What does it really take to lead in healthcare policy and data innovation as a woman, and how do we navigate the power, pitfalls, and politics that come with it?

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Kat McDavitt, President of Insenna, and Lisa Bari, former CEO of Civitas Networks for Health, reflected on their personal experiences as young women in executive roles, highlighting gender-based challenges in the workplace. Kat described her transition from a female-dominated PR consultancy to a more male-centric corporate environment, where she had to adapt her communication style to be heard and recognized. She noted subtle biases, such as having her ideas repeated by men who then received credit, and observed how motherhood often placed an added burden on women’s careers. Lisa, who does not have children, shared how she witnessed the “maternity tax” affect her peers and emphasized the disproportionate negative feedback that women in leadership still receive compared to men, regardless of qualifications or performance.

Shifting focus, Lisa discussed her work at Civitas, a nonprofit that supports its members, primarily public health and healthcare data organizations, in navigating policy, advocacy, and data-sharing frameworks. She stressed the importance of clear messaging, coalition-building, and adaptability, especially during times of policy change. One example she gave was California’s complex and siloed efforts to connect social care and clinical data through Medicaid reforms, where her team works to guide stakeholders toward more integrated solutions that serve patients better.

Kat elaborated on data value and governance, pointing out that while many organizations recognize the financial potential of healthcare data, few understand the broader ecosystem of data use rights and legal limitations. She cautioned against unethical data acquisition practices and warned of the growing commoditization of health data. Both Lisa and Kat highlighted the importance of lawful and transparent data use, noting common misunderstandings about patient ownership of data in the U.S. and advocating for stronger governance and clearer contract negotiations to ensure responsible and equitable data practices.

Tune in for candid reflections on gender dynamics in leadership, the complexities of healthcare data governance, and the evolving role of policy in shaping equitable health systems!

Is FHIR the key to seamless healthcare interoperability? Let’s discuss its impact on AI, security, and patient care.

In this episode, Dr. Ambreén Zaman-Riaz, a physician, healthcare innovator, and leadership expert, as well as the co-founder of Uppshot Lifesciences and host of the Leadership in Medicine Podcast, and our host, Christopher Kunney, a distinguished healthcare technology strategist, serving as Managing Partner and Digital Transformation Strategist at IOTECH Consulting and host of the Straight Out of Health IT podcast, the evolving role of interoperability in healthcare, particularly the shift from HL7 to FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources). Christopher highlights how FHIR’s open standards, API-based structure, and cloud compatibility improve data sharing, patient access, and integration with emerging technologies like AI and machine learning.

Dr. Zaman-Riaz asks about FHIR’s impact, its role in AI evolution, and its future in patient-centric care. Christopher emphasizes that FHIR enables real-time data aggregation, predictive analytics, personalized medicine, and improved clinical decision support. He predicts AI-driven "digital doctors" and virtual care platforms will rely on FHIR for seamless, cost-effective healthcare delivery, especially in remote areas.

They also discuss security concerns, with Christopher stressing the importance of encryption, blockchain, and secure APIs to protect patient data. Blockchain, in particular, is seen as a promising tool for data integrity, fraud prevention, and secure information exchange. Dr. Zaman-Riaz notes that her work involves integrating blockchain for oncology data management and patient-controlled records.

Join Christopher Kunney and Dr. Ambreén Zaman-Riaz as they dive into the transformative impact of FHIR, the role of AI in healthcare, and the future of secure, patient-centric data sharing!

As our global population ages at an unprecedented rate, the question isn’t just how we care for older adults; it’s how technology can help them live independently and with dignity.

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Dr. Alex Mihailidis, Vice-Chair of Research at the AGE-WELL Board of Directors, discusses the global challenge of an aging population and the role of technology in addressing healthcare and daily living needs. Dr. Mihailidis highlights key issues such as rising healthcare costs, a shortage of caregivers, and the desire for older adults to age in place. He emphasizes the growing field of "age tech," including smart home systems, robotics, and AI-driven predictive tools that enhance independent living.

