Healthcare on the Rocks - Employee Benefits with a Twist

In this episode, we break down the broad and powerful world of health analytics, aiming to show how data can improve healthcare outcomes while managing costs. Health analytics goes beyond simple record-keeping to integrate data from claims, biometric screenings, wearable devices, and more. A great analogy in the episode compares it to having a “super-powered health detective” on your team, with predictive analytics that can even foresee risks like diabetes or cardiovascular issues before they manifest. This proactive approach allows employers and advisors to target wellness programs effectively, shifting from reactive treatment to prevention.Key takeaways include:Cost Containment: By analyzing claims, employers can identify overspending patterns and address them without compromising care.Predictive Analytics: Using risk data, employers can preemptively support at-risk employees with targeted health programs, gym memberships, and more.Machine Learning and AI: These tools enhance analysis by uncovering patterns in vast data, providing insights that guide better decision-making.Privacy and Data Security: As this field grows, robust measures and transparency are essential to build trust and protect sensitive health information.Future of Personalized Care: The goal is individualized health plans and preventive healthcare, helping people “stay healthy, not just get healthy.”Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

This episode explores the concept of health intelligence, unpacking its complexities and showing how it differs from health analytics. Health intelligence, unlike mere analytics, isn’t just about gathering data but is about turning that data into actionable insights that drive change. A memorable comparison likens health intelligence to a detective piecing together clues: “It’s not just about crunching numbers; it’s about uncovering the story behind them to improve lives.” For employer benefits leaders and advisors, understanding health intelligence means moving from reactive healthcare strategies to proactive, data-driven interventions tailored to specific workplace needs.Key takeaways include:Defining Health Intelligence: It’s more than data collection—it’s the skill of applying knowledge to improve health outcomes.Analytics vs. Intelligence: Analytics provides data; intelligence interprets it to inform meaningful strategies.Real-time Data & Forecasting: Essential features for platforms include real-time insights and forecasting to predict and prevent issues before they arise.Tailored Interventions: Using data to create targeted health programs, like wellness initiatives or gym partnerships, that cater to unique workforce needs.Empowering Proactive Health Management: Health intelligence supports not only addressing existing health issues but also anticipating and mitigating future ones.Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist, hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman talk with Elan Adler, co-founder and CEO of OneImaging, and Melinda Raymond, Senior VP of Sales. The discussion revolves around OneImaging’s innovative approach to reducing healthcare costs through optimized radiology services. Elan and Melinda share their journey in the radiology space, from the inefficiencies they witnessed firsthand to the creation of OneImaging. Elan’s early career exposed him to numerous pain points, like patients being unprepared for imaging due to lack of digital tools. This inspired him to start a company aimed at making radiology more accessible, affordable, and efficient for both patients and employers.The conversation touches on how OneImaging saves employers significant amounts on imaging costs while improving the employee experience. Melinda highlights the importance of seamless integration within existing health plans, stating that OneImaging’s approach results in a hassle-free process for both employers and employees. One key success metric they share is that OneImaging has saved some employers up to 82% on imaging costs. The episode wraps up with insights into how AI and digital tools will continue to reshape the healthcare landscape in the coming years.Key Takeaways:OneImaging aims to make radiology more accessible, affordable, and efficient.The company focuses on integrating into existing health plans without requiring extra apps or steps for employees.OneImaging can save employers 60-80% on imaging costs, equating to millions in savings.They’ve built a network of over 4,000 accredited centers across 48 states, ensuring fast access to quality imaging.The future of healthcare will likely see more consolidation, AI integration, and a shift toward quantifiable ROI.Stay in Touch!Connect with Elan Adler and Melinda Raymond on LinkedInVisit OneImagingLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," Dr. Nora Lansen, Chief Medical Officer at Elektra Health, discusses an often overlooked but crucial aspect of women's health: menopause. Dr. Lansen, a board-certified family physician with extensive experience in women's health, sheds light on the complexities of menopause and its impact on women in the workplace. Dr. Lansen explains that menopause is not just a moment in time, but a journey spanning 20 to 25 years of a person's life, including perimenopause and post-menopause. The conversation reveals staggering statistics from Elektra's workplace survey, such as "one in three women reported that menopause negatively impacts their work performance" and "20 percent