

The Strategy of Health
The American Journal of Healthcare Strategy
Join us as we dive deep into the evolving world of healthcare. Each episode features leading experts discussing the latest trends, innovations, and strategies driving healthcare forward. Our mission is to provide insights and practical advice for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of healthcare systems and their improvement. Whether we're exploring patient engagement techniques, dissecting policy changes, or forecasting the impacts of technological advances, our goal is to arm you with the knowledge needed to navigate and excel in today's complex healthcare landscape. Tune in to stay at the forefront of healthcare strategy and policy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 6, 2025 • 25min
Scaling Health Initiatives: Community Partnerships That Improved Patient Care Across 11 Counties
Join Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy as he speaks with Tyler Smith, Director of Community Health at Mercy Health Lima, Ohio. In this insightful episode, Tyler shares the strategies and efforts involved in addressing community health needs, focusing on areas such as chronic disease management, housing, mental health, and food insecurity. He discusses the collaborative work with local health departments, nonprofits, and community partners to bridge healthcare gaps and improve health outcomes for diverse populations. Tune in to learn about the impactful programs and the comprehensive approach taken by Mercy Health Lima to extend care beyond the hospital walls. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:41 Role and Responsibilities of Community Health Director 03:07 Challenges in Community Health 04:25 Addressing Housing Issues 10:07 Community Health Improvement Plan 17:18 Engaging Rural and Urban Communities 21:06 Conclusion and Future Goals

Feb 24, 2025 • 30min
How To Build A Culture Of Belonging: Lessons for Healthcare Organizations
Join Cole Lyons from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy as he interviews Arianne Dowdell, Vice President and Chief Culture & Engagement Officer at Houston Methodist. In this engaging discussion, Arianne shares her unique career journey from television and law to her current leadership role in healthcare. They explore the importance of DEI initiatives, the impact of a positive workplace culture, and how diverse perspectives drive innovation in healthcare. Discover how Houston Methodist is fostering a sense of belonging, improving retention rates, and contributing to the community through their DEI and health equity efforts.00:00 Introduction and Importance of Culture00:25 Meet Arianne Dowdell: Career Journey01:30 From Law to Healthcare: A Unique Path03:15 Mentorship and Early Career Influences05:11 Transition to Leadership Roles06:42 University Experience and DEI Involvement08:42 Joining Houston Methodist10:26 Key Qualities for Success in DEI15:14 Current Initiatives at Houston Methodist19:14 Impact and Benefits of DEI25:36 Innovation and Diversity of Thought30:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Feb 21, 2025 • 23min
An Executives Guide to Advanced Project Management
In this insightful episode, host Cole Lyons from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy discusses executive project management techniques with Mitchell Fong, a seasoned leader with 15-20 years of experience in healthcare innovation and digital health. Mitchell shares his expertise on managing large-scale projects, especially under the immense pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of agile methodologies, community focus, transparent communication, and continuous improvement. Mitchell also offers valuable advice for healthcare executives on how to innovate effectively while managing capacity and avoiding burnout. Tune in for a comprehensive look into how to drive meaningful change in healthcare systems.00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:22 Meet the Expert: Mitchell Fong02:22 COVID-19 Response and Innovation06:09 Personal Strategies for Managing Crisis10:31 Agile Project Management in Healthcare21:09 Future Strategies and Community Focus22:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Feb 12, 2025 • 23min
From Data to Diamonds: A Deep Dive into Quality
In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy, host Cole Lyons is joined by Tannasia Gonzalez, Deputy Chief Quality Officer at the Jewish Board of Family and Children Services. Tannasia, who prefers to go by 'T', shares her extensive experience in improving quality and client experience in healthcare. She discusses her team's role in data analytics and quality improvement, focusing on how small data can transform healthcare processes. Drawing from her background, particularly her impactful work at an HIV/AIDS clinic, Tannasia emphasizes the importance of listening to clients, front desk staff, and leveraging small data for identifying and solving systemic issues. She also highlights the significance of customer feedback, the role of Six Sigma methodologies, and offers practical advice for getting started with quality improvement projects in complex healthcare settings. Don't miss this insightful conversation enriched with strategies to drive excellence in mental health and social services.00:00 Introduction to the Project00:24 Meet Tannasia Gonzalez01:00 Role and Responsibilities at the Jewish Board01:43 Quality Improvement and Data Analytics02:27 Lean Six Sigma and Organizational Transformation04:30 Understanding Small Data05:07 Impact of Small Data on Healthcare12:32 Challenges and Successes in Quality Improvement14:53 Engaging with Patients and Clients17:02 Getting Started with Quality Improvement22:29 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Feb 6, 2025 • 27min
The Realities of Mental Health Staffing
In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy, host Cole Lyons interviews Dr. Damir Utrzan, Chief Compliance and Strategic Development Officer at Horowitz Health. Dr. Utrzan discusses his extensive career in mental health, transitioning from a clinician to a strategic business role. He emphasizes the critical importance of human connection in
therapeutic outcomes and explores the challenges and solutions in staff shortages, profitability, and the complex processes of setting up mental health facilities.
Tune in for an insightful conversation that sheds light on the intersection of clinical practice and business operations in the mental health sector.
00:00 Introduction: The Power of Human Connection
00:26 Meet Dr. Damir Utrzan: A Journey in Mental Health
01:36 Transition to Business Leadership
06:43 Challenges in Mental Health Staffing
11:34 Innovative Solutions for Mental Health Care
16:35 Sustainability and Profitability in Mental Health Facilities
25:06 Advice for Future Leaders

