Podcasts about health plans

Welcome back to the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Disha Spath. Today, we're joined by Carl Hall CFA, a wealth advisor at CapTrust who helps individuals and families manage their financial lives and achieve their unique goals. CapTrust specializes in delivering financial planning, portfolio management, and investment advice—helping clients navigate complex decisions with confidence. In this episode, Carl dives into the often-overlooked connection between healthcare decisions, price transparency, and retirement planning. From choosing the right health plan during open enrollment to understanding how HSA's can strengthen your retirement security, Carl breaks down how your medical choices today can significantly impact your financial freedom tomorrow. Key Topics Covered: 1. Making Smart Open Enrollment Decisions Why many people miss out on the optimal health plan and how to avoid common mistakes. 2. Understanding Health Plan Costs The real impact of premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance on your finances. 3. Affording Healthcare in Retirement Strategies to prepare for medical costs later in life. 4. The Shoeboxing Approach A practical method for tracking healthcare expenses. 5. FSA vs. HSA The key differences and why HSAs can be a powerful retirement tool. 6. Changes in the DPC Ecosystem What's new and how it affects both patients and providers. 7. Healthcare Price Transparency & Retirement Security How knowing the cost of care can protect your long-term finances. 8. Aligning Provider & Patient Interests Why DPC providers should have the same goals as their patients. Listener Takeaways: How your healthcare plan choice can directly impact your retirement savings. Why HSAs are a game-changer for long-term financial health. The value of price transparency in protecting your future wealth. How to align healthcare decisions with your financial freedom goals. Resources Mentioned: CapTrust Price Transparency Tools    Connect with Us: Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician Guest: Carl Hall CFA, Wealth Adviser at CapTrust

In this episode of Health on the Line, we're diving into all things digital and how it relates to the Ten-Year Health Plan for the NHS. To discuss the topic, we are joined by Andrea Winders, head of business development for life sciences and healthcare at MIDAS (Greater Manchester's Inward Investment Agency), and Dr Nnenna Osuji, chief executive of North Middlesex Hospital, to unpack the NHS's ambitious digital transformation plan. The conversation explores how the NHS can harness data, AI and digital tools to create the most digitally accessible health system in the world. From the promise of the NHS App as a ‘doctor in your pocket' to the challenges of infrastructure, interoperability and staff training, our guests offer candid insights into what's working and where improvements can be made. We also hear from Annie Bliss, senior policy advisor at the NHS Confederation, who delves into government plans to reintroduce performance league tables and what this means for the NHS. Our guests for this episode are: Dr Nnenna Osuji, chief executive of North Middlesex Hospital,Andrea Winders, head of business development for life sciences and healthcare at MIDASAnnie Bliss, senior policy adviser at the NHS ConfederationHealth on the Line is an NHS Confederation podcast, produced by Health Comms Plus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Over-50 Fitness & Health Plan The body is always adapting; if you do it right, you will respond great! (1:42) Considerations to take into account when constructing a routine for this avatar. (5:49) The RIGHT Way to Workout & Eat to Get GREAT Results if You're Over 50 Years Old. An effective full-body workout 2 days a week. (8:52) Day 1: Push a sled, incline dumbbell chest press, cable rows, standing dumbbell shoulder press, dumbbell curls, press down, and a plank. (12:02) Day 2: Trap bar deadlift, push-ups, pull-downs, rear flys, hammer curls, closer grip push-ups, cable chop, and standing calf raises. (18:03) Activity: Aim for 8k steps a day, then 10k, and then 12k steps a day. (21:57) Diet: Women eat 30, men eat 45 grams of protein per meal FIRST, eat veggies SECOND, and eat a starch or fruit LAST. (23:40) Sleep: No electronics, take glycine and magnesium before bed, and aim for a 9-hour window. (26:13) Supplements: Multivitamin, 2000IU Vitamin D plus K, and creatine 10 grams a day. (26:57) Related Links/Products Mentioned Visit MASSZYMES by biOptimizers for an exclusive offer for Mind Pump listeners! **Code MINDPUMP10 at checkout for 10% off any order. ** August Special: MAPS 15 50% off! ** Code MUSCLE50 at checkout ** How Do I Choose The Right Weight? (LIFT RESPONSIBLY) – Mind Pump TV Mind Pump TV - YouTube – Search ALL exercises with videos and coaching cues mentioned above. The Active Plank- An 6-Pack Building Powerhouse – YouTube Walking 8,000 steps just 1-2 days a week linked to significant health benefits Mind Pump # 2402: The 5 Reasons Why Walking is King for Fat Loss (Burn More Fat than Running & How to Do it Correctly) Mind Pump # 2650: Top 7 Underrated Supplements Mind Pump # 2497: The Amazing & Weird Side Effects of Creatine Mind Pump Podcast – YouTube Mind Pump Free Resources  

