HLTH Forward Podcast

In this episode, I am in conversation with Viz.AI CEO, Dr. Chris Mansi, a pioneer in leveraging artificial intelligence for early disease detection. Our discourse unveiled the revolutionary strides Viz.ai has made in the medical field, particularly in neurovascular and cardiology domains. Dr. Mansi elucidated how their AI-powered platform has dramatically reduced time-to-treatment for stroke patients, citing their flagship product that can detect large vessel occlusions in CT scans within minutes, enabling rapid triage and intervention.

Their AI algorithms have shown remarkable efficacy in detecting pulmonary embolisms and aortic dissections, conditions where timely diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death. Dr. Mansi shared a poignant case study where their AI platform identified a subtle aortic abnormality that human radiologists had initially overlooked, potentially averting a catastrophic outcome.

In the United States alone, it's estimated that diagnostic errors contribute to 40,000 to 80,000 deaths annually. Furthermore, approximately 12 million adults annually experience diagnostic errors in outpatient settings. 

Chris emphasized that their AI tools are not meant to replace human expertise but to augment it, creating a synergy that promises to revolutionize patient outcomes. By providing rapid, accurate medical imaging analyses, Viz.aAI's technology empowers healthcare providers to make swift, informed decisions, potentially saving thousands of lives each year. This harmonious blend of artificial intelligence and human insight represents a new frontier in medicine, where the early detection of diseases becomes a possibility and a standard of care.

About 
Viz.ai, Inc. is emerging as the leader in applied artificial intelligence in healthcare. Our mission is to fundamentally improve how healthcare is delivered in the world, through intelligent software that promises to reduce time to treatment and improve access to care. Our flagship product, Viz LVO, leverages advanced deep learning to communicate time-sensitive information about stroke patients straight to a specialist who can intervene and treat. In February 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted a de novo clearance for Viz LVO, the first-ever computer-aided triage and notification platform. Most recently, Viz.ai announced its second FDA clearance for Viz CTP through the 510(k) pathway, offering healthcare providers an important tool for automated cerebral image analysis.

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In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking fusion of virtual reality and mental health with Nanea Reeves, the innovative CEO and founder of TRIPP. With nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiencing mental illness each year, and global depression rates rising by 28% since 2020, the need for novel therapeutic approaches has never been more urgent. Nanea's journey into this space isn't merely a business venture; it's a deeply personal mission rooted in her experiences and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.

We'll delve into how TRIPP leverages the immersive power of VR to revolutionize mindfulness and emotional well-being. Our discussion will address a fascinating paradox: while some view VR as a potential escapism, it's proving to be a powerful tool for confronting and managing mental health challenges. For instance, we'll explore how veterans, who often struggle with PTSD, find unexpected comfort in interacting with avatars rather than humans, free from the fear of judgment.

Our conversation will navigate the unique hurdles of developing mental health technology, VR's potential to democratize access to wellness practices, and the delicate balance of harnessing technology while mitigating concerns about digital overwhelm. Nanea's insights will offer listeners a glimpse into a future where cutting-edge technology and compassionate, human-centered design converge to transform mental health care.

About
Nanea Reeves founded TRIPP, an award-winning global XR Wellness company, following a tremendous personal loss that led her to rethink her life’s purpose. With a lifelong meditation practice that began in her teens, Nanea recognized its transformative powers, and she wanted to figure out a way to make meditation more accessible to people around the world. TRIPP was the solution, which married her meditation practice with her love of video games and her extensive software development experience. Through interactive, immersive experiences that combine gameplay mechanics, mindfulness structures, and psychedelic-inspired environments, users are guided into powerful, awe-inspiring, transformative states. Ultimately, TRIPP aims to empower people to take control of their mental and emotional well-being wherever they are.

Nanea brings over 15 years of experience in digital distribution, video game technologies, and mobile application development. Before co-founding TRIPP, Nanea was President and COO of textPlus, one of the top mobile communications applications. Nanea was also COO at Machinima, the largest gaming network on YouTube that was acquired by Warner Brothers, Chief Strategy Officer at Gakai (acquired by Sony) and she was the Senior Vice President and COO of Global Online at Electronic Arts who acquired JAMDAT, the mobile game start-up that Nanea ran technology at. Through her leadership at these previous companies, she’s facilitated $1.6 billion in exits.

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In this episode, I am in conversation with Seema Verma, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Oracle Health & Life Sciences.

