The FLATLINING Podcast: Recent Episodes
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The FLATLINING Podcast brings you great healthcare analysis and discussion each week from industry experts who know their way around politics, economics, and a doctors office. Subscribe for more great content and check out the articles at www.FLATLINING.net.
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The week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss several payer issues in the news including the firm "we're not for sale" by BlueCross BlueShield of Louisana, payers being fined by states, and the rare instance of an insurance company doing good for the community.
Further reading:
New Blue Cross CEO talks prospects of future sale, staying competitive - Greater Baton Rouge Business Report
9 payers recently fined by states - Becker's Payer Issues
Priority Health offering free telehealth to the uninsured - Becker's Payer Issues
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
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Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
The week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the roll healthcare might play in the 2024 presidential election. Healthcare has made appeances at this week's Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Will it sway voters?
Further reading:
Harris isn’t pushing Medicare for All anymore. Progressives say that’s OK. - Politico
Abortion rights and drug pricing program take spotlight at first night of DNC - STAT
Sally Pipes: How the GOP can get tough on health care - Boston Herald
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon discuss the life of the late Dr. Dan Hurley with his wife Dr. Traci Hurley, his sister Christine, and his brother Tom. They shared memories of his life and why he fought so hard for transparency in our healthcare system.
Matthew and Ron spoke to Dr. Hurley last year on the FLATLINING Podcast after he was diagnosed with dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma and his insurance company had denied payment for radiology scans that would have aided his treatment.
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Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
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Dan Hurley, M.D. Endowment Fund - CS Foundation
The Story of Dr. Dan Hurley - Ron Howrigon at FLATLINING.net
CLICK HERE to listen to our original conversation with Dr. Hurley
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Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
On the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies this week, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley a recent PBS News report on the shortage of pediatric physicians. Is the mainstream media finally seeing what patients have been experiencing for years? How do we ensure that we will have enough doctors to take care of us in the future?
Articles mentioned in this program:
The causes and consequences of a decline in doctors going into pediatric care - PBS News
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
On the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies this week, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss what sort of healthcare platforms Vice President Kamala Harris could advocate as the new Democratic nominee. They also discuss a recent interview Ron gave with New York Magazine on automatic insurance denials.
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Further reading:
Where Kamala Harris Stands on Key Healthcare Issues - Medpage Today
In Denial - New York Magazine
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Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and CEO Ron Howrigon discuss how the Supreme Court overturning Chevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. could affect healthcare down the road. There is a possiblity that it could dictate how the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services detirmine Medicare reimbursement, whether or not the Food and Drug Administration can approve over the counter medications, and more. Matthew and Ron also discuss how this ruling could affect the No Surprises Act.
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Further reading:
What Does the Overturning of Chevron Mean for Healthcare? - Holland and Knight
How the Supreme Court has roiled U.S. health-care agencies - The Washington Post
We break down the overturning of the Chevron doctrine - NPR
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Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and CEO Ron Howrigon have a conversation with universal healthcare advocate Wendell Potter. They discuss Wendell's decision to get out of the insurance business and become an advocate for affordable healthcare for all Americans.
Wendell Potter was a VP level executive at Cigna before he left in 2008. He now advocates for universal healthcare and is the leader of two reform advocacy nonprofits: the Center for Health and Democracy and Business Leaders for Health Care Transformation. He is also a New York Times best-selling author and his most recent book is For Want of a Dentist: The Rise of the Dental Therapy Movement in Tribal Nations and the US. You can follow his work on his Substack: Health Care Un-covered.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have ubscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn.---
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
Next week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon talk to former Cigna executive Wendell Potter about the feasibility of universal healthcare in the United States.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and CEO Ron Howrigon have a conversation with Gus Geraci, MD about the challenges of reforming healthcare.
Dr. Gaspere Geraci has more than thirty-five years of clinical, process, and quality improvement experience. He has worked as a physician, recruiting physicians and working with insurance companies. You can find more about him on his website, drgeraci.com, Rate Your Healthcare Employer, and and follow him on X and LinkedIn.
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Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and CEO Ron Howrigon discuss several healthcare-related news items and how they affect patients and providers.
They discuss for-profit HMO’s being banned from participating in Minnesota Medicaid products. They also discuss the economic impact and future of insurance coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound. Also on the program: UnitedHealthcare has announced they will increase their usage of artificial intelligence. Plus: a former AstraZeneca executive is charged with cyber stalking after he sent threatening messages to leadership at CVS Health and Aetna.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
For-profit HMOs will, again, be blocked from Minnesota's Medicaid program - Minneapolis Star Tribune
Weight loss drug coverage gets more complicated - Becker's Payer Issues
Real-World Trends in GLP-1 Treatment Persistence and Prescribing for Weight Management - BlueCross BlueShield
UnitedHealth testing 500 AI use cases - Becker's Hospital Review
Patient’s Dark Fantasy About Aetna Lands Him in Jail - The Daily Beast
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Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
his week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley sit down with Lou Tharp to discuss patient-centered healthcare and patient advocacy.
Lou Tharp is the co-founder and executive director of the Global Healthy Living Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on improving the quality of life for those living with chronic diseases such as arthritis, psoriasis, IBS, cardiovascular disease, and more. Lou is also the co-founder of Creaky Joints®, an international, digital community of arthritis patients and caregivers. You learn more about the Global Healthy Living Foundation at GHLF.org and Creaky Joints® at CreakyJoints.org. You can also follow Lou on X (@LouisTharp).
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley take a look back at the last 20 years of Fulcrum Strategies. They discuss why Ron left his employment with the payers and began working with physicians and what has changed in the last twenty years. They also take a look at what might change in the future.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley break down testimony from the Congressional hearings about the Change Healthcare cyber attack. On May 1, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty was in the hot seat as senators and representatives grilled him on the impact to patients and providers. Ron and Matthew break it down in a way that is easy to understand and help you know how it impacts you.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
On today’s episode of the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, President and CEO Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley talk to John Scagnelli, MD, about multiple sclerosis. This disease has no known cause and no known cure, but there have been some incredible advancements in treatment over the past few decades.
Dr. Scagnelli specializes in Multiple Sclerosis and Adult Neurology at Raleigh Neurology’s Durham and Raleigh offices. Dr. Scagnelli received his BS in Human Development from Cornell University in 2002. He earned his MD from the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine in 2006. He then completed his Neurology Residency at the University of Rochester, Strong Memorial Hospital. Following this he was awarded a National Multiple Sclerosis Society Fellowship to study the clinical care and research of patients with multiple sclerosis and related disorders at the University of Virginia. Dr. Scagnelli is a member of the National MS Society and the American Academy of Neurology.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
Next week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, President and CEO Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley are joined by John Scagnelli, MD of Raleigh Neurology. They will be discussing multiple sclerosis, a devastating disease with no known cause and no known cure. But there is hope. Recent research has created new advancements in treatment. You won’t want to miss this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast. Subscribe now wherever you listen to podcasts.
Follow Ron Howrigon on LinkedIn.
Follow Matthew Handley on X and LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
On today’s episode of the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, President and CEO Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss some of the most pressing topics affecting physicians and their patients.
In this episode, they discuss:
• UnitedHealth Group admits they paid the ransom for the Change Healthcare cyber attack
• The Justice Department sets up an online portal for people to report anti-competitive healthcare practices
• Emergency Medicine physicians in Detroit strike against their private equity backed employer
Tune in to hear more about how these topics affect patients and physicians alike.
Articles mentioned in this program:
UnitedHealth CEO to testify before House subcommittee May 1 - Becker's Payer Issues
Feds launch portal for reporting anticompetitive healthcare deals - Becker's Payer Issues
Contracted doctors, physician assistants at Ascension St. John go on strike - The Detroit News
Follow Ron Howrigon on LinkedIn.
Follow Matthew Handley on X and LinkedIn.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Fulcrum Strategies is a healthcare consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Our firm has helped over 5,000 physicians in groups of all sizes and specialties across the country to significantly improve their contract language and reimbursement rates, strategically plan for the future, and achieve business success. Learn more at FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew and Ron discuss the news that UnitedHealth Group posted a $1.4 billion loss in quarter 1 of 2024 following the Change Healthcare cyber attack. They talk about whether or not providers should care about news such as this.
Then, they discuss a new law going into effect in California that ups the minimum wage for healthcare workers to $25 an hour. There could be some very dramatic setbacks to healthcare quality, access, and affordability.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Articles mentioned in this program:
UnitedHealth posts $1.4B loss in Q1 following Change cyberattack - Becker's Payer Issues
California health workers may face rude awakening with $25 minimum wage law - KFF Health News
Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn.
Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
Fulcrum Strategies is a health care consulting firm specializing in payer contract negotiation and strategic planning for physician practices. Learn more about what we can do for your practice at fsdoc.com.
Today on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley take a look at some of the latest healthcare news. First, they discuss changes to the Medicare Advantage rates published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; they explain why insurers are saying out of pocket expenses will go up for seniors. Ron and Matthew also discuss Home Depot’s decision to appeal a settlement with BlueCross BlueShield to the Supreme Court; why wasn’t $2.67 billion enough for Home Depot? Finally, they talk about why a bill to reduce prior authorizations in Kentucky falls flat.
Listen to the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies wherever you listen to podcasts and have every episode delivered to your email by subscribing at www.FLATLINING.net.