of women have left or considered leaving a job because of menopause symptoms."Dr. Lansen describes how Elektra Health is working to "smash the menopause taboo" by providing comprehensive, virtual care for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. The episode explores various ways employers can support their menopausal workforce, from hosting educational events to offering Elektra's services as a covered benefit. Key takeaways from the episode include:Menopause is a long-term journey, not just a single moment, affecting women for 20-25 yearsCommon menopausal symptoms like brain fog and memory issues can significantly impact work performanceMany women feel unsupported by their employers during menopauseEmployers can benefit from supporting menopausal employees, who are often at the prime of their careersAddressing menopause care can help prevent other health issues that become more prevalent during midlifeStay in Touch!Connect with Nora Lansen on LinkedInVisit Elektra Health Learn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode, guests Tommy Axford and Dr. Natalya Gertsik from Private Health Management (PHM), talk about clinical trials and cancer care. They discuss why employers struggle with cancer-related costs and how clinical trials can be both medically beneficial and cost-effective. The conversation centers on the unique challenges cancer presents as a complex set of diseases rather than a single condition with standard solutions. Dr. Gertsik highlights a story about "Peter," who was given three months to live but achieved complete remission through a clinical trial identified by PHM. As Peter recounts, "It has now been a dozen years that I have been in remission from what was an original death sentence."The discussion explores barriers to clinical trial access, including the vast number of trials available and various patient, provider, and institutional challenges. With specialty oncology medications averaging $65,000, clinical trials sponsored by pharmaceutical companies can offer significant cost savings for employers. Dr. Gertsik, "Most of the benefits employers are putting in place work for 95 percent of their population, but they don't work as well for the sickest and most expensive 5%."Key Takeaways:Cancer's complexity requires sophisticated solutions beyond traditional benefitsClinical trials can provide cutting-edge treatments while reducing employer costsMajor access barriers include provider time constraints and complex qualification criteriaSolutions need to focus on the 5% of employees who represent the highest healthcare costsEmployers need partners who can address all cancer types comprehensivelyStay in Touch!Connect with Tommy Axford and Dr. Natalya Gertsik on LinkedInVisit Private Health Management (PHM)Download PHM’s report on clinical trials and cancer Learn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this insightful episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," Lauren Gums, Executive Vice President of Clinic Services at Transcarent, shares her expertise on the rapidly evolving world of telehealth and virtual care. With over 20 years of healthcare leadership experience, Lauren offers valuable perspectives on how these technologies are reshaping consumer expectations and transforming healthcare delivery. Throughout the episode, Lauren highlights the growing importance of convenience and accessibility in modern healthcare, noting that "90 percent of the U.S. population [has] smartphones, and of those smartphone users, 96 percent prefer text." She explains how telehealth platforms like Transcarent are meeting these expectations by providing "urgency and accuracy" in care delivery.The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the sustainability of virtual care models, the revolutionary role of AI in healthcare, and crucial factors employers should consider when evaluating telehealth programs. Lauren also addresses the critical issues of data security and privacy in virtual care solutions, emphasizing their importance in maintaining trust and compliance.Key takeaways from the episode include:Telehealth usage has stabilized at about 38 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels, indicating a lasting shift in healthcare delivery preferences.AI is playing a pivotal role in enhancing personalization, improving diagnostic accuracy, and streamlining care delivery in telehealth.When assessing virtual care programs, employers should focus on employee engagement, health outcomes, and overall satisfaction.Robust security measures, including HIPAA compliance and AI governance programs, are essential for protecting member data in virtual care platforms.Virtual care platforms are seen as complementary to traditional healthcare, with Lauren advocating for "an integrated hybrid approach to delivering care."Stay in Touch!Connect with Lauren Gums on LinkedInVisit Transcarent Learn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