Is the government's 10-Year Health Plan the medicine the NHS needs? We ask two former health secretaries.  In the second of two special episodes, we speak to Alan Milburn about the future of the NHS and his thoughts on the government's 10-Year Health Plan. Alan was Secretary of State for Health from 1999 to 2003, during the Blair governments, with his tenure seeing the development of the NHS Plan (2000) and record levels of investment. As Lead Non-Executive Director at the Department of Health and Social Care, Alan also had a hand in writing and developing the new plan.  In conversation with our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon, Alan reflects on the key challenges facing the NHS today and why he believes the new plan sets the right direction of travel. But is the plan clear enough about how change will be delivered? How will the plan ensure the health service pulls in one direction across varying objectives and programmes? And will the pace of change be sufficient by the time of the next election?    Show notes The Health Foundation (2020). Glaziers and window breakers. Former health secretaries in their own words. The Health Foundation (2025). Jeremy Hunt on the 10-Year Health Plan.  The Health Foundation (2025). 10-year ‘Plan for Change' or ‘plus ça change'? The Health Foundation (2025). Neighbourhood health is the right ambition – but will the 10-year plan deliver? The Health Foundation (2025). Dazed and confused? Policy ideas behind the 10-Year Health Plan. 

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In this episode, Dawn Maroney, President of Alignment Health and CEO of Alignment Health Plan, shares her experience testifying before Congress on the future of Medicare Advantage and highlights key policy changes needed to protect access, expand rural care, and ensure member choice in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

In this episode of the Astonishing Healthcare podcast, we discuss recent health policy news and how to bring greater transparency to health benefits programs with returning guest, Jeff Hogan, President of Upside Health Advisors. Building on our previous discussion with Jeff - How First-Movers are Taking Control of their Health Plans in 2025 - we shed more light on the “PBM boogeyman” narrative, explaining how opaque pricing structures and unhelpful provisions buried in contracts must be discovered. Jeff reviews attempts by states around the country to intervene and halt steering and other practices that negatively impact health plans and their members - from early medical reform efforts to recent PBM-focused legislation. He also notes Medicaid cuts are likely to have some "second-order effects" that impact commercial plans, and the mood in Washington, DC, overall is "dazed and confused," so we can't count on help at the federal level.Highlighting the evolving role of PBMs and Capital Rx's expansion into medical benefit administration, it's apparent that the opportunity to reduce waste and take back control of benefits programs exists; however, "medical is worse," Hogan says. So, what is a plan sponsor or benefits consultant to do? Dig into those contracts - all of them (administrative services, broker, and stop-loss, to name a few) - and look at the provisions you're paying for! "This is where you discover the schemes that are occurring," he adds.Lastly, Jeff notes an interesting trend with health systems and direct contracting that's worth a listen, especially if you liked AH075 - What Health Systems Need [From a PBM]: A Blend of Tech, Transparency, and Understanding, with Lindsey Butler, PharmD, and Chris England.Related ContentCapital Rx Unveils Healthcare's First Unified Pharmacy and Medical Claims Processing PlatformSigns it is time to change your PBM vendor, and how to overcome common hesitations (BenefitsPRO)Replay - Strategic Well-Being: Rethinking Health Benefits to Empower Employees and Drive ImpactTo learn more about Upside Health Advisors, click here, or you can find Jeff on LinkedIn.For more information about Capital Rx and this episode, please visit Capital Rx Insights.

Charles returns to the show, touching on his past as a soccer coach before sharing the realities health plans are facing in California.  Charles also shares with host Gavin Ward about the upcoming fall CAHP conference, including how leaders from health plans, providers, and DHCS will be attending to present as well as network.

In this episode, Dawn Maroney, President of Alignment Health and CEO of Alignment Health Plan, shares her experience testifying before Congress on the future of Medicare Advantage and highlights key policy changes needed to protect access, expand rural care, and ensure member choice in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

Send us a textIn this episode of Talk Sex with Annette, we're diving into the surprising ways sex toys are revolutionizing sexual health—and why more medical professionals are finally taking pleasure seriously.You'll learn:Why vibrators are being recommended by doctors and therapistsThe science behind using pleasure tools to treat conditions like pelvic pain, low libido, and arousal disordersHow integrating toys into your health routine can improve intimacy, confidence, and connectionWhat to look for in a “therapeutic” toy—and where to startWhether you're navigating postpartum sex, menopause, erectile dysfunction, or just want better orgasms—this episode is packed with insight, guidance, and the kind of real talk your doctor should be having.You can find my spicy site here. https://talksexwithannette.com/talk-sex-with-me/My spicy OF handle is @talksexwithannetteMy free spicy handle is @annettetalkssexSubscribe to my e-newsletter: https://she-explores-life.ck.page/e9760c390cAsk a question, Leave a Comment: https://www.speakpipe.com/LockerRoomTalkPodcastMy substack: https://talksexwithannette.substack.com/Use code EXPLORES15 for 15% off all Womanizer Products at Womanizer.com. Get 30% Off Sex Toys & Lube with code EXPLORES30 at thethruster.com: https://bit.ly/3Xsj5wY Get 15% Off The Life Saving, Erection Enhancing Tech Cockring By Firmtech with my code ANNETTE15 at: https://myfirmtech.com/annettebenedetti Get your intimacy questions answered, enjoy erotic audio readings and more.https://talksexwithannette.com/talk-sex-with-me/Support the show Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@annettebenedetti Connect with usWe are on all the socials: TikTok: @ LockerRoomTalkPodcast LRT's Insta: @Lockerroomtalkandshots Annette's Insta: @BeingBenedetti SEL Inst: @SheExplores_Life LRT's FB: @LockerRoomTalkandShots SEL FB: @ SheExploresLife Annette's YouTube: Annette Benedetti Check Out More Sexy Content:She Explores Life Website: sheexploreslife.comCheers!

