A Growing Concern in Healthcare: Bias in AI Algorithms

As generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into healthcare, we must address its complexities and potential pitfalls. One of the most pressing concerns is the risk of bias, particularly when AI tools are used to support decision-making. While bias is not a new issue in medicine, it’s always been around. AI has the potential not only to… Read More »

The Value of Physician Certification Examinations

There is an ongoing debate surrounding the American Board of Internal Medicine’s (ABIM) board certification and recertification programs, particularly regarding costs and overall value. Central to this discussion is a critical question; does passing the initial certification exam translate into better clinical outcomes?  And, does maintaining certification through recertification play a meaningful role in improving patient care? These… Read More »

Separating value and cost in Value-Based payment models

The cost of medication has long been a topic of debate. One key question is whether, high-priced medications truly provide value by reducing the disease burden and offering financial benefits in the long run. This ‘return on investment’ concept becomes especially critical in value-based payment contracts, where the focus often shifts towards controlling short-term spending rather than addressing… Read More »

How will the US Supreme Court’s Decision on the Chevron Deference Impact Healthcare?

The US Supreme Court’s decision on Chevron deference isn’t merely a legal technicality, it’s a potential game-changer for healthcare. The implications could be profound, potentially reshaping healthcare policy and regulation as we know it. This situation warrants our attention and understanding. Congress sets the law of the land and federal agencies were created to implement those laws to… Read More »

Navigating the Future of Medicare Advantage Plans

Recently, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans have surged in popularity, accounting for more than 50% of coverage for Medicare beneficiaries. Consequently, this rise has intensified competition among payors, leading to increasingly aggressive marketing strategies. To thrive in this competitive landscape, MA providers must differentiate their plans. Experience shows that targeting specific demographic segments is an effective strategy, and MA plans are… Read More »

Health Care Workforce Violence, a Worsening Issue

Healthcare workers play a crucial role in serving others, especially when their patients are at their most vulnerable. They provide their services with utmost dedication and respect, going beyond their duties to show empathy and care. However, they are also at a higher risk of experiencing violence at work, accounting for 73% of all nonfatal workplace injuries. Moreover,… Read More »

Does Tax Exempt for Hospitals Mean a More Holistic Approach to Community Well-being?

In an era where healthcare expenditure looms large and continues to grow, discussions surrounding non-profit hospitals’ tax-exempt status have gained momentum, triggering conversations to the value communities are receiving in lieu of tax revenue generation.  Hospitals were borne out of the social necessity of where to care for people who are sick when they could not be cared… Read More »

Embracing Human-Centered Care: A Paradigm Shift in Healthcare

In our continual pursuit of delivering enhanced value to those we serve; we are embarking on a transformative journey. One that shifts our approach from a solely physiologic model to one more rooted in understanding human conditions and behavioral economics. Rather than solely educating individuals on their disease states, our focus now lies in activating and engaging them… Read More »

Navigating the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Health Equity

Currently, it seems Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of everything, including influencing and transforming healthcare. At the same time, there continues to be a growing emphasis is on ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. Recognizing the potential biases within AI systems, the Department of Health and Human Services has taken a significant step by proposing rules… Read More »