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Hello, all you and the Relentless Health Tribe trying to figure out how to do right by patients and the folks footing the bill. Welcome to it. This is episode 499, one episode before episode 500. So, come back next week for that one. For a full transcript of this episode, click here. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to the free weekly newsletter to be a member of the Relentless Tribe. All right, so today, let's talk about the inches that are all around us. Let's find some. Musculoskeletal spend, otherwise known as MSK spend, for any given plan sponsor adds up to the tune of something like 20% or 30% of total plan spending, depending on the member demographic. MSK rolls in at $16 PMPM, I just saw, according to a report Keith Passwater sent me a couple of weeks ago. It's the third most costly spend apparently overall. And it's easy to see why, right? On any given day, odds are good any given plan member is gonna do something that, in hindsight, was fairly obviously a bad idea and wind up getting hurt in some low-acuity way. For example, I remember that one time I twisted my ankle on a curb getting outta my car. Given the right space, enough time, and concentration, I can do the worst parking job you've ever seen in your life and manage to twist my ankle in the process. But I digress. Here's the point. MSK spend adds up really fast. Add to that something like 50% of spine surgeries are said to be unnecessary. The same thing goes true from injuries like twisted ankles, for example, that would have healed themselves without an ER visit, without any intervention aside from ice, rest, and elevate. Because it turns out that something like 80% of those twisted-ankle, banged-up-the-back types of MSK injuries are actually low acuity, and a huge percentage of those will heal by themselves. On that point, let me bring in some context here, some late-breaking news. I was reading Dana Prommel's newsletter. She wrote, and I'm reading this, she wrote, "The 2026 National Healthcare Expenditure data reports are out, and it is another sobering reflection of our current system. Personal healthcare spending has surged by over 8%, and our healthcare spend as a share of the GDP has followed that same aggressive trajectory." Then Dana writes, "The most troubling takeaway from the 2026 report is the lack of a 'health dividend.' Despite [this] 8% increase in spending, we aren't seeing a corresponding 8% increase in longevity, wellness, or chronic disease management. People aren't getting significantly healthier; they are just getting more 'care.' And that 'care' isn't always good care, or the right care, or care by the right type of clinician, at the right time, in the right setting." Is that not the perfect segue or what? Because this is what we're talking about on the show today in regard to, again, MSK care—care that can wind up costing millions of dollars across plan members, and it might be unnecessary because, again, the twisted ankle or the pain in the lower back would have healed itself without any care, without an ER visit. But if an ER visit was had, that patient probably is gonna wind up with a bunch of imaging. Probably is gonna wind up with a referral to a surgeon. And now there's a surgery scheduled, and the patient has been off work for however long all that took. There's a lot of direct and indirect costs that may or may not add up to any given health dividend or health span or whatever you wanna call it—better quality of life. Why does all this happen? How does it happen? One reason is what Dr. Jay Kimmel calls the white space of MSK care. This is where a patient does a truly breathtaking job parking the car, twists her ankle, starts to swell up, and now a decision has to be made: Go to the ER. Go to urgent care. Go home. Or what if it's a parent making this choice for a kid? In the olden days, maybe that patient would've called up his or her longtime family doctor and asked what to do, and maybe if that longtime family doctor didn't know, he or she would have called up the local ortho and gotten their opinion. Or maybe the two were sitting together in the doctor's lounge at the time, or maybe they rounded together in the hospital and, and, and … There used to be lots of opportunities for spontaneous questions and answers and curbside consults. But not today most of the time, really, unless you're a patient with a doctor in the family. But even for a PCP, who wants an ortho consult? Amy Scanlan, MD, and I discussed this quite a bit in an earlier episode (EP402). There's no doctor lounges anymore. There's no coffee klatch down in radiology either. There's just a lot of cultural shifts, in other words. But all of this, everything I have said thus far, all adds up to one big takeaway: These excess costs that don't have commensurate improved clinical outcomes, they happen because patients are on their own to triage themselves. They look at their black-and-blue whatever, or they're standing there listening to their kid cry and they are deciding what to do. And the thing is, if they choose the ER—because, again, they don't have a doctor, anybody they can just call with