The Gist Healthcare Podcast

On today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, the CDC’s top vaccine panel prepares to vote as questions grow around future access. Privia Health expands further into value-based care with a new deal to acquire Evolent’s ACO business. And a new report explores why more hospitals are closing in urban areas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, we look at three headlines making waves in the industry: the Trump administration’s claim of a connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and conditions such as autism and ADHD, CVS’s Omnicare division filing for bankruptcy protection, and VillageMD will sell more than 30 of its Texas clinics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of this year’s most talked-about shows is The Pitt, a critically acclaimed HBO Max medical drama starring Noah Wyle of ER fame. Touted as one of the most realistic portrayals of an emergency department, the series recently earned multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series and Best Lead Actor.In this episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, host J. Carlisle Larsen speaks with Sylvia Owusu-Ansah, MD, a medical consultant for the show who helped shape key storylines. Dr. Owusu-Ansah is an associate professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and serves as director of EMS at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

House Republicans propose a stop-gap funding bill that includes continued telehealth flexibilities but avoids addressing Affordable Care Act subsidies. Health insurers say they’ll continue to cover vaccines, even as questions remain around long-term access. And Kaiser Permanente expands into a new market through a joint venture. All that and more on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has opened applications for the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed new members to a key CDC vaccine advisory panel. Plus, a new report reveals just 5% of plastic medical waste is currently recycled. These stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Several states have announced they’ll create their own vaccine distribution guidelines as confusion continues at the federal level. Telehealth company Remedy Meds is set to acquire its rival, Thirty Madison. And a new study shows that the No Surprises Act helped lower out-of-pocket healthcare costs for consumers.Those stories coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Senator Bill Cassidy urges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to delay an upcoming advisory panel meeting following leadership changes at the agency. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reports that accountable care organizations generated more than $2 billion in savings for Medicare last year. And Cigna’s Evernorth announces a major investment in a former Walgreens-owned company. Those stories—and more—on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The newly confirmed director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is out of her role amid reported disagreements with leaders at Health and Human Services over COVID-19 vaccine guidance. Walgreens has officially transitioned to a privately held company. And, a new survey reveals a growing shortage of qualified physicians available for hire. Those stories on today's episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A federal judge has halted recent changes to the Affordable Care Act exchanges. More Medicare patients are leaving the hospital against medical advice, according to a new report. And satisfaction with Medicare Advantage plans is falling, fueled in part by declining trust. These stories and more are on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services announces plans to start an advisory committee to help reimagine federal health insurance programs. A federal court ruling strikes down a Medicare Advantage marketing rule introduced during the Biden administration. And, Johnson & Johnson commits to a major investment aimed at strengthening domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. Those stories—and more—on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The American Academy of Pediatrics releases a new childhood vaccination schedule and diverges from federal guidelines. Employers prepare for rising healthcare costs in the year ahead. And Elevance Health faces a legal setback in its Medicare Advantage star ratings dispute. Catch these stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Medicare is at risk of automatic cuts totaling hundreds of billions of dollars over the next 10 years. Texas officials have declared the recent measles outbreak officially over. And, AstraZeneca introduces a new at-home nasal flu vaccine, aiming to expand access and improve vaccination rates. Hear more on these stories in the latest episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services revives a disbanded childhood vaccine safety task force. Illinois moves to tighten rules on artificial intelligence in behavioral health. And UnitedHealth Group finalizes its merger with home health provider Amedisys after resolving antitrust concerns. All that and more, coming up on today's episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Trump orders a stockpile of critical drug ingredients. Highmark Health partners with Abridge to bring AI to real-time prior authorizations. And, AbbVie announces a major investment in U.S. manufacturing. Those stories and more on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters following last week’s deadly shooting. Thousands of healthcare providers—including some of the nation’s largest health systems—are opting out of a multibillion-dollar antitrust settlement with Blue Cross Blue Shield carriers. And the national shortage of sterile saline IV fluid has officially ended. Those stories and more, coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many healthcare organizations nationwide have piloted various artificial intelligence tools to streamline workflows, reduce administrative burden among clinicians, and more. However, there isn’t a set of guidelines or principles for healthcare organizations to use when deploying these tools. This is something that the Coalition for Health AI and the Joint Commission have partnered to create.   This week, we hear the conclusion of host J. Carlisle Larsen’s conversation with CHAI CEO Brian Anderson, M.D., about his organization’s work with the Joint Commission to establish best practices for the use of AI tools within healthcare.   You can listen to the first half of the conversation here.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The federal government slows progress on mRNA vaccine research. UnitedHealth Group and Amedisys resolve a key legal challenge, clearing the way for their multibillion-dollar merger. And Vertex Pharmaceuticals experiences a delay in its development of a new class of non-opioid pain therapies. Those stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump Administration finalizes an inpatient payment rate increase for 2026. Medicare and Medicaid reportedly consider covering GLP-1 drugs for obesity. And, the childhood vaccine exemption rate hits record high. Those stories and more on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Joint Commission and the Coalition for Health AI (CHAI) recently announced they would partner to scale the responsible use of artificial intelligence tools in healthcare settings. The organizations plan to release guidance and best practices this fall based on conversations happening now among industry stakeholders.   On today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast, host J. Carlisle Larsen is joined by CHAI CEO Brian Anderson, MD, about the partnership and themes that are already emerging from these early conversations.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Healthcare and technology stakeholders pledge to make healthcare data sharing easier following a meeting at the White House. A federal judge blocks Arkansas’s strict pharmacy benefit manager law. And, Swiss drugmaker Roche weighs direct-to-consumer drug sales. Those stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reportedly plans to fire the panel tasked with making preventive services recommendations. UnitedHealth Group slashes its 2025 outlook amid rising medical costs. And, pediatric flu deaths reach highest level outside of a pandemic season. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BayCare Health System in Florida was one of four systems nationwide to pilot a wellbeing program to combat burnout and stress among nursing staff, in partnership with the American Nurses Foundation. The program employs a monitoring and communication program first developed for high-stress jobs, like first responders and military roles.  Following the success of the pilot, the system announced this spring it would roll out the program at all 16 of its acute care hospitals.  On today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, host J. Carlisle Larsen is joined by Trish Shucoski, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, chief nurse executive at BayCare. And BayCare's advanced nursing educator, Rocky Hauch, DNP, RN, PCCN.  You can listen to the first half of the conversation here.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new bill in the House would guarantee parity between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage reimbursements. Analysis from health insurer filings signals a spike in premiums for Affordable Care Act plans.  And, a national hospital operator is selling its outpatient lab services in a multimillion-dollar deal. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

States sue the Trump administration over an Affordable Care Act eligibility and enrollment rule.  Two large northeastern health systems explore a possible merger.  And, Humana sues the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services again over the drop in its Medicare Advantage star ratings.  Those stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Burnout and stress are prevalent among healthcare providers, including nursing staff. Burnout among nurses can lead to decreased productivity, increased errors, and higher rates of absenteeism. It can also be costly for hospitals and healthcare systems to replace nurses who decide to leave due to stress.   One system experimenting with novel ways to support its nursing staff is BayCare Health System in Tampa, Florida. It was one of four systems in the country chosen by the American Nurses Foundation to pilot a nurse wellbeing program that borrowed a stress program originally developed for high-stress roles, like those in the military.   On today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, host J. Carlisle Larsen is joined by Trish Shucoski, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, chief nurse executive at BayCare. And BayCare's advanced nursing educator, Rocky Hauch, DNP, RN, PCCN.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Republican Senator has introduced a new bill that would unwind some future Medicaid cuts. A federal judge has struck down a Biden-era rule that would have barred medical debt from credit reports. And, new research finds no link between aluminum in childhood vaccines and increased risk of certain disorders. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services resumes layoffs following a recent Supreme Court ruling. Physicians could see a Medicare pay increase in a CMS proposed rule.  And, shareholders approve Walgreens go-private deal with a private equity company. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The healthcare industry will see roughly $1 trillion in federal spending cuts over the next decade now that H.R. 1—better known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—has been signed into law. Michael McAuliff of Modern Healthcare joins host J. Carlisle Larsen to discuss how the proposed cuts to Medicaid evolved from a wish list item for policymakers to law, and how lawmakers have responded.   You can read Michael’s article about how providers and payers are preparing for those cuts here.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services has canceled a planned meeting of the US Preventive Services Task Force. The number of measles cases hits a 30-year high after being eliminated in the United States. And, a Senate committee advanced President Trump’s nominee to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Senate has passed the One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes significant cuts to Medicaid. The Supreme Court upholds the Affordable Care Act’s preventive services mandate. And, Novo Nordisk inks a new direct-to-consumer partnership. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospital at home programs have been around for years but gained popularity during the pandemic. While HaH has long been tailored for adults—mainly seniors—some hospitals are experimenting with programs that allow other patients to receive acute care at home, including Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital which piloted a first-in-the-nation hospital at home program. Stefanie Reed, DO, who serves as the Medical Director of the program, joins host J. Carlisle Larsen to talk more about what they’ve learned since launching the program and the outcomes of the pilot.