Ep. 44 - Revolutionizing Healthcare: Dr. Warris Bokhari and AI-Powered Claimable - 03/25/2025
Explore this engaging episode of Working Healthcare as Meredith Hirsh interviews Dr. Warris Bokhari, CEO and Co-founder of Claimable. Warris shares his journey from anesthesiologist to innovator in healthcare technology, highlighting the differences between the NHS and the American healthcare system. He tackles the pressing challenges of insurance claims, revealing that while less than 1% of denied claims are appealed, his technology has achieved a 90% reversal rate for denials. Claimable empowers patients to challenge these denied claims by using AI to analyze clinical data and create personalized appeals. Drawing from his experiences at major companies like Apple, GE and Anthem, Warris highlights the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. He underscores the critical role technology plays in enhancing accessibility and fairness within the system. Don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your insurance challenges—subscribe for more insightful discussions!
Ep. 43 - Building Healthcare Equity with Jin Lee - 03/18/2025
Dive into this impactful episode with Dr. Jin Lee, a neuropsychologist and healthcare advocate, as she advocates for an urgent shift toward healthcare equity. Jin exposes how systemic biases in medical research and treatment impact anyone who is not a white male—especially women and marginalized communities. Dr. Lee highlights staggering facts: 70% of those with chronic pain in the U.S. are women, yet research overwhelmingly focuses on men. From autoimmune diseases to maternal mortality rates, these disparities continue to hurt millions. As the CEO of IMIDeology, Jin works to bridge these gaps with virtual-first care and advocates for diverse representation in clinical studies. We’re not just talking about “bikini health”—it’s time to address the full spectrum of healthcare needs, for everyone. Tune in to hear how we can push for a healthcare system that serves all people, equally.
Ep. 42 - Exposing the Cracks: Clawbacks, Denials, and the State of Healthcare with Dr. Nathaniel Lowen and Tracy Walker - 03/11/2025
In this eye-opening episode of Working Healthcare, Meredith Hirsh sits down for an in-studio interview with Dr. Nate Lowen and Tracy Walker to uncover the troubling realities of the American healthcare system. We delve into the controversial practices of insurance clawbacks—where insurers retroactively reclaim payments—and the widespread issue of erroneous claim denials impacting both patients and providers. With nearly one in five insured adults facing denied claims, the systemic dysfunction is undeniable. We dive into the fallout from the Change Healthcare cyberattack at its one-year anniversary, showcasing how it disrupted countless independent medical offices and left them scrambling for answers. Plus, hear about the alarming rise of AI-driven claim rejections, where automated systems deny care in seconds, often without human oversight. If you've ever felt frustrated or powerless against insurance companies, this episode will resonate with you. Tune in for a candid discussion about the urgent need for reform and what we can do to reclaim trust in our healthcare system. Subscribe now and join us every Tuesday for more insights into the complexities of healthcare!
Ep. 41 - Navigating Value-Based Care: Insights and Leadership from Eric Schwab - 03/04/2025
Join Meredith Hirsh in this inspiring episode of Working Healthcare to explore Eric Schwab’s journey into value-based care. As Chief Operating Officer of a large independent primary care group, Eric reveals the process of transitioning from fee-for-service to value-based care, highlighting both the benefits and the challenges. He tackles the controversies surrounding this healthcare model and shares how his remarkable 200+ pound weight loss journey taught him crucial leadership skills. Eric provides real-life examples and actionable insights on leveraging technology and data analytics to enhance operational efficiency. Gain a deeper understanding of value-based care and its impact on the healthcare system. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with valuable takeaways on leadership and operational efficiency. Be inspired and informed—don't miss out!
