Dougal Hawes, Group CEO of Smartbox Assistive Technology shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the English countryside to leading a company that empowers people with communication disabilities. Dougal's story is deeply intertwined with his father's dedication to empowering the disabled, a passion that began with a chance encounter in a hospital and evolved into a lifelong commitment. This familial influence not only shaped Dougal's understanding and empathy but also paved the way for his career in creating innovative communication devices for those with speech difficulties.

Explore the evolution of communication technology for disabilities, from the early days of personal computing to today's sophisticated augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. Discover how companies like Smartbox have leveraged advancements in consumer technology to create comprehensive tools tailored to the unique needs of individuals with communication challenges. The conversation highlights the critical role of software and hardware integration, offering insights into the complexity and necessity of providing personalized communication solutions for people with diverse requirements, whether from birth or due to acquired disabilities.

Gain insight into the global landscape of AAC technology, as we discuss the significant need for these solutions and the efforts to expand accessibility worldwide. We examine the transformative impact of technologies such as eye-tracking for individuals with conditions like ALS, and how AI and voice cloning are poised to revolutionize the field further. The episode underscores the importance of combining technology with expertise and training, addressing distribution challenges, and the potential for AAC to be integrated as essential medical devices. Hear about the ripple effect of increased visibility in AAC, encouraging more people to recognize its benefits, and the role major tech firms play in advancing accessibility features.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

DexCare CEO Derek Streat shares how his early experiences in a small industrial town and the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household instilled a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. These formative years paved the way for his commitment to making a significant impact in healthcare, a commitment deepened by personal experiences, such as his daughter's serious illness and subsequent kidney transplant. Derek's dedication is further highlighted by his involvement in non-profit initiatives like PEDSnet and IROC, which focus on improving outcomes for children and kidney transplant patients through data-driven solutions.

Listen in as we uncover the origins and evolution of DexCare, a platform initially developed by Providence Health to enhance healthcare accessibility through a unified care experience. Derek discusses the transformative role of former Amazon employees in adopting an "Amazon-style" approach to healthcare, aiming to make services more discoverable and bookable. We address the persistent challenge of untapped capacity within health systems, debunking the myth of hospitals always being at full capacity. Derek explains how better data management and transparency can unlock these resources, enhancing the efficiency and reach of healthcare services.

Finally, we explore the future of healthcare delivery in a post-pandemic world, where virtual and hybrid care models are increasingly prominent. Derek discusses the potential of asynchronous and AI-driven care, especially for low-acuity conditions, and the evolving role of patients as active participants in their healthcare journeys. We also consider how Gen AI can empower patients to make informed decisions and how healthcare systems can optimize capacity and resources by leveraging a broader range of care providers. This episode promises a thought-provoking look at the innovations shaping the future of healthcare.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

What if scheduling a doctor's appointment was as easy as booking a table at your favorite restaurant? Join for an enlightening discussion with Jeff Gartland, CEO of Relatient, as we unlock the complexities of patient scheduling in healthcare. Jeff shares his unique perspective, drawing from a childhood influenced by behavioral psychologists and a career spanning top healthcare technology firms like McKesson, Ciox, and Elevance.

Together, we explore how patient scheduling is much more than a tech challenge; it's about transforming human interactions in healthcare. From understanding the nuances between "new" and "existing" patients to creating a seamless, consumer-centric referral system, Jeff offers invaluable insights into reshaping the way we engage with medical practices.

Discover how cutting-edge technology can bridge the gap in appointment scheduling while boosting patient access and satisfaction. Jeff explains the paradox of how long waits for appointments can coexist with underutilized clinical time, offering solutions that hinge on sophisticated scheduling systems and automated waitlists.

We discuss the significance of a portal-free experience that simplifies the referral process and enhances convenience for patients. Whether it’s aligning scheduling rules to meet patient demand or ensuring operational precision without sacrificing accessibility, this episode provides a roadmap to boost patient engagement for a better healthcare experience.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

RJ Kedziora, co-founder and COO of Estenda, shares his  journey from a tech-savvy childhood in the 70s to becoming a leader in healthcare innovation. RJ reflects on his early fascination with computers, starting with the IBM PC Junior, and his academic pursuit of artificial intelligence. His career path has traversed the evolution of software development, consulting, and the Internet boom of the late 90s. With a unique blend of empathy and technical expertise, RJ emphasizes the importance of understanding the end user's perspective, particularly in healthcare, where technology like electronic medical records was just beginning to take shape in the early 2000s. His insights highlight the transformative potential of healthcare technology and the importance of effective communication.

Listen in as we explore the integration of large language models in healthcare and the delicate balance of harnessing technology while preserving human skills. RJ shares his thoughts on the potential benefits of AI tools, such as ambient listening for note-taking, which could allow physicians to focus more on patient care. We also touch upon the significance of balancing productivity and wellness, drawing from RJ's personal experiences as a triathlete and his journey from baking vegan cakes to writing his upcoming book, "A Productive Harmony Framework." RJ offers valuable perspectives on managing energy over time, understanding one's chronotype for optimal productivity, and maintaining a vibrant life. Whether you're interested in healthcare innovation, AI technology, or personal wellness, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

I had a great experience with my inguinal hernia surgery this summer, so I just had to invite my doctor, Nora Fullington and her partner, Dr. Michael Reinhorn from Boston Hernia onto the podcast!  A few takeaways:

1. The vast majority of hernia repairs are performed by general surgeons in hospital operating rooms. But better outcomes, lower cost, and greater convenience are possible if you can find a specialized practice like I did and go to an ambulatory surgery center. (Only 3% of inguinal hernias in Massachusetts are repaired in ASCs, which is nuts.)

2. Despite the superiority of the Boston Hernia model, insurance companies and big health systems make it hard for patients to go this route.

3. You shouldn't be scared of mesh as long as your surgeon knows what they're doing

4. Patients are often mis-diagnosed with hernias as a result of medical imaging. A physical exam is the way to go

5. Drs. Reinhorn and Fullington believe their model can be applied more broadly within surgery and beyond

Enjoy the show.

Advance Care Directives are great in theory, but often fail in practice. The result: patients' wishes aren't respected and their families end up fighting. 

Dr. Ferdinando Mirarchi has built a whole medical practice and business around Advance Directives. HIs company, MIDEO enables patients to create video-based plans either with or without a physician's help.

I went through the process myself in preparation for this interview and learned a lot about the nuances of what to put in the directive to reflect my goals. The topics of resuscitation after cardiac arrest and mechanical ventilation were really insightful.

We also talked about more mundane matters like insurance coverage and how to make sure the directive is accessed and respected when you need it.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Bradley Bostic, the visionary CEO and founder of hc1, shares his journey from the plains of South Dakota to the cutting-edge world of healthcare data innovation. We explore how a childhood fascination with technology and a stint on the football field at Indiana University laid the groundwork for his groundbreaking work in healthcare. Our conversation uncovers Bradley's early career experiences at Ernst & Young, where he first glimpsed the complex inner workings of the healthcare industry, ultimately fueling his passion for transformative change.

Discover the pivotal role that hc1 plays in optimizing diagnostic testing, a cornerstone of effective healthcare. We examine the inefficiencies in current lab testing practices and how personalized diagnostics can lead to more accurate and cost-effective outcomes. With the power of machine learning and AI, HC1 is leading the charge in predicting patient outcomes, tailoring care plans, and identifying risks for chronic conditions like kidney disease or cognitive decline before they manifest.

In our broader discussion on the U.S. healthcare system, Bradley and I delve into the perplexing inefficiencies that plague even the most prestigious institutions. We explore potential solutions like value-based care and the cautious integration of technology to enhance patient experiences without detracting from them. Tune in to gain insight into the intersection of healthcare, business, and policy, and to hear about the exciting ventures on the horizon as we continue to explore the transformative power of healthcare innovation.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Hadassah Backman, founder and CEO of Guardoc Health shares her personal story, from growing up in New York as a family caretaker, influenced by her father's illness and her grandmother's survival of the Holocaust, to her initial career in literature and writing.

Discover how her path took a pivotal turn after a personal caregiving experience, leading her to pursue nursing. As a single mother, Hadassah navigated the challenges of nursing school and built an impressive career at Northwell, gaining invaluable experience in various medical units. We explore Hadassah's transition from bedside nursing to compliance consulting. Her passion for genuine patient care, coupled with experiences in hospice care, inspired a shift toward risk mitigation.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic reignited her dedication to hands-on patient care, even as she faced the complexities of systemic issues in healthcare. Hadassah's story highlights the resilience required to navigate personal and professional transitions, especially during crises, while striving to make a meaningful impact.

