Protecting Patients at the End of Life: Why CON Still Matters / PART ONE

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Certificate of Need (CON) laws are among the most debated—and misunderstood—regulatory frameworks in healthcare. In this timely Part One conversation, host Chris Comeaux is joined by two of the most respected voices in hospice policy and advocacy: Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, and Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina.

Together, they unpack why CON laws were originally created, what problems they were designed to solve, and why hospice continues to raise unique concerns that set it apart from other healthcare services. Drawing on decades of leadership and real-world experience, Paul and Tim explain why hospice does not function like a traditional free market—highlighting fixed reimbursement rates, demographic-driven demand, and the responsibility to serve entire communities, including rural and complex patient populations.

This episode explores what actually happens in states without hospice CON: oversaturation in urban markets, reduced access in rural areas, fragmented care, and increased vulnerability to fraud and abuse. The discussion challenges common assumptions about competition and access, using data, policy insight, and firsthand examples to illustrate the unintended consequences of deregulation.

Part One lays the foundation for a deeper conversation about quality, equity, and patient protection at the end of life—and why thoughtful oversight still matters in preserving the integrity of the hospice benefit.

👉 Don’t miss Part Two, where the conversation continues with a closer look at quality outcomes, bad actors, and what states can learn from one another moving forward.

Guest:

Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association

Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina

Host:

Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS

The Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.

https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership