Gastro Broadcast

Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam interviews Dr. Deepti Mehtani, vice president of clinical solutions for NextGen Healthcare, about its recently launched Gastro Suite, which brings gastro-specific workflows to the NextGen electronic health record to streamline repetitive tasks, deliver faster insights, and support an enhanced patient experience. The suite is easily integrated with other solutions from NextGen Healthcare, enabling hands-free mobile documentation with NextGen Ambient Assist, enhanced patient engagement with the NextGen Closed Loop Patient and Practice Experience, billing automation, cloud hosting, and advanced interoperability. Join Dr. Gunaratnam and Dr. Mehtani as they explore what independent GI practices should be considering when looking for an industry partner to help improve their data and technology platforms. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 78, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Brittany Panico, a rheumatologist in Colorado Springs who recently wrote an op-ed calling for reforms to the 340B program to require more transparency and reporting on how 340B discounts are passed on to patients. The 340B Program is a federal drug pricing program that allows certain hospitals and clinics to buy medications at steep discounts to support medication access for underserved patients, with the expectation that these savings would be passed on to patients. But critics argue that the program's growth has led to unintended consequences, such as market consolidation. And some studies suggest that 340B discounts may not translate into increased care or lower costs for vulnerable populations. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Panico as they discuss Dr. Panico's experience as an employed physician in a 340B hospital system and as an independent physician, and how the lack of oversight in the program may be making it harder for specialists to deliver the best patient care. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 77, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Vetri Venthan Elango and Dr. Renu Dhanasekaran MD PhD, the founders of Arithmedics, a company that uses generative AI and data intelligence to reduce administrative time and costs for providers. Arithmedics uses generative AI and data intelligence to reduce billing mistakes and claim denials. Its software generates and explains codes to streamline the billing process and uses data from completed claims to reduce future denials. Join Dr. Mathew, Dr. Elango and Dr. Dhanasekaran as they discuss what physicians need to understand about implementing AI platforms for administrative tasks such as billing and coding. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 76, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Gary Trendel, vice president of Endoscopy Solutions Ecosystem and Dr. Ruhy Patel, Medical and Scientific Affairs lead for the Endoscopy Solutions Ecosystem and Digital Units at Olympus. Odin Medical, an Olympus company, recently received 510K clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the first cloud-based Artificial Intelligence technology designed to assist gastroenterologists in detecting colorectal polyps during colonoscopy procedures. The CADDIE, or computer-aided detection (CADe) device, works by analyzing colonoscopy video in real-time and using visual markers to alert the endoscopist to the potential presence of polyps. A prospective, multi-center randomized controlled trial successfully demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the CADDIE device, underscoring its potential to enhance detection capabilities and patient care without increasing procedural risks or duration. Join Dr. Mathew, Mr. Trendel, and Dr. Patel as they discuss the potential for AI in improving patient care, and what independent GI physicians should understand about AI platforms that assist in detecting polyps during colonoscopy. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 75, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Jeff Glueck, co-founder and CEO of Salvo Health, a technology company that partners with GI practices to support patients with chronic GI conditions through a virtual clinic experience using a multi-disciplinary care team. Salvo Health's framework seeks to restore balance and improve chronic symptoms by considering the interconnected roles that the mind, body and gut play in a person's health. Join Lisa and Jeff as they discuss what GI physicians should consider in partnering with technology platforms that provide cross-functional care to their patients. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 74, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Vijay Yajnik, vice president and head of U.S. Medical, Gastroenterology, at Takeda about how the prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is increasing, and evidence is growing that EoE is not a rare disease, but an underdiagnosed one. Approximately one in 2000 people in the U.S. live with EoE, and the incidence and prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis have steadily increased over time. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Yajnik as they explore progress that has been made in diagnosing and treating EoE, and some recent studies that could influence patient care. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 73, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Ali Rezaie, a GI physician-scientist who specializes in microbiome research and gastrointestinal motility disorders. His recent study, which won an award at ACG, showed that a new elemental diet from mBIOTA Labs can significantly improve patient compliance. The study assessed mBIOTA Elemental, a palatable elemental diet designed to address the barriers of poor taste and low adherence associated with traditional elemental diets. Participants using mBIOTA Elemental had complete compliance throughout the two-week therapy, a critical outcome when managing gastrointestinal disorders such as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and other complex GI conditions. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Rezai as they explore how new innovations in elemental diets can help support patients with specific GI conditions and needs. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 72, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Larry Kosinski about new data from SonarMD describing the association between anxiety and increased risk for flares and higher disease severity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and emphasizing the importance of integrating mental health support within value-based care models for IBD management. According to the study, Patients with anxiety symptoms were significantly more likely to have high disease severity, and over a six-month follow-up, patients with anxiety exhibited a nearly doubled flare rate. The study suggests that mental health factors like anxiety play a critical role in the clinical course of IBD and that by identifying and addressing psychological contributors, value-based care models can be refined to better support patients with chronic digestive diseases. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Kosinski as they explore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to IBD management and what GI physicians can do to ensure that their patients have the resources they need. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 71, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Host Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Kathleen Teixeira, vice president of public policy and advocacy for the American Gastroenterological Association. Lisa and Kathleen discuss what policies will be in play in 2025 and how GI physicians can get involved to advocate for their patients and their practices. Join Lisa and Kathleen as they explore how physicians can get involved in shaping the policies that will affect patient care and practice management with the new Congress and Administration. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 69, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Kevin Harlen interviews Laura Wingate, chief education, support, and advocacy officer with the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation about a recent survey which shows that more than 40 percent of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have made significant financial trade-offs to afford their healthcare. The survey, published in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, included responses from more than 2,200 IBD patients and caregivers, who highlighted persistent challenges. Among respondents, 30 percent reported giving up vacations or major household purchases, 22 percent increased their credit card debt, and 21 percent cut back on essential items such as food, clothing, or basic household items. Join Kevin and Laura as they explore what can done to ensure that IBD patients can access the medications they need without undue financial hardship. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 69, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Dr. Ruchi Mathur, director of the Diabetes Program in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and an endocrinologist at the Weight Loss Center, at Cedars-Sinai. Cedars-Sinai recently released a study which found that patients who take a class of widely prescribed medications (GLP-1) to manage diabetes and obesity may require extra preparations before undergoing endoscopic procedures. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Mathur as they explore how gastroenterologists can advise patients who take GLP-1 medications when preparing for endoscopic procedures, to have the best results. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 68, presented by TissueCypher from Castle Biosciences

Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam interviews Kim Beall, co-founder and managing director of Nutritional Therapy for IBD and Dr. Ashwin Ananthakrishnan, who is the Director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Crohn's and Colitis Center about their work to advance evidence-based nutrition as part of IBD treatment plans. When nutritional strategies are used in combination with medications, additional pathways are engaged to improve symptoms, quality of life and aid tissue healing. When patients are able to access evidence-based nutritional therapy under the guidance of a healthcare providers it can them find foods to restore a healthy relationship with food and work their way back to a well-balanced diet of healthy, foods while at the same time feeling well again. Join Dr. Gunaratnam, Ms. Beall and Dr. Ananthakrishnan as they explore how Nutritional Therapy for IBD works to inform, support, and empower patients and clinicians by providing education and essential tools and resources to utilize nutritional therapy alongside medication.

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Jeff Scott, a gastroenterologist and founder of Happy Colon Foods, a company that prepares meal kits that are compliant with the diet requirements before a colorectal screening. Happy Colon Foods is designed to mimic a typical day, with three meals and snacks in between, including mac n' cheese and cookies. Because smaller doses of laxatives are spread throughout the day, many patients can work either part or most of their prep day. A large, randomized trial published in 2013 compared the results of clear-liquid only and low-residue diets, and found that a low-residue diet, is just as effective than a diet restricted to clear liquids. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Scott as they explore how this type of colonoscopy prep can remove some of the difficulty of preparing for a colonoscopy and encourage people to get screened. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 66

