

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

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

Jan 15, 2025 • 29min
Healthcare Marketing: Strategy, Content, and Collaboration
In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy podcast, host Cole speaks with Christine Slocumb, Chief Growth Officer at Supreme Group, about the vital role of marketing in the healthcare industry. Chris shares her unique journey from engineering to healthcare marketing, and emphasizes the importance of strategic marketing foundations. They discuss various aspects like marketing strategies, thought leadership, dealing with compliance, and preventing marketing failures. Chris also introduces his book, 'Stop Starvation Marketing', and explains the Tower of Power methodology for achieving successful marketing campaigns in healthcare. This insightful conversation is a must-watch for healthcare professionals seeking to elevate their marketing efforts and drive growth.
00:00 Debunking Marketing Myths
00:29 Introducing Christine Slocumb
02:02 Chris's Journey into Healthcare Marketing
05:23 The Concept of Starvation Marketing
08:07 Implementing Effective Marketing Strategies
14:40 Navigating Compliance in Marketing
18:32 The Importance of Thought Leadership
25:16 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Jan 13, 2025 • 26min
The Role of Passion and Purpose in Healthcare Careers with Dr. Stella Onuoha-Obilor
In this insightful episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Dr. Stella Onuoha-Obilor, a physician executive with over 18 years of experience in clinical quality and population health strategy. Dr. Onuoha-Obilor shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of passion, education, and certifications in pursuing a career in healthcare quality. She discusses key challenges in healthcare, such as data management and patient engagement, and offers advice on leadership, team engagement, and the importance of a positive mindset. Dr. Onuoha-Obilor also highlights her upcoming book, 'Letters to my Corporate Sisters,' which discusses overcoming challenges and growth beyond one's comfort zone.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:48 Dr. Onuoha-Obilor's Background and Expertise
02:24 Advice for Early Careerists in Healthcare
08:42 Challenges in Healthcare Data Management
11:47 Patient and Member Engagement
14:44 Leadership and Team Engagement
21:04 Personal Journey and Inspirational Advice
25:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dec 30, 2024 • 27min
How to build community trust as a healthcare executive: Airica Steed Answers
In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy is joined by Dr. Airica Steed, a transformational healthcare executive and the first female, person of color, and nurse to lead the Metro health system in Cleveland. The discussion covers the alarming statistics of maternal mortality in the United States, the importance of representation in healthcare leadership, and Dr. Steed's personal experiences that drive her mission. Dr. Steed emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to address health disparities, including involvement from community leaders and policymakers, and stresses the importance of building trust within underserved communities.
00:00 Introduction to Women's Health Crisis in the U.S.
00:33 Meet Dr. Erica Steed: A Trailblazer in Healthcare
02:07 Challenges and Motivations in Healthcare Leadership
05:42 Personal Tragedies and Professional Drive
09:42 Addressing Healthcare Disparities
17:15 The Role of Community and Policy in Healthcare
22:21 Building Trust and Community Engagement
26:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dec 17, 2024 • 28min
Rapid Cycle Improvement and the Future of Healthcare Consulting
In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Dan DeBehnke, VP and Chief Physician Executive for Premier. Dan discusses his impressive career, from zoology at University of Wisconsin to 30 years in emergency medicine and executive roles. He shares insights into his pivot to consulting, emphasizing the value of focus and speed. Dan elaborates on Premier's technology-enabled approach to clinical operating model transformation and underscores the importance of removing non-value-add activities. He also dives into current trends in rapid cycle improvement, human capital management, and healthcare consolidation, stressing the need for adaptable strategies post-pandemic.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:43 Dan's Educational Background
01:29 Career in Emergency Medicine
02:09 Transition to Consulting
05:46 Current Role and Responsibilities
07:30 Healthcare Data and Technology
10:39 Industry Trends and Challenges
18:05 Implementing Change in Healthcare
25:13 Mergers and Acquisitions

Dec 12, 2024 • 31min
Discover the Secret to Putting Patients First in Digital Health
In this video, we'll reveal the secret to putting patients first in digital health. Learn how digital health solutions are revolutionizing the healthcare industry and putting patients at the center of care.