Is the government's 10-Year Health Plan the medicine the NHS needs? We ask two former health secretaries. In the first of two special episodes, we speak to Jeremy Hunt about the state of the NHS and his reaction to the government's 10-Year Health Plan. Jeremy was Secretary of State for Health and Social Care between 2012 and 2018, in the Cameron and May governments, making him the longest serving health secretary to date. He later served as foreign secretary (2018–2019) and Chancellor of the Exchequer (2022–2024). In conversation with our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon, Jeremy reflects on his time as health secretary and whether he believes the new plan presents a coherent blueprint for reform. Does the plan strike a positive balance between top-down targets and decentralisation? Will the decision to scrap NHS England and cut the numbers of ICBs help or hinder delivery? And what is the future role of regulation in improving patient safety and care quality? Show notes The Health Foundation (2020). Glaziers and window breakers. Former health secretaries in their own words. Nuffield Trust (2025). Exploring earnings of NHS doctors in England.   The Health Foundation (2025). Taking a chainsaw to NHS England is not the sign of a healthy state. HSJ (2025). Cuts to ICBs and NHSE slammed by ex-health secretary.  HSJ (2025). Patient Safety Watch: Dash Review opens a crucial door.  BMJ (2025). Government's 10 year plan for the NHS in England.

In our update this month:Exploring the workforce implications of waiting lists in children and young people's speech and language therapy services.Response to the 10-year health plan for England.Continued focus on SEND in England and proposals in Northern Ireland.Report from RCSLT Scotland with an experimental analysis of additional numbers of SLTs needed in education. This interview was conducted by Victoria Harris, Head of Learning at The Royal College of Speech and produced and edited by freelance producer Jacques Strauss.Please be aware that the views expressed are those of the guests and not the RCSLT.Please do take a few moments to respond to our podcast survey: uk.surveymonkey.com/r/LG5HC3R

In this episode, Dr. Joe Kimura, Chief Medical Officer at SCAN Health Plan, discusses how SCAN is leading innovation in Medicare Advantage through personalized care, data analytics, and strategic partnerships. He also explores the critical role of technology and member engagement in improving outcomes for a growing senior population.

Do You Have a Health Plan for Midlife and Beyond?You have a business plan. You have a financial plan. But what about a health plan?In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast, Angela poses one of the most important — and overlooked — questions midlife women need to ask themselves:Do I have a plan for my health as I age?With honesty and insight, Angela dives into the concept of health span vs. lifespan, and there's a difference you probably haven't considered. Most women begin to experience a noticeable health decline around the age of 63 BUT that doesn't have to be your reality.She explores the everyday symptoms so many women brush off or tolerate — brain fog, fatigue, sleep disturbances, weight gain, aches and pains, hot flushes, rising blood pressure or cholesterol — and explains how these are signals your body is out of balance, not just inevitable signs of aging.You'll also hear:The real reason symptoms only show up once the body is already under stress.What movement does to your brain and hormones (and why you need more of it).How simple, sustainable choices — from better food to fresh air — can help you thrive.An honest question to ask yourself about where you want to be in 6 months, 1 year… or even 5 years?Angela shares her personal story of slipping out of balance earlier this year, how she found her way back through consistency and mindset shifts, and how you can do the same — without overhauling your entire life.This episode is your invitation to stop putting your health last, and start building the future you want to live in.Grab your free guide: Thriving in Menopause

In this episode, Matthew Taylor is joined by Dr Ify Okocha, James Duncan and Rebecca Gray to unpack the mental health implications of the government's new Ten-Year Health Plan. From the rollout of neighbourhood health centres to mental health support in schools, the panel explores whether the plan's bold ambitions can meet the realities of delivery. They also dive into harnessing digital tools, the social determinants of mental ill health, the role of integrated care boards and how working with local leadership can drive meaningful change. Our guests for this episode are: Dr Ify Okocha, chief executive of Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust James Duncan, chief executive of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust Rebecca Gray, director of the NHS Confederation's Mental Health Network Plus, we hear from Tom Gurney, director of strategic communication and engagement at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board for this week's Leader in Six.  Health on the Line is an NHS Confederation podcast, produced by HealthCommsPlus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty Wang, co-founder and CEO of Angle Health, is working to ensure that anyone can access healthcare in a convenient and efficient way. Tune into this episode of Breaking Health, where host Steve Krupa speaks with Wang about shifting from engineering and government to healthcare and creating a platform that delivers comprehensive healthcare benefits while removing administrative barriers. Wang discusses the value proposition Angle Health is putting forth and what member experience is like on the platform, as well as shares advice for entrepreneurs that are at the early stages of starting their own company.  Conversations between VCs and entrepreneurs typically occur in boardrooms or coffee shops. In the Breaking Health Podcast, you get a seat at the table. Healthcare Chief Executive Officer Stephen Krupa, HealthEdge Software, Inc., brings his more than 20 years' investor experience insight to revealing conversations with the most disruptive CEOs in healthcare. Listen to understand how these leaders are building the companies—and fostering the cultures—that will change everything.  Links from this episode:  HealthEdge  Angle Health   