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Raman Muthusamy, professor of clinical medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and medical director of endoscopy for UCLA Health, about a new clinical guideline for endoscopic eradication therapy to prevent the progression of Barrett's esophagus to esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer is preventable if high-risk patients, such as those with Barrett's Esophagus, are treated with endoscopic eradication therapy to eliminate the Barrett's tissue. Endoscopic eradication therapy is highly effective, but the challenge is identifying the high-risk patients to treat and the low-risk patients for whom long-interval surveillance may be appropriate. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Muthusamy as they explore new technologies for identifying patients who are most at risk and the potential innovations that could stop a majority of Barrett's Esophagus patients from progressing to esophageal cancer. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 65

Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Dr. Lauren Bleich of Gastro Health, who serves as president of the Massachusetts Gastroenterology Association about a new blood-based screening test for colorectal cancer from Guardant Health. In May, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel voted that the Shield test was safe and effective, after reviewing evidence from a study which showed that the test correctly detected colorectal cancer in 83% of people confirmed to have it. The study also showed that while the test is effective in finding later-stage cancers, it only detected 13% of earlier-stage polyps. The FDA advisory panel cautioned that the test is seriously limited because of its inability to prevent cancer. The endorsement of the test was based its potential to screen people who would otherwise avoid colorectal cancer screening. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Bleich as they discuss the opportunities and limitations of this new test in detecting polyps, and why colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, as the only test that prevents colon cancer by removing polyps before they can turn into cancer. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 64

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Eric Shah, director of the Michigan Medicine GI Physiology Laboratories about a study showing that despite a federal law that says bowel preparations needed for colonoscopy should be covered by insurance, many patients are still paying out of pocket. The study, from the University of Michigan Health, analyzed nearly 2.6 million insurance claims from both commercial insurance plans and Medicare Part D, and looked at how many patients paid for bowel prep medications needed for colonoscopy. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires that certain preventative services, including colorectal cancer screening, must be covered by insurance plans without cost-sharing for patients. Unfortunately, prescription bowel prep for screening colonoscopy is still subject to cost sharing for most patients, running contrary to the ACA's mandate. When considering that nearly half of patients are cost-shifted toward the use of non-FDA approved over-the-counter regimens, the data suggest that only 17 percent of patients pay zero for their bowel preparation for screening colonoscopy. Of the prescription claims analyzed, only 36 percent had no out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, high-volume preps were more likely to be free compared to new, low-volume or tablet preparations. However, when patients did pay, high-volume preps cost a median of $10, while low-volume preps cost $60. For Medicare Part D, only 25 percent of high-volume preps were free, compared to 10 percent for low-volume preps. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Eric Shah as they discuss how these co-pays for bowel prep can impact patients and what private practice gastroenterologists can do to educate their communities and to engage in advocacy so that co-pays do not present a barrier to colorectal cancer screening. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 63

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Mitesh Rao, chief executive officer of OMNY Health, about the organization's work to connect the healthcare ecosystem through data and insights to transform healthcare delivery, improve clinical outcomes, and address patients' unmet needs.  OMNY Health recently announced a partnership with several of the nation's leading GI practices to enable insights on patient population characteristics, care delivery patterns, and treatment outcomes based on data extracted from de-identified electronic health records (EHRs). The partnership will provide valuable information on disease severity, rationale behind treatment decisions, treatment efficacy, and impact of social determinants on treatment selection and disease progression. Listen to Dr. Mathew and Dr. Rao as they explore how independent GI practices can be connected with research and development efforts underway in gastroenterology, including Crohn's & Colitis, celiac disease, short bowel syndrome, and many others. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 62

Kevin Harlen interviews Dr. Larry Kosinski, chief medical officer for SonarMD, a remote monitoring and care coordination program for chronic conditions. SonarMD recently announce positive results from two large, longitudinal studies evaluating several major drivers of medical costs in people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and enrolled in the company's end-to-end, digital care coordination program. In both studies, SonarMD participants experienced a statistically significant and substantial decline in Emergency Department visits and In-patient Admissions compared to risk-matched control groups. Join Kevin and Dr. Kosiniski as they discuss the future of GI and new innovations that can help practices implement value-based care programs for their patients. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLCMixed and mastered by Hayden MargolisGastro Broadcast, Episode 60

Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Dr. Jason Sugar from Washington Gastroenterology, who also serves as the gastroenterology team lead at Modernizing Medicine (ModMed). ModMed recently announced a collaboration with Medtronic to enhance the documentation of polyp detection by utilizing the AI capabilities of the GI Genius system. The GI Genius system enables AI-assisted colonoscopies, which have been shown to achieve a 50% reduction in missed colorectal polyps over a standard colonoscopy. The companies intend to interface data from GI Genius into ModMed's gGastro platform with the expectation of reducing manual effort in documenting procedural metrics captured during the colonoscopy process. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Sugar to hear about this collaboration and how ModMed is helping GI practices grow and scale by delivering better patient experiences with intelligent software solutions. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 60

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Aja McCutchen of Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates and United Digestive, who recently co-founded OLVI Health, a platform committed to enhancing women's well-being through personalized digestive health insights. OLVI Health works to empower women with knowledge and the tools to managing their digestive health, including helping consumers navigate the misinformation on social media and understand how to approach products that claim to be beneficial to gut health. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. McCutchen as they explore how technology can help to address the lack of tools for women to manage their digestive health, and the role it can play in promoting equity in healthcare access and outcomes. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 59

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Don Lazas, co-founder and chief medical officer of ObjectiveHealth about partnering with physicians to provide the tools needed to integrate clinical trials into their practice. ObjectiveHealth's digital health technology can help identity patients who are at risk of developing Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Lazas as they explore new innovations in detecting and treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NASH, and how clinical research could benefit a GI practice and its patients. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 58

Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Anthony Borrelli, executive director of product & marketing for Fujifilm's endoscopy division. Fujifilm recently received 510K clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for CAD EYE, a novel artificial intelligence detection system for endoscopic imaging that enables real-time detection of polyps and adenomas during colonoscopy procedures. The technology is designed to support detection of lesions that may be easiest to miss, such as flat lesions, those at the corner of the endoscopic view, and multiple lesions present in a single frame. When a suspicious polyp is detected by CAD EYE, the physician is given both visual and auditory alerts that are overlaid on top of – but do not interfere with – clinical images in the physician's existing workflow. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Anthony as they explore what the future holds for AI detection systems and other innovations in screening colonoscopy. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 56

For Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam speaks with Dr. Srinadh Komanduri, associate chief of gastroenterology and hepatology and director of endoscopy at Northwestern Medicine, about efforts to educate the public about esophageal cancer and cutting-edge tools that are helping gastroenterologists determine which of their patients are at greatest risk of developing esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer is preventable if high-risk patients, such as those with Barrett's Esophagus, are treated with endoscopic eradication therapy to eliminate the Barrett's tissue. Endoscopic eradication therapy is highly effective, but the challenge is identifying the high-risk patients to treat and the low-risk patients for whom long-interval surveillance may be appropriate. The Barrett's Esophagus surveillance program at Northwestern includes the TissueCypher test, which provides Dr. Komanduri and his colleagues with a personalized prediction of cancer progression risk based on molecular biomarkers that cannot be measured by traditional pathology. Join Dr. Gunaratnam and Dr. Komanduri to hear how gastroenterologists and pathologists can better identify patients who are most at-risk and provide the appropriate care to help prevent them from developing esophageal cancer. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 56

Kevin Harlen interviews Robert Raleigh, chief operating officer and general counsel for Sebela Pharmaceuticals, which has been innovating in the area of colonoscopy prep since the 1980's. Achieving adequate bowel preparation is challenging but critical to achieve a good-quality colonoscopy. But many studies have shown that a majority of patients have reported the preparation is the most difficult part of screening. Join Kevin and Rob as they discuss how Sebela is working on improving access to low-volume preparations and advocating for policies to remove barriers to effective colorectal cancer screening. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 55

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Prashant Krishnan and Dr. Neil Sharma of Peak Gastroenterology Associates in Colorado about building an interventional gastroenterology practice. Peak Gastroenterology is working to deliver interventional endoscopy and endoscopic oncology care to its community, which has historically only been available in larger health systems and academic settings. Join Dr. Weinstein, Dr. Krishnan, and Dr. Sharma as they explore some of the barriers to highly specialized medical care in private practice and the potential opportunities to democratize interventional gastroenterology. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 54