Articles mentioned in this program:
CMS finalizing 2025 Medicare Advantage rates – Becker’s Payer Issues
Health insurance shares tumble on CMS news – Bloomberg 🔒
Home Depot asks SCOTUS to rule on BCBS anti-trust lawsuit – Becker’s Payer Issues
Kentucky gold card prior authorization bill dies – Becker’s Payer Issues
Today on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon have a conversation with Matthew Stephens, MD, a board certified radiologists at Radiology of Indiana. Dr. Stevens, Matthew, and Ron discuss the exciting topic of artificial intelligence in healthcare, particularly AI's influence in radiology. They discuss what some of the pitfalls are of using the new technology and what might be coming next. -- Dr. Matthew Stephens is a board-certified Body Imager with a cardiothoracic radiology specialty who joined Radiology of Indiana in 2023. He received his B.S. in Chemistry from Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. He also received his M.S. in Computer Science from Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, along with another M.S. in Physiology from Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN. His medical degree is from Indiana University School of Medicine. He also finished a fellowship in Medical Informatics from the Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, IN. -- Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn.
In this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss Congress’ late fix to eliminate part of the cut to Medicare physician fee schedule. They also discuss a recent report about a whistleblower case that alleges major accountable care organization Aledade engaged in serious Medicare fraud. -- Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn. -- Articles mentioned in this episode: Congress nixes part of the Medicare cut - Matthew Handley at FLATLINING.netAledade accused of Medicare fraud in whistleblower lawsuit - Modern HealthcareAledade’s statement on whistleblower lawsuit — A previous version of this episode had an inaccurate title and an inaccurate description of a former executive at Aledade. Those errors have been corrected. This episode has also been updated to include a statement from Aledade.
Medicare Advantage continues to be one of the most profitable sectors of the health insurance industry, yet a lobby group backed by the nation's largest payers has claimed the federal government isn't paying them enough. Fulcrum Strategies President and CEO Ron Howirgon and Matthew Handley discuss this. Plus, Elevance-owned Anthem BlueCross BlueShield in New Hampshire has royally screwed up their mail-order pharmacy benefits for NH's retired employees. Matthew and Ron also discuss why UnitedHealthcare and UNC Health are possibly going to go non-par on April 1. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or at www.FLATLINING.net.Follow Matthew on X: @radioHandley --- Articles mentioned in this program: Payers urge 'stability' from CMS on Medicare Advantage - Becker's Payer IssuesAnthem under fire for 'massively screwed-up' Medicare Advantage contract implementation - Becker's Payer Issues UnitedHealthcare, UNC Health near split date - Becker's Payer Issues
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss a proposal in Washington to remove the site of service differential. Removing that change would pay doctors the same regardless if a procedure is performed at a hospital or an office. Ron and Matthew also discuss if the Medicare fee schedule is going to change, a PhRMA's lawsuit against the Biden administration over drug price negotiations, and a Florida health plan that now owes the Federal Trade Commission $195 million. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or subscribe at FLATLINING.net. --- Articles mentioned in this program: In Fight Over Medicare Payments, the Hospital Lobby Shows Its Strength - KFF Health NewsJudge tosses PhRMA lawsuit over Medicare power to negotiate drug prices - STATFTC obtains $195M judgment against Florida payer, imposes healthcare ban over 'bogus' product - Becker's Payer Issues
On today's episode of the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss a current US Supreme Court case that is looking at COVID-19 misinformation and free speech. Namely, the justices are evaluating if misinformation is protected speech. Matthew and Ron discuss what this could mean for physicians who think they are giving their medical opinion to patients or to the public on social media. Plus, Ron and Matthew discuss a new list from JUST Capital that lists Cigna and Elevance as two of the nation's most "just" companies. What does that even mean? Listen wherever you get your podcasts or subscribe so it is delivered to your email weekly at www.FLATLINING.net. Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible. Articles mentioned in this episode: Supreme Court to weigh whether Covid misinformation is protected speech - STAT News2024 Overall Rankings - JUST Capital2 payers among the 'most just' companies - Becker's Payer Issues
In our continuing series on prior authorization, Ron Howirgon and Matthew Handley discuss a press release from Cigna detailing all the "good" reasons big insurers like it use prior authorizations. They claim it is to save patients money but ultimately, it saves patients' lives. But a new law in New Jersey seems to fly in the face of that saying in its introduction that prior authorizations can be detrimental to patient health in the name of saving money. Matthew and Ron explain. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or subscribe so it is delivered to your email weekly at www.FLATLINING.net. Articles mentioned in this episode: Prior authorizations help keep patients safe, improve health, and make care more affordable - Cigna HealthcareNew Jersey signs prior authorization reform bill into law - Becker's Payer IssuesBill Text: NJ A1255- Legiscan.com
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron talk about a new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rule that requires insurance companies to respond to prior authorization requests for certain products within seventy-two hours. Those products include Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Obamacare plans. Unfortunately, commercially insured patients are left out in the cold. Ron shares his concerns with the rule but acknowledges it's a step in the right direction. Plus: An update on the 2024 Medicare fee schedule - Is the cut still happening? Listen wherever you get your podcasts or subscribe so it is delivered to your email weekly at www.FLATLINING.net. Articles mentioned in this episode: Biden administration cracks down on prior authorization - The HillCMS Finalizes Rule to Expand Access to Health Information and Improve the Prior Authorization Process - CMS.gov
This week on the FLATLINING Podcas from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew and Ron discuss the current situation with the Medicare fee schedule. Unfortunately, a cut was not removed by Congress and doctors are now being paid (on average) 3% less to see Medicare patients. Ron shares his insights into what he thinks will change in the next few weeks. Then, Matthew and Ron discuss a story that was previously shared on Matthew's Friday Pulse Check newsletter (subscribe at FLATLINING.net). The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance has launched a new website that allows patients to submit claims they believe were improperly denied by their insurance company. Matthew and Ron share who is eligible for this service and whether or not this is a step in the right direction to combat massive claim denials. Read the original story here: PA launches website for patients to dispute denials - Matthew Handley
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and Ron Howirgon discuss the failed Cigna / Humana merger and why Wall Street analysts thought it was a bad idea from the start. They also talk about the potential buyer for Cigna's Medicare Advantage business and why it doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of Medicare Advantage plans. Matthew also asks Ron what he's looking at in 2024. The FLATLINING Podcast is a production of Fulcrum Strategies, a provider-focused healthcare consulting company that specializes in making sure providers are being paid fairly by the insurance companies. Learn more at FSDOC.com. Articles mentioned in this episode: Cigna abandons pursuit of Humana, plans $10 billion share buyback - ReutersCigna pulls out of blockbuster deal to create insurance giant with Humana - The Financial TimesCigna Nears Deal to Offload Medicare Business - The Wall Street JournalCigna, HCSC near deal on Medicare Advantage business: WSJ - Healthcare Dive
Our most listened to episode of 2023: In 2023, the nation’s largest health insurers saw several lawsuits brought against them for refusing to cover care under the guise that it was not medically necessary or that physicians did not comply with prior authorizations. This happened to otolayrngologist Dan Hurley and Matthew had the opportunity to interview him for the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies before he died in August. A medical director at his insurance company denied PET scan for being “not medically necessary” as Dr. Hurley and his physician were fighting to figure out how to best treat his cancer. Tragically, that decision may have cost him his life. Appropriately, as we continue to work to better our healthcare system in his memory, our most listened to episode of 2023 was Matthew's interview with Dr. Dan Hurley. New episode next week!
We are continuing the Best of 2023 series on FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies. Weight loss drugs got a lot of hype this year as more were approved by the FDA with very promising results. But, as has been noted by several lawmakers and activists, insurance companies are still refusing to cover the drugs. Ron and Matthew discussed the new drug from Novo Nordisk called Wegovy and how it could change America’s public health. Next week: the most popular episode of 2023.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, we start our best of 2023 countdown with our third most popular program of the year. Ron and Matthew discussed a bill that was proposed in the Indiana state legislature that attempted to regulate how hospitals can do business in the state. That bill was later signed into law by Indiana Governor Jonathan Jennings. Ron and Matthew also discussed statistics that showed just how many physicians died during the COVID-19 pandemic and what that means for our healthcare system going forward. Next week, Matthew shares the second most popular episode of the year.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, economist and CEO Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss the recent news that health insurance giants Cigna and Humana may merge. They discuss why Cigna's stock price has failed to rebound since the news and why Ron thinks this deal will be approved by the FTC. They also discuss, briefly, former President Donald Trump's statements that he is “seriously looking at alternatives” to the Affordable Care Act. Follow Ron on LinkedIn. Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Articles mentioned in this program: Reports of Cigna and Humana merger - Matthew Handley at FLATLINING.netThe 543-word editorial that may have just upended the presidential campaign - POLITICO
We are continuing our series on the FLATLINING Podcast which takes a look at the healthcare policies of the presidential candidates. One of the Republicans who has some concrete ideas is former United Nations Ambassador and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. Haley has proposed: * Raising the Medicare and Social Security age * Expanding access to Medicare Advantage plans * Eliminating Certificate of Need laws
Fulcrum Strategies President and CEO Ron Howirgon and Matthew Handley discuss Haley's proposals, their viability, and how they might affect American healthcare. Follow Matthew on X.Follow Ron on LinkedIn. --- Pulse Check on Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.Pulse Check on Perry Johnson --- Articles mentioned in this program: Nikki Haley is coming for your retirement - Paul Krugman in the New York TimesNikki Haley's Medicare Advantage - The Editorial Board of the Wall Street JournalNikki Haley Calls For Eliminating 'Certificate of Need' Bills [sic] to Lower Medical Costs - Timcast
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss recent reporting that the American Medical Association may lobby to ban corporate medicine. Corporate medicine is the practice of entities owning physicians, such as an insurance company or a large hospital system. They also discuss the potential cuts to the Medicare fee schedule in 2024. Articles mentioned in this episode: The AMA Debates a Federal Ban on Corporate Medicine - The American Prospect --- Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn. Subscribe and find more at FLATLINING.net.
Yesterday, Reuters reported that Cigna is in talks to sell its Medicare Advantage line of business. Upon the release of the news, Cigna's stock price was down nearly 4% at points and ended the day down 3.85%. As other insurers (namely Humana) aim to get out of their commercial business because Medicare Advantage was much more profitable, how is it that Cigna was unable to make their plans as profitable as they would have liked? Matthew Handley and Fulcrum Strategies CEO Ron Howrigon (also a former Cigna executive) discuss. Reuters - Cigna explores shedding Medicare Advantage Follow Matthew on X and LinkedIn. Follow Ron on LinkedIn. Subscribe and have every episode delivered to your email inbox!
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss UnitedHealthcare's new variable co-pay product called Surest. They talk about these questions providers and patients may have about the product: * What is a variable co-pay plan and how does it work? * Why will some doctors cost more than other doctors? * Is this a cheaper plan for employers to buy for employees? * Why do providers need to be on the lookout for new plans?
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This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew and Ron discuss a recent move by BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina to purchase the NC locations of retail healthcare chain FastMed. What does that mean for patients and nieghboring providers? Then, they dive into a recent LinkedIn post by Ron that discussed a call he had with a managed Medicaid payer who wanted one of his clients to take on a lot of risk for Medicaid patients. What does risk mean in the healthcare world and should providers take on risk? BCBS North Carolina to purchase more than 50 FastMed urgent care clinics - Becker's Payer IssuesFollow Matthew Handley on X.Subscribe and have each episode delivered to your email inbox!
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued new guidance for the No Surprises Act after the previous guidance was struck down in federal court. In short: the Department of Health and Human Services handed a win to the insurance companies that will surely end up back in court. Fulcrum Strategies president and CEO Ron Howrigon discusses with Matthew Handley what it means for emergency medicine doctors, radiologists, and anesthesiologists. Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible. Follow Matthew Handley on X: @radioHandleySubscribe to have every episode delivered to your email each week.
As we enter the open enrollment period, there is little doubt that you will be seeing ads for Medicare Advantage ads on TV. Several weeks ago on the Friday Pulse Check Newsletter, Matthew Handley broke down the top plans by tv ads in recent years. Regardless if you are a patient or a provider, there are things you ought to know about Medicare Advantage plans. Can they pay a provider less than Medicare rates? Can a patient use out-of-network benefits? What is the deal with all these promotional ties with grocery stores? Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon discuss. Follow Matthew Handley on X.Subscribe and get this podcast and other newsletters delivered to your email inbox!
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon discuss recent actions by the Biden Administration to combat medical debt. The White House announced last week that they would be working to bar medical debt from being reported to the major credit bureaus which would then help patient's credit scores. But what happens to physicians and hospitals when consequences are taken away from medical debt? Plus: you'll be suprised to hear that the Biden Administration is taking on action on an issue that most credit agencies have already dealt with. Matthew and Ron look at these questions: * Why do people go into medical debt? * Aren't there already safety nets to protect patients from medical debt? * What happens if debt doesn't matter? * Who is to blame for medical debt? * Do doctors just charge too much? * Don't the credit agencies already ignore medical debt?
Like, comment, and share. Let us know what you think by emailing us: flatlining@substack.com Follow and message Matthew Handley on Twitter: @radioHandley Read more healthcare news and subscribe to our newsletters at www.FLATLINING.net. Find out what Fulcrum Strategies can do for your practice at www.FSDOC.com.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, CEO Ron Howrigon and Matthew Handley discuss political holdups to Medicaid expansion in North Carolina. The House wants to separate the Medicaid from the state budget and pass it with a casino bill but the state Senate is refusing to agree. So who gets hurt? Is the state ready to handle more patients on Medicaid? Why should you care? Matthew and Ron break it down on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies. Articles mentioned in this program: * House to vote on budget and separate casinos-Medicaid bill this week, top appropriator says - The News and Observer * The fate of North Carolina's Medicaid expansion could be tied to casinos - Becker's Payer Issues
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This week on the FLATLINING Podcast from Fulcrum Strategies, Matthew and Ron break down several healthcare news items that are relevant to the business administration of provider practices. They take a look at these stories:
- Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and BlueCross BlueShield of Michigan claim they have cut prior-authorizations by 20% - Becker's Payer Issues
- Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant plan enrollment reaches record high - Kaiser Family Foundation
- Prisma Health and UHC get into a nasty contract negotiation - Becker's Payer Issues
Matthew and Ron discuss whether or not the prior authorization cuts will help patients and their physicians. They also talk about ACA Marketplace plan reimbursement and how the record enrollments will affect provider revenue. And they share some tips on what to do in nasty negotiations.
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Matthew and Ron dive into the debate on whether Medicare should cover every FDA-approved drug, focusing on the case of Aduhelm and Leqembi, two Alzheimer's drugs. Aduhelm was is not covered by Medicare due to limited effectiveness and high cost. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced Leqemebi would be in certain circumstances.
Key highlights* FDA approval does not guarantee that a drug should be used by everyone, it only indicates clinical effectiveness and acceptable side effects. * Medicare's decision to deny coverage for certain drugs is based on cost-benefit analysis and clinical effectiveness. * The case of Aduhelm, an Alzheimer's drug, highlights the importance of considering both the clinical value and cost of a drug.
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Registries can help ensure that drugs are given to the right patients and monitor potential side effects.
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The fragmented system of drug coverage and the need for a more unified approach.
- The importance of checks and balances in the healthcare system, including the role of the courts.
- The necessity of administrative levels and bureaucracy in healthcare organizations.
- The ongoing debate about the size and efficiency of the federal government.
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Ron Howrigon on X
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Matthew Handley and Fulcrum Strategies president and CEO Ron Howrigon discuss the recent rulings in the third Texas Medical Association case against the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), commonly known as TMA 3. Judge Jeremy Kernodle ruled that CMS violated the No Surprises Act by publishing guidelines on the Qualified Payment Amount that contradicted the law in several ways. However, Judge Kernodle ruled against the plaintiffs by deciding that the QPA does not have to be transparent. Matthew and Ron discuss what this means for physicians, hospitals, and the general public.
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Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon discuss the ongoing relevance of COVID, the cost of weight loss drugs in the US, and public opinion on prescription weight loss drugs.
Key highlights
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COVID still matters, especially for those at risk
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The cost of weight loss drugs in the US compared to other countries
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The need for a free market economy in healthcare
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Public opinion on prescription weight loss drugs
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The potential impact of covering weight loss drugs under insurance
Resources mentioned
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Health System Tracker - How do prices of drugs for weight loss in the U.S. compare to peer nations’ prices?
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Kaiser Family Foundation - KFF Health Tracking Poll July 2023: The Public’s Views Of New Prescription Weight Loss Drugs And Prescription Drug Costs
Facts
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COVID can still be severe for at-risk populations
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Vaccines can help prevent severe symptoms
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The US pays more for weight loss drugs compared to other countries
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The prevalence of obesity is high in the US
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The cost of covering weight loss drugs for all Americans would be significant
Action steps
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Stay informed about the ongoing impact of COVID
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Consider the cost of weight loss drugs and explore alternative options
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Share your opinion on prescription weight loss drugs
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Advocate for healthcare policies that promote a free market economy
Listener challenge:
Reflect on your own opinion about prescription weight loss drugs and consider the potential impact of covering them under insurance.
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Matthew Handley on X
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Ron Howrigon on X
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We received the news last week that Dr. Dan Hurley, who Matthew interviewed on the FLATLINING Podcast several months ago, had lost his battle with cancer. This week, Fulcrum Strategies president and CEO Ron Howrigon shares how Dr. Hurley's story affected him and continues to motivate him to fight for physicians.
You can listen to our entire interview with Dr. Dan Hurley by clicking here.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss a claim made by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) that millions of Americans cannot access a primary care physician or have to wait months to get an appointment. Are these claims true? If so, what can be done?
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron talk about Senator Amy Klobuchar’s (D-MN) SMART Prices Act which would speed up the drug price “negotiations” in the Inflation Reduction Act. They also talk about an idea that would eliminate the difference in costs between seeing a doctor at a hospital versus and office.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Klobuchar, Welch, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Boost Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation, Lower Costs for Americans - Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s Office
Text of the SMART Prices Act - Congress.gov
The SMART Prices Act Deserves a Failing Grade - RealClear Health
Fix Medicare Payments - RealClear Health
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron talk about three current healthcare proposals from three different groups. First, the Biden administration is proposing changes to how short-term health plans work. These were deregulated during the Trump administration and allowed to last 364 days and be renewed four times. Ron explains why that doesn’t really work.
Then, the US House of Representatives passed the CHOICE Act which expands association plans. This would allow more different businesses to get together to buy healthcare. How might that affect patients though?
Finally, Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) has proposed the Personalized Care Act which expands and deregulates Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). The problem is that this legislation will not actually lower costs or help people get healthcare. Matthew and Ron explain why.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Everything Old Is New Again? The Latest Round of Health Policy Proposals Reprises Existing Ideas - KFF Health News
Rep. Roy introduces the Personalized Care Act to help restore Americans’ healthcare freedom - Roy.House.gov
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss a few news items in North Carolina. First, the state budget has been held up by members of the state Senate effectively putting Medicaid expansion on hold. When can we see any changes and how many more Medicaid patients should providers expect to see? Then, BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina got approval from the state legislature and the governor to act more like a for-profit insurance company. What does this mean for patients and providers? How will this change the healthcare landscape in North Carolina. Matthew and Ron break it down on the FLATLINING Podcast.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
North Carolina indefinitely delays specialty Medicaid plans - Becker’s Payer Issues
North Carolina Governor Signs Bill Allowing Blue Cross to Restructure - US News
Despite state budget deadlock, Wake County plans for Medicaid expansion - WRAL News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew Handley takes a look at the “two cents to save America” plan touted by Michigan businessman Perry Johnson. Johnson says it will save America’s debt crisis. Who knew it could be so simple?
