Episodios

  • AI Innovations in Health Equity: Exploring Healthcare’s Financial Ecosystem with Brian Urban of FinThrive
    Jun 20 2024

    Discover how Everly Health Solutions is revolutionizing preventive care, significantly impacting health plan star ratings. Learn more at EverlyHealthSolutions.com.

    SUMMARY:

    In this episode of Digital MD, Dr. Liz Kwo engages with Brian Urban, Director of Innovation and Emerging Markets at FinThrive. With a robust background in exercise physiology, business administration, and public health, Brian offers a deep dive into how FinThrive leverages AI and data analytics to optimize revenue cycle management in healthcare.

    5 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:

    1.Innovative Approaches in Healthcare Finance: Brian’s role involves spearheading initiatives that integrate AI into the revenue cycle, enhancing efficiency and reducing friction between payers and providers.

    2.Impact of AI on Healthcare Operations: Discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial operations in healthcare, from claims processing to patient billing.

    3.Challenges and Opportunities in Revenue Cycle Management: Insights into the complexities of healthcare finance and how technology solutions are simplifying these processes.

    4.Social Determinants of Health (SDOH): Brian explains how addressing SDOH can improve patient outcomes and healthcare economics.

    5.Personal Journey and Professional Balance: Brian shares his experiences balancing a demanding career with personal growth and family life.

    📚 Explore the future of healthcare with Dr. Liz Kwo’s book, “Digital MD: Revolutionizing Healthcare” available for pre-order on Amazon and at www.digitalmd.co

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - Start

    00:04 - Introduction to Brian Urban

    00:51 - What is FinThrive?

    02:33 - The importance of revenue cycle management in healthcare

    04:29 - Utilizing AI in financial operations

    07:03 - Introduction to FinThrive’s Data Humanity Lab

    08:31 - The role of data donations in healthcare

    09:05 - Long-term benefits of investing in social determinants of health

    14:37 - Predictive modeling and its benefits in healthcare

    18:01 - Discussion on healthcare innovation and data integration

    20:23 - Preparation and impact of speaking engagements

    22:00 - Balancing multiple roles and personal growth

    26:19 - Using data to address socioeconomic disparities

    33:25 - Closing and thanks

    🔗 CONNECT WITH BRIAN URBAN

    LinkedIn: Brian Urban’s LinkedIn

    Email: brian.urban@finthrive.com

    HOST INFO:

    🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. LIZ KWO

    LinkedIn: Dr. Liz Kwo’s LinkedIn

    Email: liz.kwo@digitalmd.com

    RESOURCES MENTIONED AREA:

    📚 Check out FinThrive’s Data Humanity Lab and their innovative projects at www.finthrive.com/datahumanitylab

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    35 m
  • From Biotech Startups to IMAX Films: Michael Langer’s Journey to Innovate Healthcare
    Jun 13 2024

    In today’s episode of Digital MD, Dr. Liz Kwo talks with Michael Langer, co-founder of T-Rex Capital and a leader in the biotech and digital health sectors. Michael shares his journey from interning at Polaris Partners to pioneering roles in venture capital, highlighting his strategic moves across various innovative enterprises and his vision for the future of digital health.

    5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    1.Early Exposure: Michael’s early involvement with family startups and venture capital shaped his career path, highlighting the importance of early exposure in the life sciences sector.

    2.Career Development: From working at Pear Therapeutics to establishing a venture capital firm, Michael’s career showcases a trajectory filled with diverse experiences and significant growth in the digital and biotech sectors.

    3.Impact of Digital Therapeutics: Michael discusses the rise and challenges of digital therapeutics, emphasizing the importance of adapting business models to changing healthcare landscapes.

    4.Role of Storytelling in Biotech: As an executive producer of an IMAX film, Michael underlines the power of storytelling in biotechnology, aiming to inspire future generations of scientists.

    5.Innovation and Family Legacy: The influence of Michael’s family, particularly his father Bob Langer’s contributions to science and entrepreneurship, continues to drive his career and aspirations.

    📚 Get my book, Digital MD at www.digitalMD.co

    TIMESTAMPS:

    •00:00 START

    •01:00 Journey through various startups and venture capital

    •03:27 Challenges in digital therapeutics

    •04:10 The evolution and potential of digital health

    •06:25 Family legacy and its influence on Michael’s career

    •07:49 Bob Langer’s impact on biotech

    •10:24 Strategies for innovation and overcoming barriers in healthcare

    •12:52 Transition to film production and its impact

    •15:03 Reflections on personal legacy and impact through storytelling

    •16:54 Time management and personal productivity insights

    GUEST INFO:

    🔗 CONNECT WITH MICHAEL LANGER

    •LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-langer-1811608b/

    •Email: Langer@TRXCAP.com

    HOST INFO:

    🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. LIZ KWO

    •LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkwo/

    •Email: liz.kwo@everlyhealth.com

    📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED

    •T-Rex Capital: https://www.trexcapitalgroup.com/

    •IMAX Film “Superhuman Body”:https://superhumanbodyfilm.com/

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    31 m
  • Leading Health Equity: Dr. Aditi Malik's Visionary Approach at CMS
    Jun 6 2024

    In this episode of Digital MD, Dr. Liz Kwo engages with Dr. Aditi Mallick, the acting director of CMS Office of Minority Health. Dr. Mallick shares her journey from clinical medicine to a pivotal role in shaping healthcare policy, emphasizing the integration of health equity into CMS policies and programs. Inspired by personal experiences and a deep understanding of healthcare's complexities, Dr. Mallick discusses her commitment to enhancing care for minority populations and her approach to systemic health improvements.

    5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    - Health Equity Leadership: Dr. Mallick’s role in transforming health policy to be more inclusive and equitable.

    - Personal Journey: How personal experiences with healthcare disparities motivated her career in medicine and policy.

    - Systemic Impact: The importance of addressing social determinants of health to improve healthcare outcomes.

    - Policy Influence: Dr. Mallick’s insights on how health policies are crafted and implemented at the national level.

    - Future Visions: Her outlook on the future of health equity and systemic changes needed to improve healthcare access and quality.

    📚 Order my book Digital MD: Revolutionizing the Future of Healthcare 👉

    Amazon https://a.co/d/gRvCVwe

    Website https://www.drlizkwo.com/

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - START

    01:24 - Welcome Dr. Aditi Mallick

    03:52 - Dr. Mallick’s personal motivation to improve healthcare

    07:06 - Daily roles and responsibilities at CMS

    10:56 - Innovations in health equity

    17:54 - Challenges in adapting policies for diverse populations

    26:05 - Dr. Mallick’s advice to future healthcare leaders

    32:15 - Discussing climate and cultural experiences in different states

    GUEST INFO

    🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. ADITI Mallick

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditi-mallick-md/

    Email: aditi.mallick1@cms.hhs.gov

    HOST INFO

    🔗 CONNECT WITH LIZ

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkwo

    Email: liz.kwo@everlyhealth.com

    📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED

    CMS Office of Minority Health: https://www.cms.gov/About-CMS/Agency-Information/OMH

    Everly Health Solutions is the leader in at-home lab testing for health plans. Their convenient, member-centric approach has helped plans achieve industry-leading results. In just one year, Everly Health Solutions helped a multi-state Medicare group improve 15 of their plans by at least one star! That's a win for members, providers, and the plans themselves.

    Learn how Everly Health Solutions can elevate your health plan at EverlyHealthSolutions.com

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    42 m
  • From Legislation to Leadership: A Blueprint for Health System Reform with Rob Andrews
    May 23 2024

    Did you know that improving preventive care can significantly impact your health plan's star ratings? Everly Health Solutions is the leader in at-home lab testing for health plans. Their convenient, member-centric approach has helped plans achieve industry-leading results. In just one year, Everly Health Solutions helped a multi-state Medicare group improve 15 of their plans by at least one star! Learn how Everly Health Solutions can elevate your health plan at EverlyHealthSolutions.com.

