Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Dr. Joseph Lamplot dives into the changing landscape of healthcare, exploring the consolidation of health systems and its implications on quality and staffing. He addresses the ongoing staffing challenges and emphasizes the shift towards outpatient care, especially with the rise of Ambulatory Surgery Centers. The discussion also highlights innovative AI tools that improve efficiency and enhance work-life balance for practitioners, alongside the importance of digital presence in attracting new patients.

Michael McGarry, Chair of the Board of Directors at Tahoe Forest Health System, brings over 25 years of healthcare experience rooted in engineering and innovation. He delves into the pressing issues of clinician burnout and rising care costs, while sharing his insights on transformative leadership. The conversation highlights unique challenges faced by healthcare providers in resort towns, including housing shortages, and discusses innovative community engagement initiatives aimed at enhancing wellness beyond traditional illness treatment.

Michael Gale is the Administrative Director at Sentara Obici Ambulatory Surgical Center, with a diverse background in healthcare management. He discusses the movement of higher acuity cases to ambulatory surgical centers, prompted by new CMS policies. Gale emphasizes the importance of tailored patient care and education, especially for outpatient knee replacements. He also delves into the challenges of regulatory factors, the role of AI in improving surgery operations, and the need to attract younger physicians to ensure future success in this evolving landscape.

Nikhil Shetty, COO of Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists and interventional pain physician, dives into the evolving landscape of outpatient care. He discusses the pivotal role of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) in enhancing healthcare efficiency and patient experience. Staffing strategies for small practices, especially in anesthesia, take center stage, along with insights on retaining talent. Shetty also explores the potential of AI to streamline clinical and administrative workflows, painting an optimistic picture of the future in pain management.

Amy Jordan, Vice President of Consumer Digital Engagement at UnitedHealthcare, discusses the innovative launch of Smart Choice, a data-driven tool designed to streamline healthcare navigation. She highlights how the platform personalizes user experience by evaluating provider quality and fit. The conversation also delves into UnitedHealthcare's broader digital transformation efforts to create a more retail-like experience. Additionally, Amy emphasizes the importance of enhancing consumer engagement to empower patients in making informed healthcare decisions.

Dr. Elisabeth Potter, a leading reconstructive microsurgeon in Austin, shares her inspiring journey in breast cancer care. She discusses the challenges of navigating insurance hurdles that often inhibit patient access to quality breast reconstruction. Dr. Potter highlights the balance between reconstructive and cosmetic surgery and the need for systemic change to improve care models. She advocates for new approaches like concierge medicine to address healthcare shortages and improve patient rights amid the frustrations with current insurance practices.

Kenneth Waller discusses innovative methods for scaling healthcare services at Norwalk Community Health Center. He emphasizes the importance of accessibility and partnerships in managing over 20,000 lives. The conversation touches on overcoming funding challenges through optimism, teamwork, and data analytics. Waller also highlights how AI is being leveraged to enhance patient engagement and operational efficiency, all while staying true to their mission in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

David Ohm, Chief Strategic Development Officer at MultiCare Health System, discusses pivotal healthcare advancements and strategic growth in the Pacific Northwest. He emphasizes expanding access to primary care and improving behavioral health services. Ohm also highlights the importance of workforce well-being and financial sustainability. The integration of technology and community partnerships plays a crucial role in enhancing patient-centered care, ensuring that healthcare evolves to meet future demands.

Molly Gamble, Vice President of Editorial at Becker’s Healthcare, dives into the recent wave of CEO transitions at major health systems. She discusses the retirement of Tim Hinton from Community Health Systems and the strategic shifts that come with new leadership. Gamble highlights the significant investments in cancer care infrastructure, addressing the urgent demand for better services. She also touches on Ascension Health's innovations in response to these challenges, giving listeners a comprehensive view of the evolving healthcare landscape.

Jakob Emerson, Associate News Director at Becker’s Healthcare, dives into the shifting landscape of health insurance. He discusses the upcoming ACA premium hikes and how they will impact enrollments and uninsured rates. Emerson also explains the complexities of UnitedHealth's corporate structure and its aggressive growth strategy. The conversation touches on emerging challenges for insurers, including rising drug costs, medical professional shortages, and the influence of government policies on private insurance markets.