Many current utilization management processes lack the transparency, speed and interoperability needed to meet current requirements — and the stakes for health plans are rising as CMS-0057 deadlines loom.This podcast breaks down new national research on UM practices across payer organizations, offering a clear-eyed view of what's working, what's not and where change is most needed.Leaders will also explore how AI-assisted technologies could help health plans get ahead of future interoperability challenges, including those tied to CMS-0057.Key insights include:Where UM processes are breaking down across health plans and care settingsHow AI-assisted tools could reduce delays and improve alignment now and in the futureReal-world takeaways to improve speed, transparency and readiness ahead of CMS-0057

In this episode, Dr. Joe Kimura, Chief Medical Officer at SCAN Health Plan, discusses how SCAN is leading innovation in Medicare Advantage through personalized care, data analytics, and strategic partnerships. He also explores the critical role of technology and member engagement in improving outcomes for a growing senior population.

May is National Arthritis A...May is National Arthritis Awareness Month AND National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.  Anyone over age 50 has an increased risk for arthritis AND osteoporosis!  According to the CDC, 1 in 4 adults has osteoarthritis, the most common joint disorder in America, and the International Osteoporosis Foundation reports that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture.THE COMPLETE BONE AND JOINT HEALTH PLAN is a complete, science-backed lifestyle plan for stronger bones, healthier joints, and lifelong mobility— co-authored by an orthopedic surgeon and a registered dietitian!Many books cover bone health…or joint health….or nutrition….or exercise. This is the first book to address all those aspects seamlessly in a simple, unified program.

On this week's episode of Top in Tech, Megan Stagman, Director, UK TMT, is joined by Charlie Norell, Senior Associate in GC's Health & Life Sciences practice, to unpack the UK's recently published 10-Year Health Plan and what it means for the future of healthcare innovation. They explore how the Plan aims to reshape the NHS, with a focus on the government's desired shift from analogue to digital and harnessing the latest technologies. They reflect on next steps for the proposed Single Patient Record, the expanded role of the NHS App, new "Global Institutes" and regional innovation zones, and dig into the political drivers and fiscal considerations behind the Plan. The discussion covers the opportunities this creates for MedTech, life sciences, and digital health, alongside key challenges such as funding gaps and structural reform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May is National Arthritis A...May is National Arthritis Awareness Month AND National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.  Anyone over age 50 has an increased risk for arthritis AND osteoporosis!  According to the CDC, 1 in 4 adults has osteoarthritis, the most common joint disorder in America, and the International Osteoporosis Foundation reports that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture.THE COMPLETE BONE AND JOINT HEALTH PLAN is a complete, science-backed lifestyle plan for stronger bones, healthier joints, and lifelong mobility— co-authored by an orthopedic surgeon and a registered dietitian!Many books cover bone health…or joint health….or nutrition….or exercise. This is the first book to address all those aspects seamlessly in a simple, unified program.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.

 In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Dave Chase, co-founder of Health Rosetta, a movement that has become a national force in transforming employer-sponsored healthcare.Dave shares the deeply personal story that drove him to create Health Rosetta and the powerful framework that emerged—one focused on transparency, outcomes, and economic sustainability.The conversation explores how Health Rosetta empowers benefit advisors and employers to break free from the traditional health plan model, the crucial role of data access, and the open-source tools now available through Nautilus Health Institute. Dave also unveils the evolution of RosettaFest from an internal network event into the premier gathering for high-performance health plan innovators across the country.

After months of waiting, the government's 10 Year Health Plan is finally here. But with a health and care system at breaking point, does the government's plan offer hope to staff, patients, and the public that things will get better? In this first episode in a new podcast series from The King's Fund, Siva Anandaciva, Charlotte Wickens and Sarah Arnold discuss what's in the government's 10 Year Health Plan, what it hopes to achieve and what we can expect to see in the coming weeks and months. You might also be interested in:  Truly fit for the future? The 10 Year Health Plan Explained (long read) 10 Year Health Plan - what bold choices and actions are needed to deliver transformational change? (event)  The King's Fund's response to the 10 Year Health Plan (press statement) This episode was edited by Bespoken Media. 

In this live round-table episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Boomer Anderson sits down with Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Jodi Duval, and Dr. Allen Bookatz to explore how syncing your biology with circadian rhythms may be more powerful than any 3-day fast. From defining ultradian and infradian rhythms to tackling jet lag, hormone timing, and shift work, the team shares clinical stories and practical tactics you can use to reset your internal clock and optimize recovery, metabolism, and mood. Join us as we delve into: Why circadian rhythm alignment may be more effective than prolonged fasting The science of sleep anchoring, Zeitgebers, and peripheral clocks How your sleep, hormones, and hunger cues are dictated by light and food timing Simple tools to reset your rhythms—even after sleep debt or night shifts This episode is for you if: You're struggling with brain fog, low energy, or poor sleep despite “getting 8 hours” You want to learn practical tools for syncing your biology to light and food You're a night shift worker, traveler, or new parent trying to reset your rhythm You believe that healthspan starts with consistent daily habits—not heroic interventions You can also find this episode on… YouTube: https://youtu.be/AC_j9ZLHUnM Find more from Smarter Not Harder: Website: https://troscriptions.com/blogs/podcast | https://homehope.org Instagram: @troscriptions | @homehopeorg Get 10% Off your purchase of the Metabolomics Module by using PODCAST10 at homehope.org Get 10% Off your Troscriptions order by using POD10 at troscriptions.com Get daily insights from the hosts by following @troscriptions on Instagram.

