288: Health policy update: VBC, site-neutral payments, and 340B

After a turbulent 2025, the early months of 2026 are proving that the policy landscape isn’t quieting down. Federal agencies are rolling out new payment models, lawmakers are revisiting long debated rules, and courts continue to shape what policies move forward and which stall. From value based payment to drug pricing and site of care policy, leaders are navigating a fast shifting environment with real implications for finances, operations, and long term strategy.

In this episode, host Abby Burns invites three Advisory Board experts to break down the major policy forces that leaders need to watch now:

• [1:35] Clare Wirth explains the newest wave of value based payment models out of CMMI, and what they signal about this administration’s posture toward value-based care.
• [10:20] Nick Hula explores how site neutral payments, the return of inpatient only list changes, and state level certificate of need laws could accelerate site of care shifts.
• [20:51] Chloe Bakst unpacks the chaos surrounding 340B — from the halted rebate pilot to impacts of HR1 and emerging state reporting requirements — and the decisions leaders must make today to prepare for what’s coming next.

We’re here to help:

• Webinar | How to be successful under TEAM
• Cheat sheet | 340B Drug Pricing Program
• Ready-to-Use Resource | Policy Scenario Impact Calculator
• Expert Insight | How policy changes will impact your bottom line
• Expert Insight | Inside CMS' final rule changes for 2026
• Stay Informed | Healthcare Policy Updates Timeline

Radio Advisory’s Health Policy playlist

Webinar | Join Optum Advisory experts at this upcoming webinar to learn how optimizing patient access unlocks the value of digital innovations and drives long-term sustainability

A transcript of this episode as well as more information and resources can be found on RadioAdvisory.advisory.com.