Finally, we delve into the realm of technology and healthcare compliance with Hadassah's move to Tel Aviv, where she spearheaded the development of innovative solutions at Guardoc Health. Learn about her collaboration with her sister to improve long-term care documentation and her determination to create user-friendly software for nurses worldwide. With key investors backing her vision, Hadassah's goal is to set the gold standard for CMS compliance, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of nurses. This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of healthcare, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of innovation in nursing and healthcare.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Explore the fascinating journey of Bo Holland, a pioneering figure in healthcare innovation. Growing up in Houston and Austin, Texas, Bo was inspired by his family's entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to pursue an entrepreneurship program at Baylor University. From running small businesses to becoming a pivotal player at Citrix Systems, Bo shares his early experiences and the lessons he learned along the way. We uncover how his ability to recognize opportunities and his passion for technology paved the way for his current venture, AllClear ID, where he is dedicated to empowering patients to take control of their medical records.

Discover how different countries approach digital identity management, with a focus on the stark contrast between high-trust environments like Norway and the more privacy-tolerant cultures of the US and UK. Bo recounts a personal healthcare crisis that highlighted the inefficiencies in healthcare information systems, sparking his drive to improve data sharing using secure digital infrastructure. Despite the healthcare sector lagging behind in digital transactions, recent advancements and laws offer hope for a transformation akin to the seamless operations of digital banking in Norway.

Listen in as we discuss the revolutionary changes underway in healthcare data management. We explore innovative solutions aimed at creating a comprehensive "health bank" that empowers patients with complete control over their medical data. Drawing inspiration from the open banking model in Europe, Bo envisions a future where medical data follows the patient, enabling seamless care and facilitating research. We highlight the strategic insights of Health Bank One, a notable entity in the industry, and how it promises to reshape the landscape of healthcare by breaking down traditional barriers and optimizing patient care.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Shan Sinha is confronting the urgent issue of workplace violence in healthcare. Delving into the alarming rise of aggression against healthcare workers, particularly exacerbated by the pandemic, Shan discusses pioneering solutions like Canopy's wearable safety buttons that empower staff with connectivity and protection. 

Shan shares his extraordinary journey through the fast-paced world of technology and innovation. We embark on a captivating exploration of Shan's upbringing in Texas, his academic pursuit at MIT during the pivotal shift from Microsoft's reign to Google's ascension, and his leap into the startup ecosystem influenced by the dot-com boom. Shan's experiences highlight the challenges and triumphs faced by children of immigrants, shedding light on their vital contributions to technological advancement and healthcare innovation.

We trace the transformative evolution of cloud-based collaboration tools, punctuated by the early dominance of Amazon S3 and the emergence of Dropbox and Box. Shan recounts his bold decision to leave Microsoft, paving the way for his startup's critical role in shaping Google Drive, and reflects on Google's prescient embrace of hybrid work and video conferencing well before the pandemic. The journey through Shan's entrepreneurial ventures culminates in a successful acquisition by Dialpad, underscoring the dynamic interplay between technological growth and societal demands.

This episode challenges us to rethink how we safeguard our essential healthcare workers, drawing insights from Numbers on't Lie, by Vaclav Smil. It's a thought-provoking book on exponential growth and innovation that offers hope for addressing today's pressing issues, from energy to food waste. 

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

In this episode I welcome back Mohan Giridharadas, CEO and founder of LeanTaaS, who shares his journey in revolutionizing healthcare capacity through AI and prescriptive analytics. Mohan provides insights into LeanTaas's evolution since pivoting to healthcare in 2015, tackling pressing challenges such as increased demand, financial pressures, and staffing shortages. With innovative solutions now optimizing a third of the U.S. chemotherapy capacity and enhancing 15% of the nation's surgical capacity, LeanTaaS is transforming the landscape of healthcare efficiency. Our discussion highlights the strides made in optimizing infusion centers, operating rooms, and inpatient beds.

We explore the intricacies of improving hospital flow using predictive AI. Mohan and I discuss the similarities between hospital bed management and hotel room turnover, offering insightful comparisons. By employing algorithms to predict bed shortages and prioritize discharges, hospitals can improve patient flow and efficiency. The conversation extends to interconnected issues like ambulance capacity and post-acute care constraints, emphasizing the potential of predictive analytics to revolutionize hospital operations and patient care.

Finally, discover how LeanTaaS is harnessing the power of generative AI with their innovative iQueue products. Mohan discusses the challenges of preventing AI hallucinations and the importance of human oversight in decision-making processes. We also touch on LeanTaas's cybersecurity measures and the critical need for robust data protection in healthcare. Additionally, Mohan shares his excitement about a newly released book and reflects on the company's growth, including reaching a billion-dollar valuation.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Join as I explore value-based care in cardiology with George Aloth, co-founder and CEO of Chamber. George shares his inspiring journey from his  upbringing in Baltimore to his pivotal role in shaping healthcare. With a unique educational background in accounting and law, he honed his expertise in Medicaid and Medicare through early career experiences at CMS and Cigna. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found a Medicaid insurance startup and eventually become CEO of CareFirst's Medicaid division. George reflects on his tenure at Somatus, a kidney value-based care company, which sparked his passion for transforming specialty care, specifically cardiology, into a value-based model.

In our conversation, we tackle the pressing issues of cardiology access and equity, emphasizing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations reliant on Medicaid. The discussion highlights the economic decisions cardiology practices must make amidst high demand and limited supply. We explore strategies to enhance efficiency and ensure equitable treatment for all patients, regardless of insurance status. Drawing insights from the book "Good to Great" by Jim Collins, we underscore the importance of building a strong team during rapid growth phases. Don't miss this enlightening discussion with George Aloth as we envision a future of improved access and quality in cardiology care.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

As a physician and healthcare CEO, Russ Richmond already knew a lot about healthcare. But when a bad accident put him into the hospital for three months he developed a much more profound understanding of caregiving. In particular, he learned that many of the nurses and therapists who provided him with such great care were thinking of quitting their jobs!

Once he was released he did some research and discovered that a root cause of burnout was a lack of effective management and high administrative burden.

He zeroed in on a solution: support for frontline nurse managers. These insights formed the basis for the founding of Laudio, an intelligent platform that streamlines work for frontline leaders to drive large-scale change.

Before talking about Laudio, we also discuss Russ's earlier career, including a stint leading APS, where I had previously been chairman of the board. I'm grateful to Russ for growing and exiting that business.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Richard Kellner is on a mission to end polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a leading cause of kidney failure in younger people. The key is combining  pre-implantation genetic testing with in vitro fertilization to prevent the disease from being passed from parent to child. The PKD Outreach Foundation, run by Richard is raising awareness so that physicians and parents-to-be know about this option. PKD Outreach is also making testing and IVF more affordable and accessible through a partnership with US Fertility and by making cash grants to families.

In addition, PKD Outreach is  publicizing ways to slowing the progression in young adults with lifestyle and drugs, and supporting live kidney donation.

Richard has a compelling personal story. His late wife passed away from PKD, even after receiving a kidney donation from Richard. His adult kids have it, too.

I like the organization's mission and determination so I decided to donate. You might want to do the same.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.

Brett White is CEO of Weave, an AI-powered platform designed to support small and mid-sized medical practices. Brett shares his formative experiences growing up in Northern California, working on a farm, and benefiting from his father's career as an airline pilot. These early influences instilled in him a strong work ethic and an  appreciation for the value of hard work and simple living, shaping his approach to leadership and innovation in  healthcare.

We  trace Brett's professional journey, starting from his decision to study business economics at UC Santa Barbara, leading to a career in accounting with Arthur Young, and later transitioning to Oracle. Brett's career trajectory underscores the importance of hustle and results in achieving success. He eventually moved on to become CFO for various companies, including Mindbody, before joining Weave. Brett discusses his passion for helping small business owners, particularly doctors, and the satisfaction derived from supporting their success through technology.

In our conversation, we examine the current landscape of small and mid-sized specialty medical practices and how they thrive by focusing on key metrics and efficient processes. Brett explains how technology and AI can enhance efficiency, improve revenue cycle management, and reduce staff workload, citing specific examples like AI assistants automating review responses. Additionally, we explore how modern communication and payment systems can significantly enhance patient experience, reduce no-shows, and streamline collections, ultimately benefiting  patients and healthcare providers. 

Listen in as Brett White provides valuable insights and perspectives on the integration of technology in healthcare and its potential to transform patient care and business operations.

Health Business Group is a boutique healthcare and life sciences consulting firm that develops growth strategies for innovative healthcare organizations. Contact us to learn more.