the right kind of clinical background—once they head into that ER and sit there for six hours and demand an MRI because now it has to be worth their time because they sat there for six hours; but now there's a false positive and the ER docs are being conservative because of malpractice or whatever and they refer them to some sort of surgeon … Look, everybody's doing their best with the information that they have at the time, but you can see how easy it is for a person to avoidably wind up costing a lot of money for a musculoskeletal injury that would have healed by itself. So, yeah, let's talk about how we can get patients some help in that so-called white space. How can we get them, triage before the triage, as I managed to say more than once in the conversation that follows? Let's get them on a good trajectory to start. Today, my guest is Dr. Jay Kimmel. Dr. Kimmel is an orthopedic surgeon, and he's been in practice in Connecticut for over 35 years. He and Steve Schutzer, MD, co-founded Upswing Health. I talked with Dr. Steve Schutzer about Centers of Excellence in an earlier episode (EP294). Upswing Health provides members with the opportunity to talk with an athletic trainer within 15 minutes and an orthopedic specialist within 24 hours. So, instead of having a panic attack of indecision and ultimately winding up in the ER, getting coughed on in the waiting room, members have somebody helping them in this white space so they can get triaged before the triage. I need to thank Upswing Health. I am so appreciative they donated some financial support to cover the costs of this episode. This podcast is sponsored by Aventria Health Group with an assist from Upswing Health. Also mentioned in this episode are Upswing Health; Keith Passwater; Dana Prommel; Amy Scanlan, MD; Steve Schutzer, MD; Eric Bricker, MD; Al Lewis; Nikki King, DHA; Matt McQuide; Christine Hale, MD, MBA; and Chris Deacon. For a list of healthcare industry acronyms and terms that may be unfamiliar to you, click here. You can learn more at upswinghealth.com and follow Dr. Kimmel on LinkedIn. Jay Kimmel, MD, is the president and co-founder of Upswing Health, the country's first virtual orthopedic clinic. He founded Upswing with Steve Schutzer, MD, to rapidly assess, triage, and manage orthopedic conditions in a cost-effective, high-value manner, helping patients avoid unnecessary imaging, procedures, and delays in care. Dr. Kimmel had a long and distinguished career as a practicing orthopedic surgeon with Advanced Orthopedics New England. He earned his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and his medical degree from the University of Rochester. He completed his orthopedic residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, where he trained with leaders in shoulder surgery, followed by a sports medicine fellowship at Temple University Center for Sports Medicine, where he participated in the care of Division I collegiate athletes. He is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Dr. Kimmel specializes in sports medicine with an emphasis on shoulder and knee injuries and holds a subspecialty certificate in orthopedic sports medicine from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine. Dr. Kimmel co-founded the Connecticut Sports Medicine Institute at Saint Francis Hospital, a multidisciplinary center dedicated to providing high-quality care for athletes at all levels, and served as its co-director for many years. He has a strong commitment to education and served for over 20 years as an assistant clinical professor in both family medicine and orthopedics at the University of Connecticut. He has also served as a team physician at the professional, collegiate, and high school levels. 07:49 EP472 with Eric Bricker, MD, on high-cost claimants. 08:01 What is the "white space" in MSK spend? 10:43 Statistics on Connecticut's spending on plan members with low-acuity MSK injuries. 13:30 How back pain also easily transitions from a low-acuity issue to a high-acuity problem. 15:11 How plan sponsors can detect their white space downstream spend. 16:58 EP464 with Al Lewis. 17:02 EP470 with Nikki King, DHA. 18:15 Why where patients start their journey often dictates where they wind up and how costly that medical pathway is. 20:48 Where PCPs fit into this MSK spend issue. 25:26 EP468 with Matt McQuide. 25:34 EP471 with Christine Hale, MD, MBA. 25:39 Why access is key. You can learn more at upswinghealth.com and follow Dr. Kimmel on LinkedIn. Jay Kimmel, MD, of @upswinghealth discusses #MSKspend on our #healthcarepodcast. #healthcare #podcast #financialhealth #patientoutcomes #primarycare #digitalhealth #healthcareleadership #healthcaretransformation #healthcareinnovation #musculoskeletal Recent past interviews: Click a guest's name for their latest RHV episode! Mark Noel, Gary Campbell (Take Two: EP341), Zack Kanter, Mark Newman, Stacey Richter (INBW45), Stacey Richter (INBW44), Marilyn Bartlett (Encore! EP450), Dr Mick Connors
