In the final part of their conversation, the boys discuss with Brian how the IRS was pressured into changing rules to accommodate what was known as “the family glitch,” and the origins of the “why and how” of Paragon Health was created. Paragon is Brian’s response to the vacuum in public policy of market-based ideas in healthcare policy. His experience has assembled a team to assist a grassroots think tank to feed and share with state leaders ideas for better public health policy. *This episode originally aired Jun 3, 2022*

In reviewing the history of health efforts under President Trump, Joe and Eric continue their talk with Brian exploring what emerged from the ashes of the failed “repeal and replace” legislative efforts on Capitol Hill. Through executive orders and Brian’s hard work at NEC, President Trump detailed a three part agenda: Association Health Plans; 2. short duration health insurance; 3. Health reimbursement accounts. These ideas became the center of health reform for conservatives even after Associated Health Plans were struck down by a federal court. *This episode originally aired Jun 3, 2022*

Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland begin a three-part discussion with Brian Blase, formerly of the National economic Council and now CEO of Paragon Health. Part one covers the early days of the Trump administration with stories of frustration and missed opportunities. What it was like to work for a president who assumed that Republican leadership on Capitol Hill would be ready with a plan of their own after a decade talking about the need to "repeal and replace" Obamacare. Apparently, that was too much to hope for. Luckily, Brian had a plan – and an executive order – to reinvigorate the debate around choice and competition. *This episode aired June 3, 2022 *

Welcome to DC EKG where Joe and Eric explore and explain “the what and why” of Washington. Through thoughtful interviews with inside the room experts, they shine a light on the black box of DC and break down healthcare issues and policy areas that shape healthcare.