Way back in Season 1 of our Healthcare on the Rocks podcast, we talked with Josh Reimer, the Director of Channel Partnerships at Included Health, about many of the challenges of today's healthcare system.  Since then, Included Health has joined the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace, which enables Springbuk clients to see how they can improve care outcomes for members with complex specialty conditions. With the help of Included Health, employers with high-cost claimants can lower costs, provide better outcomes, and improve the satisfaction of their members. Listen, or perhaps re-listen, to this encore episode while Josh describes how Included Health leverages its data science and clinical expertise, along with a network of 4,000 leading nationwide experts, for a review of a diagnosis or treatment plan recommendation.  I hope you enjoy this special encore episode.Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman sit down with Dr. Michael Rees, a kidney transplant surgeon and the founder and CEO of Rejuvenate Kidney Transplant Solutions. Dr. Rees shares his journey into transplant surgery, driven by a desire for innovation and high success rates. He explains the current state of kidney disease treatment in the U.S., highlighting the limitations of dialysis and the superiority of kidney transplants. Dr. Rees paints a stark picture of the risks associated with kidney failure, stating, "Getting a diagnosis of kidney failure is a much worse diagnosis what your chances are of surviving for 5 years than is breast cancer."The conversation takes an interesting turn as Dr. Rees discusses the barriers to kidney transplantation, including risk aversion in the medical community and financial obstacles for patients. He emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of transplants compared to long-term dialysis, noting that a transplant could save payers "three quarters of a million dollars" over three years. Dr. Rees also shares his frustration with the lack of awareness among healthcare payers about these cost savings, saying, "Payers tend to think that transplant's really expensive." He concludes by highlighting how Rejuvenate Kidney Transplant Solutions is working to educate employers and improve access to transplants.Key takeaways:Kidney transplants are safer and more cost-effective than long-term dialysisMore than 80% of kidney failure patients in the U.S. die on dialysis without receiving a transplantThere's a need for better education among healthcare payers about the benefits of kidney transplantsInnovative solutions, such as covering travel expenses for living donors, could increase transplant ratesRejuvenate Kidney Transplant Solutions aims to improve access to transplants and educate employersStay in Touch!Connect with Dr. Michael Rees on LinkedInVisit Rejuvenate Kidney Transplant Solutions Learn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts David Pittman and Brittany Hardaway sit down with Will Rumsey, Senior Vice President of Sales at Specialty Care Management (SCM). Will shares his journey in the healthcare industry and explains how SCM focuses on risk mitigation in the renal space. He discusses their two main solutions: chronic kidney disease (CKD) management and outpatient dialysis risk mitigation. Will emphasizes the prevalence of kidney disease, noting that "90 percent of individuals with kidney disease don't realize they have it," and highlights the demographic disparities, stating, "For every one Caucasian, there can be three African American, Latino, or Hispanic individuals with kidney disease."The conversation dives into the unique aspects of SCM's approach, including their budget certainty model and focus on member experience. Will explains their cost-saving potential, saying, "We went from having $2.7 million to just over $700,000, saving about 73% off of the paid charges." He also discusses their renal risk assessment process, which provides precise data on kidney disease prevalence within a population. Will addresses the challenges in the healthcare market, particularly around data access and scalability. The episode concludes with Will encouraging listeners to reach out for a free renal risk assessment, stating, "Let us do, at no cost, that renal risk assessment exercise and show you what your exposure could be."Key takeaways:SCM offers CKD management and outpatient dialysis risk mitigation solutionsTheir programs can significantly reduce healthcare costs for employersKidney disease is often undiagnosed and has demographic disparitiesSCM's approach provides budget certainty and improved member experienceData analytics and proactive strategies are crucial for future cost containmentStay in Touch!Connect with Will Rumsey on LinkedInVisit Specialty Care ManagementLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman sit down with Bill Snyder, CEO of Cylinder, to discuss the growing crisis of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and their significant impact on the workforce. Bill provides a detailed overview of how Cylinder, a company recently rebranded to reflect its mission of prioritizing gut health, is tackling these issues with innovative and personalized care solutions. The conversation highlights the staggering costs associated with GI diseases, amounting to $136 billion annually, and underscores the importance of preventive care and data-driven strategies for employers.Bill explains how Cylinder's tech-forward approach, coupled with personalized human touch, offers comprehensive care for GI conditions. The discussion also delves into the broader implications of GI health on overall well-being, touching on correlations with diabetes, cancer, and mental health. Bill's insights into the prevalence of GI conditions, the role of diet, and the benefits of personalized treatment plans provide a compelling narrative on why employers should prioritize GI health solutions. Notable quotes from Bill include, "Digestive health is certainly having a moment," and "We wake up every day with our mission of revolutionizing digital health gut first on our mind."Key Takeaways:GI