This week, we are joined by State Health Plan Executive Administrator Thomas Friedman for an in-depth look at the challenges facing the Plan and its 750,000-plus members. We discuss the ongoing negotiations with CVS Caremark and the expected premium increases for next year.  Also, we touch on the pressing issues of high healthcare costs and the need for transparency, and Friedman shares the plan's strategies to make healthcare more affordable for state employees and retirees.

In this episode of the ACAP Coffee Break podcast, ACAP CEO Meg Murray speaks with Theresa Rodriguez Scepanski, CEO of Community First Health Plans. Tune in as Theresa shares her unique path to the health plan's C-suite, beginning with her early career in the hospitality industry. She also reflects on her 30 years of experience at the Safety Net Health Plan, its growing membership, deep roots in the community, and how it continues to serve as a trusted health plan for every generation.

Exploring the Complexities of Pharma Rebates with Ann Lewandowski In this Summer Short episode of Relentless Health Value, host Stacey Richter converses again with Ann Lewandowski about the intricate dynamics of pharmaceutical rebates, or as Lewandowski prefers, post-sale concessions.  The discussion delves into the nuances of these rebates, the impact they have on drug costs, and the hidden consequences for patients and plan sponsors.  They highlight articles and insights by Austin Chelko and Peter Hayes, touching on how rebates can disadvantage the pursuit of lower-cost generics and biosimilars, and can obstruct pharmacogenetic testing that ensures drug efficacy and safety.  The conversation also critiques the opacity of rebates, deemed trade secrets by pharma and PBM companies, and underscores the ethical and financial dilemmas posed by the current rebate-driven system. === LINKS ===

In this Trending Health series, Vynamic team members will highlight how different sectors of the health industry are evolving to meet the demands of today's ever-changing healthcare landscape through value creation and strategic transformations.In this episode, Mindy McGrath, Saurabh Raman, and Ryan Hummel dive into how payers are shifting from short-term cost cutting to long-term strategic transformation as a result of rising costs, policy upheaval, and evolving consumer demands.To learn more about how we can help your team navigate these strategic decisions, reach out to Saurabh.Raman@vynamic.com and Ryan.Hummel@vynamic.com. Podcast Tags: healthcare, health plan, healthcare strategy, health innovation, strategic transformation Source Links:Medical cost trend: Behind the numbers 2025 UnitedHealth reports highest medical costs since COVID-19 pandemic's start New Evernorth program to cap out-of-pocket costs for Wegovy, Zepbound at $200 Spending growth on GLP-1s outpaces specialty drugs: Evernorth study Elevance Health Reports First Quarter 2024 Results Panel – Mindy McGrath, Saurabh Raman, Ryan Hummel Research & Production – Julia Morrison, Saurabh Raman, Ryan Hummel, Everly PetruzzelliRecording & Editing – Mike Liberto, Rachel SkoneckiFor additional discussion, please contact us at TrendingHealth.com. 

As healthcare costs continue to rise and patient needs become increasingly complex, personalization has emerged as a critical strategy in improving access, outcomes, and experiences. Despite 75% of surveyed Americans wishing for a more personalized healthcare experience, most health plans still offer one-size-fits-all solutions. But the shift toward personalization is more than just a trend—it's becoming the foundation for effective care delivery.So, how can personalization and technologies like AI transform how patients engage with the healthcare system?Welcome to Highway to Health. In the latest episode, host David Kemp sits down with Dave Thomas, VP of National Accounts and Distribution at Personify Health, to explore how technology, data, and human-centered design are being woven together to simplify and elevate the healthcare experience for millions of members.Key Takeaways from the Episode:Redefining Personalization: Dave Thomas explains how Personify Health delivers truly personalized healthcare by tailoring information, communication, and resources to each member's unique needs, preferences, and health journey—helping them navigate coverage and make informed decisions.AI-Powered Navigation and Outcomes: From detecting fraud to predicting patient engagement, artificial intelligence is powering smarter, faster, and more impactful healthcare decisions across 20 million covered lives in Personify's ecosystem.Breaking Down Barriers: By operating in 190 countries and 23 languages, Personify Health is addressing not just language gaps but also health literacy, access limitations, and lifestyle differences—delivering care in the way patients best understand and respond to.Dave Thomas is a seasoned healthcare benefits executive with over two decades of experience leading national sales, account management, and cost-containment strategies for self-funded employer groups. He has held senior leadership roles at Personify Health, The Health Plan, and HealthSmart, where he specialized in delivering customized benefits solutions that improve employee experience while managing costs. Known for his thought leadership and client-centric approach, Dave consistently drives growth by aligning benefit strategies with recruitment, retention, and operational efficiency goals.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable, features Sufian Chowdhury, Chief Executive Officer of Kinetik. Sufian discusses how Kinetik is transforming non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) through real-time data, interoperability, and plan-owned infrastructure to improve compliance, reduce fraud, and enhance member experience.This episode is sponsored by Kinetik.

