Healthcare Americana

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig sits down with Dr. Marion Mass, pediatrician and co-founder of Practicing Physicians of America, to uncover widespread fraud and abuse in the Medicare Advantage program. They break down how insurers use practices like upcoding, assigning patients exaggerated or false diagnoses, to collect billions in taxpayer dollars each year, with UnitedHealthcare highlighted as a major offender. Dr. Mass explains the systemic conflicts of interest, lack of accountability, and the urgent need for audits, penalties, and transparency to protect both patients and federal budgets. The conversation also highlights the importance of informed healthcare choices and explores how direct care models offer a more sustainable alternative. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about Medicare, insurance oversight, and the integrity of America’s healthcare system.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Marion Mass & Practicing Physicians of AmericaFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Dr. Shannon Decker, CEO of VBC One, about what value-based care (VBC) really means and how it differs from traditional fee-for-service models. Dr. Decker explains that VBC focuses on prevention, quality measures, total cost of care, and accurate risk adjustment. She discusses payment approaches like capitation with quality bonuses and highlights the practical needs for success, including strong EMR documentation, risk coding, clinician and patient engagement, interoperable data, and effective workflows. The conversation also covers pitfalls such as underreported chronic conditions, challenges with global risk contracts like ACO REACH, and the importance of contract protections and ongoing education. Dr. Decker emphasizes that with the right systems and trust between clinicians and patients, value-based care can improve outcomes and reduce costs, but it requires careful planning and implementation.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Shannon Decker & VBC OneFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Dr. Mala Kaul, a board-certified rheumatologist, about the growing crisis in autoimmune care. With too few specialists and rising patient demand, Dr. Kaul explains how rushed appointments and broken incentives are hurting patients. She also explains why early detection, lifestyle changes, and better coordination with primary care are key to improving outcomes. Dr. Kaul also shares why she believes direct specialty care could be the future of autoimmune treatment, giving doctors more time with patients and leading to better results.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/Follow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig speaks with Shannon Biergans, a longtime nurse practitioner and patient advocate, and John Hsieh, a direct primary care leader, about launching the Michigan chapter of the Free Market Medical Association (FMMA). They discuss how personal experiences and professional frustrations sparked a commitment to healthcare freedom, transparency, and reform. The conversation explores how the FMMA unites diverse stakeholders across healthcare to promote direct primary care, patient advocacy, and community engagement. Shannon and John share grassroots strategies like educational events and employer outreach to grow awareness in Michigan. Together, they emphasize the power of collaboration in building a simpler, more transparent healthcare system.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Shannon Biergans, John Hsieh & Free Market Medical AssociationFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Dr. Tom DiLorenzo, President of the Mises Institute, about how Austrian economics can help fix America’s broken healthcare system. They explore how government bureaucracy, inflation, cronyism, and rent-seeking drive up costs and reduce quality, while free market principles like competition and innovation offer a path to reform. Dr. DiLorenzo highlights the role of local initiatives, economic education, and grassroots efforts in creating meaningful healthcare change and emphasizes the need to treat healthcare as a market, not a government-run service.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Tom DiLorenzo & Mises InstituteFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Charles Sauer, Founder and President of The Market Institute, about site neutrality, the idea that the same medical service should cost the same no matter where it's delivered. They explore how government price-setting and hospital consolidation are driving up costs, limiting patient access, and distorting the healthcare market. The conversation also looks at how past legislation and lobbying have shaped the current system and why now is the right time to push for change.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Charles Sauer & The Market InstituteFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Andrew Newland, Founder & CEO of Direct Primary Care Marketing, about overcoming marketing paralysis in independent healthcare practices. They discuss why many clinics struggle to establish an online presence and how to build a strong foundation with clear messaging and multi-channel strategies. Andrew emphasizes treating your website as a functional tool, not just a visual asset, and highlights the importance of trust in healthcare marketing. The conversation also covers budgeting, effective ad creation, and turning online engagement into real-world patient visits. It's a practical guide for any DPC provider looking to attract and retain more patients.