diseases cost $136 billion annually, more than heart disease or mental health.One in four Americans suffer from a chronic GI condition, impacting workplace absenteeism and productivity.Cylinder offers a tech-enabled, personalized approach to GI care, integrating dieticians, gastroenterologists, and digital therapeutics.Improved GI health can lead to better overall health, reducing costs and improving quality of life.Employers see high participation and engagement with Cylinder’s solutions, reporting significant cost savings and improved health outcomes.Stay in Touch!Connect with Bill Snyder on LinkedInVisit Cylinder HealthLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman welcome Tom Falvey, co-founder and CEO of NewHealth. With over 20 years of experience in employee benefits consulting, Tom discusses how NewHealth is revolutionizing the patient experience within health insurance. He shares his personal journey into the health insurance industry, influenced by his father, and explains the inspiration behind NewHealth, which aims to bridge the gap between patients and the healthcare system by providing real-time feedback on healthcare experiences. Tom details how NewHealth's platform integrates directly with health insurance claims to provide timely patient satisfaction surveys, offering valuable insights to plan sponsors, HR teams, and brokers. This feedback loop helps organizations make informed decisions, balancing cost-saving measures with patient experience. He highlights how NewHealth's unique, claim-verified feedback system offers more accurate and actionable data than other patient satisfaction platforms. Tom also shares success stories and discusses the platform's quest to become the leading patient satisfaction tool in the country.Key Takeaways:Tom Falvey’s Journey: Inspired by his father's career, Tom entered the health insurance industry and eventually co-founded NewHealth to improve patient experiences.NewHealth's Mission: The platform collects real-time feedback on healthcare experiences, integrating with insurance claims to provide accurate, actionable data.Unique Features: Unlike other platforms, NewHealth offers claim-verified feedback specific to different types of care and diagnosis codes.Success Stories: NewHealth has helped organizations make significant cost savings while improving patient satisfaction.Future Vision: Tom aims for NewHealth to become the top patient satisfaction platform in the country, focusing on verified and specific feedback.Notable Quotes:"If you're going to play this part between a patient and a doctor, we should be in a position to share as much information as we possibly can.""Our goal is to prepare the plan sponsor and the broker for future decision-making."Stay in Touch!Connect with Tom Falvey on LinkedInVisit NewHealthLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman sit down with Deb Adler, CEO of Navigator Healthcare. Deb shares her extensive experience in healthcare and her journey in launching Navigator, a company dedicated to providing immediate and effective support for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Deb emphasizes the importance of quick access and engagement in care, describing Navigator's unique approach that includes a 24x7 resource center staffed with licensed clinicians who are trained in motivational interviewing and have deep experience in substance use disorder. She highlights the challenges faced by individuals and their families, noting how Navigator helps them navigate the complex landscape of treatment options, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.Deb explains how employers see a significant return on investment, with Navigator's services contributing to a healthier, more productive workforce. Deb recounts a poignant success story of a mother who, during a crisis, was able to quickly get her daughter into a treatment program thanks to Navigator's support. This episode sheds light on the critical role of employer-supported substance use services and the evolving landscape of care.Key Takeaways:Quick Access and Engagement: Navigator provides immediate support with a 24x7x365 resource center and licensed clinicians trained in motivational interviewing.Employer Benefits: Navigator offers a significant return on investment and contributes to a healthier, more productive workforce.Real-Life Impact: Success stories, like the mother who swiftly got her daughter into treatment, illustrate Navigator's real-world impact.Stigma Reduction: Employers play a key role in creating recovery-ready workplaces, reducing stigma, and offering support through confidential services.Stay in Touch!Connect with Deb Adler on LinkedInVisit Navigator HealthcareLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this light-hearted yet informative episode, Chrissy Krampert, Chief Strategy Officer at Jellyvision, shares the fascinating journey of Jellyvision, from its quirky beginnings in educational content and gaming to becoming a leader in healthcare benefits education with ALEX, their flagship product.She explains how ALEX leverages behavioral science and technology to simplify complex healthcare decisions for employees, turning confusion into clarity. Chrissy highlights how Jellyvision’s tools help employees make smarter healthcare choices, ultimately saving employers significant costs. "We want to go to where there is furrowed brow and bring it to peace of mind," she says, encapsulating their mission.The discussion delves into the practical impacts of ALEX, from employees