Feb 5, 2025 • 32min
Fixing Healthcare: Solutions Beyond Hospitals
In this conversation, Alex Maiersperger, a Global Healthcare Product Marketing Leader at SAS and Co-Founder of the Advancement League, shares insights on the interdependence of health and healthcare. He discusses the systemic challenges faced by healthcare today, and the need for public health initiatives alongside medical advancements. They emphasize the importance of lifestyle choices and community engagement, advocating for a collaborative approach to drive meaningful change in health outcomes and the future of the healthcare system.

Jan 31, 2025 • 35min
Health Equity in Action: How RUSH is Pioneering Community-Based Solutions
Cole Lyons from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Anil Saldanha, Chief Innovation Officer at Rush, a leading health system in Chicago. Discussing the transition from software engineering to healthcare innovation, Anil shares insights on Rush's strategic focus on community health and equity. The conversation explores the concept of the 'death gap' in Chicago, the pivotal role of public and private partnerships, and innovative approaches in technology, business, and healthcare. Anil highlights initiatives such as the Anchor Mission Network and the Sankofa Wellness Center designed to improve health outcomes and reduce life expectancy discrepancies in underserved
communities.
00:00 Introduction to Community Health Strategy
00:30 Meet Anil Saldanha: Chief Innovation Officer at Rush
02:08 Anil's Journey from Software Engineering to Healthcare
09:43 Challenges and Innovations in Healthcare
10:36 Addressing Health Equity in Chicago
13:07 Rush's Community Health Initiatives
21:35 The Economic Impact of Local Investments
28:37 The Role of Systems Engineering in Healthcare
30:45 Future Directions and Final Thoughts

Jan 27, 2025 • 26min
Groundbreaking Population Health Strategies for Chronic Kidney Disease
Join Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy as he interviews Eric Reimer, winner of the Entrepreneur of the Year award, about his innovative approach to managing chronic diseases such as kidney disease. Eric discusses how his company uses data analytics and personalized care plans to improve health outcomes and efficiency. They explore the challenges of data collection, the importance of working with trusted providers, and the critical role of social determinants of health. Eric also shares insights on their successful launch in Puerto Rico and the value-based payment model that drives positive clinical outcomes and savings for health plans.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:50 Approach to Managing Chronic Diseases
02:14 Data Collection and Analysis
04:07 Customized Care Plans and Technology
09:29 Addressing Social Determinants of Health
12:54 Success in Puerto Rico
15:43 Provider Collaboration and Benefits
22:09 ROI and Value-Based Payment Models
25:53 Conclusion and Future Insights

Jan 23, 2025 • 28min
What is Medicare Stars? Part 1: The Basics with Zach Berger
In this first episode of a special series by the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy, host Cole dives into the essentials of Medicare STARS. Joined by Zach Berger from Veracity Consulting Group, they discuss the importance of quality assurance in healthcare plans, the implications of recent downgrades in STAR ratings, and the financial effects of these changes on organizations. Zach provides insightful perspectives on the significance of member experience in achieving higher STAR ratings and offers strategic advice for healthcare plans looking to improve their scores. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intricacies of Medicare and the future of healthcare.
00:00 Introduction to Medicare STARS
01:08 Meet the Expert: Zachary Berger
02:33 Understanding Medicare STARS
10:17 Importance of Member Experience
14:04 Challenges and Strategies
26:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jan 20, 2025 • 24min
Connecting Healthcare Systems: Dr. Mayank Shah on Effective Integration
In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Dr. Mayank Shah, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Advocate Condell Medical Center. They discuss the importance of communication and integration within healthcare systems, the challenges faced post-mergers, and the evolving role of CMOs. Dr. Shah emphasizes the significance of understanding local communities and resources, the crucial role of social determinants of health, and the need for innovative thinking in resource management to ensure high-quality, comprehensive care.
00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Communication
00:28 Meet Dr. Shah: Background and Role
01:04 Challenges in Trauma Care and Hospital Operations
02:42 Journey Through Mergers and Acquisitions
03:41 Post-Merger Challenges and Cybersecurity
06:03 Collaboration Across Regions
08:30 Addressing Social Determinants of Health
13:01 Evolving Role of CMOs
14:18 Innovative Thinking in Healthcare
17:11 Balancing Resources and Innovation
20:25 Final Thoughts and Advice for CMOs


