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  • Richard Kellner is on a mission to end polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a leading cause of kidney failure in younger people. The key is combining pre-implantation genetic testing with in vitro fertilization to prevent the disease from being passed from parent to child. The PKD Outreach Foundation, run by Richard is raising awareness so that physicians and parents-to-be know about this option. PKD Outreach is also making testing and IVF more affordable and accessible through a partnership with US Fertility and by making cash grants to families.

    In addition, PKD Outreach is publicizing ways to slowing the progression in young adults with lifestyle and drugs, and supporting live kidney donation.

    Richard has a compelling personal story. His late wife passed away from PKD, even after receiving a kidney donation from Richard. His adult kids have it, too.

    I like the organization's mission and determination so I decided to donate. You might want to do the same.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Explore the life and career of Brett White, CEO of Weave, an AI-powered platform designed to support small and mid-sized medical practices. Brett shares his formative experiences growing up in Northern California, working on a farm, and benefiting from his father's career as an airline pilot. These early influences instilled in him a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the value of hard work and simple living, shaping his approach to leadership and innovation in healthcare.

    We trace Brett's professional journey, starting from his decision to study business economics at UC Santa Barbara, leading to a career in accounting with Arthur Young, and later transitioning to Oracle. Brett's career trajectory underscores the importance of hustle and results in achieving success. He eventually moved on to become CFO for various companies, including Mindbody, before joining Weave. Brett discusses his passion for helping small business owners, particularly doctors, and the satisfaction derived from supporting their success through technology.

    In our conversation, we examine the current landscape of small and mid-sized specialty medical practices and how they thrive by focusing on key metrics and efficient processes. Brett explains how technology and AI can enhance efficiency, improve revenue cycle management, and reduce staff workload, citing specific examples like AI assistants automating review responses. Additionally, we explore how modern communication and payment systems can significantly enhance patient experience, reduce no-shows, and streamline collections, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers.

    Listen in as Brett White provides valuable insights and perspectives on the integration of technology in healthcare and its potential to transform patient care and business operations.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

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  • PatientPay and ClearGage are merging. I interviewed CEO Tom Furr to get his take. The combined offering is intended to deliver a comprehensive billing and payment platform that includes estimation and eligibility along with streamlined patient payments.

    Doctors offices are generally set up to bill insurance, but patients are now responsible for a lot more of the bill. Offices that manage patient payments effectively perform much better financially and reduce friction. That's what PatientPay enables.

    Patients (i.e., consumers) have become accustomed to smooth transactions through Amazon and other e-commerce and in-person experiences. So physician offices can appear archaic in comparison unless they're using something like PatientPay.

    Tom was a guest on the show several years ago, and it was great to have him back to share the big progress his company has made.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield CEO Sarah Iselin is a great asset for Massachusetts. I admired her work when she ran the Department of Healthcare Finance and Policy and then the BCBS Foundation, and was grateful for her rescue of Massachusetts' implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

    After a decade-long sojourn to Florida and California she's come back to Massachusetts just in time to address some big challenges. Among the topics we discussed:

    The Steward Healthcare bankruptcyAccess to care -especially behavioral healthThe health care cost crisisWomen's healthValue based care and the Alternative Quality Contract

    I also enjoyed learning about how Sarah was inspired by her parents to enter public service and her early dates as an art student.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Jeff Greenfield's journey is fascinating. As a child he was enchanted with magic, fell in love with Disney, and was transformed by a year in Israel during high school.

    Jeff shares how his early experiences shaped his career path, from studying biochemistry at the University of Maryland to becoming a chiropractor, all the while nurturing his passion for close-up magic. A car accident meant he had to stop practicing, but ultimately led him to embrace the burgeoning internet era of the mid-90s.

    Next, we lift the veil on the complexities of modern digital advertising. We explore how digital marketing has shifted the focus to the bottom of the funnel, increasing competition and costs. A captivating case study about leveraging MasterCard data to target weight loss customers highlights the sophisticated and costly nature of today's advertising strategies.

    In the final chapter, we delve into the intricate world of healthcare and pharmaceutical marketing privacy. Jeff sheds light on the dual-focus strategy of targeting both healthcare providers and consumers, explaining how pharmaceutical companies educate providers while raising consumer awareness. The evolution from traditional TV and radio ads to digital marketing is discussed, with an emphasis on the impact of iOS privacy changes and browser policy updates. We explore the significance of first-party and third-party cookies in the ad economy and the challenges posed by their potential phase-out.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Most people living with chronic conditions have more than one, yet digital health is full of point solutions for specific conditions. Dr. Tryggvi Thorgeirsson transformed that insight into Sidekick Health, which takes a platform approach to addressing a patient's complex needs.

    The company is growing fast, both organically and through acquisition. The latest addition, PINK! specializes in cancer care and women's health.

