Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

In this episode, Curtis Swogger, Chief Executive Officer, North Pittsburgh Oral Surgery, discusses how AI is reshaping dental operations, why thoughtful implementation matters more than rapid adoption, and the importance of maintaining a people-first culture. He also shares his perspective on leadership, workforce development, and what will drive success for dental groups in the years ahead.

In this episode, Faraz Ahmad, MD, Associate Director at the Center for Artificial Intelligence, and Jonathan Hourmozdi, MD, Heart Failure and Heart Transplantation at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, discuss how AI is improving heart failure diagnosis, care delivery, and patient engagement while emphasizing the importance of responsible implementation and governance. They also share their vision for an AI-powered future that reduces administrative burden, strengthens clinician-patient relationships, and expands access to high-quality cardiovascular care.

In this episode, Scott Becker highlights 5 key healthcare stories, including the rebound in hospital M&A, healthcare CEO compensation, leadership and workforce trends, and why GLP-1 economics remain a challenge for employers.

In this episode, Deb Muro, Chief Information Officer, El Camino Hospital, discusses how the organization is using AI to improve patient access, clinician workflows, and operational efficiency while measuring the real value of technology investments. She also shares her vision for a more personalized, predictive, and equitable future for healthcare.

In this episode, Bill Piskorowski, DDS, Associate Professor Emeritus of Clinical Dentistry, University Of Michigan School Of Dentistry, discusses advancing medical and dental integration, expanding access to care, and preparing the next generation of dental professionals. He also shares his perspective on AI, workforce challenges, and making dental education more affordable and sustainable.

In this episode, Dr. Robert Winn, Cancer Center Director at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple Health, shares his vision for expanding access to cutting edge cancer research by strengthening community partnerships and building trust in science. He also discusses the future of clinical trials, AI driven drug discovery, and accelerating innovation to improve cancer outcomes.

In this episode, Jason Szczuka, Esq, Chief Digital Officer at Bon Secours Mercy Health, discusses how the organization is moving beyond AI pilots to measurable operational transformation that improves access, clinician workflows, and financial performance. He also shares how Bon Secours Mercy Health is partnering with innovators through Accrete Health Partners to scale digital solutions across the healthcare ecosystem.

In this episode, Alison Flynn Gaffney, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer at Banner University Medicine Tucson, shares insights into her leadership journey, the importance of culture, collaboration, and high reliability, and strategies for strengthening the healthcare workforce. She also discusses physician training, academic medicine, and Banner's commitment to advancing patient care through innovation and community partnerships.

In this episode, Peter Rivoli, owner Rivoli Dental, Rivoli and Rivoli Orthodontics, shares how AI and emerging technologies are helping improve practice efficiency and the patient experience while reducing administrative burdens. He also discusses the growing challenges of insurance reimbursement and the leadership skills dentists will need to thrive in a rapidly changing industry.

In this episode, Dr. Robert Figlin, Cedars-Sinai Cancer Institute, discusses improving patient access to specialized cancer care, expanding clinical trial opportunities, and using AI to streamline care delivery. He also shares why advances in research and innovation are giving oncology leaders more reason for optimism than ever before.

In this episode, Dr. Steven Cyr, Chief Medical Officer of Surgical Associates in Spine (SASpine) in Houston and San Antonio, discusses his approach to complex spine surgery, the challenges of independent practice, and the importance of patient centered care. He also shares insights on emerging technologies, physician workforce trends, and the future of spine care.

In this episode, Stan Kinder, President of EverythingDSO,LLC and publisher of the Dental Growth and Exit newsletter, discusses the evolving DSO landscape, the growing role of AI in dental practices, and shifting trends in payer participation. He also shares why successful dental organizations will be those that prioritize providers, patients, and strong business leadership.

In this episode, Bonnie Thompson, Chief Operating Officer of Forest Family Dentistry, joins the podcast to discuss how AI is enabling quicker diagnoses and improving efficiency in dental care. She also shares her perspective on economic uncertainty, its impact on patient spending, and how dental practices can adapt while continuing to provide high-quality care and a positive patient experience.