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson discusses the implications of the Cunningham v Cornell Supreme Court decision for health plans, emphasizing the need for 408(b)(2) disclosures under the Consolidated Appropriations Act. He explains that health plans subject to ERISA must now disclose fees and services provided by vendors, such as third-party administrators and pharmacy benefit managers. Eric advises plan committee members to establish a process similar to retirement plans, including fiduciary committees and charters, to ensure compliance.Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable, features Dr. Aisha Rahim, Medical Director and Co-Lead, AI Governance Council, Johns Hopkins Health Plans (JHHP). Dr. Rahim discusses how JHHP is leveraging artificial intelligence to manage costs, close care gaps, advance health equity, and enhance member engagement across a diverse population.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable, features Dr. Aisha Rahim, Medical Director and Co-Lead, AI Governance Council, Johns Hopkins Health Plans (JHHP). Dr. Rahim discusses how JHHP is leveraging artificial intelligence to manage costs, close care gaps, advance health equity, and enhance member engagement across a diverse population.

Dr. Mary Andrus, Co-Director of the Art Therapy Program at Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling joins the Exchange.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable features Dawn Maroney, Chief Executive Officer of Alignment Health Plan and President of Alignment Health. She shares how Alignment uses AI-assisted care, culturally aware outreach, and a deep commitment to equity to deliver affordable, personalized care for seniors while preserving the human touch at every step.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable features Dawn Maroney, Chief Executive Officer of Alignment Health Plan and President of Alignment Health. She shares how Alignment uses AI-assisted care, culturally aware outreach, and a deep commitment to equity to deliver affordable, personalized care for seniors while preserving the human touch at every step.

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with David Contorno, president and founder of ePowered Benefits, we go beyond the strategies and structures of health plan design—diving into the real-life struggles that are shaping smarter, more compassionate solutions.Host David A. Saltzman and David Contorno discuss the realities of scaling direct primary care, creative ways to bridge care gaps, and the challenges of educating employers and advisors about fiduciary responsibility. But the heart of this episode is personal: David shares how his own battles with chronic pain and mental health have transformed his perspective—and the way he builds health plans.The conversation uncovers the hidden crisis of mental health in the workforce, the need for more accessible and innovative care models, and the legacy that disruption can leave when leaders dare to do things differently.If you missed Part 1, catch it now for the story of smart plan solutions and shifting structures.  

In this episode we're talking to Chelsea Ryckis, President of Ethos Benefits on what it means to view your health plan through the eyes of a fiduciary and how that perspective could lead to savings and improved benefits for your employees. Chelsea presented on this topic at the 2024 International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists Symposium. Hear many other great presentations like hers at this year's Symposium! https://www.iscebs.org/symposium Check out Chelsea's own podcast from Ethos Benefits: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/ Don't forget - if you manage an ERISA plan, you're legally required to think (and act!) like a fiduciary. The International Foundation has your back with everything you need to know about your fiduciary duties in one easy-to-understand e-learning course. It's a great option to learn about your duties for the first time or brush up on them: https://www.ifebp.org/education---events/virtual-education-and-webcasts/e-learning-course/e-learning-courses/fiduciary-responsibility-for-erisa-plans

In the latest episode of The Beat Podcast, host Sandy Vance discusses the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare with Anmol Medan, CEO of RadiantGraph. They talk about how AI and Intelligent Personalization can improve the member experience with health plans. Their conversation also highlights the ongoing challenges in consumer engagement within the healthcare sector. RadiantGraph aims to bridge the gap by utilizing AI and machine learning to enhance consumer engagement for large healthcare organizations, particularly in the realm of health plans. If you have any questions about RadiantGraph, reach out to Anmol via LinkedIn or email him at anmolmedan@radiantgraph.com. In this episode, they talk about:❤️‍

What does “smart” health plan design look like in an industry packed with legacy thinking and rising costs? In Part 1 of a special two-part ShiftShapers interview, host David A. Saltzman welcomes back David Contorno, president and founder of ePower Benefits—and one of the industry's most well-known disruptors.David pulls back the curtain on his journey from traditional insurance to innovative plan design, explaining why “business as usual” can't fix the healthcare system. He discusses creative strategies like reference-based pricing, direct provider contracting, and the evolution of self-funded health plans. Through stories, data, and first-hand insights, David lays out the “shifting structures” that are changing how employers, brokers, and providers think about benefits.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker's 3rd Annual Spring Payer Issues Roundtable, features Jarrod McNaughton, CEO of Inland Empire Health Plan. Jarrod shares how IEHP is aligning mission, culture, and bold innovation to drive health equity, improve quality through performance-based partnerships, and enhance member satisfaction with community-centered programs.

