In this episode of Optimized, we sit down with Thomas Cunningham, a seasoned expert in private equity, healthcare M&A, and physician practice management. Thomas shares key insights on financial growth strategies for independent orthopedic practices, the critical role of ancillary revenue, and how telehealth and remote patient monitoring are shaping the future of musculoskeletal care. We dive into the biggest trends in private practice consolidation, the common mistakes practices make when implementing ancillary services, and what business strategies will be most critical for orthopedic groups to remain independent, profitable, and patient-focused in the years ahead. Whether you’re a practice leader, physician, or healthcare executive, this episode offers a strategic roadmap for navigating the changing landscape of orthopedic care at private practices.

In this episode of the Optimized Podcast, we sit down with Dave Zauha, Executive Director of Nebraska Spine + Pain Center, to explore how independent practices can thrive through collaboration, innovation, and strategic leadership. Dave shares his philosophy on creating efficient, patient-first systems, leveraging telemedicine and digital tools, and building strong internal cultures that support both staff and patients. He offers insights into ancillary service development, how to choose the right partners, and why private practices should be working together—not competing—to navigate the challenges of modern healthcare. This conversation is a must-listen for practice leaders looking to grow smarter, serve better, and strengthen the future of spine and orthopedic care.

This episode of the Optimized Podcast features Nichole Alley, a seasoned orthopedic practice executive with expertise in healthcare operations and revenue cycle management. Nichole shares strategies for integrating ancillary services, leveraging technology for operational efficiency, and enhancing the patient experience—all while maintaining financial sustainability in today’s challenging healthcare landscape. She discusses the role of revenue cycle management, the importance of patient-focused care, and how private practices can remain competitive by adapting to industry changes. Plus, she offers insights into leadership, innovation, and fostering a culture of exceptional service. Whether you’re an administrator, provider, or practice leader, this conversation is packed with practical strategies to optimize healthcare delivery and practice success.

In this episode of the Optimized Podcast, Dr. Howard Luks, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and author of Longevity Simplified, shares his expertise on the intersection of orthopedic health, longevity, and patient optimization. Dr. Luks discusses the importance of proactive care, the impact of lifestyle choices on surgical outcomes, and how movement and nutrition play a critical role in recovery and injury prevention. He explores the role of patient education, digital content, and emerging trends in conservative orthopedic care. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how small, sustainable lifestyle changes can lead to better orthopedic health and overall well-being.

In this episode of the Optimized Podcast, Dr. Russell Bodner, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over four decades of experience, shares his insights on the evolution of orthopedic care and the critical role of patient optimization. Dr. Bodner discusses the importance of proactive care, surgical optimization, and value-based medicine. He explores how preventative strategies can improve outcomes, the challenges of implementing preoperative optimization, and the need for a more comprehensive, patient-centered approach in orthopedics. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of orthopedic surgery and how providers can better support patients before, during, and after treatment.

Welcome to the Optimized Podcast from Prescribe FIT, where we’ll explore the intersection of orthopedics, lifestyle health, and virtual care strategies to optimize patient outcomes and private practice success. Join us to hear from industry experts as we dive into the tools, technologies, and approaches shaping the future of orthopedic care. Our vision for this podcast is to advance orthopedic care through expert-driven insights, innovative strategies, and patient-centered solutions around musculoskeletal (MSK) patient optimization and outcomes.