DexCare CEO Derek Streat shares how his early experiences in a small industrial town and the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household instilled a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. These formative years paved the way for his commitment to making a significant impact in healthcare, a commitment deepened by personal experiences, such as his daughter's serious illness and subsequent kidney transplant. Derek's dedication is further highlighted by his involvement in non-profit initiatives like PEDSnet and IROC, which focus on improving outcomes for children and kidney transplant patients through data-driven solutions.

Listen in as we uncover the origins and evolution of DexCare, a platform initially developed by Providence Health to enhance healthcare accessibility through a unified care experience. Derek discusses the transformative role of former Amazon employees in adopting an "Amazon-style" approach to healthcare, aiming to make services more discoverable and bookable. We address the persistent challenge of untapped capacity within health systems, debunking the myth of hospitals always being at full capacity. Derek explains how better data management and transparency can unlock these resources, enhancing the efficiency and reach of healthcare services.

Finally, we explore the future of healthcare delivery in a post-pandemic world, where virtual and hybrid care models are increasingly prominent. Derek discusses the potential of asynchronous and AI-driven care, especially for low-acuity conditions, and the evolving role of patients as active participants in their healthcare journeys. We also consider how Gen AI can empower patients to make informed decisions and how healthcare systems can optimize capacity and resources by leveraging a broader range of care providers. This episode promises a thought-provoking look at the innovations shaping the future of healthcare.

Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

What if scheduling a doctor's appointment was as easy as booking a table at your favorite restaurant? Join for an enlightening discussion with Jeff Gartland, CEO of Relatient, as we unlock the complexities of patient scheduling in healthcare. Jeff shares his unique perspective, drawing from a childhood influenced by behavioral psychologists and a career spanning top healthcare technology firms like McKesson, Ciox, and Elevance.

Together, we explore how patient scheduling is much more than a tech challenge; it's about transforming human interactions in healthcare. From understanding the nuances between "new" and "existing" patients to creating a seamless, consumer-centric referral system, Jeff offers invaluable insights into reshaping the way we engage with medical practices.

Discover how cutting-edge technology can bridge the gap in appointment scheduling while boosting patient access and satisfaction. Jeff explains the paradox of how long waits for appointments can coexist with underutilized clinical time, offering solutions that hinge on sophisticated scheduling systems and automated waitlists.

We discuss the significance of a portal-free experience that simplifies the referral process and enhances convenience for patients. Whether it’s aligning scheduling rules to meet patient demand or ensuring operational precision without sacrificing accessibility, this episode provides a roadmap to boost patient engagement for a better healthcare experience.

Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.

RJ Kedziora, co-founder and COO of Estenda, shares his journey from a tech-savvy childhood in the 70s to becoming a leader in healthcare innovation. RJ reflects on his early fascination with computers, starting with the IBM PC Junior, and his academic pursuit of artificial intelligence. His career path has traversed the evolution of software development, consulting, and the Internet boom of the late 90s. With a unique blend of empathy and technical expertise, RJ emphasizes the importance of understanding the end user's perspective, particularly in healthcare, where technology like electronic medical records was just beginning to take shape in the early 2000s. His insights highlight the transformative potential of healthcare technology and the importance of effective communication.

Listen in as we explore the integration of large language models in healthcare and the delicate balance of harnessing technology while preserving human skills. RJ shares his thoughts on the potential benefits of AI tools, such as ambient listening for note-taking, which could allow physicians to focus more on patient care. We also touch upon the significance of balancing productivity and wellness, drawing from RJ's personal experiences as a triathlete and his journey from baking vegan cakes to writing his upcoming book, "A Productive Harmony Framework." RJ offers valuable perspectives on managing energy over time, understanding one's chronotype for optimal productivity, and maintaining a vibrant life. Whether you're interested in healthcare innovation, AI technology, or personal wellness, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration.

Host David E. Williams is president of healthcare strategy consulting firm Health Business Group. Produced by Dafna Williams.