Seema shared her insights into the company's innovative approaches to transforming healthcare. Verma highlighted Oracle Health's focus on leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics to streamline healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. She emphasized the importance of interoperability in healthcare systems, explaining how Oracle's solutions facilitate seamless data exchange between healthcare providers and institutions. Verma also discussed Oracle Health's efforts to enhance patient engagement through personalized digital health tools and their work on predictive analytics to support preventive care initiatives.

Drawing from her experience as the former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Verma provided a unique perspective on the intersection of healthcare policy and technology. She reflected on how her tenure at CMS, where she oversaw critical programs like Medicare and Medicaid, informed her current role at Oracle Health. Verma explained how this background helps her navigate the complex regulatory landscape of healthcare while driving innovation. She also discussed the potential of Oracle Health's solutions to address some of the longstanding challenges in healthcare delivery that she encountered during her time at CMS, such as reducing administrative burdens, improving cost transparency, and enhancing the quality of care for millions of Americans.

About
Seema Verma serves as the Executive Vice President and General Manager at Oracle Health, where she leverages her extensive experience to drive innovation and transformation in healthcare technology and delivery. 
A  prominent American healthcare policy expert who served as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator from 2017 to 2021 during the Trump administration. Born in 1970 to Indian-American parents, Verma holds a bachelor's degree in life sciences from the University of Maryland and a master's in public health from Johns Hopkins University. Before her CMS role, she founded SVC Inc., a health policy consulting firm. At CMS, Verma oversaw the marketplace of Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act, focusing on market-driven reforms, state flexibility, price transparency, and healthcare technology modernization. Known for her efforts to reform government health programs and advocacy for consumer-driven healthcare policies, Verma has continued to be influential in the healthcare sector. 

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Global aging trends show a significant shift in demographics, with approximately 10% of the world's population aged 65 and over. This proportion is expected to double by 2050, reaching about 1.5 billion people. The old-age dependency ratio, currently at about 14 elderly per 100 working-age individuals globally, is projected to increase substantially in the coming decades. Additionally, the number of centenarians worldwide, estimated at 573,000, is expected to grow more than sixfold by 2050, reaching 3.7 million.

In this captivating episode, I delve into aging research with Dr. Valter Longo, a renowned expert who challenges conventional wisdom on longevity and nutrition. Dr. Longo explores whether aging should be classified as a disease or viewed as a natural life process, sharing insights from his centenarian studies. He introduces his research-based "Longevity Diet," designed to extend health span and potential lifespan while debunking the prevalent "protein culture" myth that encourages excessive protein consumption.

Dr. Longo's approach to aging is both refreshing and thought-provoking. Rather than viewing aging as something to be avoided, he advocates for embracing it gracefully through proper nutrition and physical activity. This perspective, combined with practical advice drawn from his extensive research, offers listeners a new way to think about and optimize their aging process. The episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in living a longer, healthier life, making it a must-listen for those curious about the science of longevity and personal well-being.

About
Dr. Longo studied biochemistry as an undergraduate at the University of North Texas and received his PhD in Biochemistry from UCLA, where he worked under calorie restriction guru Roy Walford, MD. He completed his postdoctoral training in neurobiology with longevity pioneer, Caleb Finch, PhD. He also received extensive training in immunology, endocrinology, microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, and pathology.

His studies focus on the fundamental mechanisms of aging in simple organisms and mice and how these mechanisms can be translated to humans. The Longo laboratory has identified some of the key genetic pathways that regulate aging in simple organisms and has demonstrated that the inactivation of such pathways can reduce the incidence or progression of multiple diseases in mice and humans. His laboratory has also developed dietary and genetic interventions that protect normal cells while sensitizing cancer cells to chemotherapy— interventions are now being tested in many US and European hospitals.

The Longo laboratory recently published key findings on a 5-day periodic dietary intervention called Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD), and showed in randomized clinical trials that FMD reduces the risk factors and markers associated with aging and diseases. Dr. Longo’s most recent studies focus on the use of FMD interventions to activate stem cell-based regeneration to promote longevity.

Dr. Longo has received numerous awards for his work: the 2010 Nathan Shock Lecture Award from the National Institute on Aging (NIA/NIH), the 2013 Vincent Cristofalo “Rising Star” Award in Aging Research from the American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR), the 2016 Merz Professorship, the 2016 Boehaave Professorship, the 2016 Jubilee Professorship, and the 2016 Glenn Award for research on aging. In 2018 he was named by “Time Magazine” one of the 50 most influential people in health care for his research on fasting-mimicking diets as a way to improve health and prevent disease.