    👨‍💼 Guest: Robert E. Andrews, CEO of Health Transformation Alliance

    Dr. Liz Kwo talks with Rob Andrews, a pivotal figure striving to mend our fragmented healthcare system through innovative solutions at the Health Transformation Alliance. Dive into his remarkable journey from a 24-year tenure in Congress to leading an alliance that’s fundamentally transforming healthcare.

    🔑 Key Takeaways:

    • Empathy in Healthcare: Insights into how empathy and trust are foundational to improving patient-provider relationships.
    • Healthcare Economics: Rob advocates for a value-driven approach where outcomes determine compensation, contrasting the current procedure-driven model.
    • Innovative Care Models: Exploring capitated payment models to encourage comprehensive primary care, enhancing patient satisfaction and provider well-being.
    • Data Utilization: Utilizing extensive data analytics to address healthcare disparities and improve employer healthcare strategies.

    📚 Book Mention: "Digital MD: Revolutionizing the Future of Healthcare" by Dr. Liz Kwo. Pre-order now to explore how technological advancements are reshaping healthcare. Available at Amazon and Dr. Liz Kwo’s Website.

    ⏰ Timestamps:

    • 00:00 - START
    • 01:12 - Personal Influence on Career Choices
    • 03:09 - From Congress to CEO: Shaping Healthcare Policy
    • 04:09 - Economic Models in Healthcare
    • 07:25 - Introducing Capitated Payment Models in Primary Care
    • 10:08 - The Importance of Trust and Empathy in Patient Care
    • 13:33 - Utilizing Data to Improve Healthcare Delivery
    • 16:57 - Strategies for Health Tech Entrepreneurs in the Employer Space
    • 26:52 - Effective Decision Making in Healthcare Leadership

    🔗 Connect with Rob Andrews:

    • LinkedIn: Rob Andrews
    • Email: randrews@htahealth.com

    📚 Resources Mentioned:

    • Health Transformation Alliance: HTA
    • Book: "Digital MD" by Dr. Liz Kwo
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    39 m
  • UPDATE: New Insights with Dr. Chinni on the Walmart Health Centers Shutdown
    May 9 2024

    Welcome back to Digital MD! I'm your host, Dr. Liz Kwo. In this special episode, we're excited to share an exclusive update to our conversation with Dr. Chinni Pulluru, Co-Founder of My Precious Genes and former Chief Clinical Executive at Walmart Health. In light of recent developments following the Walmart announcement to close 51 clinics and shut down its telehealth service, Dr. Pulluru rejoined us to discuss the significant implications for healthcare innovation and patient care.

    During the original interview, Dr. Pulluru shared insights from her extensive career in healthcare, highlighting her transition from large-scale operations to a startup environment and introducing her new venture in genetic counseling. Now, in this updated interview, she provides her perspective on the Walmart announcement and what it means for the future of healthcare.

    Key Takeaways from the Updated Interview:

    Impact of the Walmart Announcement: Dr. Pulluru provides an analysis of the recent Walmart announcement, highlighting the challenges faced in multi-specialty, de novo enterprise healthcare delivery.

    Career Resilience and Entrepreneurship: Lessons on navigating failure, knowing when to pivot, and maintaining an optimistic outlook.

    Bridging Gaps in Genetic Testing: Insights into how her new venture, My Precious Genes, aims to address disparities and improve patient outcomes.

    International Opportunities and Innovation: How Walmart can leverage its global presence to impact healthcare delivery outside the U.S.