Host Kevin Harlen interviews Sap Sinha, chief operating officer of Allied Digestive Health, where he leads its management service organization. Allied Digestive Health has multiple locations in New Jersey and New York, with 160 gastroenterologists and more than 200 clinicians. The organization recently partnered with Provation, so that physicians and nurses across its various offices can document patient visits and procedures across any internet-enabled device. Another recent partnership with Lynx.MD, a medical data intelligence platform enables the integrated practices to develop, test and validate GI-related treatments and therapies. Join Kevin and Sap to hear about how these technology platforms are enabling Allied Digestive Health to enhance operations in its practices and how innovations in technology and data can help improve patient care. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 53

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Russ Arjal, who is the co-founder, chief medical officer, and president of Telebelly Health, a virtual GI clinic offering remote care to patients. Telebelly Health provides nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and medical assistants to support GI practices and their patients. Join Dr. Mathews and Dr. Arjal as they explore the future of independent GI and the innovations that will help practices compete and thrive in the future. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Mixed and mastered by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 52

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Andreas Muehler, chief medical officer of Immunic Therapeutics, which is developing a clinical pipeline of orally administered, small molecule therapies for chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. At United European Gastroenterology Week, Immunic presented data from the company's phase 1b clinical trial of IMU-856, an orally available and systemically acting small molecule modulator used to treat celiac disease. Immunic's new approach to treatment entails restoring a healthy gut wall by modulating SIRT6, a stress responsive protein that helps repair our cells. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Muehler as they explore the challenges faced by patients with celiac disease and new innovations that will impact the way physicians treat their patients. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 51

Patients with Barrett's Esophagus are at a higher risk to develop esophageal cancer, but it has always been challenging for physicians to determine which of their patients are at greatest risk. Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Matthew Goldberg, who is medical director of Castle Biosciences about TissueCypher, a test to help gastroenterologists stratify risk for cancer in patients with Barrett's Esophagus. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Goldberg to hear about how this innovative test can help gastroenterologists and pathologists better identify those patients who are most at risk and provide the appropriate care to help prevent them from developing esophageal cancer. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 50

Dr. Lisa Mathews interviews Dr. Min Dong and Dr. Meenakshi Rao of the Boston Children's Hospital regarding new research published in Nature that shows two FDA-approved drugs can alter our body's own immune response to treat Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) more effectively. C. diff is the leading cause of gastrointestinal infections in the United States, and existing medications don't always work because of antibiotic resistance, the presence of more lethal strains, and a drugs' potential to harm good gut bacteria that prevent infection. The study conducted by Dr. Dong and Dr. Rao found that two already approved medications reduced inflammation associated with C. diff infection in mice, allowing for their immune systems to mount a more productive response to the infection. Listen to Dr. Mathew, Dr. Dong, and Dr. Rao as they explore what the next steps are for this research and what it might mean for the future of treating patients with C. diff. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 49

This summer, four new biosimilar drugs became available to U.S. patients and several more are expected to hit the market soon. Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Laura D. Wingate, executive vice president, education, support, & advocacy for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation about the positive and negative implications of this development for patients. While increased competition in the market is likely to expand the range of options available, potentially leading to reduced costs for medications, a recent survey conducted by the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation found that almost 50% of IBD patients feel concerned about switching to biosimilars. Additionally, the insurance industry may limit consumer choices to these medications. Join Dr. Weinstein and Laura as they discuss the importance of educating patients about the availability of biosimilars and how physicians can advocate for access to these safe and effective options. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 48

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Veena Shankaran, co-director of Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research, about a new study that found most patients with metastatic colorectal cancer face financial hardship after diagnosis. While has been a lot of research on the economic burden of cancer treatment, this is the first study that looks at newly diagnosed patients. The study found that more than 70 percent of patients with metastic colorectal cancer faced financial hardships within a year of diagnosis, even with most having health insurance. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Shankaran to hear how financial complications affect treatment and outcomes for many patients, and what can be to address the cost burden and provide resources for people who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 47

Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Harold Miller, president and CEO of the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, national policy center that works to improve healthcare payment and delivery systems. Mr. Miller discusses how our current health care model encourages consolidation and the challenges this creates for private practice physicians. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Mr. Miller as they explore different types of healthcare payment models, including a Patient-Centered Payment System, which would allow for patients to receive the services that will best address their specific health problems, and for physicians to receive adequate resources to support the cost of delivering services in a high-quality, efficient manner. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 46

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Giselle Carlotta-McDonald, who is the executive director of Project Access-New Haven, which employs community health workers to address colorectal cancer (CRC) screening disparities among Connecticut residents, particularly in African American and Latino communities. Project Access has been successful at reducing the CRC screening no-show rate through community health workers, who have trusted relationships and connections, understand the barriers and know how to navigate the various health care and insurance systems in the area. Join Dr. Mathew and Ms Carlotta-McDonald to hear how Project Access is addressing barriers to screening, such as lack of access to a computer or the internet, transportation hardships, language barriers, and other social determinants that can have an impact on colorectal cancer screening. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 45

For Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Dr. Abdul Saied Calvino, a surgical oncologist at Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, Rhode Island and assistant professor of surgical oncology at the Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine. Dr. Calvino helped develop a program to increase colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and care tailored specifically to the Latino community in an effort to increase education and access to CRC screening. Spanish-speaking patient navigators were hired to help educate people about insurance concerns, guide them through the health care system and the process of getting a screening colonoscopy. The national colonoscopy completion rate for Hispanic adults is between 40 and 50 percent, yet Dr. Calvino's program saw a colonoscopy completion rate of 85 percent among both men and women. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Calvino as they explore how independent GI practices can implement similar programs to improve education and outreach in their own communities and increase CRC screening rates among Latino men and women.

Many independent GI practices are familiar with the effects of physician burnout, which has become an epidemic in the U.S. health care system. Almost two-thirds of physicians have reported signs of burnout such as emotional exhaustion and a decrease in satisfaction with work-life integration at least once per week. Dr. Fred Rosenberg interviews Rachel Kanarowski, founder of Year of Living Better, an organization that uses evidence-based well-being solutions to transform workplaces from systems that increase stress to systems that enhance well-being. While many factors contribute to burnout, it is often associated with system inefficiencies, administrative burdens and increased regulation and technology requirements. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Ms. Kanarowski as they explore ways that physicians can recognize signals from their parasympathetic nervous system and develop self care tools to address stress and burnout in their daily work lives. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 43

Dr. Lisa Mathew interviews Dr. Vasu Appaleneni, a practicing gastroenterologist at Dayton Gastroenterology, and executive vice president of clinical innovation at One GI, a physician-led managed services organization. Dr. Appalaneni knew she would become a physician from an early age, and her entrepreneurial spirit led her to private practice gastroenterology, where she enjoys being able to care for patients, being a business owner, and providing employment opportunities in her community. Her interest in the business of healthcare led to her involvement in mergers with other local GI groups, and eventually being a part of the team that led the process of Dayton Gastroenterology joining One GI. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Appalaneni to hear how these experiences influenced Dr. Appalaneni's decision to pursue an executive MBA at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and why she thinks a business degree is something independent GI physicians should consider. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 42

Dr. Rosenberg interviews Jenny Harrison, who is the director of communications of Girls with Guts, a non-profit organization that supports and empowers women with inflammatory bowel disease and/or ostomies. Ms. Harrison provides her inspiring story of living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) as a teenager, and why she joined Girls with Guts on its mission to give all women with IBD the strength to find their confidence, and keep it, despite having IBD or an ostomy. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Ms. Harrison as they talk about her work to establish a national support network that assists women in their search for community, acceptance, and empowerment. Learn how independent GI practices can connect their patients with the resources provided by Girls With Guts. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 41

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Prasad Iyer about new approaches to screening patients and detecting earlier stages of Barrett's esophagus and associated dysplasia that can prevent esophageal cancer. Dr. Iyer is director of the esophageal interest group in the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the Mayo Clinic, where he is active in research and education and providing mentorship to residents and subspecialty fellows. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Iyer as they explore how screening for Barrett's esophagus can be made more accessible, less expensive and what role providers can play in helping patients get screened. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 40

Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam interviews Dr. Justin Forde about what GI fellows are focused on and thinking about as they begin their careers and what innovations they may bring into the organizations they join. Dr. Forde is chief gastroenterology fellow at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System and an advanced endoscopy fellow at the University of Florida. His clinical interests include nutrition, interventional gastroenterology, and diseases of the biliary tract. Join Dr. Gunaratnam and Dr. Forde for an informative look into how the GI leaders of tomorrow are navigating their career choices and how their generation might shape the future of gastroenterology Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 39

Dr. Michael Weinstein interviews Dr. Lindee Goh, who leads the healthcare practice with Tapestry Networks, an organization that brings together health care industry leaders to learn from one another, explore new ideas, and collaborate to solve problems working across the public and private sectors. Dr. Goh co-directs the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Shared Value Initiative, a collaboration with providers, payers, industry leaders, patient advocacy organizations, and others to explore how consensus-based value frameworks and enhanced learning platforms can accelerate value-based care and new alternative payment models. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Goh as they explore how different industry sectors are coming together to find innovative ways to solve challenges within the U.S. health care system. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 38

Two out of five GI fellows are women but account for less 18 percent of practicing gastroenterologists, and the number of women in leadership positions is even lower. Dr. Anita Afzali and Dr. Aline Charabaty share their experience in gastroenterology with host Lisa Mathew and discuss their plans to address some of the challenges women face in medicine . Dr. Charabaty is the assistant clinical director of the GI Division at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and clinical director of the Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) Center at Johns Hopkins-Sibley Memorial Hospital. Dr. Afzali is a professor of clinical medicine and a gastroenterologist at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine where she also serves as the executive vice chair of medicine. She is also associate chief medical officer at UC Health System and Cincinnati Children's Hospital. In their free time, Dr. Afzali and Dr. Charabaty founded Scrubs & Heels, to create opportunities for women in GI at different stages of their GI career – from fellows to early career to seasoned gastroenterologists - to help them succeed and achieve their professional goals, whether being leaders in their institutions or group practice or GI societies, heading editorial boards or building their own enterprise. Join Dr. Mathew, Dr. Afzali and Dr. Charabaty to hear about the first Scrubs & Heels Summit that was held earlier this year, and what they have planned for the future.

While at Digestive Disease Week last month, Dr. Michael Weinstein sat down to record a live interview with Dr. Nadeem Baig, vice president and chief medical officer of Allied Digestive Health in New Jersey. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Baig for a wide-ranging discussion of issues affecting independent GI, including the process for merging smaller local groups into one larger practice, the importance of sustained policy advocacy, and what can be done to increase the amount of GI fellows going into private practice. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 36

Dr. Michael Weinstein talks with Ellen Brooks of the Men's Health Inequities (MHI) Research Lab at the University of Utah School of Medicine, who is a co-author of a new study on the prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) among long-haul truck drivers. Among a sample of more than 47,000 long-haul truck drivers between the ages of 21 and 85, obesity, increasing age, and other medical conditions were associated with increased CRC prevalence. For example, the study results suggest that compared with truck drivers of normal weight, obese, and morbidly obese drivers have 3.5 to 4.3 times greater odds of being diagnosed with CRC. Join Dr. Weinstein and Ms. Brooks for their discussion on how this research can help improve understanding of long-haul truck drivers and increase screening through educating truck drivers and health care providers who perform occupationally required health exams about the increased risks for CRC. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 35

Kevin Harlen interviews fellow Tar Heel Dr. Spencer Dorn about innovation in health care and several start up companies that are changing the way GI physicians treat and monitor patients. Dr. Dorn is a gastroenterologist, professor, and vice chair of medicine for care innovation at the UNC School of Medicine, where he focuses on how to bring people together to provide better and more efficient care and utilize resources to improve lives. Hear Kevin and Dr. Dorn explore how the COVID-19 pandemic forced physicians to pivot to deliver care online and how GI Physicians can make sense of that experience and harness virtual care in ways that improve care for their patients and communities. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 34