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The United States faces significant maternal health challenges, with a higher maternal mortality rate than many developed countries, particularly affecting women of color and those in rural areas. Against this backdrop, Maven Clinic has emerged as a leading innovator in women's and family health. As the world's largest virtual clinic in this field, Maven leverages technology to provide comprehensive, personalized care, offering a unique blend of telemedicine and care coordination services. Their platform connects patients with a diverse network of providers specializing in reproductive health, pregnancy, postpartum care, pediatrics, and more, addressing gaps in traditional healthcare systems and offering on-demand access to specialists, mental health support, and educational resources.

At the helm of Maven's medical leadership is Dr. Neel Shah, widely regarded as a pioneering force in maternal healthcare. His approach to transforming maternal care is rooted in addressing systemic issues and reimagining care delivery. Dr. Shah emphasizes the critical role of trust in healthcare, arguing that trustworthiness must be actively operationalized within healthcare systems. This perspective is especially relevant in addressing the various divides in maternal care, including racial, socioeconomic, and geographic disparities. Maven's approach, guided by Dr. Shah's vision, focuses on continuity of care, supporting individuals throughout their entire reproductive journey and beyond. By integrating data-driven insights with personalized care plans, Maven has demonstrated significant improvements in maternal health outcomes, including reduced C-section rates and NICU admissions.

Dr. Shah's work, in conjunction with Maven's mission, aims to bridge the divides in maternal care by advocating for more inclusive, culturally competent, and patient-centered approaches. This vision includes expanding access to quality prenatal and postnatal care, addressing social determinants of health, and fostering a healthcare environment where all mothers feel heard, respected, and supported. Maven's commitment to inclusivity and addressing health disparities has made it a valuable resource for diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ families and those facing fertility challenges. 

Through partnerships with employers and health plans, Maven has played a crucial role in expanding access to quality maternal and family healthcare, potentially reaching millions of individuals who might otherwise face barriers to comprehensive care. This approach not only addresses the immediate healthcare needs but also tackles the broader issues of social, emotional, and financial support throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period, areas where the United States currently lacks comprehensive systems compared to many other developed nations.

About
Dr. Neel Shah, MD, MPP, FACOG, is the Chief Medical Officer of Maven Clinic, the world's largest digital clinic for women's and family health. He is also a visiting scientist at Harvard Medical School where he previously served as a professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology. 

Dr. Shah has been recognized with the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Humanitarian of the Year Award from the March of Dimes for impacting maternal health in the United States. He is featured in the 2023 Emmy-nominated film Aftershock, currently streaming on Hulu and The Color of Care from the Smithsonian Channel and Executive Producer Oprah Winfrey. Dr. Shah founded the nonprofit Costs of Care and March for Moms and the Delivery Decisions Initiative at Ariadne Labs, a research and social impact program of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

As a physician-scientist, Dr. Shah has written landmark academic papers on maternal health and healthcare policy, and contributed to four books, including as senior author of Understanding Value-Based Healthcare (McGraw-Hill), whi

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As a country, we are experiencing mental health crises across all ages.  I sit down with Dr.Jenna Glover, Chief Clinical Officer at Headspace, to delve into the pressing mental health crisis in the United States. 

We are facing alarming statistics, including that 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness annually, 17% of youth aged 6-17 grapple with mental health disorders, and suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-34. Against this backdrop, Glover discusses how Headspace, a digital mental health platform, addresses these challenges through accessible meditation and mindfulness tools tailored for various age groups and life circumstances,  as well as mental health coaching, therapy, and psychiatry.

As we share equal concern regarding the massive shift we witness, Dr. Glover highlights Headspace's innovative approaches, such as the "Monster Meditations" program designed specifically for children, and a diverse range of exercises catering to adults from all walks of life. 

She emphasizes the company's commitment to equity, detailing how their research-driven methodology has improved the platform's inclusivity and effectively removed barriers to access for diverse populations. 

This focus on equity in both research and delivery has resulted in increased usage across different demographic groups, positioning Headspace as a vital resource in the ongoing effort to support mental health for all Americans.

About
Jenna Glover is Chief Clinical Officer at Headspace, where she oversees the company’s Care Services, including coaching, therapy, psychiatry, QA and training, and care enablement teams, to ensure members receive high-quality, culturally responsive care. She previously served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Director of Psychology Training at Children’s Hospital Colorado, and as the lead psychologist at Avalon Hills, a residential eating disorders program based in Logan, Utah. Jenna’s clinical work focuses on utilizing motivational interviewing and acceptance-based therapies across a range of internalizing disorders.

