Shows
Rural Health TodayAugust 25, 2025 News Update: $491 Billion Cut to Medicare, Overwhelmed ERs & the MCRH's Rural Health Equity PlanRural Health News is a weekly segment of Rural Health Today, a podcast by Hillsdale Hospital.
News sources for this episode:
Phillip L. Swagel, Director, “CBO’s Estimate of the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Effects of Public Law 119-21,” August 15, 2025, https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2025-08/61659-SPAYGO.pdf, Congressional Budget Office.
Bill Heniff Jr., “Budget Enforcement Procedures: The Senate Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) Rule,” January 9, 2023, https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/RL31943, Congress.gov.
Madeline Ashley, “CBO report warns of nearly $500B in potential Medicare cuts,” August 18, 2025, https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/finance/cbo-report-war...
2025-08-2507 min
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHospital 340B eligibility may hinge on Medicaid redeterminationsModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik, Finance Reporter Caroline Hudson and Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper talk about how shifts in Medicaid enrollment are impacting health systems and insurers. Related story links: -Health systems nervous as Medicaid redeterminations threaten shaky bottom lines -A state-by-state look at the impact of Medicaid determinations Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Caroline Hudson (@ce_hudson_MH) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2023-06-2913 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineSilicon Valley Bank bust damages digital health startupsModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik, Digital Health Reporter Brock E.W. Turner and Deputy Editor of Digital Health Business & Technology Gabriel Perna talk about how the Silicon Valley Bank failure impacted the digital health sector. Related story links: -Digital health could get a reset following Silicon Valley Bank failure -Digital health picks itself back up after Silicon Valley Bank collapse Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Brock Turner (@BrockEWTurner) -Gabriel Per...
2023-03-2715 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHealth inequity plagues communities throughout the U.S.Modern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Health Disparities Reporter Kara Hartnett talk about how health inequity impacts communities throughout the country. Related story links: -How health inequity maps out across America -Access to transportation fuels disparities in rural Louisiana -Tribal lands in Arizona struggle with staffing shortage -Creating access for unhoused people in the Bronx Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Kara Hartnett (@karahartnett) Music Credit: Coffe...
2023-03-1014 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineRegulators look to kickstart ACOsModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Rules and Regulations Reporter Maya Goldman talk about the overhaul of accountable care organization payments. Related story links: -Provider groups ask CMS to ditch ACO revenue distinctions Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Maya Goldman (@mayagoldman_) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-09-2014 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHealthcare quandary: How the medical sterilization process saves some and sickens othersModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Health Equity Reporter Kara Hartnett talk about the environmental and healthcare impacts of ethylene oxide, which is used to sterilize many medical devices and supplies. Related story links: -Medical device sterilization emissions spark safety concerns Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Kara Hartnett (@karahartnett) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-09-1717 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineVenture capital firms lure health system CEOsModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Deputy Editor of Digital Health Business & Technology Gabe Perna talk about why more health system CEOs are joining venture capital firms. Related story links: -Intermountain CEO Dr. Marc Harrison leaving for General Catalyst Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Gabriel Perna (@GabrielSPerna) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-08-1715 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineRural emergency hospital pay will be too low, experts sayModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Rules and Regulations Reporter Maya Goldman talk about how rural emergency hospitals will get paid. Related story links: -Hospital outpatient providers could see $6.2 billion pay bump in 2023 -Rural hospitals struggle to maintain obstetrics services Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Maya Goldman (@mayagoldman_) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-07-2711 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 13: Omaha, Nebraska (w/Eric Crouch)Sitting directly in the middle of the U.S., Omaha is often overlooked in the discussion of great sports cities, but the growing success of the College World Series is beginning to change that. We are joined by 2001 Heisman Trophy Winner and 2020 College Football Hall of Fame inductee, former Nebraska quarterback Eric Crouch, to discuss why his hometown has some of the most passionate sports fans anywhere. Learn more about Eric's work with the Elkhorn Athletic Association at www.elkhornathletics.org, and about his company Crouch Recreation at www.crouchrec.com.Follow Eric on Twitter at...