AGE-WELL, Canada's Technology and Aging Network, has played a crucial role in fostering collaboration between researchers, industry, and policymakers, ensuring that innovations in aging technology are both practical and impactful. Through initiatives like envisAGE, AGE-WELL helps move promising technologies toward commercialization.

Looking ahead, Dr. Mihailidis sees AI and predictive analytics as game changers in aging care, shifting from detection to prevention of health issues. He stresses that age tech is no longer science fiction but requires interdisciplinary collaboration beyond just STEM fields to shape policies, ensure accessibility, and drive real-world adoption.

Tune in as Dr. Alex Mihailidis shares how smart tech and AI are revolutionizing aging, making independent living safer and easier for all!

Access to quality healthcare shouldn't depend on your zip code, yet for many underserved communities, barriers remain.

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Christopher Kunney interviewed Christopher Cruttenden, CEO of Safety Net Connect (SNC), a company providing digital healthcare tools like eConsult to improve access to specialty care for underserved populations. SNC connects medical, behavioral, and social service providers to enhance equitable healthcare access. Cruttenden highlighted major challenges in providing equitable care, including medical and food deserts, time constraints for working families, and long wait times. He emphasized the burden on patients, especially those with chronic illnesses and other socioeconomic challenges.

Regarding technology's role, Cruttenden advocated for collaborative, patient-centered solutions integrated into healthcare workflows. He noted the importance of AI in supporting physicians, particularly through AI-assisted dictation, coding support, and quality assurance to enhance efficiency. By improving access to care, reducing ER visits, and enabling timely interventions through tools like eConsult, the cascading effect leads to better patient outcomes and system-wide savings. Cruttenden also discussed the concept of Return on Value (ROV) over traditional ROI in public health.

eConsult operates in regions like LA County, Colorado, and through partnerships with other providers. It facilitates remote consultations, allowing specialists to provide timely input, reducing wait times and preventing unnecessary specialist visits. Cruttenden expressed excitement about expanding the model to address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) issues, such as smoking cessation and food insecurity. His advice for public health organizations is to embrace technology thoughtfully, focusing on its ability to improve access and patient outcomes rather than just its capabilities.

Tune in to explore how innovative digital tools are transforming healthcare access and improving outcomes for those who need it most!

In a world where technology has the power to transform healthcare, the digital divide continues to leave millions behind, how can we bridge the gap to ensure equitable access for all?

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Dr. Patty Mechael, co-founder and CEO of health.enabled, explores the digital divide in healthcare, emphasizing the challenges posed by digital determinants of health. Dr. Mechael highlights key barriers such as inadequate connectivity, limited access to devices, and significant disparities, particularly for women in low- and middle-income countries. Many digital health solutions are designed without considering diverse populations, often reflecting the perspectives of high-income countries. To bridge these gaps, a more inclusive approach is needed, one that integrates ethnographic research to ensure technology is accessible, usable, and meaningful for all individuals.

Addressing these challenges requires a proactive, equity-focused strategy that goes beyond technology alone. Dr. Mechael advocates for hybrid models that combine digital solutions with community-based interventions to ensure those without digital access are not left behind. She also stresses the critical role of policymakers in driving digital transformation, noting that strong political leadership has been essential in countries that have successfully implemented digital health initiatives. By prioritizing digital health alongside broader social determinants, policymakers can create a more inclusive health ecosystem that enables equitable access to care.

health.enabled plays a pivotal role in advancing digital health globally by supporting governments and organizations in strategy development and digital health monitoring. Initiatives like the Global Digital Health Monitor help countries assess and improve their digital health maturity. Dr. Mechael remains optimistic that, with intentional, equity-driven efforts, digital health can significantly enhance healthcare access and outcomes. However, she acknowledges that meaningful change takes time and requires a sustained commitment to addressing systemic inequities.

Tune in as Dr. Patty Mechael explores digital health’s challenges, solutions, and impact on global healthcare equity!

Price transparency in healthcare is essential for providing patients with clear, upfront costs of medical services, empowering them to make informed financial decisions.

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Dr. Jonathan Kaplan, founder and CEO of BuildMyHealth, explains how their new platform DrWell addresses this challenge by offering real-time cash-pay price transparency, connecting patients directly with providers to ensure both affordability and continuity of care. Historically, healthcare pricing has become complex due to advancements in technology, third-party insurance involvement, and evolving payment models. Therefore, patients often face hidden costs, such as copays and deductibles, leading to unexpected financial burdens.

In this conversation, Dr. Kaplan highlights that cash-pay options can often be more cost-effective than relying on insurance, especially for non-emergency services like outpatient procedures and medications. Increased price transparency drives competition among providers, ultimately reducing costs for patients while encouraging them to explore cash-pay options. For providers, adopting transparent pricing models and embracing cash-pay services can ensure financial sustainability and independence, particularly as insurance reimbursements continue to decline.

Dr. Kaplan believes that moving forward, the healthcare system is expected to shift toward a market-driven model where insurance primarily covers catastrophic events, while patients pay out of pocket for more routine services. Consumers are advised to check prices ahead of time, explore cash-pay rates, and avoid defaulting to insurance when it isn’t cost-effective. Providers are encouraged to treat patients transparently, offering clear cost estimates and embracing models prioritizing affordability, trust, and improved care outcomes.

Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on how price transparency in healthcare can save you money, empower your choices, and transform the way you approach medical care!

Imagine a healthcare solution that not only motivates patients to take charge of their health but also tackles the toughest challenges faced by our most vulnerable communities.

In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Matthew Swanson, co-founder and CEO of Reciprocity Health, Incorporated, shares insights into how his company is transforming healthcare by combining behavioral health economics and digital tools. Founded in 2020, Reciprocity Health focuses on improving patient activation in Medicaid and Medicare, particularly among vulnerable populations. Their flagship platform, TheraPay, uses financial incentives integrated with digital tools to enhance patient adherence to medical programs. This innovative approach addresses systemic barriers to care, drawing on Swanson's prior experience in education and systemic reform.

Reciprocity Health’s managed service model was inspired by a CMS study highlighting the effectiveness of financial incentives in chronic care but also the challenges in implementation. The platform simplifies complex administrative processes and assigns rewards to each step of a patient's care journey, such as completing screenings or surveys. By partnering with trusted community organizations, Reciprocity extends its reach into underserved populations, fostering trust and deeper engagement. This model has empowered families to earn meaningful financial rewards while improving their healthcare adherence and outcomes.

The company operates as a for-profit enterprise, sustained through client-funded programs with ROI analyses that demonstrate the cost savings of preventive care. At HLTH 2024, Reciprocity Health sought partnerships with health systems, payers, and care providers to accelerate the adoption of value-based care initiatives. Matt emphasizes that Reciprocity acts as a "rising tide," benefiting all stakeholders by reducing costs, improving care delivery, and putting money in patients’ pockets. By aligning interests across the healthcare ecosystem, Reciprocity Health is driving meaningful and sustainable change.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Matthew Swanson to discover how his innovative approach to financial incentives and behavioral health is transforming lives and redefining patient engagement in Medicaid and Medicare!

Addressing the complex challenges within Medicaid and Medicare requires a holistic approach focused on data-driven solutions, workforce diversity, and an integrated system of care that prioritizes individual needs and promotes health equity.

In this episode, Ashley Gray, Vice President at Sirona Strategies, discusses the future of Medicaid, Medicare, and other government healthcare programs. She explores the sustainability of Medicaid, given rising healthcare costs and an aging population, emphasizing the need for increased support for home and community-based services.

Ashley talks about the complexities faced by dual eligibles and advocates for value-based payment models and managed care that are designed to provide more coordinated care. She explains the critical role of public health initiatives and interoperable health IT systems and the importance of having a diverse workforce that builds trust with the populations being served.

Finally, Ashley further emphasizes the need for data-driven policy changes, gathering more robust social determinants data to inform appropriate solutions, and highlights the urgent need to move beyond siloed programs.

Join us to learn how value-based payment models will help incentivize the delivery of quality care rather than quantity of care and to understand the future of government healthcare programs!