The ACO Show

168. The ACO Flex Model Explained

 In this episode, Sean Cavanaugh and Dr. Josh Israel sat down with Travis Broome, Aledade’s SVP of Policy and Economics, to understand CMS’ new ACO Flex Model. Whether you're a healthcare professional or simply interested in the future of healthcare policy, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the ACO Flex Model's potential to transform care delivery. Travis explains how this new model can drive innovation in healthcare by addressing cash flow challenges and offering upfront payments. We discuss the potential benefits for primary care practices, the importance of integrating care management services, and the broader impact on Medicare's goals. 

 

Submit your questions, comments, or episode ideas to acoshow@aledade.com

167. Navigating Medicare Advantage

From understanding the fundamentals to exploring new innovations and challenges, join us as Dr. Efrem Castillo, Senior Vice President for Medicare Advantage at Aledade, shares his experience with Medicare Advantage. Dr. Castillo explains the nuances for both patients and providers, including benefits beyond traditional Medicare, network limitations, utilization management, and the STARS program. Dr. Castillo also explores the recent growth in MA and new innovations, while emphasizing that interventions should prioritize improved patient outcomes.

 

Submit your questions, comments, or episode ideas to acoshow@aledade.com

166. Treating Obesity: New Medications, Old Challenges

From navigating insurance barriers to addressing the stigma, this episode dives into timeless issues surrounding obesity treatment, as well as the promise and challenges of new medications like Ozempic. Josh and Sean are joined by Dr. Darrin Menard, a family practice physician in Scott, Louisiana, who shares insights from his personal experience with weight loss alongside his professional expertise. While new drugs offer significant weight loss potential, Dr. Menard underscores the crucial role of behavioral changes, long-term adherence, and nonjudgemental patient care in achieving lasting results.

 

Submit your questions, comments, or episode ideas to acoshow@aledade.com

165. State Health Policy: Prior Authorization and Arkansas’ Gold Card Bill

Dr. Lonnie Robinson from Regional Family Medicine in Mountain Home, Arkansas explains the challenges surrounding prior authorization faced by both practices and insurance providers, and how this inspired him to become involved in state health policy advocacy. Hear how Dr. Robinson, drawing inspiration from Texas’ “gold card” approach, worked with Aledade’s policy committee and state legislators to pass similar legislation in Arkansas to reduce administrative workloads.

 

Submit your questions, comments, or episode ideas to acoshow@aledade.com

164. CMS's Medicare Strategy Unpacked

Join our hosts along with Dr. Farzad Mostashari on this episode as they dive into CMS's update on the Medicare value-based care strategy. From discussing alignment and growth to equity in healthcare, they provide insights and suggestions for the future of accountable care.

Read the update here: Update On The Medicare Value-Based Care Strategy: Alignment, Growth, Equity

 

Submit your questions, comments, or episode ideas to acoshow@aledade.com

163. Navigating the Health-Tech Nexus: Insights from Aledade’s Leaders

Explore the dynamic landscape of healthcare and technology with hosts Josh and Sean on the ACO Show. Guests Rosemary Weldon and Ritwik Tewari, from Aledade, share their expertise as they discuss the challenges and innovations shaping the industry, including the advancements in technology that help improve patient care.

162. CHC Spotlight: Community Health Center, Inc. in Middletown, Connecticut

Join us for a story tracing the origins and evolution of Community Health Center, Inc. Mark Masselli, president and CEO of Community Health Center, Inc. in Middletown, CT, alongside Charles Barber, Writer-in-Residence at Wesleyan University, guide listeners through the enthralling narrative depicted in  Barber's book, "Peace & Health." Explore the beginnings of the Health Center amidst the backdrop of social upheaval, legislative reforms, and grassroots advocacy, illuminating the transformative power of community-driven health care initiatives. Uncover the pivotal moments and visionary leadership that propelled the center from modest beginnings to a beacon of excellence in health care provision. And learn about the recent partnership with Aledade, exemplifying a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and equitable care delivery.

To learn more about the story behind Community Health Center, Inc. and Barber's book "Peace & Health," visit peaceandhealth.com.

161. Transforming Healthcare: Aaron McKethan's Journey from Policy to Entrepreneurship

Dive into Aaron McKethan's journey from policy nerd to healthcare innovator at Aledade Plus, improving patient care and reducing costs.

160. Navigating Impacts from the Change Healthcare Cyber Attack

Explore the impact and solutions of the Change healthcare cyber crisis with expert analysis and firsthand accounts.

159. Enhancing Patient Care: Community Health Centers and Value-Based Contracts

Dive into the world of community health centers and value-based care with Tracy Causey, CEO of Capital Area Health Network in Virginia and Kevin Van Dyke, executive director of Aledade in Virginia. Hear their experience navigating multiple value-based contracts and integrating behavioral health services with primary care. Learn how more accessible patient health data and dynamic support has helped improve preventive care.