Turn on the Lights Podcast

Despite legislative efforts, the American health care system continues to grapple with persistent challenges.In this episode, Leslie Dach discusses the intricate challenges and notable progress within America's health care landscape, highlighting persistent issues such as exorbitant costs and inadequate coverage. Drawing from his tenure at Walmart, he sheds light on the complexities faced by large employers in navigating the health care marketplace and reflects on the transformative impact of the Affordable Care Act, noting both persistent opposition and bipartisan support for reform initiatives.Tune in and gain valuable insights into the intricacies of health care reform and discover how you can contribute to building a healthier future for all Americans! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can health care organizations align their values to support both high-quality patient care and the well-being of their staff?In this episode, Dr. J. Corey Feist, Dr. Wendy Dean, and Dr. Eileen Barrett bring personal stories and professional insights on the rise of moral injury, systemic challenges, and legislative efforts to make meaningful changes. Together, they explore the importance of legislative action like the Lorna Breen Act, the need for destigmatizing mental health care, and the crucial role of leadership in shaping a healthier, more supportive environment for health care professionals. Join this episode to unpack these urgent issues and seek pathways toward healing and resilience for those who care for us all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can health care providers ensure that patient priorities like symptom management and emotional support are consistently addressed through a patient-centered approach in daily practice?In this episode, Susan Edgman-Levitan unravels the intricacies of what truly matters to patientsunravels the intricacies of what truly matters to patients: their individual needs, concerns, and experiences within the health care system. She shares personal struggles with rheumatoid arthritis and a transformative encounter with a doctor prioritizing her life goals, leading to today's focus: shifting clinical attention to "What matters to you?", illustrating how this shift enhances patient satisfaction, impacts clinical outcomes, and addresses clinician burnout rates.Tune in for an insightful exploration of how shining a light on patient-centered care might just be the beacon of change that healthcare needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The democratization of AI technologies has the potential to revolutionize health care on a global scale, leveling the playing field and ensuring more equitable access to advanced medical care.In this episode, Dr. John Halamka, president of Mayo Clinic Platform, highlights the challenges of managing vast patient data, the inefficiencies within health care systems, and emphasizes the pivotal role of AI in addressing biases, promoting transparency, and augmenting clinical decision-making without replacing human expertise. He underscores transparency in AI utilization, advocates for initiatives like mattress labeling to build trust, and champions global access to AI technologies in healthcare to enhance patient outcomes.Tune in and learn how Mayo Clinic is striving to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize health care globally! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A deep connection with patients is crucial, even in brief encounters, and it is possible by listening and empathizing.In this episode, Meg Gaines shares not only her harrowing journey through metastatic ovarian cancer but also her transformation into a forceful advocate for patient rights. She also touches on behind-the-scenes of her own battles, from medical errors and insensitive remarks to her courageous steps toward unconventional treatments.Dive into the profound intersections of hope, healing, and advocacy for a reformed healthcare system! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The US is the only country in the world that doesn't negotiate drug prices.In this episode, Aaron Kesselheim delves into the complexities of America's pharmaceutical landscape, where prescription drug spending is causing challenges for millions who can't afford their medications. Shortages in critical drugs like ADHD medications and saline solutions, exacerbated by a supply chain heavily reliant on imports, leave the U.S. vulnerable during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, Aaron explains, emphasizing the role of for-profit companies in exacerbating shortages and advocating for the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices.Tune in and learn how you can advocate for better access to affordable medications and a more resilient healthcare system! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In sports and pandemics alike, having a clear "play" is crucial. In this episode, Dr. Ahmed Al Mohammed and Brendon Morris take a deep dive into the convergence of emergency preparedness and health care evolution through the lens of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. In their discussion, they explore how the FIFA World Cup and the "Gold, Silver, and Bronze" approach of the National Healthcare Incident Command Centre exemplify effective emergency management and health care evolution, uncovering lessons in anticipatory strategy and sustainable changes for day-to-day health care operations.Tune in on this enlightening journey of discovery on a moment in history where the stakes were high, and the outcome was a testament to human ingenuity and the indomitable spirit of collaboration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Supporting maternal health is vital for promoting social justice in the health care system.In this episode, Neel Shah discusses the neglect of women's and family health in the US health care system and highlights the high cost of childbirth in America and the financial distress it causes for many families. He emphasizes the importance of understanding health care costs for ensuring equitable access to quality care and touches on his venture, March for Moms, an advocacy organization that supports maternal health and promotes inclusivity in health care.Tune in and learn how you can support maternal health and advocate for a more inclusive health care system! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Private equity's acquisition of health care facilities prioritizes profits over patient care, raising concerns about health care standards.In this episode, Rosemary Batt, the Alice Hanson Cook Professor of Women and Work at Cornell University's ILR School, delves into the concerning influence of private equity in the health care sector, particularly its impact on patient care, worker conditions, and financial stability. She discusses how private equity firms, driven by profit motives, are acquiring health care facilities, leading to potential risks such as increased health care costs and poorer patient outcomes. Tune in and learn how we can work towards better protecting patient care, health care sustainability, and worker rights in the face of private equity's growing influence! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tailored patient engagement isn't merely about courtesy; it's a strategic necessity for fostering trust and enhancing health care results.In this episode, Rich Baron, President and CEO of the American Board of Internal Medicine, discusses the critical role of personalized care, patient-doctor interactions, and the challenges health care systems face in implementing practices conducive to building trust. He also shares his insights on the importance of recognizing each individual at a personal level, which can be as simple as correctly pronouncing a patient's name or keeping up with their significant life events.With engaging discussion on professional education, medical debt, and the intentional efforts to discredit medical expertise, this is an episode that you won't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices