Hosts Heather and Matthew welcome Del Murphy, Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of CaroMont Health, to discuss the growth and evolution of one of the Carolinas' largest independent healthcare systems. Del shares insight into CaroMont's commitment to remaining independent, the strategic decisions that have fueled its growth, and the importance of deep connections with the communities that rely on its care. We also explore the challenges facing independent health systems, including reimbursement pressures, innovation, workforce recruitment, and the investments needed to expand access to care. Tune in for a look at how CaroMont is balancing community-focused care and long-term sustainability!

This week, Heather and Matthew welcome Richele Taylor, CEO and Chief Legal Officer of the South Carolina Medical Association, to discuss the most pressing issues facing physicians across South Carolina. Richele shares insight into the growing administrative burden on physicians, the challenges of maintaining independent practices, and the continued consolidation of healthcare organizations. We also explore physician non-compete agreements, workforce shortages, scope of practice debates, and how recent regulatory changes may impact healthcare access and delivery across the state. Tune in for an insightful discussion!

Hosts Heather and Matthew welcome Dr. Gene Brown, a physician leader at Charleston ENT & Allergy, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing independent physician practices. As the leader of South Carolina's largest private Ear, Nose, & Throat practice, Dr. Brown shares insight into the growth of Charleston ENT & Allergy and the strategies that have helped the practice remain independent. We also explore the financial pressures and changing regulations impacting independent practices, as well as how allergy symptoms and treatments have evolved since they opened their doors in 1997. Tune in now!

In this special crossover episode of Work This Way and Taking the Pulse, Heather is joined by Maynard Nexsen attorneys Jennie Cluverius and Matthew Roberts to discuss the top issues at the intersection of healthcare and employment law. Jennie and Matthew share insight into healthcare consolidation and executive compensation trends, the changing landscape of physician non-compete agreements, and the role of AI in hiring and workforce management. We also explore ADA and mental health accommodations, along with best practices for healthcare employers navigating these issues. Tune for guidance on the employment law trends shaping today's healthcare industry!

This episode, hosts Heather and Matthew welcome Dr. Susan Wilson, founder of Charleston HealthSpan Institute, to discuss her more than 30 years of experience helping patients navigate hormone deficiencies and menopause-related symptoms. Dr. Wilson shares her perspective on the long-term impact of the Women's Health Initiative study, how the understanding of hormone replacement therapy has changed over time, and why more women are seeking treatment today. We also dive into common misconceptions about hormone therapy and its  potential benefits for healthy aging. Tune in now for an informed discussion on hormone health!

How will generative artificial intelligence address some of healthcare's biggest challenges, including operational inefficiencies, physician burnout, and the development of innovative treatments? Hosts Heather and Matthew welcome Dr. Robert Pearl, a renowned physician, author,  Stanford professor, and former CEO of The Permanente Medical Group, to discuss the transformative potential of AI in the healthcare industry. Dr. Pearl shares his expertise on how generative AI could likely reshape care delivery and help healthcare organizations improve outcomes while reducing costs. We also explore the barriers to adoption and the importance of physician training and buy-in. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into the future of healthcare!

How can independent rheumatology practices succeed in an increasingly challenging healthcare environment? Hosts Heather and Matthew welcome Mike Chavez and Ray Waldrop, Co-Founders of The Leaders Rheum, to discuss the challenges facing rheumatology practices, including workforce shortages, rising costs, and increasing payer pressures. We also explore how independent practices are leveraging technology and collaborative business models to improve operations while maintaining physician autonomy. Tune in for a look at how The Leaders Rheum is empowering rheumatology practices for long-term success!

Hosts Heather and Leighton welcome Dr. Eric Poon, Chief Health Information Officer of Duke Health, to discuss the development of AI governance programs and the lessons healthcare leaders can apply as they evaluate new tools. Dr. Poon shares insight into Duke Health’s AI governance journey, including the importance of balancing innovation with oversight, measuring the value of AI investments, and adapting governance frameworks as technology evolves. We also explore how organizations can create processes that support both efficiency and responsible adoption. Tune in for insight into how healthcare organizations are navigating the opportunities and challenges surrounding AI governance!

How are independent physician practices adapting as employers take a more active role in shaping healthcare decisions and costs? Hosts Heather and Matthew welcome AnnMargaret McCraw, CEO of Midlands Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, to discuss her insights into the challenges facing independent practices, including declining reimbursement, rising costs, and increased organizational consolidation. We also explore how employer-driven programs like surgical carve-outs and centers of excellence are reshaping patient choice and provider dynamics. Tune in for a look at how private practices are navigating change and positioning themselves to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care.

How can health systems cut through the noise of evolving AI tools to identify technology that truly improves operations and patient care? Hosts Heather, Matthew, and Leighton welcome Dr. Mark Sendak, Co-Founder and CEO of Vega Health, to discuss how he helps healthcare organizations navigate the artificial intelligence landscape and implementation process. Dr. Sendak shares insight into where AI adoption most commonly breaks down as organizations work to evaluate vendors, implement new technology, and improve patient outcomes. We also discuss how Vega Health helps bridge the gap between developers and providers, and why eliminating the digital divide is critical for improving access and population health. Tune in for a look at how innovators are working to make AI more accessible and impactful across healthcare.