Ep. 40 - Chuck Melendi Unveils the Truth Behind Big Pharma - 02/25/2025
In this insightful episode of Working Healthcare, Meredith Hirsh sits down with Chuck Melendi for his first interview since leaving Johnson & Johnson, offering a rare, insider perspective on the complex world of Big Pharma. Chuck’s 30 years' experience navigating pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotechnology offers listeners a rare, insider perspective on the industry's inner workings. From the staggering $83 billion spent on research and development each year to the role pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) play in the pricing of medications, Chuck breaks down why Big Pharma is often misunderstood and scrutinized. He sheds light on how companies like Pfizer, Merck, and AbbVie use their financial power to impact public health and patient access, while offering insights into the fierce competition and strategies these giants employ. What’s behind the massive price disparity between the U.S. and other countries, and what can be done to fix it? Chuck pulls no punches, tackling the hard truths about pharmaceutical advertising, influence on doctors, and the tough choices that come with such a high-stakes industry. If you’ve ever wondered about the real story behind Big Pharma, this episode is a must-listen.
Ep. 39 - Dawn Scranton Helps Healthcare Practices Access Better Financial Data, Faster! - 02/18/2025
Join Meredith Hirsh for a sit-down interview with Dawn Scranton, the Principal Owner of qbSolutioneers, about the future of healthcare finance—and it’s more exciting than it sounds! With over 30 years of experience, Dawn breaks down why so many medical practices still struggle with outdated financial systems, and how simple changes can improve everything from how quickly they get paid to how they keep track of important numbers.
Ep. 38 - Who Should Lead Your Care? Dr. Rebekah Bernard Makes the Case for Physician-Led Healthcare - 02/11/2025
In this eye-opening episode of Working Healthcare, Meredith Hirsh sits down with Dr. Rebekah Bernard, a passionate advocate for physician-led care, to challenge the growing trend of nurse practitioners and physician assistants taking the reins in primary care. Rebekah, author of Imposter Doctors and Patients at Risk, argues that the increasing reliance on these providers, driven by cost-saving motives, is putting patient safety at serious risk. She makes a bold case for why healthcare should remain in the hands of highly trained physicians, warning that cutting corners on training could have dangerous consequences for patients. With powerful insights into the future of healthcare, Rebekah confronts the implications of this shift—both for the doctor-patient relationship and the integrity of care. Tune in for a provocative discussion that may change the way you think about who should be leading your healthcare. Judge for yourself!
Ep. 37 - Breaking the Mold: Dr. Diana Barratt Redefines Neurology and Patient Care with Concierge Medicine - 02/04/25
In this episode of Working Healthcare, Meredith Hirsh speaks with Dr. Diana Barratt, a neurologist and sleep medicine expert who has embraced a non-traditional approach to patient care. Diana discusses her decision to opt out of Medicare and traditional insurance contracts, and the benefits of transitioning to a fee-for-service, concierge model. With rising physician burnout and dissatisfaction with insurance-based systems, Diana shares how this model allows for more personalized, high-quality care. She also delves into how smaller patient panels have improved her ability to address complex neurological and sleep conditions. As the healthcare system evolves, Diana offers insights into the future of concierge medicine, its role in mitigating physician shortages, and the patient-centered care it fosters. Tune in to hear about the challenges, rewards, and transformational impact of non-traditional medical practices in today's landscape. Take risks!
Ep. 36 - Dr. Kate Brazzale Defines Hospice and its Role in our Healthcare SystemWorking HealthcarePlay - 01/28/25
Join Meredith Hirsh for an in-studio interview with Dr. Kate Brazzale. As Chief Medical and Administrative Officer of the Hospice Division of Empath Health, Kate shares how she was drawn to hospice and palliative care. Discover how our American healthcare system manages seriously ill patients' symptoms and quality of life, known as palliative care. Kate discusses when it is time to bring in Hospice and how traditional Medicare and commercial insurances cover this cost. Kate wraps up her interview by sharing her thoughts on physician burnout and enlightening us on what we can learn from millennial doctors. Don’t be spooked!
Ep. 35 - Founders of Anatomy Finance Solve Healthcare’s Payment Posting ProblemWorking HealthcarePlay - 01/21/25
Join Meredith Hirsh as she pulls back the curtain to expose the inner workings of healthcare’s billing world with Anatomy Finance founders Sasha and Callum King. Discover the burdensome revenue cycle management processes medical facilities confront. With Sasha’s bioengineering background and Callum’s business acumen, the Kings are a powerhouse couple who created an innovative company to solve healthcare’s payment posting problems. Learn how they raised millions of dollars in Series A funding to create change within our healthcare industry. Go Kings!
