Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Dawn Maroney, President of Alignment Health and CEO of Alignment Health Plan, has testified before Congress about the future of Medicare Advantage. She discusses essential policy changes needed to improve access and expand care in rural areas. The conversation delves into challenges within the Medicare Advantage program, advocating for hospital parity and flexibility for seniors. Maroney also highlights the importance of technology and consumer-focused strategies to enhance support for seniors, aiming for better healthcare outcomes.

Travis Messina, CEO of Regent Surgical, leads an ambulatory surgery center management company focused on innovative healthcare solutions. He discusses the company's dynamic partnerships with health systems and physicians that enhance patient care. Travis shares notable milestones from 2024 and sets ambitious goals for 2025, including expansion and technology adoption. He emphasizes the importance of open communication in building high-performing teams, showcasing the dedication of his team during challenging times.

Nyleen Flores, Administrator & COO of Lake Oconee Orthopedics and owner/operator of MedElevate Solutions, discusses the future of orthopedic care. She delves into how digital transformation is reshaping outpatient surgery centers and emphasizes the importance of operational efficiency. The conversation touches on the significant trends of treating high-acuity cases outside traditional settings and the collaboration needed between physicians and payers. Finally, she introduces innovative procedures like a unique thumb replacement surgery that enhances patient recovery.

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Riddell, Chief Medical Officer at multiple Ochsner Health regions, unveils innovative approaches to healthcare. He highlights how technology is revolutionizing workflows for clinicians, reducing burnout through AI tools and improving patient care. Dr. Riddell emphasizes the shift toward outpatient care and home health solutions, focusing on enhancing patient experience and access. His insights on leadership reveal the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, setting the stage for a more connected future.

Dan Grigg, CEO of Wallowa County Health Care District, discusses his vision for enhancing local healthcare access in rural Oregon. He details the successful launch of podiatry services and the importance of fostering a community-centric workplace culture. Grigg addresses recruitment challenges and shares strategies for staff development to improve retention. He also emphasizes navigating regulatory hurdles and plans for expanding orthopedic and rehabilitation services, alongside cultivating leadership skills within the organization for long-term success.

Amy E. Lee, President and COO of Nantucket Cottage Hospital, discusses her innovative strategies for expanding healthcare access on a remote island. She highlights the importance of housing solutions and workforce sustainability to retain talented caregivers amid rising prices. Lee shares insights on leveraging technology and community partnerships to enhance care quality. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for a robust school-to-career pipeline to develop future healthcare professionals. Her commitment to strategic leadership fosters a thriving healthcare environment.

Dr. Lee Anne Carlisle, Medical Director of UMA Anesthesia at University Health Systems, dives into the innovative CRNA-focused staffing model revolutionizing anesthesia care. She discusses how this approach addresses critical staffing shortages while enhancing patient throughput and pain management. The conversation highlights the importance of regional anesthesia in promoting same-day discharges, improving efficiency and patient satisfaction. Dr. Carlisle emphasizes teamwork and leadership in overcoming challenges within ambulatory surgery centers.

The discussion opens with insights into the staffing challenges facing the anesthesia sector, particularly regarding burnout and adaptation. Innovative solutions for managing surgical procedures are emphasized. There's a focus on the growing demand for outpatient care and how evolving technologies are enhancing efficiency in healthcare. This dialogue reveals how cross-specialty collaboration is shaping the future of care delivery in orthopedics and anesthesia.

Michael Hunn, CEO of CalOptima Health, shares his expertise on the imminent changes following the Federal Reconciliation Bill. He discusses strategies to ensure access to care and the significance of managed care partnerships. Hunn emphasizes collaboration and innovation as key factors for Medicaid's long-term sustainability. The conversation also touches on the evolving dynamics of Medi-Cal, the impact of federal reforms on healthcare financing, and innovative approaches to streamline services while maintaining quality care for low-income populations.

Jeff Yuan, Co-founder of Mending, is an innovator focused on reshaping health insurance through AI. In this discussion, he reveals how Mending is tackling provider burdens and enhancing patient access with direct primary care partnerships. Yuan delves into the intriguing rebranding journey from Tarot Health to Mending and highlights early successes in Maine and Oklahoma. He also emphasizes the significance of adapting to change in the healthcare landscape, advocating for innovative solutions to improve provider independence and patient care.