    Tryggvi is from Iceland, and I enjoyed uncovering his fascinating journey. He shares personal stories from his time with a volunteer mountaineering rescue squad and his extensive educational path through the University of Iceland, MIT Media Lab, and Harvard School of Public Health.

    I knew there were a lot of hot, emerging geothermal features in Iceland. Now I know of at least one hot, emerging digital health company, too.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Dr. Sarah Adler, founder and CEO of Wave and clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Stanford University, shares her journey from childhood through an eclectic academic path at Columbia University, a brief stint in medical school, and an unexpected career turn at a hedge fund.

    Her story offers a unique perspective on how personal experiences --in Sarah's case a diagnosis of ADHD at age 40 --can ignite a passion for mental health and drive innovative approaches to care.

    We explore how Generation Z is revolutionizing the healthcare landscape with their digital-first approach. By segmenting Gen Z into older, middle, and younger cohorts, we uncover their distinct preferences and the challenges of engaging with them through traditional healthcare methods. Our discussion highlights the pressing need for healthcare systems to adapt to meet the demands of a tech-savvy generation, emphasizing the role technology can play in providing accessible and efficient care.

    Finally, we tackle the critical issue of the growing demand for mental health services amid a shortage of licensed therapists. Dr. Adler shares innovative strategies, including the integration of data and technology and the use of health coaches trained in accredited programs to deliver evidence-based treatments. We stress the importance of building a robust data infrastructure for measuring outcomes and maintaining mental well-being, both at Wave and beyond.

    When Sarah touts the benefits of starting every company meeting with a mini-mindfulness exercise, I challenge her to try that out in a sales call! We'll see how it goes.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Can value-based care transform the American healthcare system? In this episode, we dive deep into this pressing question with Dr. Mohamed Diab, president of CVS Accountable Care. Dr. Diab highlights systemic challenges, such as physician burnout and the inadequacies of primary care funding. With an emphasis on primary care's critical role in managing chronic conditions and preventing illness, he reveals how a shift to value-based care can lead to better health outcomes by focusing on holistic, patient-centered approaches that tackle social determinants and behavioral health.

    We also address the complexities of this transition, specifically for healthcare executives who are navigating the shift from fee-for-service to value-based models. Learn about Medicare's ambitious plan to achieve 100% value-based care by 2030 and discover how CVS Health's Accountable Care Organization is leveraging technology, analytics, and clinical programs to support providers and Medicare beneficiaries.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Greg Mario, CEO of TAXIS Pharmaceuticals shares his dynamic journey from a childhood of constant relocations to spearheading the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections. Greg opens up about his immigrant grandparents' profound influence and a transformative experience with a captivating professor at Trinity College that shifted his academic focus from mechanical engineering to chemistry. This pivotal change set the foundation for his career in the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting his adaptability and dedication to human health.

    Discover the fascinating evolution of Evogen, a company initially centered on bio and chemical threat detection, which pivoted to tackle central nervous system diseases under Greg's leadership. We also explore the creation of as revolutionary blood-based epilepsy diagnostic test, as well as the pressing issue of antibiotic resistance.

    Greg provides a historical perspective on antibiotics and underscores the urgent need for innovative antimicrobial treatments to combat the relentless rise of superbugs, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability required in the healthcare industry.

    In the final section, we explore the relentless pursuit of funding in the biotech world through Greg's experiences with TAXIS Pharmaceuticals. Learn about the company's early days and the recent $2.7 million NIH grant for their promising efflux pump inhibitor, now on the brink of human trials.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Unlock the secrets to effective behavioral health management in long-term care in this interview with Rocco Coniglio, a powerhouse in healthcare entrepreneurship. From a sports-driven childhood in Pittsburgh to collegiate triumphs as a middle linebacker, Rocco's journey is certain to inspire. We dive into his career, navigating roles at McKesson, Gambro, Medtronic, and Spectranetics, and explore his bold move to co-found Psych360 mid-career. Get actionable insights on starting a business while juggling a high-stakes job and learn why a supportive company culture is pivotal for success.

    The second half of the episode delves into the complex world of nursing home regulations and the transformative role of telehealth. Discover how CMS rules reshaped medication practices and learn about the importance of advanced practice nurses in long-term care.

    We also discuss strategic partnerships with universities to tackle psychiatrist shortages and the game-changing impact of telehealth, especially in rural areas. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the future of healthcare, featuring expert opinions on trends, challenges, and innovative strategies for better health outcomes and operational efficiency.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Listen in to this informative episode with Pete O'Heeron, CEO of FibroBiologics, as we explore his journey from a small, innovative town to the forefront of healthcare innovation. Pete shares how his upbringing in a medically inclined family and a community rich with inventiveness influenced his career. Hear how Pete transitioned from pre-med to hospital administration due to unforeseen geopolitical events, ultimately finding his passion within the healthcare industry.