2022-07-2150 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 12: Toronto, ON (w/Shireen Ahmed)With a metro population of nearly 6 million people, Toronto is the largest city in Canada. It is also home to some of the most successful sports franchises in Canadian history. Award-winning activist and multi-platform journalist, Shireen Ahmed, joins us to talk about why she thinks Toronto is the greatest sports town on Earth, and how they could be doing so much more. Follow Shireen on Twitter at @_shireenahmed_ or on Instagram at @footybedsheets. You can visit her website at www.shireenahmed.com and listen to her Burn it all Down Podcast anywhere you get your podcasts or by...
2022-07-051h 14Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineRoe v. Wade ruling compromises patient safetyModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Safety and Quality Reporter Mari Devereaux overview states' reactions to the abortion law upheaval and how care will be impacted. Related story links: -Overturned abortion law jeopardizes doctors -Supreme Court abortion ruling has big ramifications for providers Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Mari Devereaux (@maridevereaux) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-06-2912 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 11: Philadelphia, PA (w/Mike Sielski)When people think of Philadelphia, they often think of Benjamin Franklin, the Declaration of Independence, Rocky, or even cheesesteaks. But if you ask a person from Philadelphia what they think of, they are more likely to mention the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers or 76ers. We speak with 2015 APSE National Sports Columnist of the Year, Mike Sielski, of the Philadelphia Inquirer about the obsession with sports in his hometown, and why a chip is eternally placed firmly on their shoulder. Follow Mike on Twitter at @MikeSielski and find his work at the Philadelphia Inquirer. You can purchase his critically acclaimed...
2022-06-161h 18Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineBehavioral health startups draw record level of investmentModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Deputy Editor of Digital Health Business & Technology Gabe Perna talk about the wave of digital health funding aimed at behavioral health and whether startups can scale safely. Related story links: -Health systems' innovation funds eye behavioral health -In the digital health gold rush, can investors hold their portfolio companies accountable? Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Gabriel Perna (@GabrielSPerna) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-06-0917 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthPortland, OR (w/Mike Barrett)(Originally released November 9, 2021) When you first think of Portland, you may think of it's thriving art scene, numerous breweries, coffee shops, and bookstores, but it is also home to one of the more loyal fanbases in all of professional sports. We speak with the legendary Mike Barrett, formerly the television broadcaster for the Portland Trail Blazers and now the Managing Director of the Portland Diamond Project, about the extensive history of sports in Northwest Oregon.Follow us on Twitter or Instagram @SportsTownsPodFollow Mike Barrett on Twitter at @BlazerMBFollow Portland Diamond Project at @PDXDiamondProj
2022-05-311h 10Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineRoe v. Wade upheaval poses legal and ethical dilemmasModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Rules and Regulations Reporter Maya Goldman talk about the confusing patchwork of state laws that would follow a Roe v. Wade upheaval. Related story links: -Supreme Court abortion draft creates tangle of issues for big hospital systems Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Maya Goldman (@mayagoldman_) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-05-1811 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 10: London, UK (w/Ed Malyon)London is one of the largest cities, economies, and cultural centers in the world. When you mix this with a history that stretches back to the first century, it should be no surprise that it has also become an international epicenter for sport. Ed Malyon, renowned sports journalist and Managing Director of The Athletic UK, joins us to talk about his hometown and its abundance of rapid sports fans.Follow Ed Malyon on Twitter at @eaamalyon and read his work at The Athletic UK (theathletic.com/uk). Follow us on Twitter or Instagram @SportsTownsPodQuestions...
2022-05-171h 18
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 9: New Orleans, LA (w/Fletcher Mackel)New Orleans has become known as a cultural hub full of great food, better music, and a vibrant nightlife, but it is also a regular host of some of the biggest sporting events in the world thanks to the Caesars Superdome. Local sports anchor and New Orleans native, Fletcher Mackel, of WDSU-TV joins us to talk about the rise of the Saints, what the Superdome means to the Big Easy, and how sports helped bring a city together after the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. Follow Fletcher Mackel on Twitter @FletcherWDSU or on Instagram @FletcherMackel. You can watch him...
2022-05-031h 10Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineKetamine and psilocybin present new pathways for mental healthcareModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Safety and Quality Reporter Lisa Gillespie talk about the regulation, or lack thereof, of ketamine clinics. Related story links: -Ketamine safety concerns about as private clinics proliferate Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Lisa Gillespie (@LVGillespie) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-04-1916 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 8: Seoul, South Korea (w/Jeeho Yoo)With a metropolitan population of over 26 million residents, it's no surprise that Seoul has produced world-class athletes in a variety of competitions, but over the last several decades, it has established itself as a powerhouse sports city on an international level. Jeeho Yoo of Seoul's Yonhap News Agency, and frequent contributor to the KBO broadcasts on ESPN, joins us to discuss the rapid rise of baseball talent, how the South Korean National Football Team unites a country, and some of the dominant athletes making their way to the international scene. Follow Jeeho Yoo on Twitter @Jeeho_1 and find...
2022-04-191h 16
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 7: Butte, Montana (w/Coach Bob Green)Butte, Montana's reputation is largely centered around its past as a mining town, but "The Richest Hill on Earth" is also filled with a robust sports history. Retired Montana Tech head football coach, Bob Green (aka The Funniest Coach in College Football) joins us to talk about a historic high school rivalry, a passionate college fanbase, and an impressive string of coaches to come through town. He also shares about his path from the Marines, to coaching in the NAIA Football Championship, to going viral for interviews 10 years after retirement. Follow Bob Green on Twitter at @CoachBobGreen and...
2022-04-0559 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHealth equity is a cornerstone of new rural payment modelsModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Rules and Regulations Reporter Maya Goldman talk about the potential of new payment models for rural providers. Related story links: -New rural hospital model could preserve communities, jobs -CMS ends ACO track in rural pay transformation model Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Maya Goldman (@mayagoldman_) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-03-3012 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 6: Buffalo, NY (w/Lyndsey D'Arcangelo)Buffalo, New York teams have seen a number of successes, but have had an even larger number of heartbreaks. Despite that, their fans support these franchises in droves and have built a reputation of being one of the most passionate fanbases in America. Buffalo native, Lyndsey D'Arcangelo, author and writer for The Athletic and Just Women's Sports, joins us to share how Buffalo sports leads to family bonding, and how gamedays are just like holidays in this rust belt city. Check out Lyndsey's latest book with Britni de la Cretaz, Hail Mary: The Rise and Fall of the...
2022-03-2257 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineProviders accuse staffing agencies of price gougingModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Politics Reporter Jessie Hellmann talk about state legislation that aims to cap the rates staffing agencies can charge providers. Related story links: -Nursing homes lead push in state legislatures to regulate staffing agencies Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessie Hellmann (@jessiehellmann) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo Editing: Dynasty Podcasts
2022-03-1612 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHospitals facility fees spur ethical debateModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Senior Finance Reporter Tara Bannow talk about whether hospitals should notify patients about facility fees and if hospital-at-home patients be charged a facility fee. Related story links: -Patients say hospitals should disclose emergency department facility fees -Hospital-at-home programs hinge on reimbursement Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo Editing: Dynasty Podcasts
2022-03-0219 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthSuper Bowl Special: The Impact of the Big GameIt is nearly a guarantee that the most watched television event in the United States in any given year is going to be the Super Bowl. Aside from determining an NFL champion, this has a pretty significant impact on the cities who host it and the companies who broadcast it. Billy and Alex discuss in this bonus episode of The Greatest Sports Towns on Earth! Follow us on Twitter or Instagram @SportsTownsPodQuestions, comments, recommendations? Email us at GreatestSportsTowns@gmail.com!Hosts: Billy Puckett and Alex KacikProducer: Tim Corpus (timcorpus.net)
2022-02-1123 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineUnitedHealth Group COVID-19 vaccine reimbursement policy draws congressional investigationModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper discuss Nona's reporting on UnitedHealth Group shortchanging providers on COVID-19 vaccine reimbursements, which spurred a federal investigation. Related story links: -UnitedHealth pays providers below standard rates for COVID-19 vaccines Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-02-0915 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineMedicare Advantage companies' lofty valuations draw skepticismModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik, Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper and Senior Finance Reporter Tara Bannow discuss the investment and valuation surrounding the $350 billion Medicare Advantage market. Related story links: -Medicare Advantage market shows signs of valuation bubble ready to burst Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-01-2613 min
Profesjonalne Studio NBA - Keepthebeat & MVBProfesjonalne Studio NBA #107 - BANDYTÓW W NBA SIĘ NIE CHWALIDzisiejszy program będzie słodko-gorzki. Z jednej strony będą zachwyty nad występami z zeszłego tygodnia (Jokić, Embiid, Tatum, Booker, Doncić... grubo!). Z drugiej słowa pogardy wobec bandytyzmu w NBA (Grayson Allen vs Alex Caruso). Oprócz tego pogadamy o potencjalnej wymianie i całym tym negatywnym klimacie wokół Russella Westbrooka, będzie też kącik (nie)szkalowania Rudy'ego Goberta, słowa o MVP-formie Joela Embiida i tradycyjnie - newsy i ploteczki prosto z NBA wraz z naszymi opiniami.
2022-01-252h 16
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineNew COVID-19 guidance tests hospitals' infection control protocolModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Post-acute and Staffing Reporter Ginger Christ discuss how hospitals and their workers are reacting to recent CDC guidance that aims to mitigate staffing shortages. Related story links: -New CDC guidance jeopardizes patient and staff, nurses and doctors warn Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Ginger Christ(@GChristCLE) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2022-01-1312 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 5: Adelaide, South Australia (w/Steven Jeffery)Adelaide is known to international travelers for their world-class wineries and hosting one of the world's largest art festivals, but did you know they are also home to some of Australia's most passionate sports fans? Steven Jeffery of the rock band, Atlas Genius, joins us to try and teach us the rules of footy and shares some stories about the passionate fans of South Australia. Check out Steven's band Atlas Genius on social media at @AtlasGenius or visit their website at www.AtlasGenius.com.Follow Steven on Twitter and Instagram at @StevenRJeffery.Follow us on...
2021-12-2148 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineSmart knee implant tests uncharted territoryModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Technology Reporter Jessica Kim Cohen talk Zimmer Biomet's smart knee implant, the first approved the Food and Drug Administration. Related story links: -Implants get 'smart' in orthopedics Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessica Kim Cohen (@JessicaKimCohen) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-12-1516 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 4: Montreal, Quebec (w/Dave Kaufman)When you think of Montreal sports, you probably think of hockey and Stanley Cup championships. This is for good reason, but the intersection of politics and sports in this Quebec city is far more complex than you might've guessed. Journalist and commentator Dave Kaufman joins us to discuss how hockey changed the way forward for French Canadians, as well as the history (and future?) of baseball in Montreal. Check out Dave's new podcast through McGill University's Desautels Faculty of Management by visiting: https://delve.mcgill.ca/listen/Follow Dave Kaufman on Twitter @TheKaufmanShow or on Instagram @DaveKaufman1
2021-12-071h 13
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineFeds ramp up scrutiny of private-equity backed healthcare providersModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Senior Finance Reporter Tara Bannow talk about private equity firms' interest in healthcare and what regulators are watching. Related story links: -Why the Justice Department is targeting private equity -Studies show less staffing, more surprise bills after private equity takeovers Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-12-0114 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 3: Dayton, Ohio (w/Mayor Nan Whaley)Dayton is most recognizable for being the home of aviation pioneers, the Wright brothers, but did you know that it is also the home of the first-ever NFL game, the longest professional sports sellout streak in the world, and host of more NCAA tournament games than any other city? We speak with Dayton's mayor and candidate for governor of Ohio, Nan Whaley, about the incredible sports history and environment of this midwestern town, and how minor league baseball led to a revitalization of the city's downtown. Visit Nan Whaley for Governor at NanWhaley.comFollow Nan Whaley...
2021-11-2358 min
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineDemocrats take punitive approach to sway Medicaid expansion holdout statesModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Politics Reporter Jessie Hellmann talk about Democrats' latest attempt to get states to expand Medicaid. Related story links: -Democrats target hospital in Medicaid expansion holdout states with DSH cuts Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessie Hellmann (@jessiehellmann) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-11-1712 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 2: Portland, OR (w/Mike Barrett)When you first think of Portland, you may think of it's thriving art scene, numerous breweries, coffee shops, and bookstores, but it is also home to one of the more loyal fanbases in all of professional sports. We speak with the legendary Mike Barrett, formerly the television broadcaster for the Portland Trail Blazers and now the Managing Director of the Portland Diamond Project, about the extensive history of sports in Northwest Oregon.Follow us on Twitter or Instagram @SportsTownsPodFollow Mike Barrett on Twitter at @BlazerMBFollow Portland Diamond Project at @PDXDiamondProjCheck out Mike's media...
2021-11-091h 07
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineCOVID-19 pandemic reinforces rural hospitals integral roleModern Healthcare Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper and Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik talk about rural healthcare and strategies to stabilize small community hospitals. Related story links: -Rural Alabama hospitals add services to try to stay afloat Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-11-0415 min
The Greatest Sports Towns on EarthEpisode 1: Green Bay, Wisconsin (w/Ian Kenyon)Green Bay is the 294th largest city in the United States, but it is home to one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world. This episode, we'll speak with Bleacher Report's Ian Kenyon to discuss how this tiny town on a bay has built itself into Titletown, U.S.A.Follow us on Twitter @SportsTownsPodFollow Ian Kenyon on Twitter @IanKenyonNFLQuestions, comments, or recommendations? Email us at GreatestSportsTowns@gmail.com!Hosts: Billy Puckett and Alex KacikProducer: Tim Corpus (timcorpus.net)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
2021-10-2645 min
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineCommonSpirit Health charts path forward without Lloyd DeanModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Senior Finance Reporter Tara Bannow talk about the evolution of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest health systems in the country. Related story links: -Lloyd Dean's career market by leading systems through tumultuous times -'This is the right time to transition to the next generation of leadership' Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-10-1914 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineCOVID-19 vaccine mandates test hospitals' cultureModern Healthcare Senior Operations Reporter Alex Kacik, Post-acute and Staffing Reporter Ginger Christ and News Enterprise Editor Jeffrey Young talk about how providers are tackling COVID-19 vaccine mandates for their workforce. Related story links: -Employers eye surcharges for workers' unvaccinated spouses -The vaccine mandate staffing crisis that wasn't Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Ginger Christ(@GChristCLE) -Jeffrey Young(@JeffYoung) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-10-0619 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineWhistleblower claims that Aetna inflated provider network in 13 statesModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper discuss a recently unsealed qui tam lawsuit alleging that Aetna lied about its pediatric primary care network to win Medicaid contracts. Related story links: -Aetna lied about provider network to win Medicaid contract, suit alleges Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-09-2213 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineNew debt collection strategy raises legal, ethical questionsModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Finance Reporter Tara Bannow talk about a company that connects patients with social services to lure medical debt repayment. Related story links: -New 'white glove' debt collector could spell trouble for hospitals, patients -Ballad Health sued thousands of patients in poor, rural areas Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-09-0216 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineGoogle Health restructures after Cerner poaches top execModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Technology Reporter Jessica Kim Cohen talk about what the Google Health reorganization means for big tech-led healthcare ventures. Related story links: -Google says health projects will continue—even if Google Health won't -Cerner to pay new CEO Feinberg nearly $35M through 2022 Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessica Kim Cohen (@JessicaKimCohen) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-08-2515 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineTrans community faces healthcare access hurdlesModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Safety and Quality Reporter Lisa Gillespie discuss access to care for the trans community. -Read related LGBTQ coverage here Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Lisa Gillespie (@LVGillespie) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-08-1115 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineGun violence prompts preventative interventionModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Technology Reporter Jessica Kim Cohen talk about how some hospitals are viewing gun violence as a public health epidemic. Related story links: -How to make gun violence a strategic initiative Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessica Kim Cohen (@JessicaKimCohen) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-07-1415 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineAdulhelm and other high-priced drugs shift prescription purchasing patternsModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper discuss why more Americans are bypassing their insurance coverage at the prescription counter. Related story links: -High cost, high deductibles inspire cash pay -Adulhelm raises questions about financial conflicts among patient groups Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-06-3012 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineInefficiency dooms hospital mergers, Modern Healthcare analysis showsModern Healthcare Politics and Policy Fellow Matti Gellman and Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik discuss Modern Healthcare's analysis that showed that certain hospitals didn't become more efficient after merging. -Consolidation casualties: Hospital mergers unwind as organizations clash Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessie Hellman (@GellmanMatti) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-06-1611 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylinePrivate equity's interest in healthcare draws congressional scrutinyModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Politics Reporter Jessie Hellman discuss why Democrats want more information about the role private equity and chain ownership of nursing homes plays patient outcomes. -Congress eyes private equity-owned nursing homes after COVID-19 deaths -Pandemic proves to be pivotal moment for senior care Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Jessie Hellman (@jessiehellman) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-06-0213 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineFlurry of hospital deals reshape Atlanta healthcare marketModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Finance Reporter Tara Bannow discuss how a string of hospital transactions have reshaped the Atlanta-area healthcare market. -Piedmont Healthcare to add seven hospitals in two deals -Meet the new dominant player in one hot healthcare market Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-05-1914 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHow one health system leapfrogged safety ratings hurdlesModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Safety and Quality Reporter Lisa GIllespie discuss the latest batch of the Leapfrog Group's hospital safety ratings. -One-third of participating hospitals score 'A' in Leafrog's new hospital safety scores -From 4s to 1s: critical-access hospitals grapple with new star methodology Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Lisa Gillespie (@LVGillespie) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-05-0515 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHow fee-for-service can mute population health gainsModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Finance Reporter Tara Bannow discuss how fee-for-service payments can handcuff the financial return on population health initiatives. -Population health still add odds with fee-for-service -Taking population health expertise to the market Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-04-2116 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineKids’ unchecked mental health needs pose long-term consequencesModern Healthcare Public Health Reporter Steven Johnson and Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic compounded systemic shortfalls in behavioral healthcare. -Stressing the already burdened pediatric behavioral health system -Mental health access for children needs attention Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Steven Johnson (@MHSjohnson) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-04-0715 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineBiggest health systems made more money in 2020 despite COVID-19 spikesModern Healthcare Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Finance Reporter Tara Bannow discuss how COVID-19 has impacted health systems' finances. -Hospitals posted higher profits in second half of 2020 even as COVID cases soared -CommonSpirit's finances held steady at end of 2020 Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-03-2415 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineUpcoding could explain why hospitals are increasingly billing for the most complex treatmentModern Healthcare Rules and Regulations Reporter Mike Brady and Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik discuss the latest data suggesting that patients aren’t sicker, contrary to hospitals’ billing practices. -Hospitals’ Medicare billing practices suggest upcoding, OIG says: -Price hikes, upcoding drive Massachusetts’ inpatient spending: Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Michael Brady (@mbradyreports) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-03-1016 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineInsurers are betting on virtual-first plans as COVID-19 shifts care pathwaysModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Insurance Reporter Nona Tepper discuss insurers’ latest quarterly results and their plans to boost virtual-first coverage. Related story links: -Regional insurers bet big on virtual-first plans -Molina reports $100 million year-over-year drop in profits in 2020 Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Nona Tepper (@ntepper90) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-02-1915 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHow residents’ stories shape our coverage of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout in nursing homesModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Post-acute and Staffing Reporter Ginger Christ talk about Ginger's interviews with nursing home residents and why most were eager to get vaccinated. Related story links: -Nursing home residents hope to set an example on COVID-19 vaccination -Few nursing home residents have received second COVID-19 vaccine dose Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Ginger Christ(@GChristCLE) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-02-0515 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineRegulators aim to boost value push with fraud and abuse law updatesModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Rules and Regulations Reporter Michael Brady discuss the latest updates to the Stark law and anti-kickback statute and how they interplay with the incremental move from volume- to value-based pay. Related story links: -Physician groups see problems with Trump administration’s Stark law and anti-kickback changes -Stark law, anti-kickback changes can’t come soon enough, experts say -Stark law, anti-kickback updates may boost value-based payments Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Al...