proposing to it during open enrollment to Jellyvision’s strategic use of claims data to offer personalized healthcare advice. Chrissy emphasizes the importance of building trust and engaging employees with humor and simplicity. The episode also covers Jellyvision’s future plans, including their partnership with Springbuk to enhance data-driven decision-making and the integration of AI for more precise recommendations. "We're able to establish that trust and guide an employee throughout the year to making better decisions," Chrissy notes, showcasing the influence of their innovative solution.Key Takeaways:Behavioral Science: ALEX uses behavioral science to engage employees, helping them understand and utilize their benefits effectively.Cost Savings: ALEX helps employers save on healthcare costs by guiding employees to choose and use the best-fit plans.Personalization: The integration of claims data and AI allows for tailored healthcare guidance, enhancing the employee experience.Engagement and Trust: Jellyvision builds trust through humor, simplicity, and personalized interactions, making healthcare decisions less daunting.Quotes:"We want to go to where there is furrowed brow and bring it to peace of mind." - Chrissy Krampert"People would rather do their taxes while cleaning their bathroom before they'd want to pick a benefits plan."Stay in Touch!Connect with Chrissy Krampert on LinkedInVisit JellyvisionLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

Dr. Adonis Saremi and Cody Fair from Noom join this to discuss the significant impact of GLP-1 medications on weight management conversations within the employer space. Cody, the Head of Commercial Healthcare at Noom, shares insights into how these medications are elevating the importance of weight management in employer health programs. Dr. Saremi, Noom’s Interim Chief Medical Officer, emphasizes the collaborative effort at Noom in integrating clinical protocols, safety, and quality into their offerings.Cody highlights the rising interest in GLP-1s, especially, and weight management overall, stressing the need for comprehensive weight management solutions. Dr. Saremi elaborates on the effectiveness of GLP-1s when combined with lifestyle changes, underscoring the importance of adequate support and guidance for patients. The discussion examines the role of employers in ensuring employees receive the necessary medical support and the holistic approach Noom takes in addressing both physical and mental health aspects of obesity care.Key Takeaways:Elevated Importance: GLP-1 medications have propelled weight management to a top concern for employers.Comprehensive Support: Effective weight management requires a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.Mental Health Integration: Addressing mental health is crucial in the context of obesity care, with Noom incorporating depression screening and comprehensive medical history assessments.Holistic Solutions: Noom aims to provide a seamless integration of weight management solutions within existing employer health benefits, focusing on prevention and chronic disease management.Stay in Touch!Connect with Dr. Adonis Saremi and Cody Fair on LinkedInVisit NoomLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," David and new co-host Nicole Belles cover the world of musculoskeletal (MSK) health with Aaryn Pure, Chief Commercial Officer at Hinge Health. The episode kicks off with Aaryn joining from Chicago amidst Hinge Health's bustling annual conference, Movement, providing a “man on the street” backdrop to the discussion. Aaryn shares his extensive background in healthcare, emphasizing his personal and professional commitment to improving MSK care. He recounts his journey from working with health systems on electronic medical records to his current role at Hinge Health, highlighting his personal experiences with MSK issues that add a relatable touch to his professional insights.The conversation covers the substantial economic and personal impacts of MSK conditions, which affect one in two Americans annually and account for significant healthcare spending. Aaryn discusses Hinge Health's approach, which emphasizes preventive care and non-invasive treatments like the innovative Enso device—a nerve stimulation tool that helps manage pain without surgery or drugs. This approach not only alleviates pain but also significantly reduces healthcare costs and improves quality of life. The episode is packed with information about the challenges of traditional MSK treatments and how digital health innovations can transform care delivery.Key Takeaways:MSK conditions are a top cost driver in healthcare, impacting half of the American population each year.Preventive and non-invasive treatments can significantly reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.Digital health tools like Hinge Health's Enso device offer effective alternatives to traditional care methods, providing immediate and long-term pain relief.Stay in Touch!Connect with Aaryn Pure on LinkedInVisit Hinge HealthLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Nicole Belles and David PittmanHave feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Jennifer Jones and David Pittman talk with Naomi Levinthal, the Chief Growth Officer at Reperio Health, about the innovative world of biometric screenings. Naomi, a self-professed tech nerd with a rich background in health IT, shares her journey to Reperio and discusses the transformative impact of the company's at-home screening kits. These kits are designed to provide instant results and a seamless user experience, setting a new standard in the health and wellness industry. Throughout the episode, Naomi explains how Reperio's approach to biometric screenings significantly differs from traditional methods by offering convenience, immediacy, and comprehensive health data directly to users’ homes.The conversation highlights the crucial role of biometric screenings in modern wellness programs and how Reperio's kits contribute to strategic health management within organizations. Naomi elaborates on the benefits of this innovative approach, particularly its ability to provide quick, actionable health insights that empower both employers and employees. By moving screenings from clinical settings to the comfort of one's home, Reperio not only enhances participant engagement but also provides employers with valuable data to tailor their health initiatives effectively. The episode wraps up with insights into the future of Reperio, including the integration of new health tests and virtual care options that promise to further revolutionize preventative healthcare.Key Takeaways:Innovation in Health Screenings: Reperio Health's at-home kits offer a complete biometric screening process that is fast, efficient, and user-friendly, allowing participants to perform the screenings at their convenience.Strategic Health Insights: The data collected from these screenings provide employers with critical insights, helping them make informed decisions about health and wellness programs tailored to their workforce's needs.Future Developments: Naomi shared exciting future enhancements, including the addition of A1C testing and virtual care sessions, which will further integrate comprehensive care into the screening process.Stay in Touch!Connect with Naomi Levinthal on LinkedInVisit Reperio HealthLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Jennifer Jones and David PittmanHave feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," Scott Vold, the Chief Commercial Officer at Renalogic, describes the complexities of kidney disease, its treatment, and the economic impact on employers and their health plans. Scott talks about the critical and often overlooked public health crisis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the intricacies of the dialysis market. With a background in health technology and actuary, Scott explains Renalogic's mission to manage both the human and financial costs of CKD for self-funded health plans. He shares eye-opening statistics, such as the fact that about 37 million adult Americans have CKD, with a staggering 90% unaware of their condition, highlighting the disease's silent proliferation and its ranking as the ninth-leading cause of death in the U.S., projected to rise to fifth by 2040.The discussion also covers the evolution of the dialysis market into a duopoly, which has led to inflated costs for treatments, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach to healthcare management within self-funded health plans.Key takeaways from the episode include:The severe underdiagnosis of CKD and its correlation with other chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, underlining the necessity for better awareness and early detection.The economic burden of dialysis treatment on employers, with costs often being a top health plan expense, and how Renalogic helps reduce these costs through unit cost reduction and disease management.An in-depth look at the dialysis market's evolution into a duopoly, with Scott detailing how this market structure leads to inflated costs for health plans and limited options for patients.Practical advice for employers on tackling CKD, including leveraging data for early detection, rejecting complacency in accepting high dialysis costs, and engaging with specialized care management programs like Renalogic's to prevent disease progression and reduce expenses.The episode provides an insightful perspective on the challenges of managing CKD and the strategies employers can adopt to address this growing concern, emphasizing the importance of proactive healthcare management and specialized care programs in improving patient outcomes and achieving cost savings.Stay in Touch!Connect with Scott Vold on LinkedInVisit RenalogicLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Jennifer Jones and David PittmanHave feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this engaging episode of "Healthcare on the Rocks: Employee Benefits with a Twist," hosts Jennifer and David invite two guests from PHM, Natalya Gertsik and Tommy Axford, to discuss innovative strategies for managing employee benefits, with a particular focus on cancer care. Natalya, specializing in population health risk management and biopharmaceuticals, sheds light on the actionable guidance PHM provides for optimizing cancer care. Tommy, with his actuarial background, emphasizes the importance of focusing on the small subset of cases that drive a significant portion of healthcare spending.The conversation delves into the complexities of cancer treatment, including the challenges of adopting precision medicine and the necessity of personalized care plans that consider the unique needs and preferences of each patient.Key takeaways from this discussion include:The importance of striving for precision medicine in targeting cancer treatment.The vital role of personalized medicine, considering the patient's personal preferences, cultural background, and socioeconomic factors, highlighting the need for a more