Storm Clouds on the Horizon for Reimbursement Top News Stories, May 2025

Is America’s Healthcare System Beyond Repair?  Rita Numerof Doesn’t Think So.In this powerful crossover episode of TCNTalks and Anatomy of Leadership, Chris Comeaux sits down with healthcare strategist and thought leader Rita Numerof, Co-founder and President of Numerof & Associates.  Together, they pull back the curtain on one of today’s most urgent crises: the deeply flawed business model driving healthcare in America.Rita offers a bold diagnosis, explaining how misaligned incentives, opaque pricing, and outdated payment systems have derailed care.  But she doesn’t stop there.  With clarity and conviction, she lays out a path forward: a market-based model that ties payment to performance, empowers consumers, and demands transparency and accountability from every player—from providers to payers to policymakers.The episode dives into:Why the current system resists change—and how to break throughThe role of technology in reshaping care deliveryHow insurance companies contribute to the dysfunctionWhat real consumer responsibility in healthcare could look likeRather than offering quick fixes, Rita champions systemic reform with optimism and urgency. 🎧 Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation.  It’s a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of healthcare.Guest: Rita Numerof, Co-founder and President of Numerof & AssociatesHost: Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOShttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/redesigning-healthcare-a-path-to-value-based-careTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this episode of TCNtalks, Marcus Escobedo, Vice President of Communications at the John A. Hartford Foundation, joins Chris Comeaux to discuss the future of healthcare for aging populations. Marcus shares how the Foundation’s Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative transforms care for older adults through the evidence-based 4Ms framework: focusing on what matters to older adults, medication management, cognitive health, and mobility.The conversation dives into the impact of ageism in healthcare and the importance of reshaping language and practices to serve older adults better. Marcus and Chris explore how healthcare systems can elevate the voices of older adults, address the unique challenges of the workforce, and promote age-friendly practices that honor each person’s dignity and preferences.They also tackle communication barriers surrounding serious illness and hospice care, offering valuable insights and resources for enhancing these vital conversations. Given the growing demographic of baby boomers, who comprise most of those served in healthcare, this episode is essential listening for anyone committed to creating better systems for aging with grace and dignity.Guest: Marcus Escobedo, MPA, Vice President of Communications at the John A. Hartford FoundationHost:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of Teleioshttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/the-healthcare-customer-of-the-futureTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

What happens when artificial intelligence meets end-of-life care?  How do we reconcile private equity's profit motives with hospice's mission-driven ethos?  These questions took center stage in this month's roundup of hospice news with host Chris Comeaux and guest Cordt Kassner.The May edition of TCNtalks' top news stories reveals a healthcare sector at a fascinating crossroads.  AI has emerged as both a tantalizing promise and a practical challenge for hospice providers.  As Chris notes, "We live in a time where people use sensationalized language for everything," yet the revolutionary potential of AI in healthcare deserves the hype. Meanwhile, some hospices struggle with basic internet connectivity, creating what Chris calls a "weird dichotomy" reminiscent of the 1920s when modern conveniences existed alongside homes without electricity.In this episode of TCN Talks, hosts Chris Comeaux and Cord Kastner reflect on Memorial Day and discuss significant news stories from May, including the complexities of thanking veterans for their service, the role of artificial intelligence in hospice care, and the importance of honest conversations about racism in healthcare.They also explore the leadership skills necessary for healthcare CEOs, the challenges of dementia care, and the implications of private equity in the healthcare sector.  Chris also introduces a new initiative called Brain Bookmarks, which aims to provide quick leadership insights.  Join us.Guest: Cordt Kassner,  PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:Chris Comeaux, President & CEO of Teleioshttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/storm-clouds-on-the-horizon-for-reimbursement-top-news-stories-may-2025Teleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

