AI in Healthcare: Game Changer or Buzzword?

In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel Marino explores the newly introduced the CMS Transforming Episode Accountability Model (TEAM)—a mandatory five-year, episode-based pricing model, informed by earlier initiatives from the CMS Innovation Center. Designed to cover high-volume, high-cost surgical procedures, TEAM represents a significant shift in how hospitals and providers approach bundled payments. Join Daniel and special guest Lucy Zielinski, an expert in value-based programs and HCC coding , as they unpack what the TEAM model entails and what participating hospitals must do to prepare for the January 1, 2026 implementation. Gain insights how this model influences financial performance, drives care coordination redesign, and introduces new incentives and penalties. Whether you are a healthcare leader, provider, or payer, don’t miss this overview of one of CMS’s initiatives shaping the future of value-based care.

As hospitals and health systems continue to evolve in value-based care, optimizing the post-acute recovery process has become a top priority. In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, Diane Shifley, Assistant Vice President of Population Health and Post-Acute Services at a major Chicago health system joins us to discuss how robust transitions-in-care programs can drive better patient outcomes. She shares insights on the critical role of early patient evaluation—whether at hospital admission or pre-surgery—in shaping effective transitions. We explore how transitional care models that include post-acute facilities and home care can reduce readmission rates, improve patient satisfaction, and control post-acute costs. This episode offers actionable strategies to strengthen your transitions-in-care to support patients through successful recovery.

In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel Marino explores one of the most pressing issues in healthcare today—workforce engagement and retention. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare organizations have faced unprecedented levels of burnout, turnover, and staffing shortages. Daniel is joined by Tanya Allee, Vice President of Patient Experience at Campbell County Health, a rural health system that is making meaningful strides in workforce development. Tanya shares practical strategies and initiatives to boost staff satisfaction, improve retention, and create a healthy culture of support and engagement. Tune in for valuable insights on how health systems can navigate workforce challenges and create a healthy organizational culture resulting in better patient care.

In today’s episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel J. Marino sits down with Dr. Amit Jain, MD, MBA, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Neurosurgery, Chief of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at Johns Hopkins, and Director of Value-Based Care for Johns Hopkins Health System. Together, they unpack how organizations can reduce costs while improving performance outcomes such as length of stay and readmission rates—ultimately advancing their value-based care strategy. Explore expert insights on aligning surgical services with cost-effective, high-quality care delivery.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making headlines everywhere—but how much of it is real, and how much is just hype? In this episode, host Daniel Marino is joined by Rick Howard, Chief Information and Data Officer at Brand Engagement Network, to unpack the growing role of AI in healthcare. Together, they separate fact from fiction, explore the opportunities and challenges AI presents, and discuss how healthcare organizations can responsibly integrate AI to improve operations and patient care. Whether you're excited, confused, or cautious about AI, this conversation offers clarity and insight for navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In this special episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel Marino is joined by Fred Goldstein, President of Accountable Health and podcast host of PopHealth Week, to unpack key takeaways from HIMSS25. They share their experience at this year’s conference, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology, and future trends. Already, AI is transforming care delivery and decision-making, while digital technology is revolutionizing patient engagement and operational efficiency. Join us for an insightful conversation on the evolving healthcare technology landscape and the trends shaping the future of care delivery, driving a more connected and efficient healthcare ecosystem.

In this special episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel Marino brings you exclusive interviews recorded live at HIMSS25, where healthcare innovation took center stage. The first interview features Stephen Overman, CEO & Founder of Standpoint Solutions, who shares their groundbreaking technology aimed at improving communication within perioperative services. Next, Dr. Alan Young, Client Executive at Point B Solutions, dives into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in patient care. The future of AI-driven healthcare is explored, including the rise of intelligent agents and their potential to influence clinical decision-making. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of healthcare, technology, and how innovation is reshaping patient care.

National healthcare organizations like the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), American Hospital Association (AHA), and Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) offer valuable industry-wide insights and legislative guidance. However, state associations provide a more tailored, in-depth understanding of the specific challenges healthcare providers face in their local markets. In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel Marino sits down with fellow Illinois MGMA board members, Meghan Heiy and Jenny Kovich, and explores the growing importance of state healthcare associations in effectively navigating today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

The healthcare industry is grappling with a growing shortage of providers in every specialty, with primary care being hit the hardest. In this episode, host Daniel Marino is joined by primary care physician, Dr. Leila Obeid, to discuss how physician shortages and rising patient demands are forcing many primary care physicians to seek better work-life balance through alternative practice models. One solution? Concierge medicine. Tune in as we discuss how this model helps physicians regain control, improve patient care, and create a sustainable future in healthcare.

In 2025, the continued growth of Medicare Advantage underscores the increasing importance of specialists in value-based care, as healthcare models shift toward more integrated, patient-centered approaches. In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Dan Marino sits down with Lynn Carroll, COO and Head of Strategy at HSblox, to explore how specialists can successfully engage in value-based care models. Tune in to explore current value-based programs that incorporate specialty providers, key challenges encountered, and the critical infrastructure required for success in this evolving healthcare landscape.