    Pete recounts his transformative experience at Christus, a multi-billion dollar hospital system, where his pivot from hospital administration to product development led to significant advancements in surgical instruments and an impressive return for shareholders.

    We delve into the revolutionary potential of fibroblasts, often overshadowed by stem cells, and their efficacy in regenerating tissue and treating chronic diseases. Pete explains how innovative techniques in fibrogenesis, such as applying pressure in low oxygen environments, can turn dermal fibroblasts into cartilage-type cells, opening new therapeutic avenues.

    We also cover the exciting advancements in fibroblast research and its applications across various medical fields. Highlighting the influence of Nobel Prize winners like Jim Allison and Jennifer Doudna, Pete discusses the promising results seen in wound care, multiple sclerosis, degenerative diseases, and more. With plans for upcoming clinical trials and commercialization strategies, Pete shares his admiration for influential figures like Elon Musk and reflects on the unique approaches to leadership in the biotech industry. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with valuable insights into healthcare innovation and strategic partnerships.


    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.


  • The future of healthcare isn't just about treating illness, but fundamentally reshaping how care is delivered and experienced. Join us as Emily Young from Tufts Medicine Integrated Network and Courtney Fortner from Navvis share their compelling insights on the transformative potential of value-based care. Emily delves into the importance of integrating value-based and volume-based approaches, while Courtney brings to light the inspirational story of a physician who found renewed purpose and postponed retirement thanks to the positive impact of value-based care.

    Strategic partnerships and collaboration between payers and providers are crucial in accelerating the shift to value-based care. Emily and Courtney explore the intricacies of this journey, emphasizing the necessity for clinical and payment transformations to work in tandem. The discussion highlights how organizations like Tufts leverage market dynamics and strategic relationships to advance in value-based care, painting a vivid picture of a healthcare system poised for long-term, meaningful improvements.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • What if your dentist could spot cavities long before they became a problem? Join us as we chat with Jordan Rubinson, CEO of CaviSense, about his interesting journey from pharma to medtech We start by discussing Jordan's early influences, from his father's career at Block Drug Company to his own academic adventures at Columbia and MIT's Sloan School. Despite an initial interest in accounting, Jordan's passion for pharma led him down a path less traveled, avoiding the conventional business routes of consulting and investment banking.

    Next, we take a closer look at Jordan's dynamic career in the pharmaceutical industry. Learn how his family's frequent relocations led to professional opportunities across the globe. Jordan shares anecdotes from his time in big pharma, including his experiences within a management development program at Sanofi Pasteur and the challenges of managing diverse roles in different markets. His shift from big pharma to the innovative medtech startup scene in Israel provides a compelling narrative about the contrasts between structured environments and the fast-paced, resource-tight nature of startups.

    Finally, we explore the evolving role of dentists as both medical professionals and entrepreneurs. Discover how new technologies are revolutionizing dental care, especially in pediatric dentistry. Jordan introduces us to CaviSense, a groundbreaking tool for early cavity detection, and discusses its journey from early development to FDA registration. We also touch on the exciting future of consumer-friendly dental monitoring tools that could transform how we manage oral health at home.

    Don't miss this episode to hear about the future of interactive dental care and the potential for improved patient outcomes.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.


  • Travis Morgan, President and CFO of DecisionRx touts medication optimization as the way to improve outcomes and reduce costs. In this episode, Travis shares his journey from an entrepreneurial upbringing to making waves in the life sciences and healthcare technology sectors. Learn how his experiences in public accounting and as a precision medicine company co-founder have shaped his unique approach to tackling one of the healthcare industry's most costly issues: ineffective medications.

    Hear how DecisionRx is leveraging pharmacogenomics and data science to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare expenses. Travis explains the impact of pharmacist-led interventions , and how the value-based care model, combined with genetic analysis, can guides clinical decision to prevent medication failures. Get insights into the commercial success of this approach, particularly within risk-bearing entities like ACOs and Medicare Advantage plans.

    Learn about the power of innovative medication optimization, eliminating the usual friction associated with third-party reimbursement. Travis discusses the company's scale-up effort, with over 230,000 lives under contract through accountable care organizations and substantial financial backing from the Carlyle Group.

    Finally, hear why Travis recommends "Endurance: The Biography of Ernest Shackleton," as an essential read for any aspiring leader.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Curious about the forces driving healthcare pricing and access? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sarah Emond, President and CEO of the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER). Sarah's upbringing in a family passionate about policy and social justice laid the foundation for her impactful career in health policy. We explore her educational journey from Smith College to Brandeis University’s Heller School, and how her professional experiences in clinical research and biopharmaceutical consulting shaped her path to ICER.

