The Strategy of Health

In this powerful and timely episode, we sit down with Rep. Arvind Venkat, emergency physician and Pennsylvania State Representative for the 30th Legislative District, to explore the growing need for healthcare professionals in political leadership. Drawing from his dual roles in medicine and policy, Rep. Venkat discusses why frontline clinicians are uniquely positioned to drive healthcare reform—especially in areas of access, affordability, and system-level accountability.Topics include unionization among residents and fellows, the impact of healthcare consolidation, flaws in the current reimbursement model, and policy threats to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Rep. Venkat also shares his personal motivations for running for office, his experience navigating clinical and legislative responsibilities, and advice for early-career physicians who want to make a difference.If you're a healthcare strategist, policy advocate, or clinician interested in value-based care, physician advocacy, or healthcare leadership, this episode offers critical insights from someone who bridges all three worlds.00:00 Introduction and Importance of Coalition Building00:30 Meet Representative Venki01:48 Serving the Community: A Dual Role06:18 Challenges in Healthcare Post-COVID08:19 Addressing Healthcare Access and Affordability14:13 Legislative Actions and Future Outlook18:12 Encouraging Clinician Involvement in Politics24:33 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Join Cole Lyons on the Strategy of Health podcast from The American Journal of Healthcare Strategy as he interviews Dr. Howard Shaps, Chief Medical Officer at Healthmap Solutions. Dr. Shaps shares lessons from his career in emergency medicine, health insurance, and consulting—and explains his transition to Healthmap Solutions.They tackle the real-world complexity of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially when combined with diabetes and hypertension, and discuss how Healthmap uses AI-driven risk models, patient navigators, and care coordination outside the clinic to catch CKD earlier and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations. Dr. Shaps details strategies for preparing patients for dialysis and transplants, lowering crash dialysis rates, and reducing hospital readmissions.Get a look inside Healthmap Solutions' technology, operations, and intentional growth—Dr. Shaps’ perspective on where CKD care and population health are headed.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:26 Guest: Dr. Howard Shaps00:48 Career Journey01:36 Joining Healthmap Solutions03:47 CKD Care Challenges04:20 Healthmap’s Approach07:00 Technology & Risk Management11:40 Future of CKD14:15 High-Acuity CKD17:05 Building Care Teams22:47 Closing Remarks

In this episode of The American Journal of Healthcare Strategy podcast, we sit down with Brandon J. Robertson, Founder and CEO of UCP Merchant Medicine and in Televisit Solutions, to explore how clinical concierge models and lean design principles are transforming urgent care delivery at scale.Brandon shares how his team applied operational science—including queuing theory, the Theory of Constraints, and AI-driven clinical decision tools—to eliminate handoffs, slash visit times, and achieve an average Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 94. You’ll learn why traditional urgent care models fail, how AI-enhanced standing orders drive diagnostic consistency, and what it takes to create financially sustainable urgent care operations—even in low-reimbursement environments.We also cover the three-phase ROI model Brandon uses to help health systems justify investment in urgent care, including short-term profitability, mid-term referral capture, and long-term lifetime value. Whether you're a healthcare executive, strategist, or operations leader, this conversation is a masterclass in urgent care innovation and system-wide impact.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:17 Brandon's Career Journey02:58 Founding UCP Merchant Medicine03:14 Theory of Constraints in Healthcare04:20 Reducing Urgent Care Door-to-Door Time05:05 Queuing Theory and Process Optimization08:03 Clinical Concierge Model16:30 AI in Urgent Care18:53 Economic Impact and Scalability21:21 Long-term Value of Urgent Care28:46 Customized Models and Data Science34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join host Cole as he sits down with Keeley White, Director of Community Health Programs at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, to explore the real-world challenges and successes of bringing nutritious food directly to patients through innovative clinic partnerships.Keeley White shares her unique journey from clinical dietitian to public health leader, offering firsthand perspectives on addressing rural barriers, transportation issues, and health equity for vulnerable populations. Listeners will learn how the Regional Food Bank’s programs collaborate with hospitals, clinics, and community partners to implement in-clinic food pantries, screen for food insecurity, and connect patients with sustainable nutrition resources. Keeley also unpacks practical strategies for building strong healthcare partnerships, effective grant management in cost-constrained environments, and the importance of piloting solutions tailored to each community’s unique needs.00:00 Introduction and Focus on Equity00:31 Meet Keely White: Director of Community Health Programs01:36 Keely's Journey into Nutrition and Public Health04:56 Challenges in Addressing Food Insecurity in Oklahoma07:44 Innovative Solutions for Rural and Urban Areas12:53 Healthcare Partnership Program Success20:20 Advice for Aspiring Community Health Leaders23:30 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Discover how MultiCare saved $7.5 million on pharmacy costs through innovative supply chain strategy and data-driven leadership. In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Tyson Frodin, VP of Clinical Pharmacy, Supply Chain, and Technology at MultiCare, for an in-depth discussion on transforming pharmacy operations in a large health system.Tyson Frodin shares practical strategies for centralizing purchasing, leveraging pharmacy automation, and partnering with advanced data analytics firms to reduce costs and improve patient outcomes. Learn how MultiCare coordinated purchasing across 13 hospitals, updated their inventory management systems, and used actionable analytics to drive both acute care and retail pharmacy savings. Tyson also breaks down the impact of direct manufacturer contracting, strategic partnerships with companies like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug, and how these moves not only optimize costs but also enhance patient access and experience—especially in rural and critical access hospitals.Key topics include: pharmacy supply chain optimization, healthcare cost reduction, rural health strategy, 340B management, ambulatory footprint expansion, and the future of pharmacy procurement. If you're a healthcare leader, administrator, or pharmacy professional looking for actionable insights, this conversation is a must-watch.00:00 Introduction to Logistics Savings00:36 Meet Dr. Tyson Frodin01:47 Career Path and Leadership Journey03:43 Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Healthcare05:39 Strategic Growth and Partnerships11:50 Pharmacy Procurement and Cost Savings18:33 Leveraging Data Analytics for Better Outcomes25:59 Future of Pharmacy Supply Chain33:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Cole from The American Journal of Healthcare Strategy sits down with KP Tacconi, Senior Innovation Manager at NYU Langone Health, to break down the realities of human-centered design, innovation strategy, and leading change in academic medical centers.