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Medicaid cuts and other healthcare provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill have been struck by the Senate parliamentarian. President Trump’s pick to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention testifies in front of a Senate panel. And, health insurers promise reforms to prior authorization procedures. Those stories coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump Administration narrows the enrollment window for purchasing Affordable Care Act coverage and limits eligibility. Medicare will likely be insolvent three years earlier than anticipated, according to the program’s trustees' report. And, Ascension announces it will purchase ambulatory surgical services organization AmSurg. Those stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A federal judge rules that the abrupt cancellation of National Institutes of Health research grants was illegal and likely discriminatory. A new report finds there may be an additional 16,000 preventable deaths related to proposed cuts to Medicaid. And, a recent cyberattack on a healthcare vendor exposes the private health data of more than five million people. Those stories on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Senate’s take on the One Big Beautiful Bill includes bigger cuts to Medicaid, compared to the House’s version. Iowa becomes the latest state to implement stronger restrictions on pharmacy benefit managers. And, 23andme’s former-CEO will now become the buyer of the bankrupt biotech company. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the biggest shows so far this year is the critically acclaimed medical drama The Pitt, which stars Noah Wyle of ER fame. The HBO Max series has been called one of the most accurate descriptions of an emergency department. On today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast, host J. Carlisle Larsen is joined by Sylvia Owusu-Ansah, MD, who served as a medical consultant for the show and contributed storylines. She’s an associate professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the director of EMS at UPMC Children’s Hospital Pittsburgh.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. names new members to a CDC vaccine advisory panel days after he removed existing members. UnitedHealth Group’s credit rating is downgraded. And, states sue bankrupt DNA testing company 23andme to protect consumers’ genetic data. Those stories coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All 17 experts have been fired from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s independent vaccine panel. A new poll finds that the recent One Big Beautiful Bill Act--and its cuts to Medicaid--is raising concerns among voters.  And, digital chronic condition management company Omada Health has had the second splashy digital health IPO in the last month. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation bill around Memorial Day that extends tax cuts put into place during President Trumps first term in office, as well as increases border and military spending. However, the bill also includes significant federal healthcare spending cuts, notably in the joint federal-state Medicaid program.   Michael McAuliff covers policy and politics in Washington D.C. for Modern Healthcare. He joins the podcast to talk more about the bill.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Staffers laid off from the Department of Health and Human Services this spring are suing the Trump Administration and are seeking class action status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention contradicts HHS’s recent recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines for children.  And, the annual cost of insuring a family tops $35 thousand. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump Administration releases more a detailed proposed budget for the Department of Health and Human Services for the 2026 fiscal year, including significant cuts to agencies within the department. The FDA rolls out a new artificial intelligence tool. And, hospitals spent billions of dollars to ensure workplace safety in 2023. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services cancels Moderna’s multi-million-dollar award to develop an mRNA vaccine for influenza, including bird flu. CVS and Express Scripts sue Arkansas over state law restricting pharmacy benefit managers. And, a new study from Mass General Brigham finds that traditional diagnostic tools outperformed generative AI. Those stories coming up on today's episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump Administration updates its hospital price transparency rules and seeks public input. The Department of Health and Human Services narrows its COVID-19 vaccine guidance. And ChristianaCare will purchase five Crozer Health facilities. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A judge blocks the Trump Administration’s reduction-in-force executive order, which includes the Department of Health and Human Services. Virtual physical therapy company Hinge Health has a big IPO. And, a new white paper finds a significant increase in the number of Americans taking blockbuster GLP-1 drugs to manage overweight or obesity. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investment banks downgrade UnitedHealth Group amid ongoing challenges. The Food and Drug Administration changes its COVID-19 guidelines, restricting the shots to certain at-risk groups. And, Cigna’s Evernorth subsidiary will cap the cost of pricy weight loss drugs for members. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The House Budget Committee moves forward a tax bill with significant cuts to Medicaid. Pennsylvania's governor calls for more oversight of private equity healthcare deals following the closure of Crozer Health. And, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals buys 23andme’s assets for $256 million. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United States Supreme Court rules against hospitals in an ongoing case about disproportionate share hospital payments. Aetna announces it will leave the healthcare exchanges. And, Novo Nordisk is partnering with telehealth companies to expand access to its GLP-1 drugs. Those stories and more coming up on today's episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Department of Health and Human Services is facing another legal challenge over its decision to cut funding for public health initiatives. More nurses say they plan to leave the field due to stress and burnout. And, a new study finds that Medicare Part D coverage of popular weight loss drugs could raise costs by billions of dollars. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Senate HELP committee report calls for reforms within the 340B drug discount program. Blue Shield of California leaked health data of nearly 5-million members to Google. And, measles misinformation is on the rise nationwide, according to a new poll. That's coming up on today’s episode of the Gist Healthcare podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The newly established, so-called Department of Government Efficiency is reportedly freezing healthcare grants. Eli Lilly sues telehealth companies over compounded versions of its popular weight loss drug. And, Walgreens settles a case from the federal government in the ongoing opioid crisis. Those stories and more coming up on today’s episode of Gist Healthcare Daily.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.