Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Alan Condon, Editor-in-Chief at Becker's Healthcare, dives into the recent Q3 earnings of for-profit health systems like HCA, Tenet, and Community Health Systems. He highlights HCA's impressive 29% net profit increase and its focus on technology investment. Tenet showcases strong ambulatory growth, while CHS turns around with improved net income and strategic divestitures. Condon also discusses the trend of for-profits leaning into higher-acuity care and compares these dynamics with nonprofit systems, providing keen insights on market shifts.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing clinical workflows with insights from Dr. Marcus Speaker. He discusses the impact of ambient scribe technology and note summarization on efficiency and patient care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of governance and aligning innovations with real organizational needs. Dr. Speaker also addresses recent legislation effecting telehealth reimbursement and the challenges of consolidating legacy systems. Tune in for expert advice on prioritizing strategy before adopting new technologies!

Steven Martin, Chief Technology Officer at TRIMEDX, shares insights from his extensive experience in technology leadership. He discusses moving beyond AI hype to achieve tangible results in medical device management. Topics include the importance of quick ROI, strong governance, and the role of AI in optimizing operations while aligning with each organization's care philosophy. Martin also emphasizes responsible innovation and the need for health systems to take ownership of AI governance to ensure effective and secure implementation.

Dr. Josh Tamayo-Sarver, Vice President of Innovation at Vituity and a practicing emergency physician, delves into the transformative role of agentic AI in healthcare. He highlights how this technology can alleviate administrative burdens and enhance trust between clinicians and patients. Josh emphasizes the importance of focusing on patient connections and outcomes that truly matter, stressing that success comes from addressing frontline frustrations and aligning AI solutions with real user needs.

Laura Dyrda, Vice President and Editor-in-Chief at Becker's Healthcare, dives into the rising trend of hospital mergers driven by financial pressures. She discusses how consolidation can enhance care and resources while risking local autonomy and identity. Dyrda emphasizes the importance of maintaining community-focused goals despite financial motives. Additionally, she outlines the significance of continuous evaluation post-merger to ensure quality and safety in care and highlights recent financial trends, including the shift toward higher-acuity outpatient procedures.

Michael McKendall, Chief Pharmacy Officer at InclusivCare, shares his insights from the frontline of pharmacy operations. He discusses innovative strategies to enhance patient outreach and the importance of transitions of care for vulnerable populations. Michael highlights past successes in improving patient access and reducing emergency department lengths of stay. As he navigates upcoming regulatory changes and industry pressures, he emphasizes a team-centered approach and the need for effective mentorship in healthcare.

Kali Arduini Ihde, Director of NM Ventures and Innovation at Northwestern Medicine, is a trailblazer in healthcare technology partnerships. She discusses innovative uses of AI, such as ambient listening that cuts clinician documentation time by 20% and speeds up prior authorizations for specialty medications. Kali emphasizes the importance of curiosity and adaptability in healthcare, sharing insights on balancing innovation with operational constraints and navigating the regulatory landscape for responsible AI adoption.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Kelsey Reed, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, shares her insights on evolving nursing leadership. She highlights the synergy of combining nursing and operational roles to enhance patient care. Kelsey delves into the launch of virtual nursing roles, allowing for better support without replacing bedside nurses. She also discusses innovative technology adoption in clinical settings and initiatives like the Nurse Residency Program that empower and prepare the next generation of nurses.

Dr. Rubin Pillay, Chief Innovation Officer at UAB Health System and Executive Director of the Hearsink Institute, shares his expertise in AI and digital innovation. He delves into UAB's transformative strategies, including operational AI and hospital-at-home care. Dr. Pillay highlights the importance of workforce literacy programs in reducing change fatigue. He also discusses the need for a robust data layer for sustainable growth and the benefits of insourcing AI through the UAB AI Lab. Future innovations like AI navigators and robotics are on the horizon!

Dr. Vinay Badhwar, a leading cardiac surgeon and executive leader at the WVU Heart & Vascular Institute, shares his insights on transforming healthcare delivery. He discusses the importance of innovative organizational structures and moving away from RVU-based compensation. Dr. Badhwar emphasizes leveraging data to monitor performance while balancing physician autonomy. He explains how their model can be replicated across diverse healthcare settings and stresses the significance of community-focused financial strategies. A must-listen for healthcare innovators!