What happens when ancient philosophical questions about "the good life" collide with modern healthcare regulations?  In this compelling episode of TCNtalks, host Chris Comeaux welcomes hospice leaders Annette Kiser, Chief Compliance Officer with Teleios, and Judi Lund Person, Principal, Lund Person & Associates LLC,  for a deep dive into the regulatory crossroads facing hospice providers.In this episode,  we discuss the FY 2026 Proposed Rule, which focused on implementing the HOPE initiative, and two RFIs (Requests for Information) that were part of it.  Also, discuss how important it is for us in the hospice field to give CMS feedback via these RFIs.  These will impact the Future Quality Measure Concepts for the Hospice Quality Reporting Program, and CMS is asking for input on three concepts for the  HQRP Hospice Quality Reporting Program:- The Challenges of Interoperability,- The Evolving Quality Measures related to Patient Well-Being - Nutrition, including Safe Eating Habits, Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity  appropriate for end-of-life careLast, they discuss a separate RFI related to the Advanced Digital Quality Measurement (dQM) in the HQRP (Hospice Quality Reporting Program) and the data standards of Health Level Seven® (HL7®) and Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources® (FHIR®).Annette and Judi have a wealth of experience and knowledge.  This is a great listen for staff, leaders, and Boards of hospice and palliative care organizations to become more educated about the tracks being laid with the proposed 2026 Wage Index.  This show is timely and relevant, so join us.Guest:Annette Kiser, Chief Compliance Officer with Teleios Judi Lund Person, Principal, Lund Person & Associates LLC Host:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOShttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/navigating-the-future-hope-wage-index-and-cms-quality-measuresTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this episode, Daniel H. Pink, the world-renowned author of seven bestselling nonfiction books, discusses his interdisciplinary approach to understanding human motivation and the evolving work landscape in the AI age.Pink emphasizes the importance of empathy, creativity, and the need for individuals to augment machine intelligence rather than compete with it.  He also explores the role of technology in healthcare, particularly in Hospice Care, and the significance of human connection and listening in providing care.The discussion highlights AI's potential to enhance human capabilities while also addressing its challenges.  Daniel and Chris Comeaux also explore the essential skills and mindsets needed for hospice leaders to future-proof their organizations, particularly in the face of advancing AI technologies.The discussion culminates in a reflection on the evolving nature of leadership in an AI-driven world, urging leaders to remain curious and focused on their core values.Join us, this is a great listen.Guest:Daniel H. Pink,  Author of the NY Times Bestselling book A Whole New MindHost: Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of Teleioshttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/a-whole-new-mind-with-daniel-h.-pinkTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

What defines quality in end-of-life care?  How are hospice organizations navigating workforce challenges?  And why has medical aid in dying become such a critical conversation?  These questions take center stage in this data-driven exploration of April's most impactful Hospice and Palliative Care news stories.In this episode of TCNtalks, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner discuss the top news stories from April, focusing on hospice and palliative care.  They explore personal aspirations, data insights, the impact of spiritual care, emerging categories in news reporting, and key themes such as reimbursement and workforce challenges. The conversation also touches on mission moments, regulatory changes, technology innovations, and the evolving nature of leadership in healthcare, particularly in the context of AI and human skills. The conversation also explores the increasing demand for senior living and the legislative changes impacting hospice care, including the ban on for-profit hospices in New York and the introduction of psilocybin access in New Mexico.  Cordt closes the show with a Master's Class reviewing the National Hospice Locator, a valuable tool for finding high-quality hospice care anywhere in the country.  Join us.Guest: Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TeleiosTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

Ketamine – a medicine long used as an anesthetic – is finding a powerful new purpose in hospice and palliative care settings.  Dr. Rohini Kanagante, a physician with expertise spanning both Hospice Care and Integrative Psychiatry, unveils the remarkable potential of this medication in our latest episode of TCNtalks. Chris Comeaux invites Dr. Rohini Kanniganti, a hospice physician, to delve into the incorporation of ketamine in hospice and palliative care.  They examine the notion of total pain, how ketamine aids in addressing pain and mental health challenges at the end of life, and the practical applications and regulatory factors involved in its use. Dr. Kanniganti shares her experiences and insights on how ketamine can offer relief to patients in hospice care, highlighting the significance of meticulous administration and a comprehensive approach to patient care.  They explore the ethical considerations of ketamine use, its potential future acceptance in hospice environments, and the necessity of empowering staff and leaders to improve patient care.  The conversation highlights the importance of a compassionate approach to end-of-life care, emphasizing the well-being of patients and their families in conjunction with this innovative treatment method.This is a great listen for your clinical staff and leaders.  Join us - this is a timely and relevant event.Guest:  Dr. Rohini Kanniganti, MD, MSPH, HMDC, Hospice Physician Host:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of Teleios Collaborative Networkhttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/breaking-barriers-ketamines-role-in-hospice-medicine-with-dr.-rohini-kannigantiTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this episode of TCN Talks, host Chris Comeaux interviews Rebecca Ramsay, CEO of House Call Providers. Rebecca shares her unique journey in healthcare and emphasizes the importance of nonprofit organizations in delivering quality care. Rebecca discusses the evolution of House Call Providers, the significance of home-based primary care, and the interdisciplinary approach required to meet the needs of patients with complex conditions.She also advocates for hospice organizations to expand into home-based primary care, highlighting the growing demand and the gaps in current services.  Chris and Rebecca explore the challenges of maintaining a stable workforce, the complexities of payment structures, and the importance of a steady referral stream for viable home-based primary care.  Rebecca shares her vision for the future of care, emphasizing the need for integrated services and support for caregivers. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of healthcare.  This is a great listen for staff, leaders, and hospice and palliative care organization boards.   Join us; this is timely and relevant. Guest:  Rebecca Ramsay, Chief Executive Officer of Housecall Providers Host:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of Teleioshttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/rebecca-ramsay-on-home-based-primary-careTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this episode of TCNtalks, Chris Comeaux and Dr. Cordt Kassner, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today and CEO and Founder of Hospice Analytics, leverage their data and extensive experience to identify key hospice headlines, articles, research, and social media posts that are driving change and transforming end-of-life care and healthcare in America.They share personal experiences with hospice care, emphasizing the importance of social work and discussing the challenges of healthcare reimbursement. The conversation also touches on MedPAC recommendations, new social media trends, and highlights from recent research articles. The hosts explore pressing issues in healthcare, such as workforce challenges, patient demographics, regulatory changes, and the impact of technology.  They address the implications of the aging baby boomer population for healthcare services, the influence of corporate interests on healthcare spending, and the critical role of leadership in navigating these challenges. Their discussion underscores the need for innovative solutions and the role of technology in improving care delivery.  It also emphasizes the importance of preparing for upcoming Medicare and home-based care changes.  The episode concludes with a Masters Class from Chris on what leadership is and why it is so needed during these times.  Join us.Guest: Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost: Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TCN / TCGhttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/transforming-healthcare-hospice-in-the-news-march-2025Teleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this crossover show of TCNalks / Anatomy Of Leadership, host Chris Comeaux interviews NY Times bestselling author T. R. Reid.  They discuss T. R. Reid’s experiences and insights from researching healthcare systems around the world, particularly focusing on the need for universal coverage and the various models of healthcare delivery.T.R. emphasizes the importance of a key principle in any functional healthcare system at a national level: healthcare for everyone.  He wrote about this in his NY Times bestselling book The Healing of America.  Some of the key discoveries in the book are the inefficiencies of the U.S. healthcare system compared to others worldwide and the potential benefits of adopting a government-run healthcare model similar to Medicare and the VA.  Reid also critiques the profit-driven nature of American health insurance and advocates for reforms prioritizing patient care over profits.T.R. and Chris then discuss the unique window of opportunity in 2025 and the need for a new framing of universal healthcare, suggesting alternatives in language around 'Medicare for All.'  T.R. emphasizes the importance of price controls in reducing administrative costs and improving efficiency in healthcare systems.  Reid also addresses the role of innovation in healthcare, arguing that high costs do not necessarily lead to better medical advancements.  He cites several excellent examples of recent innovations, all from outside the U.S.  This is a great listen as the U.S. spends more on healthcare, yet we are not even in the top 10 in the world.  It’s hard to make one aspect of healthcare successful, like Hospice and Palliative Care, if the broader ecosystem it resides in is flawed and unsustainable.  Join us; this is very timely.Guest: T.R. Reid, Author of the NY Times Best Selling book The Healing of AmericaHost:  Chris Comeaux, President/CEO of TCN/TCGhttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/the-healing-of-america-with-t.r.-reidTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast