For the first time in history, Texas is home to three female presidents leading Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) chapters, alongside the organization’s first female CEO, Ann Jordan. This unprecedented moment is more than symbolic; it highlights a shift toward inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation in healthcare financial management. With Texas chapters spanning diverse regions…

As healthcare systems face increasing challenges—ranging from provider shortages to rising costs—the adoption of virtual care is accelerating. Acute care settings, in particular, have benefited from virtual care innovations, which have reshaped how hospitals deliver critical services. A recent study highlights that telemedicine improves chronic condition management, decreases hospital admissions, and boosts patient outcomes,…

Healthcare costs are rising steadily, while insurance benefits struggle to offer sufficient coverage, driving demand for practical solutions like nontraditional benefits and discount plans. As premiums rise and coverage limits remain stagnant, many individuals and employers seek alternative ways to manage costs and improve healthcare access. With chronic conditions on the rise, the stakes…

With healthcare costs continuing to climb, and the access to quality care remaining uneven, discussions on healthcare reform are quite an essential topic. Millions of Americans face high out-of-pocket costs and limited access to critical health services. According to a 2022 Gallup poll, nearly 40 percent of Americans have delayed medical care due to…

The healthcare industry faces unprecedented challenges, with workforce shortages pushing hospital labor costs to over 60% of total expenses. This strain is compounded by rising burnout rates among healthcare providers, particularly nurses. A recent AMN Healthcare survey revealed that nurses are prioritizing well-being and flexibility in 2024, underscoring the urgent need for personalized solutions…

Conversations around mental resilience and maintaining a positive mindset are increasingly relevant today. With rising levels of stress and burnout in both personal and professional spaces, many people are searching for ways to reframe challenges as opportunities. One study showed that 75 percent of employees reported feeling overwhelmed or burned out at work, underscoring…

Clinician burnout and nursing shortages have reached critical levels, threatening the stability of healthcare systems nationwide. With projections indicating that Texas will be second in the nation for registered nurse (RN) shortages by 2030, the pressure on healthcare providers is intensifying. According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, around 100,000 registered…

Healthcare costs are skyrocketing in the U.S., placing significant pressure on both businesses and individuals. With health insurance premiums on the rise, businesses are searching for innovative solutions to manage these escalating expenses. As traditional fully-insured models become less sustainable, more employers are turning to self-funded benefits as a way to take control of…

The healthcare industry evolving, with pressure to improve patient outcomes, while simultaneously lowering the cost of care has become a pertinent issue. A 2020 survey found that U.S. healthcare spending is projected to exceed $6 trillion by 2028, highlighting the need for efficient solutions that deliver high-quality care without the hefty price tag. But…

As the health sector grapples with evolving challenges, sustainability in healthcare emerges as a critical focal point. The healthcare industry faces increasing pressure to adapt amid global conflicts, inflation, and rising environmental concerns. According to The Commonwealth Fund, healthcare contributes 8.5% of the U.S. carbon footprint. With this backdrop, healthcare organizations must explore ways…

The healthcare landscape is seeing very constant and swift changes with the integration of digital technologies — a trend that’s been accelerated by the ongoing need to enhance patient outcomes and improve access to care. The conversation around digital health is timely, as the general health industry witnesses significant advancements in telemedicine, remote patient…

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the convergence of risk management, business insurance, and employee benefits has emerged as a critical focal point for organizations aiming to foster a resilient and thriving workforce. This intersection of risk management and employee well-being addresses not just the physical assets of a company but extends to the…

As the global population ages, the demand for personalized, compassionate care for the elderly has surged, highlighting a gap in traditional healthcare services. This demographic, often facing loneliness and isolation, requires more than just medical attention; they need companionship and support to help combat elderly isolation. How can we address the growing need for…

The healthcare landscape is witnessing a pivotal shift towards enhancing patient and provider experiences in gastrointestinal (GI) care. With digestive disorders affecting a significant portion of the population, the urgency to address these challenges has never been more critical. This conversation comes at a time when the need for accessible, comprehensive care is climbing,…

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the fusion of cutting-edge technology with medical practice is reshaping patient and provider experiences. As the sector stands on the brink of significant change, spurred by the critical demand for broader access to care and better patient outcomes, the importance of technological innovation in healthcare has reached an…

As of recent times, the healthcare industry has been progressively shifting towards value-based care, a model that emphasizes patient outcomes over the quantity of services delivered. This transition represents a significant shift that promises to enhance patient experiences and outcomes while controlling healthcare costs. With a growing emphasis on this approach, especially over the…

The healthcare industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need to improve patient experiences, access, and outcomes. Amidst this shift, contract lifecycle management (CLM) is emerging as a critical tool for healthcare providers. With the increasing pressure on cost management and compliance, healthcare organizations are seeking solutions that streamline operations and enhance…

Improving healthcare is a multifaceted challenge, with the provider experience playing a pivotal role alongside patient care. In a recent episode of the “Highway to Health” podcast, host David Kemp delved into this critical issue with Stephanie Prechowski, MBA, MSN, RN, AGCNS-BC, CNOR, Chief Operating Officer at Surgeons Choice Medical Center. In this episode,…

The rapid evolution of digital healthcare, particularly in the post-COVID era, has brought unprecedented changes. With a surge in telemedicine, streamlined workflows, and enhanced data accessibility, healthcare providers are now more empowered than ever to focus on patient care over administrative tasks. The sector is witnessing a significant shift, driven by technological advancements and…

In a special edition of the Highway to Health podcast, host David Kemp steps out of the studio and onto the greens of Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas. This episode features a candid discussion on the intersection of personal loss and mental health in the workplace with Matt Brost, Vice President of Health…

At the annual gathering of dynamic perspectives at the HLTH convention in Vegas, this year there was a poignant narrative that flowed — the imperative of holistic community involvement in healthcare evolution. Echoing the timeless phrase, “it takes a village,” industry experts, such as Geoffrey M. Roche of Siemens Healthineers and host of Holistic Leadership,…

Elevating humanity was main theme at the HLTH conference in Las Vegas this past October, and advancing value-based care took the spotlight on day 2. This topic emerged as a platform for profound healthcare discussions, highlighting the significance of transitioning to value-based care, aimed at enhancing patient outcomes while curbing costs. On the Highway…

In an era where healthcare data is abundant yet challenging to manage, this episode of ‘Highway to Health’ dives into the intricacies of navigating this landscape. Host David Kemp invites Shubh Sinha, CEO & Co-founder of Integral, to shed light on the hurdles and innovations in healthcare data compliance. Integral is tackling a significant pain…

In this episode of Highway to Health hosted by David Kemp, Kemp turns the spotlight onto the promising avenue of value-based care with insights from Brook West, the Chief Commercial Officer at Carrum Health, and Christoph Dankert, the Chief Network Officer at Carrum Health. West shares a personal narrative underscoring the importance of choosing…

Navigating healthcare’s competitive landscape requires innovative solutions addressing care quality and affordability. CapExpert is a game-changer in outpatient healthcare. It enhances asset management, ensuring the best care for patients. Luke Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of CapExpert, spoke with Highway to Health’s David Kemp on how CapExpert enhances asset management, bridging visibility gaps and streamlining…

The relationship between socioeconomic backgrounds and health outcomes has been proven through years of study. Healthcare providers understand that those from lower socioeconomic brackets often face more health challenges. This is attributed to limited healthcare access, challenging living conditions, and elevated stress. How can data innovation help stakeholders solve these pressing issues? Brian…

Highway to Health host David Kemp explores the impact of consolidation in the Healthcare Space with insights from Andre Ulloa, Partner and Executive Advisor at M&A Healthcare Advisors. They discuss the challenges of market pressures and the impact of M&A activities on patient and provider communities.

Despite efforts for change, healthcare inequities persist, and financial barriers often dictate the quality of care one receives. But the lens of philanthropy provides a new hope for a leveled playing field. Philanthropic aid in healthcare goes beyond just the cost of treatment; it encompasses a vast array of programs that cover everything from…

On Highway to Health, host David Kemp sits down with Jeff Tanner, Director of Consulting at Acclara, to address provider challenges in the revenue cycle. Their conversation spotlights recurring issues, from escalating denials and challenging reimbursement rates to staffing shortages. Tanner highlights the intricacies of denials, especially the coordination of benefits denials that have…

In this episode of Highway to Health, host David Kemp sits down with Chase Feiger, M.D., CEO of Ostro, to check in on health literacy and the consumerization of healthcare. Feiger emphasizes the importance of making healthcare experiences as seamless and intuitive as using everyday apps like Uber or Instagram. He highlights that true…

In the latest episode of Highway to Health, host David Kemp looks at the concerning void in the nursing community. Joined by Lea Sims, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at CGFNS International, Inc., the conversation highlights the alarming rate at which nurses are leaving the workforce, with over 100,000 registered nurses exiting in the…

In an era when the importance of comprehensive healthcare is more apparent than ever, the attention has started shifting towards the most vulnerable communities. Amidst this, the role of foster care in providing essential care and improving health outcomes for young individuals who cannot cater to their own needs has taken center stage. According to…

Improving healthcare Insurance payers greatly influence outcomes and patient experiences and the subject has become a hot-button issue, especially as the costs of healthcare continues to escalate. In an industry that accounted for nearly 18 percent of the U.S. GDP in 2021, the insurance payers’ role in improving healthcare access, experience, and outcomes is crucial….

Sports are an important element of growing up for many children all across the world. For some kids, sports are more than a hobby, which can mean taking it very seriously and training very hard. And sometimes parents and others worry their children are working a bit too hard or are going about their training…

Challenges in healthcare don’t solve themselves, and one solution does not rectify every situation. Challenge-solving is a team sport in healthcare, and it’s an industry always on the hunt for new players. Technology in healthcare is critical to solving problems in many areas of medicine. CT imaging advancements in data harnessing are leading to better…

Transparency in healthcare is vital to help avoid or reduce the varying disparities that exist and continue to burden the overall medical field in this country. Technology in healthcare is growing and has mitigated some of these disparities, even helping close some of the gaps that have been magnified. But there is still more progress…

For over 90 years, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a center of entertainment and sportsmanship. This event continues to be a hub of notable scholarships for college students and volunteering, particularly within the medical community. From injuries sustained by the rodeo athletes to preventive care and training, healthcare is a vital part…

A show of hands: How many people were adept at taking an in-home health test before the pandemic? The answer: probably not many. The pandemic changed that, along with so many other healthcare processes. Taking a COVID test, a healthcare assessment, or even a virtual patient visit weren’t things most were used to doing at…

The healthcare industry is facing a lot of challenges, like physician burnout, the high cost of care, a lack of insurance coverage, staffing problems, and a lack of adequate interactions between patients and providers, just to name a few. With the loads of technology and applications available, many providers still use fax machines as a…

Pre-authorization is a word that is being tossed around more and more frequently in the healthcare world. Often referred to as pre-approvals, prior approvals, or prior authorizations, these are insurance-dictated restrictions on medicines, tests, or health services that require a check before insurance will officially cover the product or service. More than three quarters of…

Patients’ financial responsibility has been increasing over the years, and this trend is stepping-up healthcare costs, with no assurance it’s going to slow down in the future. According to patientengagementhit, patient financial responsibility increased by 11 percent in 2017, a rise from $1,630 in Q4 2016 to $1,813 in Q4 2017, totaling an increase of…

The common saying, “You are what you eat,” may indeed be true. Consuming unhealthy food and beverages can put you at increased risk for developing chronic health conditions, obesity, and even 13 types of cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While this may seem disheartening, new research shows that nutritional…

Staying on top of your health isn’t always easy. Time, money, and knowledge all play a big role in shaping your healthcare. Missing a follow-up appointment might not seem like a big deal, though it could be a game changer for your health or your practice and staying on top of appointments should be a…

Key Points: The administrative burden on the provider is what translates into poor patient experience. Many big tech companies going into the healthcare business are finding it challenging because they do not have a proper understanding of how it works There is a need for alignment between patient needs and what healthcare providers are offering…

Most people have likely been impacted by a family member or friend who has had heart disease, and the statistics show that it certainly carries a heavy burden on society. Cardiac disease is responsible for 40.8 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) annually as well as 36.4 million years of life lost (YLLs) due to premature…

On December 3, 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard completed the first human heart transplant. At the time, it seemed incredible—and it is—but today, we hardly bat an eye at a heart transplant because of how rapidly the healthcare and biotech fields are coming out with innovative surgeries, technologies, and therapies. What does the biotech industry look…

Dollars drive healthcare. So much so, in fact, that the US spent more than 19.7% of US GDP on healthcare spending in 2020. Healthcare costs effect everyone involved in the industry, from the payor to the clinician to the patient. To help streamline healthcare solutions, one company aims to match patients with the best…

The pandemic accelerated many industries around the world, one of which was the healthcare industry. Remote-care shot up throughout the pandemic, allowing more people to stay at home and get the care they needed. But while some clinics offer the tools necessary to continue providing accurate remote-care, improvements can still be made for diagnostic…

Do you ever think about just how much surgical procedures cost? Well, for the uninsured patient, they can be upwards of a whopping 35 thousand dollars. And for those who are insured, even paying a chunk of that change is sure to make a dent in the wallet.   Since not many individuals will pay a…

One simple pill holds a deceiving amount of work behind it. There’s the basic research, the drug discord, pre-clinical work, three phases of clinical trials, FDA review, and the post-approval research and monitoring. So, who is technically responsible for creating solutions to improve the process management in the pharmaceutical, drug, and healthcare industries and what…

Along with the buzz, there are many questions posed over the past decade about value-based care and what it means for providers, payers, and patients. How will value-based care be applied? Does it achieve value? Where do things stand today?  David Kemp, the host of Highway to Health, wanted to know more about the reality…

PTSD affects 6.1-9.2% of the adult US population (Up To Date). Additionally, an estimated 4.7% of adults will experience a panic disorder in their lifetime (NIMH). Unfortunately, both disorders have high rates of becoming chronic and require difficult treatment programs and medications with adverse side effects.   On this episode of Highway to Health, David…

In the latest episode of “Highway to Health,” host David Kemp discussed the issue of unattainable healthcare with Molecular Testing Lab’s new CEO, Eric Strafel. Kemp stated that healthcare workers have a daily goal to make a great impact in the lives of their patients, and also make significant improvements. For Strafel, he said Molecular…

Highway to Health podcast host David Kemp sat down with Terry Coutsolioutsos, an experienced Healthcare Commercial Leader to discuss his 30-plus year career in the healthcare industry selling medical devices. Coutsolioutsos has worked for companies leading healthcare innovation including Pfizer, Boston Scientific, Abbott Vascular, and Siemens Healthineers. The lively and relaxed conversation opened with a…

From the patient to the provider to the payer, healthcare is a busy operating system that everyone plays an important role in. Reflecting on his journey in healthcare and the current operating system is Nick Love, a Benefit Strategist with Brinson Benefits. Host of  Highway to Health host David Kemp sat down with Love to talk about his…

Transitioning from the grueling demands of collegiate football to nurturing a lifelong fitness journey, Luke Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of CapExpert, unveils a shift in perspective towards physical well-being. As the rigors of youthful athleticism give way to the pursuit of a pain-free golf swing and the serenity of Denver’s hiking trails, a tale of…

In the high-stakes world of deal-making, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. The pressures are immense, with unexpected twists and turns demanding constant vigilance. Yet, amidst this whirlwind, finding moments of respite becomes crucial. It not only rejuvenates the mind but also ensures better productivity. On the latest episode of Highway to Health–“The Impact…

In a bustling world, achieving work-life balance often revolves around the structures and daily routines we set for ourselves. The sanctity of a structured day, imbued with moments of family, self-reflection, and responsibility, serves as a cornerstone for many successful individuals. Such routines don’t just structure our professional commitments but deeply enrich our personal lives,…

In today’s fast-paced business world, a growing body of research suggests that the continual demands on our attention can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. But it’s not just about taking a break; it’s about the quality of the breaks we take. Just like a car that needs quality fuel to run efficiently, our brains…