    Watch the original episode here: https://youtu.be/eTprdSCC1T0

    🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. CHINNI PULLURU Email: spulluru@mypreciousgenes.com

    My Precious Genes Website: https://www.mypreciousgenes.com/

    🔗 CONNECT WITH LIZ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkwo/ Email: liz@digitalmd.com

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    11 m
  • Innovative Leadership in Healthcare: A Journey from Walmart to Startups with Dr. Chinni Pulluru
    May 9 2024

    Did you know that improving preventive care can significantly impact your health plan's star ratings? Everly Health Solutions is the leader in at-home lab testing for health plans. Their convenient, member-centric approach has helped plans achieve industry-leading results. In just one year, Everly Health Solutions helped a multi-state Medicare group improve 15 of their plans by at least one star! That's a win for members, providers, and the plans themselves.

    Learn how Everly Health Solutions can elevate your health plan at EverlyHealthSolutions.com

    In this episode of Digital MD, Dr. Liz Kwo speaks with Dr. Chinni Pulluru, Co-Founder of My Precious Genes and former Chief Clinical Executive at Walmart Health. Dr. Pulluru shares insights from her extensive career in healthcare, highlighting her transition from large-scale operations to a startup environment. Additionally, Dr. Pulluru introduces her new venture in genetic counseling, aiming to bridge gaps in genetic testing and patient care.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Career Transitions: Dr. Pulluru’s career choices were influenced by her early experiences and a desire to increase healthcare access at scale.
    • Leadership and Authenticity: Balancing professionalism with personal authenticity helps in connecting with teams and aligning stakeholders.
    • Startup Challenges: Transitioning to a startup allows for greater flexibility and innovation but requires a deep understanding of customer needs and operational challenges.
    • Healthcare Innovation: Dr. Pulluru emphasizes the potential of technology to improve healthcare delivery and address disparities.

    📚 Pre-order my book Digital MD: Revolutionizing the Future of Healthcare 👉 Amazon https://a.co/d/gRvCVwe Website https://www.drlizkwo.com/

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - START 03:09 - Transition to Startup Space 04:31 - Balancing Career and Personal Life 07:17 - Balancing Authenticity and Executive Presence 11:04 - Role at Walmart and Expansion of Clinics 20:11 - The Core Strength of Walmart 21:23 - Overcoming Challenges and Innovating in Underserved Areas 22:23 - Starting a Healthcare Enterprise in a Non-Healthcare Organization 23:36 - Building Processes and Educating on Healthcare Complexity 24:03 - Balancing Innovation and Resource Allocation 25:08 - Long-Term Investment and Leadership Support 26:33 - Using Technology and Focusing on Customer Experience 27:08 - Advice for Healthcare Entrepreneurs 28:05 - Measuring Success and Listening to Customers 29:38 - Transitioning to Genetic Counseling Startup 32:52 - Hot Takes: Career Advice, Life Quote, Overcoming Challenges, Exciting Healthcare Innovation, Superpower

    🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. CHINNI PULLURU

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinnipullurumd/ Email: spulluru@mypreciousgenes.com

    🔗 CONNECT WITH LIZ

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/lizkwo Email: liz.kwo@everlyhealth.com

    📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED

    My Precious Genes: https://www.mypreciousgenes.com/

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    39 m
  • Advancing Health Equity: Strategies for Inclusive Healthcare with NCQA's Dr. Bryan O. Buckley:
    May 2 2024

    This episode is brought to you by Everly Health Solutions, leading the charge in at-home diagnostic testing, making healthcare accessible and convenient for all. Discover more about how they're transforming healthcare at EverlyHealthSolutions.com

    Key Takeaways:

    Health Equity Leadership: Dr. Buckley's approach combines academic rigor and practical application to advance health equity.

    Community Health Workers: Importance of systematic support for community health workers to integrate them into healthcare processes effectively.

    Education and Advocacy: Dr. Buckley emphasizes the role of education in empowering BIPOC communities and promoting social capital.

    NCQA's Role: NCQA serves a broad spectrum in healthcare, influencing not just health plans but the entire health continuum through its equity initiatives.

    Timestamps: 00:00 - START 00:56 - Dr. Buckley's Motivation and Career Path 03:38 - Role and Impact at NCQA 05:27 - Typical Day and Strategic Initiatives 08:53 - Specific Projects and Community Impact 22:30 - Measuring Success in Health Equity 33:37 - Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

    🔗 Connect with Dr. Bryan O. Buckley:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/BryanBuckley

    🔗 Connect with Dr. Liz Kwo:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkwo/ Email: drlizkwo@gmail.com

    📚 Resources Mentioned:

    NCQA Health Equity Initiatives: https://www.ncqa.org Community Health Worker Programs: https://connect.ncoa.org/products/engaging-community-health-workers-in-evidence-based-programs

    Rise to Health Coalition: https://www.risetohealthequity.org

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    36 m
  • Maximizing Medicare Advantage, STARs Ratings, and AI Innovations with Rex Wallace
    Apr 25 2024

    Summary: In this episode, Dr. Liz Kwo sits down with Rex Wallace, Founder and CEO of RWC, a consultancy dedicated to enhancing healthcare through quality, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement. Rex shares insights on the complexities of the payer ecosystem, focusing on the STARS Rating program which serves as a universal scorecard for Medicare Advantage plans. He discusses the importance of access to care, the integration of AI and telemedicine, and the potential for startups to influence healthcare positively. Additionally, Rex delves into the significance of health equity in Medicare and how various healthcare sectors can leverage technology to improve patient outcomes.

    Key Takeaways:

    STARS Rating Program: An essential tool for Medicare beneficiaries to choose healthcare plans based on quality rather than cost.

    Access and Trust: Crucial factors in enhancing healthcare delivery and improving patient satisfaction.

    Innovative Opportunities: AI and telemedicine are pivotal in increasing healthcare access and enhancing patient management.

    Startup Challenges: Startups need to connect their solutions deeply with healthcare pain points to be effective.

    Health Equity: Increasingly vital in Medicare, focusing on reducing disparities and enhancing care for all patients.

    👉Pre-order my book Digital MD: Revolutionizing the Future of Healthcare Amazon https://a.co/d/gRvCVwe Website https://www.drlizkwo.com/ Timestamps:

    00:00 - START 00:54 - Overview of the STARS Rating Program 02:26 - Discussing the importance of access to care and trust in healthcare 04:34 - Exploring innovation with AI and telemedicine 06:00 - Challenges faced by startups in the healthcare sector 08:21 - Evaluating different healthcare sectors for technology application 10:26 - How to find and engage with healthcare experts and influencers 12:52 - Strategies for approaching different healthcare markets: Commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid 16:00 - The growing importance of health equity in healthcare settings 21:18 - Rex’s advice on leadership and navigating business challenges in healthcare 26:02 - Conclusion and final thoughts

    🔗 Connect with Rex Wallace:

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rexwallace/ Email: rex.wallace@rexwallaceconsulting.com

    🔗 Connect with Dr. Liz Kwo:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkwo/ Email: info@digitalmd.com

    📚 Resources Mentioned:

    Medicare STARS Rating Program: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2024-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-star-ratings#:~:text=The%20Star%20Ratings%20system%20helps,health%20care%20decisions%20for%20them.

    CMS Website: https://www.cms.gov RISE Star Ratings Masterclass: https://stars.risehealth.org SSN Stars and Quality Conferences: https://www.starratingssummit.com

    Sponsor:

    Everly Health Solutions is the leader in at-home lab testing for health plans. Their convenient, member-centric approach has helped plans achieve industry-leading results. In just one year, Everly Health Solutions helped a multi-state Medicare group improve 15 of their plans by at least one star! That's a win for members, providers, and the plans themselves.

    Learn how Everly Health Solutions can elevate your health plan at EverlyHealthSolutions.com

    Más Menos
    29 m