In this episode, Faraz Ahmad, MD, associate director at the Center for Artificial Intelligence at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, discusses how Northwestern is advancing AI strategy, developing clinical AI tools, and training the next generation of AI-focused healthcare leaders. He also shares insights on implementing AI responsibly through workflow redesign, evaluation, and collaboration.

In this episode, Jason Scalise, MD, Chief Value Officer at Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company, discusses expanding HOPCO’s value-based care platform, building physician-led networks, and improving outcomes across musculoskeletal care. He also shares how analytics, collaboration, and specialty-focused strategies can help bend the cost curve.

In this episode, Akhil Narang, MD, Cardiologist and Director of the Echocardiography Lab at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, and Amogh Karnik, MD, Cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, join the podcast to discuss the operational requirements for successfully implementing AI in cardiovascular care. They also explore the growing role of AI-assisted imaging technology and how it is enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving clinical workflows, and supporting better patient outcomes.

In this episode, Jandel Allen-Davis, CEO of Craig Hospital in Colorado, reflects on her journey from practicing physician to healthcare leader, sharing lessons on purpose driven leadership, patient centered culture, and building trust. She also discusses Craig Hospital's expansion, the importance of staying connected to frontline care, and why relieving suffering should remain healthcare's central mission.

In this episode, Angel Ballew, Head of Pharmacy Clinical Programs and Services at Centene, discusses how the organization approaches GLP-1 coverage across Medicaid, Medicare, and marketplace plans while balancing clinical evidence, affordability, and member access. She also shares insights on utilization management, adherence strategies, and preparing for the next wave of indications for these rapidly evolving therapies.

In this episode, Alan Condon, Editor-in-Chief at Becker's Healthcare, breaks down the latest healthcare industry developments, including health systems exiting the insurance business, hospital consolidation, and growing financial pressures facing independent providers.

In this episode, Scott Becker examines how health systems are responding to financial pressures through service line closures, exiting the insurance business, addressing ongoing nursing workforce challenges, and scaling back employee GLP-1 coverage for weight loss.

In this episode, Meredith Warf, CPA DPT, Former Chief Executive Officer, discusses how healthcare leaders can evaluate new technologies by balancing clinical value, financial sustainability, and patient outcomes. She also shares insights on AI, robotics, revenue cycle innovation, and the future of spine and orthopedic care in the outpatient setting.

In this episode, Richard Barakat, MD, Physician-in-chief & Executive Director at Northwell Health Cancer Institute, discusses expanding access to advanced cancer therapies, integrating AI into oncology care, and driving the future of precision medicine. He also shares insights on improving efficiency, survivorship care, and clinical trial access for all patients.

In this episode, Bob Berbeco, CIO, Mahaska Health, shares how his team is taking a disciplined approach to AI by focusing on workflow improvement, governance, and measurable outcomes rather than chasing trends. He also discusses building internal AI capabilities, reducing clinician burden, and ensuring technology strengthens human connections in healthcare.

In this episode, Jeff Francis, CFO, Nebraska Methodist Health System, discusses how his team is addressing rising payer denials through stronger documentation, coding, and AI-powered revenue cycle tools. He also shares how the CFO role has evolved into a more strategic leadership position and offers advice for the next generation of healthcare finance leaders.

In this episode, Dr. Ken Cohen, Chief Medical Officer at Optum Health, discusses new research on Medicare Advantage, social vulnerability, and how full-risk care models can improve quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes. He also shares insights on the infrastructure, technology, and strategies needed to advance value-based care.

In this episode,Jakob Emerson, Associate News Director, Becker’s Healthcare, examines the growing litigation over Medicare Advantage star ratings and the billions of dollars tied to quality bonuses. He also explores how AI is intensifying the coding and claims battle between health systems and insurers, creating new operational and financial challenges across the industry.

In this episode, Laura Dyrda, Vice President, Editor-in-Chief, Becker's Healthcare, discusses proposed CMS changes to the 340B program, site-neutral payment policies, and what they could mean for hospital and ASC finances. She also shares insights on shifting hospital expense trends, including rising drug and supply costs, and how health system leaders are adapting their strategies.

In this episode, Margaret Anderson, President of Health Alliance Plan by Henry Ford Health, discusses the organization's rebrand, its strategy for deeper integration with Henry Ford Health, and how it's driving growth while improving affordability. She also shares insights on provider sponsored health plans, administrative efficiency, and the growing impact of gene therapies on the healthcare system.

In this episode, Chris Santarsiero, Vice President of Government Affairs at Connections Health Solutions, discusses the policy, reimbursement, and community partnerships needed to expand access to behavioral health crisis care. He also shares how crisis stabilization centers, the 988 Lifeline, and coordinated care models are improving outcomes while reducing pressure on hospitals, law enforcement, and the broader healthcare system.

In this episode, Scott Becker highlights 5 key healthcare stories, including maternity service closures, rural hospital challenges, hospital layoffs, and more.

In this episode, Joanne Armstrong, MD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Women's Health and Genomics, CVS Health, discusses how CVS Health is improving access, affordability, and personalized care for women through innovative care delivery models, data-driven strategies, and benefits designed to meet women's evolving health needs.

In this episode, Raymond (Ray) Lowe, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at AltaMed, joins the podcast to discuss how AI is helping create a better patient experience while improving operational efficiency. He also shares insights on strengthening safety and cybersecurity, and reflects on the organization's response to the 2025 California wildfires, highlighting the role of technology in supporting emergency preparedness and continuity of care.

In this episode, Kenneth Nusbacher, DMD, MHA, Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and Assistant Chief Medical Officer for Ambulatory Dentistry at UK HealthCare, joins the podcast to discuss the growing impact of student loan debt on the future dental workforce. He also shares why emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall health is essential to improving patient outcomes and advancing more integrated models of care.

In this episode, Ron Gicca, President of Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital, joins the podcast to discuss leading through change in today's evolving healthcare landscape. He shares his Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital is managing organizational growth and rising patient volumes while maintaining high-quality care, operational excellence, and a strong focus on meeting the needs of the community.

In this episode, Stephanie Hines, MBA, RN, CHCIO, CDH-E, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Valleywise Health, joins the podcast to discuss keeping quality at the forefront of healthcare technology and operational strategy. She shares her perspective on confronting access challenges, leveraging innovation to improve patient care, and ensuring technology investments support better outcomes for the communities Valleywise Health serves.

In this episode, Eric Leroux, MD, MBA, Senior Vice President, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Quality Officer, Eisenhower Health, discusses how his organization is advancing quality, patient safety, and clinical innovation while preparing for the future of healthcare. Read his recent Health Affairs article here: https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/hospital-safety-grades-aren-t-keeping-up-technology-here-s-they-need-measure-next

In this episode, Morgan P. Lorio, MD, FACS, joins the podcast to discuss redefining spine care through more personalized and evidence-based treatment approaches. He explores why treatment plans can fail, shares insights from his work on transitional reliability, and explains the importance of establishing clear rules of engagement to improve communication, decision-making, and patient outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Samuel Browd, pediatric neurosurgeon and Professor of Neurological Surgery at the University of Washington, Co-CEO & Chief Medical Officer at NeuFluent and co-Founder of the Foundation for Digital Neurosurgery, discusses how AI, data analytics, robotics, and brain-computer interfaces are reshaping neurosurgery. He shares insights on addressing workforce shortages, scaling specialized expertise, and why the next generation of surgeons will play a critical role in driving innovation across healthcare.

In this episode, R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD, MBA, Medical Director of Health Network Development, Sarah Plaskett, PA, Vice President of Operations, and Kaleigh Powers, MSN, RN, Director of Operations at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, join the podcast to discuss the importance of system integration in delivering coordinated cardiovascular care. They also share how AI is supporting clinical and operational teams by improving efficiency, enhancing workflows, and helping create a more connected patient experience.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Ben Burch, Spine Surgeon, Atlanta Spine Institute. He discusses adopting new technologies, leading organizational change through a successful EMR transition, and why maintaining a patient first mindset is essential as AI and innovation reshape spine care.