Ep. 34 - Vinay Patel Disrupts the PBM IndustryWorking HealthcarePlay - 01/14/25
Join Meredith Hirsh and visionary pharmacist Vinay Patel as they uncover the complexity of healthcare’s mafia – the pharmacy benefit managers. An entrepreneur who founded MakoRx, Vinay shares how he is disrupting the PBM world. In this episode, Meredith and Vinay dissect the PBM system and the industry’s lucrative money-making schemes. Discover how three PBMs amassed most of the market and continue to shield the public from its pricing tactics. Vinay provides insight into how to revolutionize the PBM industry, hoping that Congress will eventually pass reform. Mark Cuban is not the only innovator transforming the pharmaceutical industry. Be your own disrupter!
Ep. 33 - Executive Coach Nancy Proffitt Imparts Wisdom and Guidance for a Successful Year - 01/07/25
Join Meredith Hirsh as she sits down for an in-studio interview with her executive coach and inner-circle confidant Nancy Proffitt. Learn when to seek a therapist versus a coach and how the latter has impacted Meredith and The Hirsh Center over the past year. From Girl Scouts to CEO, discover why many top female executives were once a troop member. Hear how behavioral assessment tools provide valuable insights into new hires and existing employees. Coach Nancy leverages 30 years of executive management experience and business ownership to assist professionals to create valuable change in their teams and themselves. Can a three-day leadership boot camp be a single solution to great leadership? Kick off 2025 with an inspirational discussion between coach and student and decide if you would benefit from an executive coach. Enjoy and be enlightened!
Ep. 32 - Steffany Moonaz: a Yogi’s Guidance for the New YeaR - 12/31/24
Join Meredith Hirsh as she sits down with yoga therapist, health coach and research scientist Steffany Moonaz to discuss how to take better care of ourselves heading into the new year. Two-time author and Johns Hopkins trained PhD, Steffany shares what inspired her to incorporate yoga into her research. Learn more about yoga teachings and how to integrate meditation into your life – even if you’ve never done it. Steffany offers examples of how to blend traditional medicine with non-traditional, eastern-style approaches to live a centered existence. By incorporating Steffany’s secret sauce, even overachievers can find ways to cope through navigating our chaotic healthcare system. Namaste!
Ep. 31 - Dr. Marc Hirsh Examines Healthcare’s 2024 Triumphs and 2025’s Challenges - 12/24/24
Meredith Hirsh interviews her #1 fan and a Working Healthcare podcast favorite, Dr. Marc Hirsh. In his second episode, the duo breaks down healthcare’s triumphs of 2024 and challenges for 2025. While health insurance is under increased visibility by the American public considering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder, Dr. Hirsh shares his theory behind the killer’s mental state. They then segue into medical breakthroughs and insurance wins of the past year. This is short-lived, as they focus on healthcare’s middlemen – pharmacy benefit managers. Can many of healthcare’s challenges be resolved during Congress’s lame-duck session or will these topics continue into the new year. Listen to what a doctor and healthcare CEO say about the past year and how they are eyeing healthcare’s future. Enjoy!
Ep. 30 - Joe Goldstein Examines Cybersecurity and Technology’s Vulnerability within Healthcare - 12/17/24
Meredith Hirsh sits down with best-selling author and cybersecurity expert Joe Goldstein. With over 30 years of IT experience, Joe shares insights into why patient health data is an enticing target for hackers and then offers tech basics for a healthcare organization to prevail. After discussing the initial goal of electronic health records, Joe gives his prediction on the medical community’s ability to achieve the goal. Joe provides insight into the Change Healthcare cyberattack that is still impacting the healthcare sector and offers advice on how a healthcare facility should approach risk assessment. Don’t miss out on learning the latest cybersecurity trends in healthcare and how to prepare. Enjoy!