Dr. Malko shares actionable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing health plans in CKD management, from early identification and care coordination to the vital role of primary care physicians as “quarterbacks” for complex patient needs. She explores how risk-based partnerships between health plans and clinical partners (not just vendors) drive improved outcomes, better data sharing, and real collaboration across care teams.If you’re a health plan leader, executive, or healthcare strategist looking to advance your CKD strategy, this episode is packed with lessons on optimizing care coordination, reducing unnecessary utilization, and building sustainable partnerships.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:26 Dr. Beth Malko's Career Journey03:37 The Importance of Primary Care in Complex Health Systems07:35 Health Plans and Primary Care Collaboration13:55 Selecting the Right Clinical Partners25:49 Challenges and Solutions in Data Management29:30 Primary Care and Specialty Care Integration38:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Don Berwick—Senior Fellow at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and former Administrator of CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)—for an in-depth conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing U.S. healthcare.Dr. Don Berwick shares firsthand insights on running CMS during the rollout of the Affordable Care Act, the founding of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation, and what it means to shift an agency’s culture toward quality and patient-centered care. The discussion explores Medicare Advantage, payment reform, and how privatization and policy changes have shaped the healthcare landscape over the last decade. Dr. Berwick offers a candid assessment of the impact of political leadership, the influence of moneyed interests, and the need for a renewed social contract to achieve meaningful change.Listeners will also hear Dr. Berwick’s advice for the next generation of healthcare leaders: why collaboration, crossing disciplinary boundaries, and holding onto core values are key to progress. This episode is a must-watch for healthcare executives, policymakers, and anyone interested in healthcare strategy, Medicare, health policy, and leadership.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 Dr. Don Berwick's Background and Career02:22 Impact of the Affordable Care Act03:50 Challenges and Achievements at CMS06:04 Current State and Future of Healthcare13:04 The Role of Money in Healthcare22:22 Advice for Future Healthcare Leaders24:41 Cross-Disciplinary Learning and Innovation31:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we sit down with Shlomit Schaal, MD, PhD, MHCM, to explore the Joy in Medicine Initiative at Houston Methodist, a transformative program aimed at improving physician wellbeing and restoring meaning in medical practice. Dr. Schaal, a respected leader in healthcare innovation, shares insights into the real-world challenges of driving engagement—even when programs are mandatory—and offers a firsthand look at how organizations can build momentum in both primary care and specialty care settings.We discuss the nuances of physician burnout, the cultural barriers to participation, and the importance of synergy across departments. Dr. Schaal also reflects on the early results of the initiative and what the future may hold as Houston Methodist continues to scale its efforts. Whether you're a healthcare executive, clinician, or strategist, this conversation offers practical takeaways for designing more effective wellness programs.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:55 Dr. Schall's Journey to Houston Methodist02:21 Houston Methodist's Leadership and Culture04:19 Joy in Medicine Initiative07:55 Challenges and Solutions in Physician Wellness10:41 Implementing the Joy in Medicine Initiative26:50 Results and Future Plans30:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From the battlefield to the boardroom, Justin Cauthen’s journey offers a masterclass in leadership transformation within healthcare.In this episode of Clinicians in Leadership, we sit down with Justin Cauthen, a retiring U.S. Army flight medic turned clinical executive, to explore how military leadership principles translate into the civilian healthcare landscape. Cauthen shares powerful lessons from leading medevac units and advising the Afghan Surgeon General, all the way to managing a 2,700-person, multi-state healthcare system. His insights highlight the often-unspoken divide between clinicians and executives—and how to bridge it with empathy, structure, and trust.We dive into pressing topics like clinician burnout, moral injury, retention, and the importance of psychological safety. Cauthen explains why leadership must be professionalized, how executives can become true advocates, and how understanding the “love language” of clinicians leads to better operational alignment. He also unpacks how fostering empowerment, educational investment, and real presence on the floor leads to higher retention—like the 94% rate he helped achieve.Whether you're a clinician stepping into leadership or an administrator eager to support your staff more effectively, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:50 Guest's Military and Medical Background01:21 Transition to Civilian Life and Leadership Roles03:23 Bridging the Gap Between Clinical Staff and Administration04:27 Common Misunderstandings and Communication Gaps06:40 Importance of Financial Literacy for Clinicians10:27 Advocating for Clinical Staff15:07 Creating a Culture of Safety and Support19:27 Addressing Burnout and Retention Issues24:28 Daily Routines and Long-term Culture Building29:00 The Burden of Meetings29:30 Empathy and Presence in Leadership30:30 Effective Decision Making31:12 Bridging the Gap Between Leaders and Staff32:35 Empowering Frontline Staff33:49 Handling Criticism and Building Trust44:42 Innovative Support Programs49:19 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders

Discover how healthcare transformation takes root from the top in this inspiring conversation with Marna Borieux, DHA, MBA, Chief of Staff, Vice President for Executive Administration, and now Vice President & Administrator for the Primary Care Service Line at Inova Health System. In this episode of the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy Podcast, we explore Inova’s multi-year transformation journey built on systemness, stewardship, and a relentless focus on culture.Marna shares how her decision to pursue a Doctor of Healthcare Administration at MUSC shaped her leadership philosophy and equipped her to lead through complex change. She details her transition from Cleveland Clinic to Inova, the organizational redesign sparked by new executive leadership, and how Inova accelerated its “Drive to Excellence” strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic.Key themes include healthcare system integration, margin improvement without sacrificing morale, employee engagement through purpose and joy, and the importance of consistent operating rhythms in sustaining culture and outcomes. Whether you're an emerging healthcare leader or a seasoned executive, Marna's perspective offers invaluable insights on leading transformation with empathy, strategy, and intention.00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Lifelong Learning00:29 Meet Marna Borieux: Career and Expanded Role (Chief of Staff, VP for Executive Administration, and now VP & Administrator, Primary Care Service Line)Note: At the time of recording, Marna was Chief of Staff and VP for Executive Administration. She has since accepted the position of Vice President & Administrator for the Primary Care Service Line at Inova Health System.01:03 Inova Health System: Mission and Impact02:22 Marna's Educational Journey and Leadership Development05:48 Transition to Inova Health System08:32 Leadership Traits and Career Decisions11:31 Inova's Transformation Journey24:18 Sustaining Organizational Excellence26:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for Emerging Leaders

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Weshler, Vice President of Outpatient Solutions at Siemens Healthineers, to explore how health systems can leverage smarter technology and global best practices to meet rising demand, workforce shortages, and growing complexity—without losing sight of outcomes. With over 20 years of experience spanning biotech, diagnostics, and medical devices, Jason shares lessons from the front lines of outpatient transformation, including Siemens’ global approach to decentralized care and value-based innovation.We dive into practical examples of how health systems are extending high-quality care into rural and underserved communities, implementing AI to streamline workflows, and designing sustainable technologies that reduce costs while improving patient outcomes. From helium-free MRI scanners to mobile breast and lung cancer screenings, Jason outlines what it takes to modernize operations in an increasingly resource-constrained industry.This conversation is a must-watch for healthcare executives, strategists, outpatient leaders, and innovators focused on the future of care delivery. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into where healthcare strategy is heading.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks00:26 Meet Jason Weschler: A Journey in Healthcare01:20 The Evolution of Outpatient Care04:20 Technological Innovations in Healthcare08:12 Global Perspectives and Sustainability13:09 Future Trends and Challenges in Healthcare22:08 Closing Thoughts and Optimism for the Future

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Eric McNulty, a seasoned leadership expert and educator, to explore how values-driven leadership shapes stronger, more cohesive healthcare teams. Drawing from his experience in high-stakes environments, Eric shares how aligning teams around shared principles leads to more productive conversations, reduced conflict, and ultimately better outcomes for both staff and patients.We discuss the difference between destructive and constructive conflict, the power of leading with integrity, and why consistent values are essential in complex, high-pressure healthcare settings. Eric emphasizes that when teams rally around a shared mission, disagreements shift from divisive debates to collaborative problem-solving.Whether you're a healthcare executive, clinical leader, or aspiring strategist, this episode delivers actionable insights on how to build resilient, values-centered organizations that thrive in today’s healthcare landscape.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 Meet Eric McNulty: Leadership Expert01:05 Path to Leadership in Healthcare02:12 Challenges in Healthcare Leadership05:46 Navigating Leadership and Staffing Shortages09:01 Developing Effective Leaders15:13 Continuous Improvement and Staff Development23:07 Communicating Change and Maintaining Morale25:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert interviews and strategies shaping the future of healthcare leadership.

In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy is joined by Ryan Bengtson, President and CEO of Panda Health. They discuss Panda Health's evolution from a digital health marketplace to a comprehensive digital health partner. Bengtson shares his journey in healthcare consulting and the founding of Panda Health. The company helps health systems navigate the digital transformation by offering extensive research, pre-negotiated contracts, and a community-based platform for sharing insights. They delve into the challenges health systems face in choosing vendors, the importance of real-time feedback, and the future impact of AI in healthcare. This episode provides valuable insights into the healthcare industry's digital landscape and the innovative solutions offered by Panda Health. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Meet Ryan Bengtson: Journey to CEO 01:42 The Evolution of Panda Health 03:23 Panda Health's Digital Health Marketplace 07:39 Challenges in Vendor Management 10:26 Panda Health's Unique Approach 18:30 The Role of AI in Healthcare 21:41 Conclusion and Future Insights