This week, Dr. Fred Rosenberg catches up with Dr. Mike Dragutsky, who is a practicing gastroenterologist at Gastro One, and chairman of One GI, a managed services organization with practices in five states that was envisioned, created and is guided by physicians. Dr. Dragutsky discusses his path in GI and why it's important for GI groups to develop a plan for sustainability and growth in the face of healthcare consolidation and rising costs. Dr. Rosenberg finds out how a chance encounter with five tons of available Cabernet grapes led to Dr. Dratgutsky's passion for wine making with Cornerstone Cellars, his critically acclaimed Napa winery. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Dragutsky as they discuss recruitment, the use of mid-level providers and what the future holds for independent GI practices. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 33

Dr. Michael Weinstein of Capital Digestive Care talks to Erin Peterson of the Colon Cancer Coalition and Dr. Milena Gould Suarez of Baylor College of Medicine about the Faces of Blue campaign and the patients, physicians, and family members who share their experiences with colorectal cancer. By highlighting the personal stories of patients and survivors, the campaign seeks to encourage preventive colorectal cancer screening. Dr. Milena Gould Suarez shares about losing her grandmother to colon cancer and how that experience fuels her motivation to educate the community and other healthcare providers about colon cancer. Join Dr. Weinstein, Dr. Suarez and Erin as they discuss how independent GI physicians can share their stories to educate patients and providers about risk factors and encourage people to be screened for colorectal cancer starting at 45 years of age. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 32

Dr. Michael Weinstein of Capital Digestive Care talks to Dr. Costas Kefalas from Akron Digestive Disease Consultants about his work as the president of the GI Quality Improvement Consortium (GIQuIc), a benchmarking registry that tracks quality measures such as cecal intubation rates, withdrawal times and adenoma detection rates. Hear about the path Dr. Kefalas took to independent GI, his role in co-founding the Ohio Gastroenterology Society, and how drumming in an acoustic Greek band called Aegean Odyssey is his way to release stress. Join Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Kefalas as they discuss the importance of advocacy and coming together as independent GI practices to promote important issues to policymakers at the state and federal level. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 31

Dr. Lisa Mathew is joined by Dr. Michael Kreines of Gastro Health Ohio, who helped develop a continuing medical education (CME) program that facilitates engagement with primary care physicians (PCPs) in the Cinncinnati metropolitan area. The program built by Gastro Health Ohio brings in experts on many issues facing PCPs and GI physicians in Ohio, while also bringing in non-GI guests on a broader range of compelling topics. Recent topics include crime scene investigation, sleep disorders and medical marijuana. Join Dr. Mathew and Dr. Kreines to learn how this program provides a forum for GI physicians to strengthen relationships with PCPs and how this benefits his patients. And, get some great advice for establishing a PCP engagement program in your independent GI practice. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 30

Dr. Fred Rosenberg talks with Dr. Daus Mahnke of Gastroenterology of the Rockies about the environment for private practice in Colorado. Dr. Mahnke discusses his path to gastroenterology, how his practice responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the groups experience with adding the GI Genius artificial intelligence (AI) endoscopy module that helps GI physicians detect polyps during routine colonoscopy. Join Dr. Rosenberg and Dr. Mahnke to learn how his group has grown organically over the years and the role that partnerships with health systems play in the success of Gastroenterology of the Rockies. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 29

Scott Becker is an expert in all things related to the business of gastroenterology. He is a sought-after healthcare attorney and a partner at McGuireWoods and publisher of Becker's Healthcare, a leading source of business information for hospital leaders and owners and operators of ambulatory surgery centers. Dr. Michael Weinstein talks with Scott about how he became interested in surgery centers and the business of healthcare and publishing. Join us for a discussion of what the future holds for the business of gastroenterology and find out why Scott is one of Dr. Weinstein's favorite podcast hosts. Produced by Andrew Sousa and Hayden Margolis for Steadfast Collaborative, LLC Original score by Hayden Margolis Gastro Broadcast, Episode 28