Becker’s Payer Issues Podcast

In this episode, Gene German, Chief Technology Officer at Lyric, explores how small, domain-specific language models (SLMs) are driving measurable improvements in claims and payment integrity. He outlines how combining AI with human judgment can increase efficiency, reduce variability, and…

In this episode, Gretchen Wagner, Associate Vice President – Risk Management, Humana, discusses how health plans are navigating cost pressures, workforce challenges, and rapid change by strengthening value-based partnerships and operational efficiency. She highlights the critical role of data interoperability,…

In this episode, Josh Lumbley, MD, Chief Quality Officer and Senior Vice President of Physician Operations at NorthStar Anesthesia, discusses the critical factors health system leaders should evaluate before transitioning anesthesia partners. He shares practical guidance on transition planning, staffing…

In this episode, Dr. Sameer Amin of L.A. Care Health Plan discusses how building durable community infrastructure, rather than short-term programs, supports continuity of care amid Medicaid enrollment shifts. He explains how investments in housing, food access, and care coordination…

In this episode, Brian Cheney, Division SVP of Sales Operations and Commercial Markets Growth at Health Care Service Corporation, discusses the launch of Unity Health Hub and how it helps employers navigate the growing number of digital health solutions. He…

In this episode, Rhonda Randall, DO, Chief Medical Officer for UnitedHealthcare’s employer and individual business, discusses the company’s expansion of doula coverage to millions of members and the evidence behind its impact on maternal and infant health. She also explains…

In this episode, Daniel J. Elliott, MD, MSCE, FACP, FAAP, Chief Medical Officer of Provider Experience at Centene Corporation, discusses how payers and providers can work together to address cost pressures, workforce challenges, and care coordination. He also shares perspectives…

In this episode, Krista Nelson, CEO of Optum Health, shares her vision for strengthening value based care through a more focused care delivery model, stronger clinician support, and expanded technology capabilities. She also discusses Medicare Advantage policy stability, the role…

In this episode, Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Chief Medical Officer for Aetna Medicaid, discusses a new collaboration with National Association of Community Health Centers to improve hypertension control in underserved communities. She shares how data, community partnerships, and addressing social…

In this episode, Dawn Maroney, President of Alignment Health and CEO of Alignment Health Plan, joins the podcast to discuss how payer–provider relationships are evolving amid cost pressures and workforce shortages. She explores common gaps between strategy and execution, the…