    Unravel the complex world of health technology assessment (HTA) in the US as Sarah breaks down the challenges and opportunities within a fragmented healthcare system. ICER's pivotal role in evaluating new medical technologies is discussed in depth, including its interactions with international agencies like the UK's NICE. Sarah sheds light on ICER's evolution from a small initiative within Mass General Hospital to a powerful voice in global HTA practices, emphasizing the importance of fair pricing, patient access, and sustainable innovation funding.

    Equity in healthcare takes center stage as Sarah introduces ICER’s updated value assessment framework. Learn about new tools like the clinical trial diversity rating and the Health Improvement Distribution Index (HIDI) designed to promote representation of diverse populations in clinical trials. We also tackle the high costs and value-based pricing of innovative treatments, including gene and cell therapies, and the necessity of evolving payment systems to ensure continuous innovation. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the pressing challenges and future directions in healthcare pricing, equity, and access.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.


  • Eileen McAnenny, the driving force behind the Employer Coalition on Health in Massachusetts shares her journey from a typical Irish Catholic home in Somerville (before it was fashionable) to a leader in healthcare policy and cost management.

    Discover how her roots and influential figures like Tip O'Neill and the Kennedys shaped her passion for public service, leading to a law career and roles at the Bank of New England, the Joint Committee on Taxation, and beyond. Eileen's insights on employer engagement in healthcare costs and her work with the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation illuminate the challenges and opportunities in controlling this major business expense.

    As healthcare costs in Massachusetts continue to balloon, smaller businesses are feeling the pinch more than ever.

    This episode delves into the complexities of managing healthcare costs, especially in a state where large healthcare employers wield significant political influence. We explore the role of employer coalitions in bringing balance to the conversation, representing the needs of those tasked with purchasing healthcare, and striving for sustainability against the backdrop of inflation and workforce shortages. Eileen's experience at Fidelity and her focus on employer-related policy issues provide a compelling narrative on the interplay between businesses and healthcare providers.




    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Explore the professional journey of BK Nyak, the innovative leader behind Spikewell, whose advancements are revolutionizing hospital IT solutions. In this conversation, we examine BK's progression from his early days in India to becoming an influential entrepreneur who is reshaping healthcare technology.

    He discusses the significant impact of his upbringing, his educational achievements at IIT, the University of Virginia, and MIT's Sloan School, and the key moments that shifted his focus from academia to pioneering entrepreneurship. BK's story highlights the importance of curiosity and adaptability in navigating career paths and leveraging early patents and grants as a foundation for success.

    This episode also explores Spikewell's mission to customize IT systems for hospitals, utilizing AI to enhance efficiency and adaptability. BK explains how his company's solutions address clinician burnout and improve clinical decision support and financial operations—essential elements in the rapidly changing healthcare industry.

    We analyze the critical roles of mobile platforms, cloud computing, and AI, and how a strong emphasis on customer needs informs tech partnerships with healthcare facilities. Discussing the transformative impact of these technologies, particularly in response to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, BK's commitment to innovation and the future of healthcare technology is evident.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.


  • In this episode, Dr. Tamir Aldad, founder and CEO of Mindful Care, joins me to discuss strategies for addressing the challenges in mental health accessibility and costs. Dr. Aldad brings a unique blend of medical insight and business expertise, advocating for and implementing a model that integrates social impact with economic viability. He shares a tragic experience from his residency that exposed significant shortcomings in our mental healthcare system, which motivated the creation of Mindful Care.

    Our discussion delves into the current issues faced by mental health providers, such as complex insurance reimbursement processes and the issue of patient selectivity due to high demand. We discuss the impact of social media and the role of virtual and hybrid care.

    We discuss Mindful Care's success to date, plans for expansion, and how input from referral partners and community feedback is crucial in reaching underserved populations.


    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

  • Menthol cigarettes, the FTC's attempts to boost competition in healthcare, the mental health of Jewish college students, and the TikTok ban. What do they all have in common?

    Not much, except that they were all in the news this week and I chose to discuss them on a rare solo episode.

    Don't like what you hear? Don't worry, I'll be back next week with a fresh guest.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.


  • Massachusetts Association of Health Plans (MAHP) leader Lora Pellegrini got interested in policy and politics at a young age. She had the opportunity to work with luminaries like Ted Kennedy and John Kerry early in her career, as she rose to prominence in healthcare policy.

    Our discussion focuses on critical issues such as pharmaceutical pricing and hospital efficiency in Massachusetts. We explore the regulatory challenges in drug pricing and the necessity for hospital systems to innovate and enhance performance. Lora provides expert analysis on the impact of major players like Steward Healthcare and Optum in the Massachusetts healthcare sector.

    She also shares the historical perspective on healthcare reform in Massachusetts, and issues a call for employers to re-engage in support of affordability as they did back in the days of RomneyCare.

    Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.