-centered organizations that thrive in today’s healthcare landscape.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 Meet Eric McNulty: Leadership Expert01:05 Path to Leadership in Healthcare02:12 Challenges in Healthcare Leadership05:46 Navigating Leadership and Staffing Shortages09:01 Developing Effective Leaders15:13 Continuous Improvement and Staff Development23:07 Communicating Change and Maintaining Morale25:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert interviews and strategies shaping the future of healthcare leadership.

In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy is joined by Ryan Bengtson, President and CEO of Panda Health. They discuss Panda Health's evolution from a digital health marketplace to a comprehensive digital health partner. Bengtson shares his journey in healthcare consulting and the founding of Panda Health. The company helps health systems navigate the digital transformation by offering extensive research, pre-negotiated contracts, and a community-based platform for sharing insights. They delve into the challenges health systems face in choosing vendors, the importance of real-time feedback, and the future impact of AI in healthcare. This episode provides valuable insights into the healthcare industry's digital landscape and the innovative solutions offered by Panda Health. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Meet Ryan Bengtson: Journey to CEO 01:42 The Evolution of Panda Health 03:23 Panda Health's Digital Health Marketplace 07:39 Challenges in Vendor Management 10:26 Panda Health's Unique Approach 18:30 The Role of AI in Healthcare 21:41 Conclusion and Future Insights

In this episode of The Strategy of Health Podcast, Cole sits down with Dr. Colin Banas, Internal Medicine Physician and Chief Medical Officer at DrFirst, to dive into the evolving landscape of healthcare technology. They discuss how FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is transforming healthcare interoperability, streamlining prior authorizations, and enhancing data transparency. Dr. Banas shares his journey from CMIO at VCU Health to his current role at DrFirst, offering unique insights into the challenges and solutions in electronic health records (EHR), medication management, and the integration of AI in healthcare workflows.00:00 Introduction to FHIR and Its Importance00:27 Meet Dr. Colin Banas00:50 Journey to Medicine02:30 Career at VCU and Transition to Dr. First03:33 Challenges and Innovations in EHR06:06 Joining Dr. First11:30 Improving Medication Management15:26 The Future of Prior Authorization25:09 The Role of AI in Healthcare30:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy is joined by Rick Moreland, founder of Modality Global Advisors. They discuss the current landscape of health policy and equity in the United States and explore strategies that healthcare organizations can implement to address these issues moving forward. Moreland emphasizes the importance of proactive and holistic approaches, addressing social determinants of health, and integrating wellness incentives. He also highlights the role of managed care organizations, telemedicine, and data analytics in transforming care delivery and improving outcomes. The conversation includes insights on leveraging big data for preventive care, reducing ER visits, and the economic impact of shifting towards value-based care. 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Cost Savings 00:28 Meet Rick Moreland: Healthcare Consultant 01:20 Health Policy and Equity in 2025 02:14 Addressing Social Determinants of Health 04:16 Managed Care and Mobile Health Solutions 05:08 Holistic Approach to Healthcare Consulting 07:34 Shift to Preventive and Value-Based Care 13:25 Big Data and Population Health 18:30 Innovations in Healthcare for 2025 20:29 Geographical Challenges in Healthcare 22:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Strategy of Health, host Cole is joined by Dr. Stephanie Toth-Manikowski, a seasoned nephrologist and population health expert at Healthmap Solutions. Together, they explore a bold vision for kidney care: slowing the progression of kidney disease and optimizing renal replacement therapy. This insightful conversation unpacks how intelligent population health management can identify at-risk patients earlier, enabling proactive care coordination and helping patients maintain kidney function longer.Dr. Toth-Manikowski shares her clinical journey—from Harvard and Johns Hopkins to frontline nephrology—and reveals how Healthmap’s multidisciplinary teams of nurses, social workers, pharmacists, and dietitians are making a tangible impact on CKD outcomes. They discuss everything from avoiding unplanned dialysis starts, to educating patients about home dialysis options, to tackling social determinants of health with actionable support.Key themes include:🩺 Early intervention in CKD stages 3–5🤝 Coordinated, personalized care models that reduce ER dialysis starts📚 The power of health literacy, lifestyle changes, and low-cost medications📡 Bridging clinical care gaps with intelligent outreach and real-time data If you’re a healthcare strategist, clinician, or payer looking to understand how tech-enabled, patient-centered models are changing the future of kidney care, this episode is a must-listen.🔔 Subscribe for weekly insights on healthcare transformation.🌐 Visit ajhcs.org for more resources.This video was brought to you by: Healthmap Solutions, learn more at https://healthmapsolutions.com/