Plus, Matthew tells you what federal department Johnson wants to cut completely and how his policies affect your healthcare.
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Previous Pulse Check on the Candidates:
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. - 24 May 2022 - CLICK HERE TO LISTEN NOW
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Matthew Handley and Ron Howrigon continue their discussion about Ron’s new book. In this second part of the episode, they discuss what some possible reforms would be to fix the system and save the economy.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE BOOK.
(https://amzn.to/3CgXfmt)
From the description:
With healthcare spending accounting for nearly 20% of the U.S. economy and growing, Ron lays out a logical approach to healthcare reform that is needed to change this unsustainable trajectory.
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This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew Handley talks to Ron Howrigon about his new book CLEAR!: Reforming Healthcare to Save the US Economy. In the first of this two-part episode, they talk about some of the reasons healthcare is breaking the economy.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE BOOK.
(https://amzn.to/3CgXfmt)
From the description:
With healthcare spending accounting for nearly 20% of the U.S. economy and growing, Ron lays out a logical approach to healthcare reform that is needed to change this unsustainable trajectory.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On the next edition of Pulse Check on the Candidates, Matthew Handley breaks down businessman Perry Johnson’s “Two Cents to Save America” plan and how it will affect our healthcare.
Find all episodes of our Pulse Check on the Candidates series by clicking Election 2024.
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Share the FLATLINING Podcast with your friends and family so they can stay informed about America’s healthcare landscape.
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Yesterday, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments for a case that could end free preventative care in the Affordable Care Act. Listeners of the podcast may remember when Ron and Matthew discussed the first case last year. Judge Reed O’Connor, the federal judge who previously attempted to rule that the ACA was unconstitutional entirely, ruled that Preventative Services Task Force was not appointed by Congress and therefore could not determine what counts as “preventative care.” Ron and Matthew break down the problems with that argument.
Then, pharmaceutical giant Merck ($MRK ) is suing the Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services over the drug price negotiation provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. They claim that it would be a violation of the 5th Amendment. Do they have a case?
Finally, Johnson and Johnson’s ($JNJ ) COVID-19 vaccine lost its emergency use authorization. Why and does it matter?
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Appeals court to hear arguments about ObamaCare preventive coverage - The Hill
Appeals court to weigh fate of ACA preventive care requirement - Axios
Merck sues US government to halt Medicare drug price negotiation - Reuters
US FDA revokes emergency use authorization for J&J's COVID vaccine - Reuters
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron provide an update on the debt ceiling talks in Washington. Now that a tentative deal has been agreed to, what delays, if any, can providers expect from Medicare payments?
Then, a new budget deal in Sacramento may raise reimbursement for some office visits and maternity care for Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program. How much of an increase could physicians see and is it enough to keep doctors in-network for the program?
Plus, Democratic lawmakers there are at odds with Governor Gavin Newsom over a tax he collected but then didn’t use. Matthew and Ron break down the fight.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
California wants to increase pay for some Medi-Cal providers. How it might help patients access care - The Press Democrat
California Governor and Democratic Lawmakers at Odds Over Billions in Health Care Funds - KFF Health News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is one of the few Democrats who have decided to mount a primary challenge to President Joseph Biden in the 2024 election. He has espoused conspiracy theories about childhood vaccinations, the use of fluoride in water purification, and COVID-19. At the same time, he pushes for bonafide Democratic policies including protecting the environment and limiting special interest involvement in government. His beliefs may help him draw an interesting mish-mash of progressives disappointed in President Biden and conservatives still upset about COVID-19 policies. Matthew Handley breaks down his policies and their consequences in this special series of the FLATLINING Podcast. He takes a pulse check on Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss a new policy from UnitedHealthcare ($UNH ) that requires diagnostic and surveillance colonoscopies to undergo prior authorization. At the same time UnitedHealthcare claims they are cutting twenty percent of prior authorizations across the board.
Then, the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee passed several new regulations on Pharmacy Benefits Managers, including a prohibition on price spreading. Matthew and Ron discuss that and its impacts on patients.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
‘Stunning’ change to United’s colonoscopy coverage roils physicians and patients - STAT News
Easing the prior authorization journey - UnitedHealthcare
Senate panel advances drug pricing bills, including PBM reforms - The Hill
Pfizer CEO calls US drug price plan 'negotiation with a gun to your head' - Reuters
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the debt ceiling. Why does the United States have a debt ceiling? What happens if the US defaults on its debt? How will Medicare claims be paid if the government hits the debt ceiling?
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
What is the debt ceiling? Why it's important and how it affects you - CNBC via Microsoft Start
Five things to know about the debt ceiling bill passed by House Republicans - The Washington Examiner via Microsoft Start
How Is the 14th Amendment Connected to the Debt Ceiling? - Newsweek
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Dan Hurley, MD is an otolaryngologist in Arizona who has been diagnosed with a rare and fatal form of cancer. While he was preparing to receive chemotherapy, his insurance carrier denied a PET scan. When the decision was eventually overruled, Dr. Hurley had to make the choice to delay chemo treatment and get the scan or start the treatment to try and save his life. Matthew Handley discussed that decision with him, how he has helped his patients in similar situations, and what sparked his initial interest in medicine.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
How Cigna Saves Millions by Having Its Doctors Reject Claims Without Reading Them - ProPublica
UnitedHealthcare Tried to Deny Coverage to a Chronically Ill Patient. He Fought Back, Exposing the Insurer’s Inner Workings. - ProPublica
Aetna settles suit alleging claim-denying medical director never read patient’s records - CNN
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Dr. Dan Hurley is an otolaryngologist, a husband, and a father. He also has been diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer. While preparing for chemotherapy treatment, his insurance carrier denied a necessary PET scan. Next week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Dr. Hurley shares his story, how he pushed back against his insurance and won, and what he recommends for patients in the same situation.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
The federal government is appealing the TMA 2 case. What does that mean for TMA 3 and TMA 4? Then, Matthew and Ron discuss the current lawsuits against the FDA and why some politicos want it both ways. Plus, the federal government has spent nearly $1 billion researching long COVID; some say that’s too much with little result. And vaccines don’t cause autism, but do they cause tinnitus?
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Articles mentioned in this program:
FDA About to Make Drug Approvals More Difficult - David Williams via RealClear Policy
The NIH has poured $1 billion into long Covid research — with little to show for it - STAT News
Tinnitus not tied to COVID-19 shots, CDC says - Becker’s Clinical Leadership and Infection Control
Possible links between Covid shots and tinnitus emerge - NBC News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Today, Judge Jeremy Kernodle is holding hearings on two lawsuits against the Department of Health and Human Services for their lack of enforcement of the No Surprises Act. These two cases regard the proper calculation of the Qualifying Payment Amount (QPA) and the fee hike for submitting claims to the arbitration process; these are known as TMA 3 and TMA 4 respectively.
Matthew and Ron are at the EDPMA Solutions Summit 2023 conference in Las Vegas, Nevada where the No Surprises Act is the main topic of discussion. In today’s program they discuss why there are lawsuits to begin with and what some possible outcomes are when the cases are decided.
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This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew discuss two recent judicial decisions that contradict. A judge in Texas ruled that mifepristone, the drug used for over half of all abortions in the United States, should lose its approval status from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Then, on the same day, a judge in Washington ruled that the FDA needs to make the drug more widely available and stop some of its restrictions and warnings.
What do these decisions mean for drug manufacturers and the independent practice of medicine?
Plus: California backs off of Walgreens and CMS throws some pennies at hospitals.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
6 burning questions about how the FDA will handle conflicting abortion pill decisions - STAT
Newsom wanted California to cut ties with Walgreens. Then federal law got in way - Desert Sun
Hospitals get a slight pay boost - Axios
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Last week the investigative publication ProPublica released an article detailing Cigna’s ($CI ) use of a computer system that automatically denies claims that meet certain parameters. Our own president and CEO Ron Howirgon was interviewed for the article and participated in a ProPublica/The Capitol Forum webinar on the matter. He and Matthew discussed the contents of the article and what can be done to solve this problem in this week’s episode of the FLATLINING Podcast.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
How Cigna Saves Millions by Having Its Doctors Reject Claims Without Reading Them - ProPublica
Medically Necessary - ProPublica via YouTube
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew discuss several healthcare news items from California, including Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision to sever the state’s ties with Walgreens ($WBA ), California branded generic insulin, the court cases surrounding the COVID-19 misinformation law, and Sutter Health’s full residency program.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
California to end Walgreens contract after abortion dispute - The Associated Press
California picks generic drug company Civica to produce low-cost insulin - The Daily Democrat
California's COVID misinformation law is entangled in lawsuits, conflicting rulings - Desert Sun
Sutter Health Welcomes Record Number of Residents for Upcoming Year - Global Newswire
Sutter fills 100% of residency openings in record match year - Becker’s Hospital Review
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the new weight loss drug by Novo Nordisk ($NVO ) called Wegovy and how it and similar drugs could change America’s public health. Plus, they talk about why insurance companies aren’t covering it and how and when that could change.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Ozempic Can Cause Major Weight Loss. What Happens if You Stop Taking It? - The New York Times
What to Know About Ozempic, Wegovy and the New Weight-Loss Market - CNET
Covering new weight loss drugs could strain Medicare, policy experts warn - STAT News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron briefly discuss the closures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. What do the closures say about the rest of the economy?
Then they talk about the deal reached in North Carolina to expand Medicaid and reform the Certificate of Need laws. How soon can a group open an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) or operate and MRI machine? Will this help bring down costs for patients?
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Articles mentioned in this program:
How to get an MRI - Dr. Glaucomflecken via YouTube
Bank run scene from It’s a Wonderful Life - YouTube
NC House and Senate Republicans reach milestone Medicaid expansion deal, but Democratic governor questions the timeline - NC Health News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
In this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss two news items. First, they talk about new data that shows more physicians died during the COVID-19 pandemic than previously expected, fueling the already-created physician shortage. What happens if there aren’t enough physicians?
Then, they discuss a new bill in the state of Indiana that claims to help regulate some of the state’s largest hospital systems. Ron explains why this proposal is a bad idea.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Hundreds more physicians died than expected amid pandemic - Becker’s Hospital Review
Michael Hicks: HB1004 would restrict hospital monopolies - Daily Journal
HOUSE BILL No. 1004 - Indiana State Legislature
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, Matthew and Ron continue their discussion on the different ideas for reforming healthcare. In this episode, they focus on some of Senator Bernie Sanders’ priorities as the new chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee in the United States Senate and different proposals to save Medicare from becoming insolvent.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
‘We Ain’t Gonna Get It’: Why Bernie Sanders Says His ‘Medicare for All’ Dream Must Wait - Kaiser Health News
Yes, Social Security and Medicare still need to be reformed — and soon - Editorial Board at The Washington Post
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On the FLATLINING Podcast this week, Matthew and Ron begin a short series explaining the different proposals floating around in this Congress to “fix” or reform healthcare. In this episode, they discuss some of the contents of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s Commitment to America and why some states are attempting to pass a public option.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
The future of health care reform is now - Michael Burgess and Eric Hargan in The Hill
States are turning to the public healthcare option. They shouldn't - Sally Pipes in The Washington Examiner
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, Judge Jeremy Kernodle ruled against the Department of Health and Human Services (again) in a lawsuit surrounding the No Surprises Act. The Texas Medical Association and others were plaintiffs in the case and had previously taken the Biden Administration to court over HHS’ creation of the Interim Final Rule. Last year, Judge Kernodle ruled that HHS had not followed proper procedure and effectively tried to re-write the No Surprises Act with their Interim Final Rule.
In August 2022, HHS issued a new Final Rule that the Texas Medical Association alleged had the same intent and effect as the original Interim Final Rule. Judge Kernodle agreed.
Matthew and Ron break down the lawsuits and explain why this ruling is a win for doctors and providers.
Let Matthew and Ron know what you think about the No Surprises Act. Email them at flatlining@substack.com, tweet Matthew (@radioHandley) or Ron (@RonHowrigon), or leave a comment on this post.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
BREAKING: Providers win in new Texas Medical Association ruling - Ron Howirgon via FLATLINING.net
Judge rules on No Surprises Act - Matthew Handley via FLATLINING.net
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On this FLATLINING Podcast Short, Matthew takes a look back at an episode Ron did in 2020 about then-candidate Joe Biden’s healthcare platform. He focused his healthcare policy on a few things: lowering the Medicare age, adding a public option, drug reform, and surprise billing.
Matthew takes a look at how well President Biden has stuck to those campaign platforms ahead of the State of the Union and at the halfway point of President Biden’s first term in office.
Let Matthew and Ron know what you think about these policy platforms and how well you think President Biden has done in this regard. Email them at flatlining@substack.com, tweet Matthew (@radioHandley) or Ron (@RonHowrigon), or leave a comment on this post.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Last week, the US hit the debt ceiling and now Democrats and Republicans are pointing fingers and arguing about what might happen next. The debt ceiling affects the US government’s ability to pay its bills; one of those big bills is Medicare. So, what happens next? Should providers expect to get paid for Medicare services? What about Medicare Advantage reimbursement? Matthew and Ron break it down for you.
Plus: A look back at a ballot initiative mandating nurse proportions in Massachusetts, a bill to end the COVID-19 public health emergency, and American views on the healthcare system.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Manchin says it’s a ‘mistake’ for White House to want Democrats to address debt ceiling without GOP - CNN
Biden's new tax hammer - Axios
What you need to know about Massachusetts ballot Question 1 - Boston.com
More nurses: The smart way to save lives, money — and nurses - STAT
Guthrie Introduces Bill to End the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency - Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY 2)
Americans Sour on U.S. Healthcare Quality - Gallup
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
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This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew discuss the 2023 Medicare fee schedule. Congress, in the omnibus spending bill last year, averted a 4.5% cut by giving providers a 2.4% increase thus bringing the total cut to 2.1%. (-4.5+2.4=2.1). Ron explains how the math is done and what Medicare looks like for 2024.
In UnitedHealth Group’s 2022 financial report ($UNH ), it was disclosed that their pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), Optum, earned more profit than their insurance division, UnitedHealthcare. Ron and Matthew discuss how PBMs make their money and what Congress might do about it in 2023.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Omnibus bill halts PAYGO cuts to providers - Healthcare Finance
The PBM defense playbook - Axios🔒
UnitedHealth Group's 2022 Earnings are in, PBM Optum outperforms health insurance division - Wendell Potter via Wendell Potter NOW
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew spend the whole show breaking down the saga of Dale Folwell and the North Carolina State Health Plan. Since 2019, State Treasurer Folwell has sought to see and set the provider reimbursement rates for the self-funded health plan for state employees. The plan uses the BlueCross and BlueShield of North Carolina network. Last week, Treasurer Folwell announced the state health plan would be switching to Aetna.
Ron and Matthew break down:
-
Where this battle began
-
Why Folwell has a bone to pick with BCBS NC
-
What the change to Aetna (if it happens) will mean for providers
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, TuneIn, and Audible.
Articles mentioned in this program:
Aetna picked to operate North Carolina employee health plan - ABC11 (WTVD-TV Raleigh)
Rep. Jason Smith Picked to Lead House Ways and Means Committee - The Wall Street Journal 🔒
Congress must listen to working families and overhaul healthcare, minimum wage and education - Sen. Bernie Sanders via The Guardian
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron take on the money-related topics of medical debt and orphan drugs. Who does medical debt hurt more: patients or providers? Is Medicare for All or single payor healthcare the solution to medical debt?
Drug companies make billions on orphan drugs, meant for a small number of people with very serious illnesses. Is this ethical? What was the purpose of the Orphan Drug Act? How can the drug market be reformed?
Ron and Matthew take on all of these topics on this week’s episode of the FLATLINING Podcast.
Happy new year everyone!
Join the conversation in our chat!
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Hundreds of Hospitals Sue Patients or Threaten Their Credit, a KHN Investigation Finds. Does Yours? - Kaiser Health News
Life-saving treatments, blockbuster profits - WORLD Magazine
Nonprofit healthcare will likely take years to recover, S&P says - Becker’s Hospital Review
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
As we wrap up our best of 2022 programs, we want to thank you again for listening to the FLATLINING Podcast this year. Please remember to like and share it so that more people can find it and we can grow this podcast into something spectacular! If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts, be sure to give us five stars!
Our second most listened to segment of 2022 was our first episode where Ron and I discussed healthcare economics. Economics has an important role to play in how healthcare is done in the United States and ought to play an important role in how it is reformed.
Finally, our most listened to segment of the year was our discussion on Bright Health Group ($BHG ) . How does an insurance company go out of business? And what does that mean for patients and providers?
Thanks again for listening to the FLATLINING Podcast and we’ll see you in the new year!
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Healthcare and the Economy - Ron Howrigon in FLATLINING
Cost and Risk - Ron Howrigon in FLATLINING
“If only we….” - Ron Howrigon in FLATLINING
The End of the Beginning - Ron Howrigon in FLATLINING
Bright exits ACA health insurance marketplaces to stay afloat - STAT
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, we begin our retrospective on the most listened-to segments from the year. This episode features our bonus episode on Dr. Joseph Mercola and our discussion on healthcare being a “fact-free zone.”
Thank you for your listenership throughout this first year of the FLATLINING Podcast. We are very excited for what Year Two will bring and we’ll have more details after the first of the year.
Be sure to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so they too can become interested in the things that matter most to physicians and healthcare professionals.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
How the FDA and CDC Are Hiding COVID Jab Dangers - Dr. Joseph Mercola via TheEpoch Times
In campaign 2022, Healthcare voters will matter more - Paul Keckley, PhD
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the podcast, Ron and Matthew take an in-depth look at the proposed cuts to Medicare reimbursement in 2023. How will it affect physician practices? How will it affect patients? Can it be avoided? Is this the end of Medicare as we know it? All of that on this special episode of the FLATLINING Podcast.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
Put a stop to “Groundhog Day” games on Medicare physician pay - The American Medical Association
If you think health care is dysfunctional now, just wait until after January 1 - STAT
Medical societies unite in opposition to pending Medicare cuts - The American Medical Association
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On this edition of the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss three analysis pieces about the future of healthcare. They take a look at whether the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) needs to be reformed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, if America is on a slippery slope towards socialized medicine, and whether the direct primary care model works.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
Reform the CDC—Before Another Pandemic Hits - Carl J. Schramm in the City Journal
America’s March Toward Socialized Medicine Puts Freedom in the Crosshairs - Jack Kalavritinos and Ryan Ellis in RealClear Policy
Health Care Simple as Streaming - Chad Savage, M.D. in RealClear Health
Vaccine hesitancy prospectively predicts nocebo side-effects following COVID-19 vaccination - Nature
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss some healthcare money news. The State of New York now has a law that prohibits home liens and wage garnishing to recoup medical debt. What does that mean for providers and hospitals? And some conservatives are frustrated about $55 million being spent to reduce smoking. Ron thinks this is actually a good investment and will explain why.
Matthew and Ron also take a look at some updates to previous stories they broke down on the FLATLINING Podcast including new numbers about cyber attacks in healthcare and more hospitals charging for MyChart messages.
You don’t want to miss this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
More health systems charging for MyChart messages - Becker’s Hospital Review
Healthcare Data Breaches Doubled in 3 Years: Here's Why - Bank Info Security
Notice of Privacy Incident - Legacy Health
Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Protect Patients with Medical Debt - NY.govCDC to Spend $55M on More Tobacco Research - RealClear Policy
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Former Cigna ($CI ) executive Wendell Potter and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL09) wrote in NEWSWEEK that Medicare Advantage plans scam seniors. Ron and Matthew discuss this and you may be surprised by the answer. Plus, what does a divided government mean for healthcare policy? Is there any bipartisan thing that can get done? Also, you won’t want to miss the discussion on the 340B program and how hospitals rake in profits.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
NEW STUDY: 340B Providers Reap Big Profits, Should Be Reformed to Ensure At-Risk Patients Receive Affordable Care - Pacific Research Institute
What might the new Congress do on healthcare? - Sally Pipes via the Washington Examiner
What Divided Government Means for Healthcare - Eric D. Hargan via RealClear Policy
Republicans can stand up for patients by lowering out-of-pocket costs - Brian McNicoll via The Washington Times
Three Medical Policies that Need Immediate Changing - Pierre Kory via the Brownstone Institute
How Medicare Advantage Scams Seniors - Wendell Potter and Rep. Jan Schakowsky via NEWSWEEK
CMS to restrict Medicare Advantage TV ads amid high complaints - Fierce Healthcare
The cities with the least competitive Medicare Advantage markets - Becker’s Payer Issues
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
In this bonus episode, Matthew and Ron discuss the internet-famous Dr. Joseph Mercola and a recent article of his in the Epoch Times. In this article, he claims the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration are covering up data about the COVID-19 vaccines. He’s cried wolf before about things as crazy as bed springs, so is there any veracity to his claims now?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this episode:
How the FDA and CDC Are Hiding COVID Jab Dangers - Dr. Joseph Mercola via TheEpoch Times
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, Matthew and Ron talk share their analysis on the 2022 midterms and what it means for healthcare. Will Medicare reimbursement be cut in 2023? Then they discuss Amazon.com’s ($AMZN ) new Amazon Clinic; it is their answer to telehealth. Plus, the Cleveland Clinic is going to start charging for MyChart messages.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Cleveland Clinic to bill up to $50 for MyChart messages - Becker’s Health IT
Amazon Clinic makes debut: 6 things to know - Becker’s Hospital Review
Medicare Plan Finder Likely Won’t Note New $35 Cap on Out-of-Pocket Insulin Costs - Kaiser Health News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week’s episode focuses on cybersecurity, healthcare business headlines, and hot takes on daylight savings time. Are hospitals doing everything they can to protect our personal health information? Should HIPPA be reformed? What does Walgreens Boots Alliance’s purchase of VillageMD mean for quality, access, and affordability? And are there health effects from Christmas music and daylight savings time?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
Warner warns of cyberthreats to health care industry - Roll Call
Walgreens' VillageMD completes $8.9B deal to combine with Summit Health - Becker’s Hospital Review
Letter to HHS and DOL on Addressing Commercial Health Plan Challenges to Ensure Fair Coverage - American Hospital Association
Rejoice in the End of Daylight Saving Time - Katherine J. Wu in the Atlantic
Why daylight saving time is worse for your body than standard time - The Washington Post
Measurable health effects associated with the daylight saving time shift - NIH via PubMed.gov
Bah! Humbug! Why shops are already playing Christmas tunes - Sky News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron take a look at what open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act plans looks like for 2022. Should providers and patients be aware of any changes?
Then, virtually all states saw their Medicaid enrollment numbers jump during the COVID-19 pandemic but also saw it drop in 2022. What does 2023 have in store for Medicaid?
Plus, should we declare amnesty for COVID-19 mistakes? Should we forgive and forget or should we prosecute (literally or at the ballot box) those who shared bad information (unintentionally) or those in leadership who made bad decisions (unintentionally)?
Finally, some Halloween-themed healthcare haikus.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
Shopping for ACA Health Insurance? Here’s What’s New This Year - Kaiser Health News
Medicaid Enrollment & Spending Growth: FY 2022 & 2023 - Kaiser Family Foundation
Team Biden’s latest welfare expansion: Medicaid payments for housing, food, even furniture - The New York Post
Let’s declare a pandemic amnesty - Emily Oster via The Atlantic
A ‘Pandemic Amnesty’? Hell, No - Michael Brendan Dougherty via National Review
Readers Boo Medical Debt and Viral Threats in Winning Halloween Haikus - Kaiser Health News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss why health insurance premiums are going up. One study from the Willis Towers Watson organization, which surveyed health insurers, claims that costs are going up because of patients’ bad habits and providers recommending too many services. Matthew and Ron break down that claim and discuss the true reason behind premium hikes.
Plus, HHS is looking into new ways to crack down on poor-performing nursing homes, including pulling Medicare and Medicaid contracts. Is this the right approach and how much will that hurt a skilled nursing facility?
And the CDC has recommended that COVID-19 vaccines be part of the vaccine schedule for children. It has received some political pushback and Ron’s opinion of the recommendation might surprise you.
In the Final Thought, Matthew shares British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s ideas to reform the NHS.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the recent news that Bright Health Group ($BHG) is pulling out of their exchange plans in most states, except for Florida and California. What does this mean for Bright Health patients? What about providers who are contracted with Bright Health or its products? Is this a referendum on private equity money in healthcare?
Plus, over-the-counter hearing aids are now available for as little as $199 at Walmart. Is this a good innovation for patients? Will it hurt audiologists and ENT practices? Ron’s answer might surprise you.
Finally, Colorado has a ballot initiative that if passed will legalize some psychedelic drugs. What are the details and implications for public health? How might this affect other states? Ron and Matthew discuss.
Matthew takes a look at a new Tik Tok trend in the Final Thought.
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Find all the articles mentioned in the program at FLATLINING.net.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew venture down the COVID-19 vaccine conspiracy theory rabbit hole. When Matthew reported about the Department of Health and Human Services’ purchase of an acute radiation sickness drug last week, some jumped to say that “really the Nplate drug is used to treat thrombotic thrombocytopenia syndrome caused by COVID-19 vaccines.” Ron and Matthew dive into what thrombotic thrombocytopenia syndrome is and why the claim is bogus.
Tech is having a greater and greater influence in the world and healthcare is no exception. Matthew and Ron discuss some of the latest tech trends in healthcare, including the vast expansion of telemedicine and online charts and how artificial intelligence could play a major role going forward.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, Ron and Matthew discuss new results from the Kaiser Family Foundation’s COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor. This time, some people aren’t sure about booster shots.
Then they discuss why the FDA is approving drugs like Aduhelm and Relyvrio. These new drugs are very expensive but not very effective. What is the point of approving drugs that don’t do much?
-
Where can I find more information on the COVID-19 booster shots?
-
How many people have been boosted for COVID-19?
-
Why are drugs so expensive?
-
Why won’t Medicare cover Aduhelm?
-
Should the definition of “medicine” and “healthcare” be expanded?
-
Should IVF and other fertility measures be covered by employer healthcare?
-
Why are there limited drugs for superbugs?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this program:
KFF COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor: September 2022 - Kaiser Family Foundation
Cost and Risk - Ron Howrigon in FLATLINING.net
Sandbagging an Alzheimer’s Treatment - The Editorial Board of The Wall Street Journal
ALS drug wins FDA approval despite questionable data - ABC News
IRA’s Drug Price ‘Negotiation’ Provisions Are the Wrong Answer to the Right Question - Mei Mei Hu in RealClear Health
Why We Will Never Control Medical Costs - Wesley J. Smith in National Review
The war against superbugs caught in congressional quagmire - POLITICO
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Greetings to all of you who met us in Portland, Oregon at the ASCENT 2022 conference last week and welcome to the FLATLINING Podcast.
This week Ron and Matthew discuss one of the foundational principles of American medicine: physician independence. Plus, they’ll look at why it is so difficult to do political polling in 2022 and big news about America’s neighbor to the north.
They’ll take a look at these questions and more:
Do physicians make their own decisions?
Who influences physicians when making medical decisions?
Should there be more oversight of medical doctors?
Are the 2022 polls accurate?
Why isn’t polling accurate?
Do I still have to show vaccination status to enter Canada?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
Doctors Must Be Free to Practice Medicine with Independence - Harvey Risch, MD, PhD via RealClear Health
Embedded Bias: How Medical Records Sow Discrimination - Kaiser Health News
FTC taking ‘second’ look at Amazon’s plans to buy iRobot, One Medical - WRAL Techwire
Pollsters fear they’re blowing it again in 2022 - POLITICO
The Polls Still Do Not Show A GOP Bounceback - FiveThrityEight
Crystal Ball 2022 Senate ratings - Center for Politics at the University of Virginia
Battle for Senate - RCP Projection - RealClear Politics
Canada is lifting all COVID-19 border and travel restrictions - The Detroit News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron take a look at some new COVID-19 predictions from the Mayo Clinic and President Joe Biden’s 60 Minutes interview from Sunday night. Plus, they discuss why some doctors accused of over-prescribing opioids are relying on the Supreme Court.
They’ll take a look at these questions:
Is the COVID-19 pandemic over?
What will happen with COVID-19 in the next few weeks?
Will hospitalizations and deaths go up or down?
Why is polio making a comeback?
What has the Supreme Court said about opioids?
Are doctors responsible for the opioid epidemic?
Should you cook chicken in NyQuil?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
U.S. COVID-19 map: What do the trends mean for you? - Mayo Clinic
Biden says COVID-19 pandemic is "over" in U.S. - CBS News
Polio is exploiting a very human weakness - Katherine J. Wu in The Atlantic
Create Choices to Address the Opioid Crisis and Protect More Americans - Jennifer Weiss-Burke and David Burke in RealClear Health
Doctors Rush to Use Supreme Court Ruling to Escape Opioid Charges - Kaiser Health News
Chicken Cooked in NyQuil? Help Kids Steer Clear of Social Media 'Medicine Challenges' - US News and World Report
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew discuss long COVID and its potential effect on the US labor force and a new ruling on the Affordable Care Act. They answer these questions:
Will long COVID have an effect on the US workforce?
Should long COVID be classified as a disability?
Why is some preventative care free and who decides?
Can religious employers object to preventative care mandated under the Affordable Care Act?
How does the new ACA ruling affect other areas of healthcare?
Will the No Surprises Act cause more emergency room visits?
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
What are the Implications of Long COVID for Employment and Health Coverage? - The Kaiser Family Foundation
Many Preventive Medical Services Cost Patients Nothing. Will a Texas Court Decision Change That? - Kaiser Health News
Religion and Samuel Alito’s time bomb - Andrew Koppelman at The Hill
Little Sisters of the Poor Saints Peter and Paul Home v. Pennsylvania - SCOTUSblog
How State Surprise Billing Protections Increased ED Visits, 2007-2018: Potential Implications for the No Surprises Act - The American Journal of Medical Care
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
As Paul Keckley, Ph.D. explains in his newsletter, healthcare is a “fact-free zone” politics. Listen on to learn more.
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss a number of healthcare-related headlines, including:
The FTC probes Amazon.com’s ($AMZN ) bid to buy One Medical ($ONEM )
North Carolina debates Medicaid expansion
Where do Democrats and Republicans stand on healthcare going into the midterms?
Paul Keckley, Ph.D.: “Healthcare is increasingly a fact-free zone for politicians seeking votes. The reasons are simple.”
Plus, a city in Ohio is exploring the possibility of forgiving its resident’s medical debt.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
FTC Investigating Amazon Deal to Buy One Medical Network of Health Clinics - The Wall Street Journal
Is N.C. expanding Medicaid? What you need to know about where it stands in the legislature - Spectrum News 1
Centene agrees to settle with Washington and Washington (part of the Friday Pulse Check) - Matthew Handley at FLATLINING.net
What's Driving Biden's Approval Rating Up? - FiveThirtyEight
In campaign 2022, Healthcare voters will matter more - Paul Keckley, PhD
Toledo City Council ordinance could eliminate medical debt for around 25,000 Toledoans - 13 Action News (WTGV-TV Toledo)
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss and answer the following questions:
Should medical debt be forgiven instead of student debt?
Why can’t healthcare respond quickly to inflation and other rising costs?
How can hospitals prepare for economic downturns in the future?
What is the state of US healthcare in the current economy?
Plus hear about robot delivery system in a hospital in Michigan.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in today’s program:
Hospitals Cut Jobs and Services as Rising Costs Strain Budgets - Kaiser Health News
Meet Moxi! A robot helping Trinity Health nurses with everyday tasks - 7 Action News Detroit (WXYZ-TV)
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On this week’s FLATLINING Podcast Short, Ron explains why we shouldn’t demonize the insurance companies, despite the fact they make record profits. Right or wrong, this is the way our healthcare system is set up and the insurance companies are doing what is best for them.
Though this is not an apology for insurance companies, Ron explains why we shouldn’t hate the player, but instead, hate the game.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
As most of the nation’s primary elections draw to a close, Ron and Matthew take a look at what issues are on voters’ minds as to they go to cast their ballot. It is no surprise that healthcare costs are near the top of that list. As the Democrats continue their marketing campaign based on the Inflation Reduction Act, Republicans seem to be scrambling to be unified. Unlike in 2010 when Republicans unilaterally opposed the Affordable Care Act in that midterm, there is no clear message telling you why you should vote for a Republican. Also, Matthew feels vindicated about this piece:
Matthew and Ron also take a look at new ventures from CVS Health, Walgreens, and Amazon.com as they look to get involved with primary care. Will this help make Americans healthier?
Would you go to an Amazon.com doctor? Let us know in the comments, email us, or tweet Matthew or Ron and your comment may be heard on a future show!
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
Will This Be An Asterisk Election? - Nate Silver at FiveThrityEight.com*
State of the Union Polls 2022 - RealClear Politics
KFF Health Tracking Poll July 2022: Inflation Tops Voters’ Priorities, But Abortion Access Resonates For Key Voting Blocs - Kaiser Family Foundation
Abortion in the U.S. Dashboard - Kaiser Family Foundation
Walgreens and Amazon step up efforts to disrupt primary care - American Hospital Association
Amazon to Buy Primary-Care Firm One Medical in $3.9 Billion All-Cash Deal - Time
CVS to join Walgreens in primary care services - NOW Tonight with Joshua Johnson
What a mistrial in Flint water crisis bellwether trial means going forward - The Detroit News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss recent payor headlines. First, we all know the insurance companies make a lot of money and now that their 2022 Quarter 2 earnings reports are out, we take a look at how it affects providers and patients and what is says about the economy. In this episode we discuss Elevance (formerly Anthem) ($ELV ), UnitedHealthcare ($UNH ), Cigna ($CI ), Centene ($CNC ), and Kaiser Permenante. We excluded Aetna because it is difficult to extrapolate their earnings because it falls under the retail giant CVS Health ($CVS ).
Then, Matthew and Ron briefly discuss why MaineHealth would drop BlueCross BlueShield of Maine in favor of Aetna for their hospital employees.
Finally, BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi (BCBS MS) has filed a defamation suit against several hospital executives of the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). UMMC recently terminated its contract with BCBS MS after they couldn’t reach an agreement for a new contract. Following that termination, UMMC began an advertising and social media campaign against BCBS MS. BCBS MS, in turn, is saying it is false and defamatory. We take a look at how this changes the negotiation game for providers and payors and whether or not BCBS MS can win its lawsuit.
If you’re reading this in your email or on a podcast platform other than Substack, we use live stock price data in some of our posts and it may show up incorrectly on this platform. If you see $XX, this denotes a live stock price and it is visible at FLATLINING.net.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
Big payers ranked by Q2 revenue - Becker’s Payer Issues
Cigna’s $1.6B net income in Q2: 6 notes - Becker’s Payer Issues
Kaiser posts $1.3B loss in Q2 - Becker’s Hospital Review
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals Q2 2022 financials - Kaiser Permanente
MaineHealth swaps Anthem for Aetna to administer employee health plan - Becker’s Payer Issues
Why BCBS Mississippi is suing 3 hospital execs for defamation - Becker’s Payer Issues
‘Demonstrably false’ | Insurance provider files defamation suit against UMMC - WLBT News
BCBSMS Complaint
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
On the FLATLINING Podcast this week, Matthew and Ron take a look at the newest data on opinions about COVID-19 vaccination for young children. More than four in ten parents say they will “definitely not” vaccinate their young child and nearly three in ten say they won’t be able to get the vaccine for their child from a place they trust. We break down the numbers.
Medicare drug price negotiation continues to be pushed through Congress, this time making its way into a reconciliation bill. It eliminates some co-insurance and caps some out-of-pocket spending. It also allows the Department of Health and Human Services to negotiate for a maximum of twenty drugs. Does this bill actually do what the Democrats claim or will this be the end of a free market economy as some Republicans claim? Or both? Or neither?
And in a Final Note: Even more surprising numbers show how few parents have actually talked to their child’s pediatrician about COVID-19 vaccines.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
KFF COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor: July 2022 - Kaiser Family Foundation
Democrats' drug pricing bill still targets plenty of blockbusters - Axios
Drug price controls would limit new medicines - Sally Pipes in the Washington Examiner
Reducing Patient Access to New Medications: Progressives Latest Medicare Price Fixing Scheme - Robert E. Moffit, Ph.D. in RealClear Health
How Would the Prescription Drug Provisions in the Senate Reconciliation Proposal Affect Medicare Beneficiaries? - Kaiser Family Foundation
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the recent proposal for the 2023 Medicare fee schedule. Analysis of that proposal shows a 4.4% cut across the board for doctors in all specialties, but there is a good reason not to worry.
Plus, with the “public option” going nowhere in Washington, some states have taken matters into their own hands. One of those states is Colorado and they created a mechanism that will force premiums down. Sneak peek: It is not good for providers and hospitals.
Finally, a new report exposed flaws in the Christian healthshare ministry, Solidarity Healthshare. Ron and Matthew discuss the benefits and consequences of healthshares and what may need to be done to keep them in play in the United States’ complex healthcare system.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
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Articles mentioned in this program:
The Public Option Debate Moves to Colorado - The Dispatch
Colorado’s Public Health Care Option Moves Ahead After Hospital Negotiations Break Down - Colorado Public Radio
Solidarity HealthShare under fire for unpaid bills, unmet regulations - The Pillar
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
In this FLATLINING Podcast short, Matthew discusses what healthcare topics will be the main drivers in the 2022 midterms. As Republicans plan to talk about COVID-19 restrictions (still), Democrats seem ready to move on and talk about proposals to fix rising healthcare costs for millions of Americans.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this program:
Did America fall victim to "creeping authoritarianism" during the COVID-19 pandemic? - FLATLINING.net
The gaping hole in the Republican response - FLATLINING.net
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released their initial changes to the Medicare fee schedule for 2023. Analysis shows that this change could cut revenue from Medicare patients by 4.4%. For some specialties and hospitals, that is hundreds of thousands of dollars. Truth be told, however, by the time 2023 comes around the cut will probably not be that steep; no member of Congress wants to be the person who cut pay to doctors during a midterm election year.
The Kaiser Family Foundation did a study a few years ago that determined the average family would save about $2000 a year if all doctors and hospitals were paid at Medicare rates. That sounds like a good idea for individuals and small businesses. But if a 4.4% cut will cut hundreds of thousands of dollars out of a specialties revenue, what about the 20% and 30% cuts they would get from not being able to negotiate higher rates from insurance companies. In 2020, Ron discussed what the consequences would be if all doctors were paid at Medicare rates.
Let us know in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweeting Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron dive into some of the top healthcare headlines for this week. First, a new report shows that as many as 85% of hospitals are non-compliant with an Affordable Care Act rule that requires them to make their prices public. Then, a new analysis of Health Savings Accounts shows that they are becoming less and less effective. Is there a way to still make them work? And the strangest: Senators Rand Paul and Bernie Sanders agree on something healthcare-related and Matthew and Ron discuss the implications of buying drugs from other countries.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
Survey Shows Most U.S. Hospitals Violate Hospital Price Transparency Rule - NBC News via YouTube
Long-Overdue Fines on Noncompliant Hospitals Are a Boost for Price Transparency - Cynthia Fisher via RealClear Health
Health Savings Accounts No Longer Promote Consumer Cost-Consciousness - Health Affairs
Health Savings Accounts and Health Care Costs: While You Were Sleeping, Part II - Thomas P. Miller at the American Enterprise Institute
A Proposal to Import Drugs from Other Countries Creates an Unusual Alliance in the Senate - FLATLINING.net
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron take a look at the current state of the economy. If you thought that just because COVID-19 cases might be winding down that we are out of this thing, think again. The economic problems we are facing now are bigger than one president or election and can be traced back to problems caused by the virus. Matthew and Ron also take a look at the question of how a recession might affect American healthcare? Unfortunately, things aren’t looking too good.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
President Biden speaks at the AFL-CIO - CNBC Television via YouTube
The Fed is about to jack up interest rates, Wall Street says - CBS News via MSN
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Earlier this year, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced the Medicare for All Act of 2022. It is obvious that this bill is not going to get passed this year, however, that didn’t stop Ron and Matthew from taking a look at what some of the outcomes of the bill might be. Medicare for All is popular among young progressives and even among some physician and nurses’ groups. '
How would the Medicare for All Act of 2022 affect immigration, the supply of doctors, the quality of hospital care, and how much power would it give the Secretary of Health and Human Services? Ron and Matthew discuss this on this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned on this week’s program:
The Medicare for All Act of 2022 - Congress.gov
Bernie Sanders Calls It 'Absurd' To Tie Health Insurance To Employment, Advocates Medicare For All - Forbes Breaking News via YouTube
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Ron and Matthew discuss private equity money becoming more and more involved in American healthcare. On one hand, it’s a way for struggling practices to “bailout” without selling their practice to a hospital, but on the other, it may turn healthcare’s focus away from patients and more towards money. Are their private equity benefits for doctors? What about benefits for patients?
Plus: More and more students in residency are unionizing and preparing to strike for higher pay. How does this affect patient care?
Ron and Matthew discuss this and more on this week’s FLATLINING Podcast.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
KFF COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor: Pregnancy Misinformation – May 2022 - Kaiser Family Foundation
Betting on ‘Golden Age’ of Colonoscopies, Private Equity Invests in Gastro Docs - Kaiser Health News
Profits Over Patients? Private Equity Firms Increasingly Going Into Health Care - NBC News
Why private equity is interested in healthcare? - Medical Economics
Burned Out by Covid and 80-Hour Workweeks, Resident Physicians Unionize - Kaiser Health News
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Progressive American politicians frequently point to Canada’s Medicare system as a wonderful alternative to what we have in the United States. In that system, the federal government allots an amount of money to each province for them to handle healthcare individually. How Ontario handles that task was a hot topic at the premier debate a few weeks ago. In this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron dive deep into the functionality of the Canadian healthcare system and the ideas (or lack thereof) of Premier Doug Ford (Progressive Conservative Party) and party leaders Andrea Horwarth (Ontario New Democratic Party) and Steve Del Duca (Ontario Liberal Party).
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
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Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
What is Bill 124 and how is it affecting Ontario's nurses, public-sector workers? - City News
Bill 124, Protecting a Sustainable Public Sector for Future Generations Act, 2019 - Legislative Assembly of Ontario
Canada's health care system - Canada.ca
How Long is Too Long? Canadian Healthcare Wait Times - Benefits by Design
Doug Ford’s Government Wants to Privatize Parts of the Health Care System To Reduce COVID-19 Surgical Backlog - Press Progress
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Health insurance, at least in the United States, is one of the most difficult products to make an informed investment in and many Americans do not know what it is they are buying. Many don’t understand the deductible, the out-of-pocket maximum, and what is co-insurance anyway? Ron and Matthew break all of that down this week in this remedial discussion on the basics of US health insurance.
Let us know what you think in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweet Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this program:
The Out-of-Pocket Cost Ponzi Scheme - RealClear Health
High-Deductible Health Plans Continue to Grow in Popularity, but Are They Right for You? - Value Penguin
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week, we present another FLATLINING Podcast Short. In this short, Ron discusses the implications of another potential policy proposal coming up in this year’s midterms and the 2024 presidential election: Medicare at 50. In principle, the concept seems to make sense; it is a form of the public option. Can providers and healthcare delivery systems handle and, more importantly, afford this change? Ron breaks it down.
Let us know in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweeting Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the podcast, Matthew and Ron dive into some of the healthcare headlines over the past few weeks. They discuss quality and access to care for a closing/downsizing Chicagoland hospital, they take a look at where Anthem gets its money from, they wonder why the IG report on Medicare Advantage plans denying medically necessary care wasn’t a bigger news story, and they pick apart an opinion piece encouraging you to, well, be your own doctor.
What do you think of these news stories and what is your response to them? Let us know in the comments below, email us at flatlining@substack.com, or tweeting Matthew or Ron.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Follow Matthew (@radioHandley) and Ron (@RonHowrigon) on Twitter.
Articles mentioned in this week’s episode:
Downsized City Sees Its Health Care Downsized as Hospital Awaits Demolition - Kaiser Health News
Big insurer Anthem took in $38 billion in the first 3 months of 2022. Most of it by far came from taxpayers. - Wendell Potter NOW
Medicare Advantage Plans Often Deny Coverage for Eligible, Necessary Care: Report - US News and World Report
Question Your Doctor - RealClear Books and Culture
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the nature of Big Insurance. You hear about Big Tech, Big Pharma, and, especially if it is an election year, you probably hear about Big Insurance. How did BlueCross and BlueShield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna get to be as big as they are today? Are their sizes and profit margins driving the costs of healthcare up? What if we redistribute those profits? Listen to this episode of the FLATLINING Podcast to find out.
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Articles mentioned in this week’s program:
In 2021, 72% of UnitedHealth’s $222.9 billion health plan revenue came from taxpayers. - Wendell Potter NOW
The vast majority of Centene and Humana's $209 billion in revenues came from taxpayers. - Wendell Potter NOW
A Short History of American Medical Insurance - Imprimis
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
In this FLATLINING Podcast Short, Ron discusses how, prior to the No Surprises Act, Congress was treating doctors unfairly when it came to legislating surprise billing.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss the two other pieces of the healthcare equation; that is affordability and quality. The New York Times said two years ago (prior to the COVID-19 pandemic) that the United States had the least effective and most expensive healthcare system in the world. Is that really true? Take a listen to hear what Ron and Matthew have to say about American healthcare quality, innovation, and affordability for the average patient.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron continue their discussion on the problems with the American healthcare system. Last episode, they identified three parts of the healthcare equation: access (or universality), quality, and affordability. Matthew and Ron discuss access in this week’s episode. What does it mean for the US to have universal access or universal coverage? How has the access problem worked in the United Kingdom or Canada? Where does “health equity” come into all this? Check out the podcast to find out.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Articles mentioned in this week’s episode:
The Opposition Virus - FLATLINING.net
Universal healthcare dies in California, again - FLATLINING.net
Canada’s health care system - Canada.ca
The NHS Website - nhs.uk
Health Equity - cdc.gov
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron begin to discuss the subject of Ron’s book, Flatlining: How Healthcare is Killing the US Economy. This isn’t to say that people haven’t proposed good or creative solutions (look at Medicare for All or the Affordable Care Act), but that as it stands now, healthcare puts a huge strain on the federal budget and the budgets of millions of Americans.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Articles mentioned in this show:
The gaping hole in the Republican response - FLATLINING.net
Healthcare and the Economy - FLATLINING.net
Universal Healthcare Dies in California Again - FLATLINING.net
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
This week on the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss COVID-19. Last week, the United States ticked over the two-year anniversary of COVID-19 restrictions. Matthew and Ron discuss what is the coronavirus, the strengths and weaknesses of telemedicine, who you should trust to give you information on COVID-19, and what the US will look like going forward.
You can find the FLATLINING Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Audible.
Here are some articles mentioned in this program:
The End of the Beginning - FLATLINING.net
Lawmakers push pandemic probe modeled on 9/11 Commission - The Washington Post
COVID Data Tracker - CDC.gov
Reuters COVID-19 Tracker: Europe - Reuters
Tracking Covid-19 vaccinations worldwide - CNN
WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard - The World Health Organization
The Patients before Profits Act of 2022 - Congress.gov
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
In the first full episode of the FLATLINING Podcast, Matthew and Ron discuss why economics plays such an important factor in healthcare, why you need to hear about doctors and the good that they do, and a man who wanted to “save the COVID patients.”
Subscribe to the FLATLINING Podcast on these platforms:
The FLATLINING Podcast will be available soon on Google Podcasts.
Articles mentioned in this episode:
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net
Welcome to the new FLATLINING Podcast, the podcast that will be bringing you great healthcare analysis and discussion each week. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and to signup for our FLATLINING newsletters.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.flatlining.net