Health insurance is one of the largest expenses for many businesses, but are you getting what you're paying for? In this eye-opening episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, speaks with Louis Bernardi of BrightPath Benefit Advisors about the outdated and opaque nature of most employer-sponsored health insurance plans. Louis reveals how major carriers prioritize shareholder profits over … Read More Read More

In this episode of The Business of Healthcare Podcast, Becky Greenfield, a healthcare attorney and a partner at boutique law firm Wolfe Pincavage, joins host Dan Karnuta for a discussion about the complexities and risks associated with alternative health plans that are not mandated by the Affordable Care Act. Plans like healthcare sharing ministries, limited benefit plans and short-term insurance can appear similar to conventional healthcare insurance but they lack essential consumer protections like coverage for pre-existing conditions, essential health benefits, and balance-billing safeguards. Although these plans are attractive due to their lower costs, they can can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses and limited provider networks. The conversation also highlights the challenges the hospitals face when treating patients with these plans, including confusion over payment responsibilities and financial risk due to underpayment or denials. Karnuta is an associate professor in the Naveen Jindal School of Management's Organizations, Strategy and International Management Area as well as director of its Professional Program in Healthcare Management.

Show Notes: Ami Parekh discusses the business model and services of Included Health, a company that provides personalized healthcare. Included Health partners with self-insured employers and health plans to improve the way working Americans and their families receive healthcare.  Included Health Services  About a third of Fortune, 100 companies, and 10 million Americans have access to Included Health's services. The company focuses on providing access answers and advocacy as people engage in the healthcare system. The company has nearly 3000 people, including 1000 clinicians across the country, including primary care doctors, specialists, nurse practitioners, and therapists. Additionally, hundreds of care advocates help patients understand the ins and outs of the healthcare system. Many patients come to Included Health because they can't get access to primary care and behavioral health, which can take one to two months across most of the country. The company aims to address this supply problem. Navigating the Healthcare System Ami talks about the role of Included Health in helping patients navigate the healthcare system, focusing on personalized and best-for-the-patient approach. She explains how it can help patients navigate their insurance and coverage options. She also covers the use of data and data science to match patients with the highest quality healthcare professionals for specific requirements, such as orthopedic surgeons or specialists. Ami emphasizes that Included Health are not plans or payers, but providers who work with a wide field of providers, and their job is to help patients achieve the best outcomes within the current healthcare system. Accessing Quality Data in Healthcare The conversation turns to the concept of quality data in healthcare, how it is crucial to consider the quality of care and the likelihood of repeat surgeries, and the issue of inappropriate prescribing behavior, such as the use of opiates and benzodiazepines, which can be addictive. Ami explains how Included Health accesses and uses data, and how collected sanctioned data can help determine if a provider is safe for family members to see. Ami emphasizes that data is never perfect, and in the worst case scenario, patients can consult with clinicians to find the right doctor. The data can help inform conversations about who to see, and Included Health offers support in finding publicly available data sources and the right practitioner. She highlights the need for better data and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients to improve patient outcomes and overall healthcare quality. Improving Healthcare Pricing and Cost Employers typically pay for Included Health as a layer on top of their health plan, as they want their employees to be healthy, productive, and engaged members of their workforce. They also want healthcare costs to remain low so that they can pay their employees a living wage and invest in other benefits. Healthcare is often the number two cost after supplies in America, and employers want their employees to be healthy, productive, and engaged. Included Health offers a way to give healthy days back to employees by reducing the number of days they are unable to be healthy due to mental or physical health reasons. This results in increased productivity, better work performance, and overall cost savings. There are two dimensions to using included health services: first-time care and saving time. First, employees get the right care the first time, which can lead to cost savings. Second, health plans are incentivized to offer support to their patient population, as they are paying for it. Third, Included Health helps find providers quickly, saving employees time and freeing them up to focus on the healing process and family. Furthermore, Included Health provides access to primary care doctors, which is crucial for long-term cost savings and better health. How Included Health Works Included Health has about 1500 clinicians available for virtual appointments, including behavioral health providers. The app allows users to schedule appointments within a week, ensuring choice and quick access to healthcare services. Technology has brought about broader trends in the industry, such as value-based care and making things easier to access. The cost of healthcare is increasing by seven to 10% year over year, making it unsustainable for the American population. Employers, who are often the purchasers of healthcare, are seeking better solutions to control healthcare costs. They are trying to do this through products and services, creating new networks, and focusing on wellness. The trend is driven by employers and the government, as well as insurance companies. Included Health fits into this trend by reducing total care costs and prioritizing the member experience. By being a one-stop shop for patients and members, employers can experiment with different services without disrupting the member experience. This allows them to work with the growing trend of cost-cutting and value-based care in the healthcare industry. Included Health's Clients and Pricing Structure  The pricing structure for the company is custom, client-by-client, and depends on the population being served. The company does not have a per-head pricing structure, but rather on a population level. Performance guarantees are part of the pricing model, which includes up-operation and delivery of savings.The company has started participating in shared savings models with CalPERS, which allows California employees and their dependents access to their services. Payers see the company as a provider for their members, and they believe that these models are helping them achieve better outcomes for patients. Included Health mostly focuses on larger enterprise and jumbo clients, with 33 of the Fortune 100 companies being clients. Smaller clients also receive good results from the company. The Role of AI in Healthcare Ami discusses the use of Telehealth in healthcare. She mentions her parents as an example of how they could do more virtually than they are today. Ami also discusses the role of AI in healthcare, stating that, by providing tools that can help healthcare workers it is a beneficial tool.  AI has been used in healthcare for therapy, diagnosis, and diagnosis, with 20% of conversations being healthcare-related. She is excited about the potential of AI in healthcare. Member-facing AI can answer basic health insurance questions and provide guidance on insurance deductibles and costs. Included Health ensures all of their AI services are supported by humans, whether on the clinical side or on the care team side, to ensure a human is available to the customer when needed.  Ami believes that AI will be a tool that supports the human workforce in healthcare, making their jobs easier and allowing them to do more for the members. Over the next year or two, AI will play a significant role in healthcare, with AI helping navigate systems, schedule calls, and provide better access to care for patients. Timestamps: 01:22 Included Health's Services and Impact 03:22: Navigating the Healthcare System  07:20: Challenges and Solutions in Healthcare Data  14:29: Employer and Health Plan Perspectives  21:33: Value-Based Care and Pricing Structure  27:21: Health Plan and TPA Relationships  32:41: Role of AI in Healthcare  Link:  https://includedhealth.com/   Unleashed is produced by Umbrex, which has a mission of connecting independent management consultants with one another, creating opportunities for members to meet, build relationships, and share lessons learned. Learn more at www.umbrex.com.