Her passion is working with others to develop skillful behaviors that help create a life worth living. Jenna also provides professional and community outreach, frequently delivering talks and lectures on promoting wellness and self-care. She has also given a TED Talk on these topics. She has been honored with awards for teaching excellence, service to students, and wellness. Jenna is a licensed psychologist, and received her doctorate in Combined Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychology from Utah State University.

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In a nation that cherishes freedom and democracy, the men and women who have worn the uniform and stood as guardians of our liberty deserve the utmost respect, care, and support. Dr. Shereef Elnahal, the Under Secretary of Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is at the forefront of this noble cause, ensuring that those who have sacrificed so much for our country receive the highest quality healthcare they deserve.

With an annual budget of approximately $102.2 billion, Dr. Elnahal oversees the delivery of care to more than 9 million enrolled Veterans, a responsibility that he carries with unwavering dedication and compassion. His mission is not merely to provide medical treatment but to ensure that our nation's heroes have access to comprehensive and accessible care, addressing both their physical and mental well-being.

One of the key focuses of Dr. Elnahal's work is the mental health of Veterans, particularly those grappling with the invisible wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He understands that the transition from the battlefield to civilian life can be a daunting and often traumatic experience, and his approach is holistic, encompassing not only the Veterans themselves but also their families and loved ones.

Dr. Elnahal recognizes that the path to healing and reintegration into society is a journey that requires a supportive ecosystem. By engaging families and communities, he aims to create an environment where Veterans can find solace, understanding, and the resources they need to manage their mental health challenges effectively.

Intertwined with this mission is the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing Veterans' healthcare. AI has the power to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient care through advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and personalized medicine. Dr. Elnahal's vision encompasses leveraging the latest AI technologies to improve the quality of care, streamline processes, and ultimately provide Veterans with the most cutting-edge and efficient healthcare services available

As a nation, we owe an immense debt of gratitude to our Veterans, and Dr. Shereef Elnahal's work at the Department of Veterans Affairs is a testament to our commitment to honoring their sacrifices. Through his compassionate leadership, innovative approaches, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by our Veterans, he is paving the way for a future where every Veteran receives the highest standard of care, both physically and mentally, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives after their service to our country.

About

Dr. Shereef Elnahal is the Under Secretary for Health at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). He was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden and confirmed by the United States Senate on July 21, 2022. As the Under Secretary for Health, Dr. Elnahal directs a healthcare system with an annual budget of approximately $102.2 billion, overseeing care delivery to more than 9 million enrolled Veterans. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at over 1,300 health care facilities, including 171 VA Medical Centers and 1,120 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics). VHA is the nation's largest provider of graduate medical education and a major contributor to medical and scientific research. More than 73,000 active volunteers, 127,000 health professions trainees, and more than 362,000 health care professionals and support staff are an integral part of the VHA community.

Dr. Elnahal is physician leader who previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of University Hospital in Newark, NJ from 2019 through 2022. Dr. Elnahal led University Hospital through the COVID-19 public health emergency. The hospital has served as a model for urban h

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On today's episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dorothy Kilroy, Chief Commercial Officer at Oura, the innovative company behind the popular Oura ring wearable device. 

Oura has been making waves in the health tech space by providing valuable sleep, activity, and biometric data to help people optimize their well-being. 

 Dorothy gives us an inside look at the technology and science behind the Oura ring. We'll learn about the key benefits and features that have made it a favorite among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to elevate their health and performance. 

Dorothy will also share insights into Oura's groundbreaking work in areas like women's health tracking and partnerships with major sports leagues. Whether you're already an Oura user or just curious about wearable tech, this interview will be incredibly informative. 

So get ready to take notes as we dive into the world of sleep optimization, readiness scores, and cutting-edge health data with Dorothy Kilroy of Oura.

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In an insightful interview, Dr. Giullian, Chief Medical Officer of DaVita, a healthcare provider serving over 250,000 patients annually, reveals his pioneering vision for revolutionizing kidney care. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology, mental health support, nutritional interventions, and a relentless focus on preventive care and aging, Dr. G spearheads a comprehensive transformation in the nephrology field.

DaVita's strategic leveraging of emerging technologies, such as cloud computing and data integration, is at the core of this revolution. Through their proprietary DaVita CWOW™ (Center Without Walls™) platform, the company is pioneering advanced collaborations across care teams and streamlining workflows to personalize treatment plans, optimize outcomes, and proactively identify risk factors for kidney disease progression. This data-driven approach enables DaVita to deliver tailored care solutions that address each patient's unique needs and circumstances.

Recognizing that kidney care extends beyond clinical interventions, DaVita is implementing innovative programs like DaVita's Mindful Life Educator Program to address the psychological challenges faced by kidney patients, fostering resilience and improving quality of life. Dr. G emphasizes the importance of mental well-being in the overall healing process, acknowledging the emotional toll that chronic kidney disease can take on patients and their loved ones.

Moreover, Dr. G champions DaVita's "Food as Medicine" initiative, emphasizing the crucial role of nutrition in kidney disease management. DaVita's team of renal dietitians collaborates with culinary experts to develop tailored dietary plans that cater to patients' medical needs, cultural preferences, and personal tastes. This holistic approach not only supports better health outcomes but also enhances patient satisfaction and compliance with dietary recommendations.

Diving into the complex transplant landscape, Dr. G candidly discusses the challenges faced by patients awaiting life-saving kidney transplants. He outlines DaVita's advocacy efforts to improve organ procurement policies and increase access to this critical treatment option through initiatives like the DaVita Transplant Community. By raising awareness and driving policy changes, DaVita aims to address the organ shortage crisis and provide more opportunities for patients to receive transplants.

Furthermore, Dr. G recognizes the profound implications of an aging population on kidney health. DaVita's Kidney Smart℠ program focuses on early detection and preventive strategies, empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward maintaining optimal kidney function. Additionally, their specialized services like DaVita Assisted Living and DaVita Home Dialysis support the unique needs of elderly kidney patients, enabling them to receive high-quality care in familiar and comfortable settings.

 His passion for driving positive change and improving lives resonates throughout, inspiring hope and optimism for the future of nephrology at DaVita and beyond. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, compassion, and excellence, DaVita is poised to redefine the standards of kidney care, empowering patients to live their fullest lives.

About
Dr. Giullian serves as the Chief Medical Officer of DaVita, a kidney care company dedicated to improving the holistic care and experience of patients suffering from kidney disease. Dr. G, as he is often referred to, received his MD from Vanderbilt University and his MBA from the University of Colorado at Denver. As CMO of DaVita, he is focused on transforming healthcare, reducing the global burden of kidney disease and restoring fulfillment for physicians caring for vulnerable patients.

Dr. Giullian served on the board of directors for the Renal Physicians Association and as Chairman of the Healthcare Payment Committee. He also s

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In this episode, I talk to Dr. Nwando Anyaoku, a physician and public health advocate working tirelessly to address racial and socioeconomic disparities in healthcare.

Dr. Anyaoku shares her personal story of growing up in Nigeria and witnessing firsthand the devastating impacts of inadequate access to quality healthcare. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in medicine to promote health equity.

After completing her medical training in the United States, Dr. Anyaoku spent several years providing care in underserved communities. She quickly realized that while medical treatment is crucial, deeper systemic barriers are preventing many patients from achieving optimal health outcomes.

Dr. Anyaoku emphasizes the importance of looking upstream to address the root causes of poor health. This means advocating for policies and interventions that target socioeconomic inequality, structural racism, environmental justice, and other societal factors influencing well-being.

The episode explores some of Dr. Anyaoku's current initiatives, including:

• Working with community organizations to increase health literacy and patient advocacy
• Researching implicit biases in healthcare settings
• Developing cultural competency training for medical professionals
• Lobbying for Medicaid expansion and affordable housing in underserved areas
• Forging cross-sector partnerships to improve community health holistically

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Anyaoku shares powerful stories that humanize the stark statistics around health inequities. Her passion for this work shines through as she calls for collective action to dismantle unfair systems and ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.

About
Dr. Nwando Anyaoku is a physician executive, speaker, coach and consultant based in Seattle, Washington.

A board-certified pediatrician, Dr Anyaoku serves as VP and Chief Health Equity officer for Providence Swedish Health Services. Working closely with clinical and community leaders, she leads efforts in advancing equity in healthcare and the delivery of culturally competent care, with an emphasis on technology and digital innovation. She is an experienced executive and physician leader with expertise in clinical and business decision making. Dr Anyaoku is faculty at Carnegie Mellon University Master of Medical Management program. As a strategic advisor and consultant, she not only specializes in health equity, but also provides leadership development and supports physicians and executives in every aspect of their leadership journeys, including career reimagining and strategic planning.

Dr. Anyaoku is best known for her strong commitment to helping people and communities thrive and bloom where they are planted. When she’s not coaching and supporting medical leaders or speaking at conferences and special events, Dr Anyaoku serves as an active board member for several regional and national boards of directors. Dr. Anyaoku is a proud mother of two boys and an avid reader, traveler and cook.

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