Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Ken Cohen, Chief Medical Officer at Optum Health, discusses new research on Medicare Advantage, social vulnerability, and how full-risk care models can improve quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes. He also shares insights on the infrastructure, technology, and strategies needed to advance value-based care.

In this episode,Jakob Emerson, Associate News Director, Becker’s Healthcare, examines the growing litigation over Medicare Advantage star ratings and the billions of dollars tied to quality bonuses. He also explores how AI is intensifying the coding and claims battle between health systems and insurers, creating new operational and financial challenges across the industry.

In this episode, Laura Dyrda, Vice President, Editor-in-Chief, Becker's Healthcare, discusses proposed CMS changes to the 340B program, site-neutral payment policies, and what they could mean for hospital and ASC finances. She also shares insights on shifting hospital expense trends, including rising drug and supply costs, and how health system leaders are adapting their strategies.

In this episode, Margaret Anderson, President of Health Alliance Plan by Henry Ford Health, discusses the organization's rebrand, its strategy for deeper integration with Henry Ford Health, and how it's driving growth while improving affordability. She also shares insights on provider sponsored health plans, administrative efficiency, and the growing impact of gene therapies on the healthcare system.

In this episode, Chris Santarsiero, Vice President of Government Affairs at Connections Health Solutions, discusses the policy, reimbursement, and community partnerships needed to expand access to behavioral health crisis care. He also shares how crisis stabilization centers, the 988 Lifeline, and coordinated care models are improving outcomes while reducing pressure on hospitals, law enforcement, and the broader healthcare system.