In this snippet from the Highway to Health podcast, Luke Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of CapExpert, shares a vital lesson learned from leading his venture: the power of a supportive, talented team. Drawing a parallel to his quarterback days, Johnson emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who are skilled and aligned with the…

Dr. Scott Sigman, M.D., host of The Ortho Show, highlights the impending technological advancements in healthcare, emphasizing how it will enhance patient care and revolutionize surgical procedures. Dr. Sigman mentions the integration of ChatGPT in the operating room through CaliberAI, an AI company aiming to guide surgical interventions. Furthermore, Dr. Sigman shares his experience with…

Blair Bundy, the Director of Player Health for the Milwaukee Brewers, recently shared his insights on the importance of nurturing lifelong athletes from a young age. He emphasized that the ultimate goal for children participating in sports is not just about winning games but about fostering physical and mental resilience. Such individuals lessen the strain…

In the constantly changing landscape of technology and innovation, leveraging one’s resources for a purpose in healthcare beyond profit is becoming increasingly vital. Particularly in sectors like healthcare, the responsibility to contribute doesn’t merely revolve around monetary gains but is deeply rooted in purpose and influence. Harnessing the power of technology, intellectual property, and human…

In a recent episode of the Highway to Health podcast discussing health literacy and the consumerization of healthcare, Dr. Chase Feiger, M.D., and CEO at Ostro emphasized the need for simplifying healthcare. Healthcare should be as user-friendly as platforms like Netflix or Amazon. The underlying message: without good health, everything else is inconsequential.

It’s impossible to ignore the massive increases in heathcare costs in the United States. In an era where the average healthcare cost for a family of four has skyrocketed to a staggering $31,000 per year, it’s no wonder that discussions around healthcare affordability are becoming increasingly critical. With healthcare inflation now surpassing 5%, it’s…

The cannabis plant has more than 80 chemical compounds, of which the two most known are THC (marijuana) and CBD. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a hemp derivative that does not elicit abuse or dependence, and research suggests it could potentially help health conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, arthritis, and addiction, among others. How do…

Gut health awareness has been playing a pivotal role in the improvement of health as more and more people begin to prioritize the state of microbiome in their bodies. Health experts say that the gut provides an answer to someone’s health, particularly, their digestion and mood, according to Hopkins Medicine. Additionally, the body’s immune system…

In the current climate, healthcare systems are facing increased financial strain due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic. This reality, combined with the continuous pressure to reduce costs and improve efficiency, calls for innovative, solutions-oriented strategies that break away from traditional dependency models. The emerging role of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and machine…

Navigating the intricate landscape of inpatient nursing can be a daunting task, especially with the rising wage rates posing significant challenges. It is vital, now more than ever, to implement innovative solutions that not only ensure equitable staffing ratios but also enhance the overall work experience of healthcare professionals.  Implementing efficient cost cutting measures…

Healthcare brings in plenty of money via payments and funding, but due to a lack of coding solutions, not all healthcare professionals get paid for their work. Even if a physician goes get paid, it can take some time, or some of the work they have done gets lost in the cracks, along with…

Highway to Health’s David Kemp attended HFMA 2023 in Nashville and got some interesting insights on up-leveling the consumer experience in healthcare. Seth Cohen, President of Cedar, and Jeremy Church, CFO at Keck Medicine of USC, took a moment to sit down and discuss the importance of enhancing the patient experience through digital engagement strategies….

Virtual nursing is a fairly new concept but it’s likely to be crucial in the future healthcare solutions. Due to a lot of data-driven decision-making in various fields, healthcare is no exception, with organizations increasingly leveraging data to streamline processes, improve financial health, and enhance patient care. As the sector grapples with challenges like…

With an evolving healthcare landscape, organizations face increasing pressure on their profit margins, stemming from rising labor and supply costs, declining reimbursements, and the intricate dynamics of healthcare billing. Striking a balance amid these challenges requires innovative strategies and tools to measure, motivate, and retain the highest performers – the human capital that ultimately…