2021-01-2214 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineVerifying information on the chaotic COVID-19 vaccine rolloutModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Health Policy and Politics Reporter Rachel Cohrs discuss the reporting and information verification process for reporting on COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: -Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) -Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Rachel Cohrs (@rachelcohrs) Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2021-01-0812 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHow healthcare supply chain struggles contribute to employee burnoutModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik and Safety and Quality Reporter Maria Castellucci discuss how some of healthcare’s supply chains broke during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how that has upped the anxiety of those working on the front lines. Related story links: -Many surgical gowns from foreign, nontraditional suppliers fail U.S. standards -Nearly 60% of physicians report burnout since COVID-19 -Lessons learned six months into the COVID-19 response -Providers push for onshoring PPE, pharmaceutical production Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on...
2020-12-1813 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineHow telehealth utilization has impacted investor-owned company earningsModern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik spoke with Modern Healthcare Technology Reporter Jessica Kim Cohen about the rise of telehealth, its impact on the earnings of investor-owned companies and long-term projections on the care delivery medium. Related story links: -Teladoc posts 2.8M visits for Q3, more than triple the year-ago quarter -Cutting exposure to COVID-19 in EDs using on-site telehealth -COVID-19 could push systems to create telehealth leadership roles Subscribe to Modern Healthcare Follow us on Twitter: Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) Alex Kacik (@al...
2020-11-2014 min
Modern Healthcare's Next UpSaving Rural Health: Rural Hospitals Are Getting Creative to Stay AfloatRural hospitals across the US are facing a crisis. There are more than 1,800 of these hospitals, and about 47% are operating in the red. Nearly 25% are financially unstable. In the last decade alone, more than 120 have closed. Rural hospital closures leave communities without access to critical healthcare. In order to stay open, rural hospital leaders must get creative. Alex Kacik, a Modern Healthcare reporter who has covered the topic in-depth, describes some of the key indicators for a rural hospital’s risk of closure — and what leaders can do to keep a hospital afloat.
2020-11-1422 minModern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineTexas COPA law may pave the way for more hospital M&ATexas regulators approved the sale of three hospitals via a Certificate of Public Advantage law, despite scrutiny from federal overseers. Modern Healthcare Hospital Operations Reporter Alex Kacik spoke with Finance Reporter Tara Bannow to discuss how the framework of the COPA could spur more hospital mergers and acquisitions. -CHS' Texas hospital sales could raise costs, lower quality: FTC -Texas regulators OK hospital mergers opposed by FTC -Subscribe to Modern Healthcare -Follow us on Twitter: Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) Tara Bannow (@TaraBannow) Alex Kacik (@Alex_Kacik) -Music Credit: C...
2020-10-2314 min
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineFact or Fiction? Checking CMS Claims on COVID-19 in Nursing HomesThis episode features a data-driven fact check story by Modern Healthcare Post-Acute Care and Staffing Reporter Ginger Christ. Here's a link: CMS star ratings don't indicate COVID-19 cases, deaths, data show -Subscribe to Modern Healthcare -Follow us on Twitter: Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) Ginger Christ (@GChristCLE) Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2020-09-2512 min
Modern Healthcare's Beyond the BylineA Picture is Worth a Thousand WordsWelcome to the inaugural episode of Modern Healthcare's Beyond the Byline podcast. Here are the stories mentioned in this episode: Here’s a peek at the White House’s unreleased drug-pricing order Trump issues executive orders on 340B, outpatient drug pay -Subscribe to Modern Healthcare -Follow us on Twitter: Modern Healthcare (@modrnhealthcr) Rachel Cohrs (@rachelcohrs) Alex Kacik (@alex_kacik) -Music Credit: Coffee by Cambo
2020-09-1111 min