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Andrew Newland & Direct Primary Care MarketingFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig introduces a new monthly segment, Practice Makes Perfect, featuring Amanda Compton, Client Services Manager at Freedom Healthworks. Amanda brings her on-the-ground insights from managing DPC practices across the country and dives into the crucial role of communication in patient satisfaction and practice success. Plus, learn how patient expectations around accessibility can make or break your DPC practice, and what you can do about it.Key takeaways include:Why "convenient communication" is essential for patient retentionThe dramatic difference timely responses make in converting leads into membersHow practices can create memorable experiences through small but meaningful follow-upsAmanda’s “Operational Gold” tip of the monthMore on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDoc HealthSubscribe at HealthcareAmericana.comFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig talks with Dr. Michael Havig about the rise of cash pay healthcare models. They explore the inefficiencies in traditional healthcare payment systems, the importance of price transparency, and how Dr. Havig’s company, HealthMe, is helping facilitate direct pay solutions for patients and providers. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities of implementing cash pay models, as well as the future of direct pay in medical specialties. Dr. Havig also highlights the challenges faced by healthcare providers in navigating legal issues and the necessity for a shift towards patient empowerment in spending healthcare dollars. The episode concludes with Dr. Havig offering advice for physicians considering a transition to cash pay models.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Michael Havig & HealthMeFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig speaks with Julie Baak, practice manager at the Arthritis Center in St. Louis, about the challenges of patient access to infusion therapy and the manipulative practices of insurance companies. Julie shares her experiences managing a large number of infusion patients and the burdens imposed by insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers. She discusses the role of social media in advocating for patients and how independent clinics can take back control of healthcare. The conversation highlights the need for reform in the healthcare system and the importance of patient-centered care.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Julie Baak & STL Arthritis CenterFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig sits down with Indiana Representative Julie McGuire to explore the crucial role state lawmakers play in shaping healthcare policy. They discuss how everyday citizens can influence healthcare reform, the challenges of hospital pricing transparency, and the accountability of nonprofit hospitals.McGuire highlights the need for greater transparency in healthcare ownership and examines the growing impact of private equity on local medical practices. She also delves into key legislative efforts in Indiana, including regulating Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), increasing transparency in pharmaceutical pricing, and supporting independent medical practices.Throughout the conversation, they discuss the obstacles lawmakers face when passing healthcare reforms and why engaging with constituents is essential to creating real change. Tune in to learn how state-level initiatives can help improve healthcare affordability and accessibility.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Indiana State Representative Julie McGuireFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, Christopher Habig introduces the new season focused on solutions in the American healthcare system, emphasizing the critical role of trust. He discusses the erosion of trust among patients and healthcare providers, the bureaucratic challenges faced, and advocates for direct care models as a viable solution. The episode highlights the need for transparency and patient-centered care, while addressing common myths about healthcare and insurance.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Christopher Habig & Freedom HealthworksFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig sits down with Dr. Stephanie Huhn, a Direct Primary Care (DPC) physician, and Sarah Gabriel, a business advisor, to explore the transition from traditional healthcare to DPC. Together, they dive into the challenges and benefits of this innovative model, emphasizing its patient-centered approach and the critical role of community engagement. Dr. Huhn shares her journey of building a family medicine practice focused on personalized care. This episode offers valuable insights into how DPC can transform patient care, empower physicians, and address gaps in rural healthcare access.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Stephanie Huhn & RoMo Direct Primary CareFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig is joined by Dr. Anthony DiGiorgio. Together, they explore the 340B Drug Discount Program, a federal initiative meant to help low-income patients access affordable medications. They reveal how the program has shifted over time to prioritize large healthcare institutions, creating unintended consequences like inflated healthcare costs and reduced patient access to discounts. The conversation calls for greater transparency and reforms to ensure the program supports those it was designed for. By addressing these challenges and realigning the program with its original mission, the healthcare system can better serve patients and create a more equitable and efficient model of care.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Anthony DiGiorgioFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig is joined by Joe Wilson, Chief Growth Officer at Frontier Direct Care. Together, they discuss the myths surrounding healthcare costs and the potential savings from implementing Direct Primary Care (DPC) in employer benefit programs. They explore the misconceptions held by executives about primary care, the importance of educating decision-makers on insurance, and the tangible savings that can be achieved through DPC. The conversation highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how healthcare consumption is viewed and emphasizes the role of DPC in enhancing patient care while reducing costs. Joe shares compelling data and success stories that illustrate the effectiveness of DPC in improving health outcomes and driving down healthcare expenses.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Joe Wilson & Frontier Direct CareFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, Christopher Habig speaks with Dr. Matt Patterson, President of WelbeHealth, about the pressing issues of loneliness and mental health among seniors. They discuss the inadequacies of the current volume-driven healthcare system in addressing these challenges. Dr. Patterson explains WelbeHealth’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) which provides comprehensive care for older adults. He also emphasizes the importance of human interaction in healthcare and advocates for the expansion of PACE to improve outcomes for seniors while reducing costs for taxpayers.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Matt Patterson & WelbeHealthFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig is joined by Dr. Juliette Madrigal. Together, they discuss the detrimental impact of insurance companies on the healthcare system, particularly on the doctor-patient relationship. They explore the commoditization of both patients and physicians, the role of hospitals in prioritizing profit over care, and the rise of direct care models as a solution. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trust and transparency in healthcare, advocating for a return to a more personalized approach to medicine. Dr. Madrigal shares her experiences and insights on how to reclaim the doctor-patient relationship and the need for systemic change in the healthcare industry.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Juliette MadrigalFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, Christopher Habig speaks with Dr. J. Matthew Andry and Maddie Andry about their journey in the direct care model of healthcare. They discuss the evolution of their practice, the importance of support in making the transition to direct care, and the integration of mental and physical health in patient care. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by physicians in traditional healthcare settings and the value of personalized care in improving patient outcomes. In this conversation, Dr. Andry and Maddie discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare, emphasizing the importance of treating the whole person, and the role of community health in improving outcomes. The discussion also touches on the challenges of medical dogma and the power of fiction in addressing mental health issues, culminating in a vision for a more patient-centered approach to healthcare.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on J. Matthew Andry, MD - Maddie Andry - Whole Living MedicalFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig speaks with Vanessa Rissetto, CEO and co-founder of Culina Health, about the critical role of nutrition in healthcare. They discuss the importance of medical nutrition therapy, the challenges faced by dietitians, and the need for better nutrition in hospitals. Vanessa emphasizes the impact of proper nutrition on preventing chronic diseases, including obesity and pre-diabetes, and the necessity of educating both healthcare providers and the public. The conversation also touches on the influence of the food industry and the importance of culturally affirming nutrition. Vanessa shares insights on the future of Culina Health and the potential for collaboration with direct primary care physicians.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Vanessa Rissetto & Culina HealthFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN

In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig sits down with Dr. Jude Pierre to explore the unique challenges physicians face today, particularly for young doctors just entering the profession. Dr. Pierre explains why he steers physicians away from corporate healthcare and empowers them to pursue independent practice. The discussion highlights critical topics such as financial literacy, understanding contracts, and the vital role of mentorship in shaping successful careers. They also examine gender-based differences in physician approaches, the evolving landscape of medical education, and the importance of seeking support to combat burnout. Dr. Pierre underscores the value of knowing one’s worth and the rewarding possibilities of a career in independent medicine.More on Freedom Healthworks & FreedomDocSubscribe at https://healthcareamericana.com/More on Dr. Jude Pierre & Coach JPMDFollow Healthcare Americana: Instagram & LinkedIN