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Fingertip Amputations & Finger Flaps from our Hand section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Peripheral Nerve Injury & Repair from our Hand section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Hip Resurfacing from our Recon section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Live from APTA HQ at Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with David Harris, CEO of PRO~PT Physical Therapy. With over two decades in the profession and leadership roles at Ivy, Spear, and now PRO~PT, David brings deep insight into how physical therapy needs to evolve.They cover:What's getting in our own way as a professionHow to actually message MSK and primary care to the publicBringing AI and scribe tools into a 120-clinician organizationWins over the last 15 years (Direct Access, DPT, policy wins)Leadership tips for clinic owners and execs
In this powerful Graham Sessions sit-down, first-time attendee Alex Bendersky, PT, MBA, gets real about risk, readiness, and the trillion-dollar opportunity in MSK care. From surviving the Medicare cap crash of 2002 to forecasting the next existential threats to PT, Alex challenges the profession to evolve beyond survival.We dig into:What resilience actually looks like for private practiceWhy waiting for change is a losing strategyHow to capture untouched markets in MSKWhat you're doing wrong with risk-based careThe trillion-dollar pie that's still on the table????Live from APTA Private Practice Graham Sessions
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Adult Dysplasia of the Hip from our Recon section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of High Tibial Osteotomy from our Recon section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Tarsal Coalition from our Pediatrics section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Clubfoot (congenital talipes equinovarus) from our Pediatrics section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Pediatric Abuse from our Pediatrics section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Osteomyelitis - Pediatric from our Pediatrics section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Osgood-Schlatter Disease from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Intervertebral Disk Herniation from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Discoid Meniscus from our Knee & Sports section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Psoriatic Arthritis from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of PCL Injury from our Knee & Sports section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Rotator Cuff Injury from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
This week we discuss the QB crisis with the #commanders & We look back at the 29-18 loss to the Eagles. We preview our upcoming game vs Dallas and we answer fan submitted questions.
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Ankylosing Spondylitis from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
Rebekah Griffith joins the podcast to talk about what it means to be a newly minted AAOMPT Fellow working in one of the most unlikely settings — the Emergency Department.She shares why OMPT-level manual therapy skills are not only relevant in the ED, but essential for rapid assessment, safe decision-making, and efficient patient care. Rebekah explains how fellowship training sharpened her clinical reasoning, helped her manage acute MSK presentations, and expanded her impact within emergency medicine teams.In this episode: • The PT's role in the ED • How manual therapy speeds clarity and improves outcomes • Examples of OMPT reasoning in acute, high-stakes scenarios • Why fellowship training matters outside outpatient ortho • Reducing unnecessary imaging, opioids, and admissions • Rebekah's journey through AAOMPT Fellowship and into ED practiceWhether you're a clinician, student, or educator, Rebekah's perspective will reshape how you think about where — and how — manual therapy skills should be used.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Exertional Compartment Syndrome from our Knee & Sports section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle Contractions from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
In this episode, we review the high-yield topic of TNF-alpha Inhibitors from the MSK section.Follow Medbullets on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbullets
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Suprascapular Neuropathy from our Shoulder & Elbow section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, Molly Van Oordt, Director of Specialty Account Management at NextGen Healthcare, discusses how orthopedic and MSK practices are leveraging automation, mobile tools, and AI to address staffing shortages, reduce administrative burden, and improve patient access as demand continues to rise heading into 2026.This episode was sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.
In this episode, Molly Van Oordt, Director of Specialty Account Management at NextGen Healthcare, discusses how orthopedic and MSK practices are leveraging automation, mobile tools, and AI to address staffing shortages, reduce administrative burden, and improve patient access as demand continues to rise heading into 2026.This episode was sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.
Scouse and Scott, discuss the shutting down of QB1 Jayden Daniels, was this the right decision?.We discuss the 29-21 win over the Giants and preview our upcoming game vs The Eagles and we answer fan submitted questions.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Posterior Shoulder Instability & Dislocation from our Shoulder & Elbow section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Burns = big consequences. Let's talk thermoprotection. In this episode of the BackTable MSK Podcast, host Jacob Fleming welcomes longtime friend and colleague Dr. Alan Sag to discuss thermoprotection in musculoskeletal ablation procedures over this two-part episode series. Part 1 focuses on established strategies and new techniques for protecting critical structures during ablation. --- SYNPOSIS Dr. Sag shares how he approaches thermoprotection in complex MSK ablation cases. The discussion covers hydro-dissection techniques, hydro convection needle strategies, pump and tubing set up, troubleshooting, and visualization of the protective layer. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction02:49 - Thermoprotection 10112:37 - Skin Injury and Mitigation Strategies18:57 - Avoiding Bottlenecks with Hydrodissection23:49 - Practical Recommendations for Cold Skin Protection 29:36 - Managing Complications and Wound Care38:12 - Heating up with RFA and Microwave Ablations --- RESOURCES Dr. Alan Alper Sag, M.D., FSIRhttps://med.miami.edu/faculty/alan-alper-sag-md-fsir Thermal Protection: Heightened Safety for Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Ablation of Musculoskeletal Tumorshttps://pubs.rsna.org/doi/10.1148/rg.240238 Intraoperative Neuromonitoring for Peripheral Nerve Surgeryhttps://mayoclinic.elsevierpure.com/en/publications/intraoperative-neuromonitoring-for-peripheral-nerve-surgery/
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Total Shoulder Arthroplasty from our Shoulder & Elbow section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Ankylosing Spondylitis from our Spine section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Scouse and Scott relive the 31-0 drubbing at the hands of the Vikings. We deliberate and try to work out how can we improve and where the blame lies for this pathetic performance and season. We preview the week 16 Divisional match up @ the New York Giants. We also answer fan submitted questions.
In this Bright Spots in Healthcare episode, host Eric Glazer brings together Medicare Advantage leaders who are rethinking how digital first and whole person strategies can meet rising Stars expectations. The conversation explores how plans are simplifying engagement, strengthening provider alignment, and integrating specialty and virtual care models to improve quality, experience, and overall performance in the new ratings era. Our guests include: Lisa Franklin, Director of Medicare Business, Product, and Marketing, Strategic Growth and Government Programs, Carefirst Christine McKinney, Vice President Customer Experience and Digital Transformation Blue Shield of California Mary O'Connor, MD, Chief Medical Officer & Co-Founder, Vori Health Together, they explore: How CareFirst reduced member friction by consolidating 175 touchpoints a year into a coordinated digital first experience built around scrolling content cards, real time click behavior, and simplified onboarding. How Vori Health is integrating whole person MSK care with payers through value based arrangements that support coaching, nutrition, behavioral health screening, and earlier risk identification. How Blue Shield of California built a continuous CAHPS simulation program to uncover pain points and used those insights to create the Care Navigation Desk for real time access help. How digital tools like online scheduling, integrated member health records, and proactive pharmacy cost transparency are reducing friction and helping seniors navigate the ecosystem more independently. How plans are using AI and preference based engagement to support new Medicare members, improve medication adherence, and scale outreach during market disruptions. Panelist Bios: https://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com/events/falling-stars-rising-standards-how-digital-first-whole-person-care-is-fueling-success-in-the-new-ratings-era/ Download the Episode Guide: Get key takeaways and expert highlights to help you apply lessons from the episode. https://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Episode_Guide_120425_Vori-Falling-Stars-Rising-Standards.docx.pdf Key Insights Summary: Find key insights from the discussion, guest takeaways, and detailed moderator notes captured by Eric during the conversation. https://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Key-Takeaways-Erics-Notes-Falling-Stars-Rising-Standards.docx.pdf Resources: Report: How Physician Led MSK Care Supports Stars Improvement and Whole Person Outcomes This companion report highlights how Vori Health's physician-led, virtual first musculoskeletal care model helps Medicare Advantage plans strengthen performance in the new ratings environment. It includes data and real member stories showing how hybrid specialty access, early gap closure, and whole person support improve outcomes, reduce unnecessary MSK spend, and enhance member experience. Inside you will find insights on Improving access through forty eight hour specialty appointments Reducing opioid use and unnecessary surgeries Supporting preventive screenings and chronic condition management Elevating member satisfaction across measures tied to the 2026 Stars program To request your copy, email nroberts@brightspotsventures.com. Buyer's Guide: The Comprehensive Guide to MSK Care for Health Plans This companion report gives health plans a clear framework for improving MSK strategy, highlighting how fragmented, high cost pathways drive unnecessary imaging, procedures, and surgeries without resolving pain. It outlines four MSK care models and the key elements of a high value program such as physician led care, holistic support, non opioid management, strong engagement, and real claims based ROI. It also shows how solutions like Vori Health bring these components together through coordinated, hybrid access and measurable improvements in outcomes and cost. Inside you will find insights on Improving MSK access and coordination across care models Designing physician led, whole person programs that address root causes of pain Reducing unnecessary imaging, procedures, and surgeries Driving stronger engagement, better outcomes, and meaningful cost savings To request your copy, email nroberts@brightspotsventures.com. Thank You to Our Episode Partner, Vori Health: Vori Health is a physician-led musculoskeletal care practice that delivers fast, evidence-based hybrid care for back, neck, and joint pain. Their whole person approach improves outcomes, reduces unnecessary MSK costs, and supports stronger Medicare Advantage Star Ratings. Learn more at vorihealth.com. Schedule a Meeting with a Dr. Mary O'Connor of Vori Health: To explore how Vori Health can help your organization strengthen whole person MSK care and support better Stars performance, reach out to nroberts@brightspotsventures.com to schedule a meeting with Dr. Mary O'Connor, CMO and Co-founder, Vori Health. About Bright Spots Ventures: Bright Spots Ventures is a healthcare strategy and engagement company that creates content, communities, and connections to accelerate innovation. We help healthcare leaders discover what's working, and how to scale it. By bringing together health plan, hospital, and solution leaders, we facilitate the exchange of ideas that lead to measurable impact. Through our podcast, executive councils, private events, and go-to-market strategy work, we surface and amplify the "bright spots" in healthcare, proven innovations others can learn from and replicate. At our core, we exist to create trusted relationships that make real progress possible. Visit our website at www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis from our Spine section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to the fourth episode of our Early Clinical Learners Series, a series dedicated to fostering clinical reasoning skills and strategies in early clinical trainees. This episode focuses on the musculoskeletal (MSK) block and uses a clinical case to guide listeners through approaching joint pain, identifying key red flags, and narrowing a differential diagnosis.Hosts: Caroline Wang, Samantha Shih, Dr. Richard AbramsGuests: Christopher Song, Grant PrimerProduced By: Caroline Wang, Samantha ShihAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&OA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Adult Spinal Deformity from our Spine section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this electrifying episode of the Will Power Podcast, we break down a historic legislative victory in Utah that designated Physical Therapists as primary care providers for all musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders—the first state in the nation to do so!Our guest, Brad Powell, Physical Therapist, entrepreneur, and host of "The Healthcare Revolution" podcast, was a key changemaker in this movement. He shares his incredible journey—from recovering from severe motocross injuries to leading the charge to elevate the physical therapy profession.Brad reveals the detailed strategies used to achieve this legislative success, overcome internal professional resistance, and build a thriving, mission-driven private practice, Foundation Physical Therapy.This is more than just a legislative update, it's a call to action for all physical therapists, occupational therapists (OT), and speech-language pathologists (SLP) to claim their rightful roles as doctors in the community and musculoskeletal leaders. Learn how embracing your value can create a profitable practice and change patients' lives on a greater scale.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeThe Utah Law: Learn the details of the groundbreaking bill that designates PTs as the initial point of entry for MSK disorders, effectively establishing them as primary care providers in this domain. Reclaiming PT's Role: Why physical therapists are uniquely positioned to lead the musculoskeletal industry and how this change benefits patients by avoiding unnecessary delays and costs. Overcoming Resistance: Brad discusses the challenge of getting buy-in, noting that the most resistance often came from within the physical therapy profession itself. Diagnostic Accuracy: Brad cites research showing PTs are highly accurate in diagnosing MSK conditions, nearly matching orthopedic surgeons, making a compelling case for Direct Access and primary care status. The Future is Prevention (Medicine 3.0): The shift towards focusing on prevention and longevity, where PTs play a critical role in proactive health management. Building a World-Class Practice: Strategies for scaling a practice, including creating internal growth pathways (Master Clinician, Clinic Director), unlimited C/E budgeting, and an employee NPS of 9.2. The Power of Serving: How focusing on genuinely serving people and creating an "attractive" company culture is the ultimate recruiting and marketing strategy. If you are a PT, OT, or SLP passionate about the future of your profession, share this episode on your social media and with your colleagues! Brad and the host issue a plea to amplify this message and help drive the national revolution in healthcare.Send us a textVirtual Rockstars specialize in helping support or replace all non-clinical roles.Learn how a Virtual Rockstar can help scale your physical therapy practice.Subscribe here to our completely free Stress-Free PT Newsletter for your weekly dose of joy.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Spinal Cord Injuries from our Spine section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Amputations from our Trauma section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
In this episode, Jimmy sits down with the legendary Dr. Gail Deyle — clinician-scientist, mentor, and one of the most cited researchers in orthopaedic manual physical therapy.Dr. Deyle breaks down:The defining trait of clinicians who excel after fellowshipWhat separates great mentors from good onesReal-world stories of PTs catching critical medical conditionsThe biggest mistake clinicians make in their early reasoningWhy MSK health is a global opportunity for PTsHow clinicians can start contributing to researchThe power of collaboration between clinicians and research facultyA concise but insight-rich conversation with one of the most respected voices in the profession.00:00 – Intro: Why Dr. Gail Deyle is a PT legend 00:36 – Welcoming Gail + Reno conference gambling banter 01:15 – What trait predicts fellowship success? 02:36 – Seeing former mentees grow into experts 03:24 – What makes a great mentor? 04:43 – PTs as frontline diagnosticians 06:48 – Real examples: PTs catching serious conditions 08:22 – The biggest unlock in advanced clinical reasoning 10:04 – Making implicit reasoning explicit 11:35 – Communication, feedback & the mentor/mentee relationship 12:00 – PTs as an untapped force in global MSK health 13:10 – Red light / green light: habits to stop and start 14:55 – Dr. Deyle named in the top 2% of cited researchers 15:28 – Why clinicians should participate in research 15:48 – Closing
This podcast is brought to you by Outcomes Rocket, your exclusive healthcare marketing agency. Learn how to accelerate your growth by going to outcomesrocket.com Remote therapeutic monitoring only works when it strengthens the relationship between patient and provider rather than adding friction. In this episode, Steven Coen, CEO and co-founder of SaRA Health, shares how his own frustrations as a physical therapy patient inspired him to redesign MSK care between visits. He describes how SaRA's one-character SMS check-ins reduce cognitive load, strengthen continuity, and significantly boost adherence and outcomes. Steven also explains how remote therapeutic monitoring codes reshaped their business model, leading them to build an internal RCM system and prepare for 2026 codes that could greatly increase practice revenue. He highlights what sets their FDA-designated software apart, the lack of remote strategies across most practices, and the broader payment and prior-auth challenges shaping hybrid care models. Tune in and learn how remote care, thoughtful design, and better business models are reshaping MSK patient engagement! Resources Connect with and follow Steven Coen on LinkedIn. Follow SaRA Health on LinkedIn and discover their website.Email Steven directly here.
Want to know why some orthopaedic practices deliver faster care at lower cost with happier patients? Doug Lundy, MD, MBA, FAOA sits down with Dr. Gerry Williams to map the strategy behind ancillary ownership—and why control, not just margin, is the quiet superpower of modern MSK care. The heart of the episode is surgical workflow. When surgeons lead ASCs, standardization and team expertise turn operating rooms into high-performance lines: quicker turnovers, fewer complications, and lower total cost of care. Dr. Williams explains he is bullish on private practice with scale: integrated MSK groups that know their costs, invest wisely, and keep access open by diversifying revenue. If you care about the future of orthopaedic care—patient access, training integrity, ASC growth, and how to run a resilient practice—this conversation is a playbook. Subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review with the one change you'd make to your care model after hearing this.
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Open Fractures Management from our Trauma section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Evaluation, Resuscitation & DCO from our Trauma section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Multiple Myeloma from our Pathology section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis from our Pathology section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Enchondromas from our Pathology section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube
Welcome to Season 2 of the Orthobullets Podcast.Today's show is Foundations, where we review foundational knowledge for frontline MSK providers such as junior orthopaedic residents, ER physicians, and primary care providers. This episode will cover the topic of Peroneal Tendon Tears and Instability from our Foot & Ankle section at Orthobullets.com.Follow Orthobullets on Social Media:FacebookInstagram TwitterLinkedInYouTube