holistic treatment plan.Innovative solutions like PHM's Clear Cancer Care Management Solution, part of the Springbuk Activate Marketplace, which offers employers and their advisors data-driven ways to connect with partners who can address specific healthcare needs, particularly in managing high-cost cancer treatments.Real-life success stories that illustrate the life-changing impact of creative and personalized cancer treatment strategies, emphasizing the potential for significant improvements in patient outcomes.Stay in Touch!Connect with Natalya Gertsik and Tommy Axford on LinkedInVisit PHMLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Jennifer Jones and David PittmanHave feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode, we delve into the mission of Summus, a healthcare company that aims to revolutionize the way patients access top medical expertise. Nick Razzi, Chief Revenue Officer at Summus Global, describes how their platform provides a quicker route for patients to connect with leading specialists, ensuring that critical healthcare decisions are informed by the best possible advice. The narrative explores the importance of specialty care, particularly for patients navigating complex health conditions, and how Summus plays a crucial role in guiding them through these challenges.The episode also highlights the benefits of Summus's ability to rapidly connect its members with a network of esteemed doctors. This capability is not only about speed but also about the seamless integration with local healthcare systems, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Additionally, the discussion touches upon how Summus has adapted to the healthcare landscape transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including their strategies for engaging with physicians and the trends they have observed in how their services are utilized.Looking towards the future, Summus is focusing on developing condition-specific pathways that promise to further streamline the patient experience, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving outcomes. The narrative provides insights into these upcoming initiatives and the positive implications they may have for the healthcare industry.Key take-aways from the episode include:Summus' mission is instrumental in providing faster access to top medical experts, which is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions and improving patient outcomes.Specialty care is a key component of the healthcare journey for patients with complex conditions, and Summus facilitates this by connecting patients with the right specialists.The ability of Summus to quickly link members with leading doctors and integrate with local healthcare providers is a significant advantage for patients.Summus is actively adapting to the evolving healthcare environment post-pandemic and is planning future initiatives aimed at creating condition-specific pathways to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.Stay in Touch!Connect with Nick Razzi on LinkedInVisit Summus GlobalLearn more about the Springbuk Activate Partner Marketplace and get other related resourcesGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Jennifer Jones and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside

In this episode, Justin Holland, CEO and co-founder of HealthJoy, shares his international upbringing, entrepreneurial ventures, and the personal healthcare challenge that led to the creation of HealthJoy, a platform designed to simplify healthcare choices for employees and employers alike.With a focus on enhancing healthcare navigation and reducing costs, HealthJoy emerges as a critical partner for employers seeking to offer better healthcare solutions to their employees. Holland's journey from a skiing accident to the inception of HealthJoy highlights the universal struggle with navigating healthcare options, underscoring the platform's mission to make quality care more accessible and understandable.Key takeaways from the episode include:The inspiration behind HealthJoy rooted in personal experience, emphasizing the need for simplified healthcare navigation.HealthJoy's approach to cost containment and personalized healthcare guidance, aiming to deliver savings to employers and improve employee health outcomes.The significant impact of virtual care and telemedicine, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and HealthJoy's adaptation to offer a comprehensive range of virtual healthcare services.Holland's perspective on current and emerging challenges within the healthcare industry, including pharmacy costs, high-cost claimants, and the obesity epidemic, and HealthJoy's commitment to addressing these issues through innovative solutions.The importance of a seamless user experience in healthcare platforms, combining digital efficiency with human support to meet the diverse needs of users.The need for a platform to deliver a healthcare cost containment strategy on the back of a challenging macroeconomic environment.Stay in Touch!Connect with Justin Holland on LinkedInVisit HealthJoyLearn more about Springbuk ActivateGet the complete 2024 Employee Health Trends report and other related resourcesConnect with our co-hosts Jennifer Jones and David Pittman Have feedback, questions, or suggestions for show ideas? Send them to us at podcast@springbuk.com. Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and colleagues. We appreciate you and thank you for listening! Produced by David Pittman Theme music: "Overboard" by Stay Outside