Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Dr. Benjamin Levy, a Gastroenterologist and Clinical Associate of Medicine at the University of Chicago, shares his expertise on advancing GI care. He highlights the rising demand for colonoscopies due to new screening guidelines and emphasizes the benefits of ASC partnerships. Dr. Levy discusses innovative AI technologies like GI Genius, which enhance polyp detection, and ambient dictation tools that streamline documentation. His insights on improving patient prep and the role of nursing navigators offer a fresh perspective on enhancing efficiency and patient outcomes in gastroenterology.

Dr. Scott L. Blumenthal, a seasoned orthopedic spine surgeon and leader at the Texas Back Institute, dives into the latest in disc replacement techniques and research. He discusses the impressive longevity of these procedures compared to traditional surgeries like hip and knee replacements. Blumenthal reveals the challenges posed by private insurance barriers that hinder patient access to innovative care. He also predicts significant disruptions in spine surgery by 2026, especially regarding technology restrictions, while highlighting the emerging trends of robotics and AI in the field.

Patti DeWane shares insights on the pressing challenges in healthcare, from workforce shortages to rising technology costs. She discusses the impact of regulatory changes and the escalating risks of cybersecurity. Excitingly, Patti reveals how acquiring an ambulatory surgery center enhances coordinated care and patient referrals. The conversation also highlights their growth strategy, focusing on expanding specialty services like gastroenterology and orthopedics to keep care local. Tune in for a blend of industry trends and innovative solutions!

Sha Edathumparampil, the Chief Digital and Information Officer at a faith-based health system, brings over thirty years of tech expertise to the discussion. He tackles critical healthcare challenges like rising costs, staffing shortages, and cybersecurity risks. Sha reveals how AI adoption can combat clinician burnout and enhance operational efficiency. He explores innovative concepts like ambient listening to alleviate documentation burdens and emphasizes the importance of investing in core infrastructure to support personalized medicine and improved patient care.

Brett Maxfield, MS, CRNA, is the President and CEO of Maxfield Healthcare Solutions, with a rich background in anesthesia and ASC consulting. In this discussion, he highlights key trends like rising costs and anesthesia shortages impacting ambulatory surgery centers. Brett delves into the transformative potential of AI for operational efficiency and quality assurance. He also addresses the shifts in specialty care from hospitals to ASCs and the challenges of technology adoption due to high EMR costs, advocating for affordable solutions to enhance care delivery.

Dr. Chandler Wilfong and Dr. Edward Cho, both HPV surgeons at OSF Healthcare, discuss their innovative approaches to gastrointestinal cancer care. They delve into the importance of their nursing navigation program and how it simplifies patient experiences. Their efforts are focused on providing world-class expertise locally, especially for pancreatic cancer patients. The duo also shares their excitement about advances in immunotherapy and how these developments contribute to improved survival rates for metastatic diseases.

Kaitlyn Torrence, Senior Director of Innovation at WellSpan Health, brings a wealth of experience from her time at MUSC and Providence. She dives into how WellSpan is leveraging AI, specifically the agent Anna, to enhance patient experiences and ease workforce burdens. Kaitlyn discusses the importance of balancing innovation with governance and preparing for policy changes. She emphasizes the need for patient-centered approaches in tech strategies and highlights the future of telehealth, focusing on operational efficiency and improving care through strategic investments.

Jakob Emerson, Associate News Director at Becker's Healthcare, dives into the complex world of ACA enhanced subsidies and rising premiums. He discusses the political tug-of-war surrounding President Trump's new subsidy proposal and the split among Republicans on the issue. Jakob highlights the alarming trend of surging marketplace premiums and the increasing need for affordable options due to shifting workforce dynamics. He warns that while subsidies may provide temporary relief, they fail to address the foundational issues of healthcare costs and affordability.

Dr. Stephen Teitelbaum, Senior VP and Chief Medical Finance Officer at Mount Sinai Health System, brings three decades of clinical and leadership insight. He dives into the rich history and scale of Mount Sinai, shedding light on the critical issue of payer influence on clinical decision-making. Teitelbaum reveals how this trend compromises physician autonomy and offers actionable strategies for reclaiming leadership. His emphasis on coalition-building and data use empowers physicians to enhance patient-centered care despite industry challenges.

Alan Condon, Editor-in-Chief at Becker's Healthcare and a keen analyst on healthcare finance, dives into the latest Q3 financial outcomes for nonprofit health systems. He discusses Trinity Health's impressive 1.2% operating margin and Providence's remarkable turnaround from a $200M loss to a $21M gain. Condon sheds light on CommonSpirit and Ascension’s strategic loss reductions, as well as Essentia's growth through ambulatory services. He also explores WVU Health's ambitious $800M acquisition of Independence Health and its integration challenges.