Meidas Health is on a roll! Continuing its series of incisive interviews with the nation's top healthcare leaders, Chiquita Brooks-LaSure — head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under President Biden — joins host Dr. Vin Gupta for a hard-hitting discussion on prescription drug pricing in the United States. In light of President Trump's executive order yesterday — which was light on specifics — what's actually having an impact on lowering costs for patients nationwide? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson talks about the Cunningham vs. Cornell Supreme Court decision and its implications for ERISA plans and the potential implications for Health Plans based on the Consolidated Appropriations Act (“CAA”). He emphasizes that the decision does not change how fiduciaries should operate but highlights guidance that is already in place. Eric explains prohibited transactions in ERISA plans, the necessity of ERISA 408(b)(2) disclosures, and the importance of reasonable fees. He also extends these requirements to health plans under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, advising plan sponsors to ensure proper fee disclosures and fiduciary processes for both retirement and health plans.Use the keyword “90north”: https://www.fiduciaryinabox.com/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.

In this episode, Karen Love, president of Cook Children's Health Plan, joins Jakob Emerson to discuss Texas' Medicaid contract shakeup, why her organization is challenging the state's decision to exclude children's hospital-affiliated plans, and the legislative and legal efforts underway to protect coverage for 125,000 children in North Texas.

In this episode of Side Affects, host Kenzie McEvily and guest co-host, EVP of MB Columbus, Kevin Grabeman sit down with Dr. David Lee, President of the OhioHealthy Medical Plan, to explore innovative alternatives to traditional health insurance. OhioHealthy, backed by the trusted OhioHealth system, is reshaping the benefits landscape with a focus on simplicity, value-based care and better outcomes for employers and their teams. Dr. Lee shares how OhioHealthy balances affordability with personalized support, coordinated care, and transparent pricing. Tune in to learn how this nontraditional solution could be a game-changer for your organization's health plan strategy.

Who wants to do things the easy way? I DO! I have a lot of things to do, places to go warriors, and when it comes to wellness and best life practices, I want to do the simplest, most efficient things to get me the results I want. Today I bring you eight of those simple, game changing things. Choose one and you'll notice big differences! And yes, this episode comes after the one I did last month on  perimenopause and menopause truths. So many of you reached out saying, “Okay, but what do I do?” You're not alone—this phase of life can feel confusing and frustrating. Well today I take the confusion out, and offer 8 things you can start or stop that will lead to big results.   ❌Stop wasting your time on things that won't make big changes. ❌ You've got a full life - things to do! Listen in!  In today's episode, I'm breaking it all down. We're talking about simple, doable shifts that will support your body, your brain, and your energy levels—without overwhelm. If you've been feeling tired, foggy, or just off and wondering if it's your hormones, this episode is for you. I'm sharing practical steps to help you feel stronger, clearer, and more in control of your health. You don't have to settle for feeling “blah” in midlife—let's get you back to feeling great! If you liked this show, you'll like this one: 5 Questions for a Quick Life Audit [HAPPINESS SERIES] on Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/5-questions-for-a-quick-life-audit-happiness-series/id1434429161?i=1000625340692 5 Questions for a Quick Life Audit [HAPPINESS SERIES] on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mUd7OQEWJ0Xvl1opfGQco?si=8d01b79569 To read more and peruse the full show notes, go here

In this powerful episode, Dr. Erin Faules sits down with two inspiring Wild Health patients, Julie and Susan, to unpack their transformative journeys toward optimal health. Both busy professionals and mothers, they share how personalized data, wearable tech, and a relentless drive for better health have helped them take control of their well-being, even after life-altering diagnoses and family health tragedies. From overcoming chronic joint pain to battling MS, these women reveal how prioritizing health today—not tomorrow—creates a ripple effect of vitality, resilience, and longevity. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this conversation offers actionable insights, relatable stories, and plenty of motivation to start building your health portfolio.