In this episode of The Strategy of Health Podcast, Cole sits down with Dr. Colin Banas, Internal Medicine Physician and Chief Medical Officer at DrFirst, to dive into the evolving landscape of healthcare technology. They discuss how FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is transforming healthcare interoperability, streamlining prior authorizations, and enhancing data transparency. Dr. Banas shares his journey from CMIO at VCU Health to his current role at DrFirst, offering unique insights into the challenges and solutions in electronic health records (EHR), medication management, and the integration of AI in healthcare workflows.00:00 Introduction to FHIR and Its Importance00:27 Meet Dr. Colin Banas00:50 Journey to Medicine02:30 Career at VCU and Transition to Dr. First03:33 Challenges and Innovations in EHR06:06 Joining Dr. First11:30 Improving Medication Management15:26 The Future of Prior Authorization25:09 The Role of AI in Healthcare30:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Cole from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy is joined by Rick Moreland, founder of Modality Global Advisors. They discuss the current landscape of health policy and equity in the United States and explore strategies that healthcare organizations can implement to address these issues moving forward. Moreland emphasizes the importance of proactive and holistic approaches, addressing social determinants of health, and integrating wellness incentives. He also highlights the role of managed care organizations, telemedicine, and data analytics in transforming care delivery and improving outcomes. The conversation includes insights on leveraging big data for preventive care, reducing ER visits, and the economic impact of shifting towards value-based care. 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Cost Savings 00:28 Meet Rick Moreland: Healthcare Consultant 01:20 Health Policy and Equity in 2025 02:14 Addressing Social Determinants of Health 04:16 Managed Care and Mobile Health Solutions 05:08 Holistic Approach to Healthcare Consulting 07:34 Shift to Preventive and Value-Based Care 13:25 Big Data and Population Health 18:30 Innovations in Healthcare for 2025 20:29 Geographical Challenges in Healthcare 22:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Strategy of Health, host Cole is joined by Dr. Stephanie Toth-Manikowski, a seasoned nephrologist and population health expert at Healthmap Solutions. Together, they explore a bold vision for kidney care: slowing the progression of kidney disease and optimizing renal replacement therapy. This insightful conversation unpacks how intelligent population health management can identify at-risk patients earlier, enabling proactive care coordination and helping patients maintain kidney function longer.Dr. Toth-Manikowski shares her clinical journey—from Harvard and Johns Hopkins to frontline nephrology—and reveals how Healthmap’s multidisciplinary teams of nurses, social workers, pharmacists, and dietitians are making a tangible impact on CKD outcomes. They discuss everything from avoiding unplanned dialysis starts, to educating patients about home dialysis options, to tackling social determinants of health with actionable support.Key themes include:🩺 Early intervention in CKD stages 3–5🤝 Coordinated, personalized care models that reduce ER dialysis starts📚 The power of health literacy, lifestyle changes, and low-cost medications📡 Bridging clinical care gaps with intelligent outreach and real-time data If you’re a healthcare strategist, clinician, or payer looking to understand how tech-enabled, patient-centered models are changing the future of kidney care, this episode is a must-listen.🔔 Subscribe for weekly insights on healthcare transformation.🌐 Visit ajhcs.org for more resources.This video was brought to you by: Healthmap Solutions, learn more at https://healthmapsolutions.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Chris Myers, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins University, specializing in healthcare leadership and management. Dr. Myers discusses the crucial role leadership plays in healthcare outcomes, often overshadowed by technological advancements and clinical expertise. He emphasizes the need for effective coordination and communication within healthcare teams to avoid common errors that stem from poor leadership practices. Dr. Myers also shares insights from his research on team compositions in operating rooms and the importance of familiarizing clinicians with good leadership practices early in their careers. Listen as Dr. Myers provides actionable strategies to integrate leadership training and improve healthcare delivery without additional costs or resources. 00:00 Introduction to Systematic Improvements in Healthcare 00:45 Meet Chris Myers: Healthcare Leadership Expert 01:21 The Importance of Leadership in Healthcare 02:32 Challenges in Focusing on Leadership 04:30 Strategies for Improving Leadership Skills 06:29 Bridging the Gap Between Clinicians and Administrators 09:40 Utilizing Local Resources for Leadership Development 20:49 The Impact of Leadership on Technological Investments 24:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us for an insightful conversation with Tiara Green, President of Accessia Health, as we explore her journey from program manager to executive leader in advancing health equity for individuals with rare and chronic conditions. In this episode, Tiara shares the mission of Accessia Health—a national nonprofit providing financial assistance, education, and resources to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.We discuss the challenges of healthcare affordability, the critical role of health literacy, and the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing care gaps. Tiara offers actionable insights on building trust with community organizations, collaborating with faith-based groups, and creating sustainable solutions for underserved populations. She also reflects on managing rising costs, improving patient outcomes, and leading an organization through policy, economic, and technological shifts.Whether you’re a healthcare strategist, nonprofit leader, or advocate for health equity, this episode offers valuable lessons on creating impact and driving systems change. Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders transforming healthcare.00:00 Introduction and Common Goals00:38 Meet Tiara Green: President of Excessia Health01:50 Tiara's Journey to Leadership03:01 Navigating Healthcare Changes05:05 Holistic Approach to Healthcare Assistance07:21 The Power of Education and Health Literacy11:08 Addressing Health Inequities14:31 Partnering with Faith-Based Organizations15:44 Effective Community Partnerships19:14 Supporting Individuals with Rare Conditions20:41 Funding and Legal Assistance25:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTo donate: https://accessiahealth.org/donations/This video was brought to you by: AJHCS Digital Services, learn more at https://services.ajhcs.org/

In this insightful episode, Cole Lyons from the American Journal of Healthcare Strategy interviews Meghan Gaffney, CEO of VEDA Data Solutions. Meghan shares her unique journey from healthcare policy in Washington, D.C. to co-founding an AI-driven company aimed at improving access to healthcare. She delves into the challenges and successes of using AI and machine learning to create more accurate and equitable healthcare provider data directories. Meghan also discusses the importance of diverse teams in tech and the future of AI in personalizing patient experiences. Tune in to learn how VEDA is making a significant impact in the healthcare industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:37 Meghan Gaffney's Background and VEDA Data Solutions02:03 Transition from Policy to Tech02:24 The Genesis of VEDA and AI Implementation04:49 Challenges and Successes in AI and Healthcare17:52 Building a Diverse and Equitable Team23:52 Future of AI in Healthcare26:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts