The Pulse with Mary Delaney Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:05:12 -0400 https://vitalincite.com/education/ en-us © 2026 Vital Incite yes 81e01eca-325c-5f44-a673-6666979f9dd1 Mary Delaney episodic false Alera Group’s podcast series, The Pulse, will help you keep pace with what’s trending in employee benefits. Every month, nationally recognized subject matter experts from the health and pharmacy industry and top academic and research institutions will provide data-driven insights while giving you actionable, scalable, strategies. If you are looking to reduce medical and pharmacy spend while driving better health outcomes, this podcast series is for you!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Employee Benefits, Pharmacy Benefits, GLP-1, Catastrophic Care, Lifestyle Impact, Contract Language, Healthcare Spending, PBMs, Employee Wellness, Women's Health Mary Delaney https://storage.buzzsprout.com/21y3bsntbggi5vclpfh3vx6tqjyg?.jpg The Pulse with Mary Delaney https://vitalincite.com/education/ Mary Delaney How a School System Created Sustainable Change: Improving Health, Delivering Employee Value, and Reducing Plan Spend How a School System Created Sustainable Change: Improving Health, Delivering Employee Value, and Reducing Plan Spend In this 15-minute episode, we’re joined by Roger McMichael, Associate Superintendent at Carmel Clay Schools, for a practical conversation on how objective, data driven strategy can create meaningful and sustainable change in a school system’s health plan. 

Roger shares how his team focused on improving employee health and experience while also achieving significant savings for the plan—without sacrificing value or access. His insights offer a real-world example of what’s possible when strategy, transparency, and long-term thinking come together. 

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • How Carmel Clay Schools leveraged plan savings to reinvest in and expand service offerings 
  • How their members’ experience differs from others in the local community 
  • What success looks like for their organization—and the outcomes they’ve realized so far

This episode is a must listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives looking for sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line.

]]> In this 15-minute episode, we’re joined by Roger McMichael, Associate Superintendent at Carmel Clay Schools, for a practical conversation on how objective, data driven strategy can create meaningful and sustainable change in a school system’s health plan. 

Roger shares how his team focused on improving employee health and experience while also achieving significant savings for the plan—without sacrificing value or access. His insights offer a real-world example of what’s possible when strategy, transparency, and long-term thinking come together. 

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • How Carmel Clay Schools leveraged plan savings to reinvest in and expand service offerings 
  • How their members’ experience differs from others in the local community 
  • What success looks like for their organization—and the outcomes they’ve realized so far

This episode is a must listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives looking for sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line.

]]> Mary Delaney Buzzsprout-18986747 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400 1001 4 3 full false Roger McMichael Mary Delaney Noise to Impact: Building an Employee Benefits Communication Strategy That Delivers Noise to Impact: Building an Employee Benefits Communication Strategy That Delivers In this mini episode of The Pulse, Mary speaks with an employee communications expert about why benefits messages so often get lost and how employers can move from noise to real impact. The conversation highlights what effective benefits communication looks like today, common mistakes employers make, and how to measure whether messages are actually driving understanding and action. The episode wraps with practical advice on one high impact improvement employers can focus on this year, along with a brief look at how AI can strengthen benefits communication in realistic, meaningful ways. 

4 Key Takeaways:

  1. Cutting through noise requires strategy, not more messaging.
    Effective benefits communication isn’t about sending more emails—it’s about delivering the right message, at the right time, in a way employees can actually absorb and act on. 
  2. Impact matters more than activity.
    Open rates and clicks don’t tell the full story. Employers need to measure whether communication improves understanding, confidence, and decision making—not just whether messages were delivered. 
  3. Complexity is the enemy of engagement.
    Overly technical language, inconsistent messaging, and one size fits all approaches are some of the biggest reasons benefits communication fails. Simplicity and relevance drive impact. 
  4. Focus on one meaningful improvement—and do it well.
    Whether it’s simplifying content, improving timing, or better segmenting messages, one focused change can dramatically improve communication effectiveness when executed intentionally. 
]]> In this mini episode of The Pulse, Mary speaks with an employee communications expert about why benefits messages so often get lost and how employers can move from noise to real impact. The conversation highlights what effective benefits communication looks like today, common mistakes employers make, and how to measure whether messages are actually driving understanding and action. The episode wraps with practical advice on one high impact improvement employers can focus on this year, along with a brief look at how AI can strengthen benefits communication in realistic, meaningful ways. 

4 Key Takeaways:

  1. Cutting through noise requires strategy, not more messaging.
    Effective benefits communication isn’t about sending more emails—it’s about delivering the right message, at the right time, in a way employees can actually absorb and act on. 
  2. Impact matters more than activity.
    Open rates and clicks don’t tell the full story. Employers need to measure whether communication improves understanding, confidence, and decision making—not just whether messages were delivered. 
  3. Complexity is the enemy of engagement.
    Overly technical language, inconsistent messaging, and one size fits all approaches are some of the biggest reasons benefits communication fails. Simplicity and relevance drive impact. 
  4. Focus on one meaningful improvement—and do it well.
    Whether it’s simplifying content, improving timing, or better segmenting messages, one focused change can dramatically improve communication effectiveness when executed intentionally. 
]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-18820825 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0400 1027 4 2 full false Sharon Brumer Mary Delaney Provider Quality: Fad or Imperative in Driving Improved Health Outcomes? Provider Quality: Fad or Imperative in Driving Improved Health Outcomes? Are provider quality scores just another healthcare fad, or are they a critical tool for driving better health outcomes and maximizing your organization’s investment in employee benefits? In this episode, we cut through the noise to help employers understand what these scores really mean, how to identify high-quality providers, and how leveraging this information can lead to measurable improvements in workforce health and cost efficiency. 

Join us as we answer the questions employers ask most:

  • Which provider quality metrics actually matter for my organization? 
  • How can I use provider data to improve employee satisfaction and health outcomes? 
  • What are the pitfalls of relying on certain scores, and how can I avoid them?
  • How have other employers successfully used provider quality information to drive results?
  • What practical steps can HR and benefits leaders take to integrate provider quality into their strategy?

Whether you’re a benefits manager, HR leader, or executive, this episode will empower you to make informed decisions that benefit both your employees and your bottom line.

]]> Are provider quality scores just another healthcare fad, or are they a critical tool for driving better health outcomes and maximizing your organization’s investment in employee benefits? In this episode, we cut through the noise to help employers understand what these scores really mean, how to identify high-quality providers, and how leveraging this information can lead to measurable improvements in workforce health and cost efficiency. 

Join us as we answer the questions employers ask most:

  • Which provider quality metrics actually matter for my organization? 
  • How can I use provider data to improve employee satisfaction and health outcomes? 
  • What are the pitfalls of relying on certain scores, and how can I avoid them?
  • How have other employers successfully used provider quality information to drive results?
  • What practical steps can HR and benefits leaders take to integrate provider quality into their strategy?

Whether you’re a benefits manager, HR leader, or executive, this episode will empower you to make informed decisions that benefit both your employees and your bottom line.

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-18697901 Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500 3166 provider quality, quality metrics, employee satisfaction, health outcomes 4 1 full false Chris Hogan Will Bruhn, MD Mary Delaney Crisis in Care: Solving the Primary Care Puzzle for Employers – Part 2 Crisis in Care: Solving the Primary Care Puzzle for Employers – Part 2 In part two of our three part series on the mounting primary care crisis, we will continue our discussion from August on the impact on employers. Our panel of experts will provide insights into how carriers are addressing the shortage, as well as what they believe employers can do to help combat this crisis. 

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • A carriers perspective on why we are facing such a crisis 
  • What strategies have been put in place to help reverse these trends
  • What has worked effectively and where are efforts falling short
  • How employers, the payors of healthcare, may be able to influence these trends

This is a must-listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives seeking sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line. 

]]> In part two of our three part series on the mounting primary care crisis, we will continue our discussion from August on the impact on employers. Our panel of experts will provide insights into how carriers are addressing the shortage, as well as what they believe employers can do to help combat this crisis. 

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • A carriers perspective on why we are facing such a crisis 
  • What strategies have been put in place to help reverse these trends
  • What has worked effectively and where are efforts falling short
  • How employers, the payors of healthcare, may be able to influence these trends

This is a must-listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives seeking sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line. 

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-18545363 Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500 2578 3 6 full false Dr. Amy Milewski, MD, MBA Laura Fox, MPH Mary Delaney Rethinking Fiduciary Duty in Employer Health Plans Rethinking Fiduciary Duty in Employer Health Plans As healthcare costs continue to rise and scrutiny around plan transparency intensifies, employers are under growing pressure to fulfill their fiduciary responsibility—not just to manage costs, but to ensure health plan decisions truly serve the best interests of their employees. 

In this compelling episode, we explore what fiduciary duty really means for employers in today’s complex benefits landscape. Experts break down the legal, ethical, and financial implications of being a plan sponsor—and what it takes to stay compliant, cost-conscious, and employee-centered. 

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • What ERISA says about fiduciary obligations—and how it applies to health benefits 
  • Why fiduciary risk is rising, and what recent lawsuits mean for employers
  • Common blind spots in benefits strategy that can lead to compliance issues 
  • Practical steps employers can take to protect themselves and support their workforce

If you're in HR, finance, or on a leadership team making decisions about your company’s health plan, this episode is your essential guide to navigating your fiduciary role with confidence and clarity. 

]]> As healthcare costs continue to rise and scrutiny around plan transparency intensifies, employers are under growing pressure to fulfill their fiduciary responsibility—not just to manage costs, but to ensure health plan decisions truly serve the best interests of their employees. 

In this compelling episode, we explore what fiduciary duty really means for employers in today’s complex benefits landscape. Experts break down the legal, ethical, and financial implications of being a plan sponsor—and what it takes to stay compliant, cost-conscious, and employee-centered. 

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • What ERISA says about fiduciary obligations—and how it applies to health benefits 
  • Why fiduciary risk is rising, and what recent lawsuits mean for employers
  • Common blind spots in benefits strategy that can lead to compliance issues 
  • Practical steps employers can take to protect themselves and support their workforce

If you're in HR, finance, or on a leadership team making decisions about your company’s health plan, this episode is your essential guide to navigating your fiduciary role with confidence and clarity. 

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-18009215 Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0400 3751 benefits strategy, ERISA, fiduciary responsibility, plan sponsor, health benefits, healthcare, Employer Health Plans 3 5 full true Chris Deacon, JD John Delaney Stacy Barrow Mary Delaney Crisis in Care: Solving the Primary Care Puzzle for Employers Crisis in Care: Solving the Primary Care Puzzle for Employers The U.S. healthcare system is facing a mounting primary care crisis—marked by physician shortages, limited access, and rising costs. In this timely episode, we examine how the decline in effective primary care is not just a health issue, but a serious business concern for employers grappling with escalating healthcare expenses and workforce wellbeing challenges.

Our expert guests unpack the systemic issues behind the crisis and explore what employers can do to strengthen access to quality primary care. You’ll hear practical insights into benefits design, provider partnerships, and policies that prioritize prevention, continuity, and cost control.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • Why primary care is foundational to employee health and healthcare affordability
  • The downstream impact of poor access on absenteeism, chronic disease, and claims
  • What forward-thinking employers are doing to restore value to primary care
  • Strategies to align health benefits with long-term business and employee health goal

This is a must-listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives seeking sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line.

]]> The U.S. healthcare system is facing a mounting primary care crisis—marked by physician shortages, limited access, and rising costs. In this timely episode, we examine how the decline in effective primary care is not just a health issue, but a serious business concern for employers grappling with escalating healthcare expenses and workforce wellbeing challenges.

Our expert guests unpack the systemic issues behind the crisis and explore what employers can do to strengthen access to quality primary care. You’ll hear practical insights into benefits design, provider partnerships, and policies that prioritize prevention, continuity, and cost control.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

  • Why primary care is foundational to employee health and healthcare affordability
  • The downstream impact of poor access on absenteeism, chronic disease, and claims
  • What forward-thinking employers are doing to restore value to primary care
  • Strategies to align health benefits with long-term business and employee health goal

This is a must-listen for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and executives seeking sustainable healthcare strategies that work for both their people and their bottom line.

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-17701233 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400 3624 Primary Care, Healthcare Strategies, Chronic Disease, Claims, Wellbeing 3 4 full false Ann Greiner Christopher Habig Mary Delaney Improving Mental Health through Workplace Cultural and Environmental Factors Improving Mental Health through Workplace Cultural and Environmental Factors In this episode of the Pulse, we will explore the powerful connection between an organization’s culture and environment and employee mental health. Beyond traditional EAP services, we’ll discuss how improving workplace culture, physical spaces, and social connections can boost resilience, reduce anxiety and depression, and create a stronger sense of belonging. 

Mental health service usage increased 17% in 2024 and 62% since 2020. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover new ways to support your team and improve employee mental health.


Our Guests:

Andrea Davis, Director of Wellbeing at The Alera Group

Sara Johnson, PhD. Co-President & CEO at Prochange Behavior Solutions and Senior Research Fellow at HERO (Health Enhancement Research Organization)

Joan M. Troester, MBA, CEBS, SPHR, Senior Assistant Vice President, Deputy CHRO at The University of Iowa

 

Guests will: 

  • Explore the influence of resiliency and a sense of belonging on mental health 
  • Uncover strategies employers can put in place to improve a sense of belonging  
  • Examine the factors that impact resiliency, much like we would focus on improving diet for better cardiovascular health
]]> In this episode of the Pulse, we will explore the powerful connection between an organization’s culture and environment and employee mental health. Beyond traditional EAP services, we’ll discuss how improving workplace culture, physical spaces, and social connections can boost resilience, reduce anxiety and depression, and create a stronger sense of belonging. 

Mental health service usage increased 17% in 2024 and 62% since 2020. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover new ways to support your team and improve employee mental health.


Our Guests:

Andrea Davis, Director of Wellbeing at The Alera Group

Sara Johnson, PhD. Co-President & CEO at Prochange Behavior Solutions and Senior Research Fellow at HERO (Health Enhancement Research Organization)

Joan M. Troester, MBA, CEBS, SPHR, Senior Assistant Vice President, Deputy CHRO at The University of Iowa

 

Guests will: 

  • Explore the influence of resiliency and a sense of belonging on mental health 
  • Uncover strategies employers can put in place to improve a sense of belonging  
  • Examine the factors that impact resiliency, much like we would focus on improving diet for better cardiovascular health
]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-17195786 Wed, 21 May 2025 11:00:00 -0400 3452 Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Sense of Belonging, Depression, EAP, Workplace Culture 3 3 full false Andrea Davis Joan Troester, MBA, CEBS, SPHR Sara Johnson, PhD. Mary Delaney Why are pregnancy complications rising? We look at what’s behind the data. Why are pregnancy complications rising? We look at what’s behind the data. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in pregnancy-related complications. This trend has persisted.  In this episode, we’ll explore the factors contributing to this ongoing issue and discuss strategies to help reverse the trend. 

Panelists will: 

  • Take a closer look at the data surrounding pregnancy with complications 
  • Explore treatment patterns, coding practices and potential revenue-driven care decisions within hospital systems 
  • Uncover strategies to optimize maternal health programs and proactively reduce complications before pregnancy begins

This episode includes guest speakers:

Cindy Basinski, MD, OBGYN, Founder of Basinski and Juran, MDs, LLC

Morgan F McDonald, MD, FACP, FAAP, National Director for Population Health at Milbank Memorial Fund

]]> In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in pregnancy-related complications. This trend has persisted.  In this episode, we’ll explore the factors contributing to this ongoing issue and discuss strategies to help reverse the trend. 

Panelists will: 

  • Take a closer look at the data surrounding pregnancy with complications 
  • Explore treatment patterns, coding practices and potential revenue-driven care decisions within hospital systems 
  • Uncover strategies to optimize maternal health programs and proactively reduce complications before pregnancy begins

This episode includes guest speakers:

Cindy Basinski, MD, OBGYN, Founder of Basinski and Juran, MDs, LLC

Morgan F McDonald, MD, FACP, FAAP, National Director for Population Health at Milbank Memorial Fund

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-16817253 Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0400 3614 Women’s Health, OBGYN, Healthcare, Healthcare Costs, Healthcare Providers, Clinics, Insurance, Employee Benefits, Hospital Consolidation, Rural Doctors, Pregnancy, Pregnancy Complications, C-section 3 2 full false Cindy Basinski, MD, OBGYN Morgan F McDonald, MD, FACP, FAAP Mary Delaney From Identification to Action: Employer Strategies to Combat Substance Use Disorders From Identification to Action: Employer Strategies to Combat Substance Use Disorders Join us for Part 2 of our insightful podcast series dedicated to improving outcomes for those affected by substance use disorders. In this episode, we'll explore effective early intervention strategies and the essential steps for building a robust support structure. Additionally, we’ll discuss how employers can ensure compliance with Mental Health Parity laws while reducing unnecessary medical expenses that contribute to wasteful spending. 

Panelists will discuss: 

  • Strategies for enhancing early treatment of substance use disorders to prevent progression to catastrophic care. 
  • Publicly available resources to help identify the most appropriate treatments and high-quality care options. 
  • Provisions in current carrier contracts that enable them to retain a percentage of costs as revenue, while limiting access to in-network providers. 
  • Understanding the Mental Health Parity laws and your obligations as a health plan provider.


This episode includes guest speakers:

Kirsten Suto Seckler, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Shatterproof

Danielle Capilla, JD, SVP of Compliance and Operational Strategy for Alera Group's Employee Benefits division

Lisa Kugler, Psy.D., SVP for Shatterproof’s Treatment Atlas team

]]> Join us for Part 2 of our insightful podcast series dedicated to improving outcomes for those affected by substance use disorders. In this episode, we'll explore effective early intervention strategies and the essential steps for building a robust support structure. Additionally, we’ll discuss how employers can ensure compliance with Mental Health Parity laws while reducing unnecessary medical expenses that contribute to wasteful spending. 

Panelists will discuss: 

  • Strategies for enhancing early treatment of substance use disorders to prevent progression to catastrophic care. 
  • Publicly available resources to help identify the most appropriate treatments and high-quality care options. 
  • Provisions in current carrier contracts that enable them to retain a percentage of costs as revenue, while limiting access to in-network providers. 
  • Understanding the Mental Health Parity laws and your obligations as a health plan provider.


This episode includes guest speakers:

Kirsten Suto Seckler, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Shatterproof

Danielle Capilla, JD, SVP of Compliance and Operational Strategy for Alera Group's Employee Benefits division

Lisa Kugler, Psy.D., SVP for Shatterproof’s Treatment Atlas team

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-16471291 Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0500 3035 Substance Use Disorder, Addiction, Workplace Wellness and Recovery, Mental Health, Health Parity Laws, Employee Benefits 3 1 full false Danielle Capilla, JD Kirsten Suto Seckler Lisa Kugler, Psy.D. Mary Delaney The $81 Billion Toll of Substance Use Disorders on the Workplace: Employer Strategies for Cost Effective Care and Treatment The $81 Billion Toll of Substance Use Disorders on the Workplace: Employer Strategies for Cost Effective Care and Treatment Substance use disorders related to alcohol and drug addiction are having a heavy emotional and financial toll on the workplace. It’s estimated that addiction costs employers upwards of $81 billion per year and employers struggle with how to provide the correct care. Finding in-network providers is challenging and health plans are paying a significant amount in out of network fees and “Shared Savings” that the carrier then takes.

Tune into this episode of The Pulse as we examine the health plan impacts of substance abuse, including uncovering why so many facilities are not in network, what the carriers’ role is in this issue and how employers can create better strategies.

Panelists will discuss:

  • The advantages and disadvantages of an addiction treatment center setting up in-network contracts.
  • How the laws related to Mental Health Parity influence employers and health plan decisions.
  • How claims for these services are handled when out of network and who may be winning in that negotiation. 
  • How employers can improve their strategy to supporting the needs of their plan members  


This episode includes guest speakers:

Tim Clement, VP of Federal Government Affairs at Mental Health America.

Chris Deacon, JD, Principal/Founder VerSan Consulting

Damon Eisenbrey, Partner, Arnall Golden Gregory LLP

Kirsten Suto Seckler, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Shatterproof

]]> Substance use disorders related to alcohol and drug addiction are having a heavy emotional and financial toll on the workplace. It’s estimated that addiction costs employers upwards of $81 billion per year and employers struggle with how to provide the correct care. Finding in-network providers is challenging and health plans are paying a significant amount in out of network fees and “Shared Savings” that the carrier then takes.

Tune into this episode of The Pulse as we examine the health plan impacts of substance abuse, including uncovering why so many facilities are not in network, what the carriers’ role is in this issue and how employers can create better strategies.

Panelists will discuss:

  • The advantages and disadvantages of an addiction treatment center setting up in-network contracts.
  • How the laws related to Mental Health Parity influence employers and health plan decisions.
  • How claims for these services are handled when out of network and who may be winning in that negotiation. 
  • How employers can improve their strategy to supporting the needs of their plan members  


This episode includes guest speakers:

Tim Clement, VP of Federal Government Affairs at Mental Health America.

Chris Deacon, JD, Principal/Founder VerSan Consulting

Damon Eisenbrey, Partner, Arnall Golden Gregory LLP

Kirsten Suto Seckler, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Shatterproof

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-16134941 Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500 2945 substance use disorders, provider reimbursement, Mental Health Parity Act, insurance companies, mental health 2 6 full false Chris Deacon, JD Damon Eisenbrey Kirsten Suto Seckler Tim Clement Mary Delaney The GLP-1 Tipping Point: How Skyrocketing Costs Exposed PBM Influence and How Employers Can Take Back Control The GLP-1 Tipping Point: How Skyrocketing Costs Exposed PBM Influence and How Employers Can Take Back Control GLP-1 medications have been a tipping point in exposing the role that PBM’s have over controlling prescription drug access and cost. Not all PBM’s are created equal and most drive what is easiest and most profitable for the PBM.  It’s critical that employers play an active role in controlling their health plan strategy to support improved health outcomes and health plan investments. Tune into this episode of The Pulse as we uncover the role of the PBM in prescription drug access and costs and what employers need to do to redefine expectations and outcomes from PBMs.

Panelists will discuss:

  • How a drug is approved by the FDA and if that clinically is providing the most effective approach to leverage medications.
  • PBM prior authorization strategies and what appropriate expectations should be
  • Why and how PBMs and Manufacturers leverage rebates to force formulary restrictions
  • The opportunity for plan savings related to generic medications that are not leveraged by PBMs
  • What strategies related to GLP-1 appear to be most successful in driving improved health outcomes and an ROI on health plan investments

This episode includes guest speakers:

Ge Bai, PhD, CPA.
Professor at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School and Professor of Health Management at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Dr. Jonathan Bonnet, MD, MPH, CAQSM, FAAFP, FACLM, DipABOM, DipACLM.
Associate Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and Program Director of Medical Weight Loss at the Clinical Resource Hub Weight Management Center at the Palo Alto Veteran’s Affairs

Jennifer Perlitch RPh., MBA.
Assistant Vice President – Pharmacy at AECRx

]]> GLP-1 medications have been a tipping point in exposing the role that PBM’s have over controlling prescription drug access and cost. Not all PBM’s are created equal and most drive what is easiest and most profitable for the PBM.  It’s critical that employers play an active role in controlling their health plan strategy to support improved health outcomes and health plan investments. Tune into this episode of The Pulse as we uncover the role of the PBM in prescription drug access and costs and what employers need to do to redefine expectations and outcomes from PBMs.

Panelists will discuss:

  • How a drug is approved by the FDA and if that clinically is providing the most effective approach to leverage medications.
  • PBM prior authorization strategies and what appropriate expectations should be
  • Why and how PBMs and Manufacturers leverage rebates to force formulary restrictions
  • The opportunity for plan savings related to generic medications that are not leveraged by PBMs
  • What strategies related to GLP-1 appear to be most successful in driving improved health outcomes and an ROI on health plan investments

This episode includes guest speakers:

Ge Bai, PhD, CPA.
Professor at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School and Professor of Health Management at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Dr. Jonathan Bonnet, MD, MPH, CAQSM, FAAFP, FACLM, DipABOM, DipACLM.
Associate Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and Program Director of Medical Weight Loss at the Clinical Resource Hub Weight Management Center at the Palo Alto Veteran’s Affairs

Jennifer Perlitch RPh., MBA.
Assistant Vice President – Pharmacy at AECRx

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-15813759 Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400 3534 2 5 full false The Blue Zones Hype & Your Health Plan - Employer Strategies for Better Outcomes The Blue Zones Hype & Your Health Plan - Employer Strategies for Better Outcomes There’s been a lot of hype around the Blue Zones documentary on Netflix and how following these principles can help you live a full, active life until 100. But did you know these theories can also help you breathe life into your health plan by creating an employer community that is productive, healthy and sustainable? In this episode, we will explore how the Blue Zones theories translate into improved patient care and how an employer’s culture can support improved health outcomes.

Tune in as our panelists discuss how the theories behind the Blue Zone can be used to support employer efforts to enhance employee health and contain healthcare costs.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Wayne Dysinger, MD, MPH
Chief Medical Director, Healthly

Gretchen Day, MPH
VP of Health Innovation & Advanced Strategies, Alera Group

Ben Leedle
CEO Blue Zones

]]> There’s been a lot of hype around the Blue Zones documentary on Netflix and how following these principles can help you live a full, active life until 100. But did you know these theories can also help you breathe life into your health plan by creating an employer community that is productive, healthy and sustainable? In this episode, we will explore how the Blue Zones theories translate into improved patient care and how an employer’s culture can support improved health outcomes.

Tune in as our panelists discuss how the theories behind the Blue Zone can be used to support employer efforts to enhance employee health and contain healthcare costs.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Wayne Dysinger, MD, MPH
Chief Medical Director, Healthly

Gretchen Day, MPH
VP of Health Innovation & Advanced Strategies, Alera Group

Ben Leedle
CEO Blue Zones

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-15467562 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 3681 2 4 full false The Benefits of Tight Contract Management The Benefits of Tight Contract Management It's time for Employers to ensure they safeguard their interests and shield themselves with robust contracting language. 

Carrier and vendor agreements are often crafted by their legal teams to safeguard the interests of the vendors, which may not always align with the needs of the employer. Far too often, employers have simply accepted these standard contracts, granting vendors the authority to dictate billing practices, define services, and even control data sharing. The moment has arrived for Employers—whether they're managing a Health Plan or acting as the payor—to take charge and reshape our delivery system, ensuring they receive the necessary support for their plans. 

Join our expert panelists as we explore the intricacies of carrier and vendor agreements, often skewed in favor of vendors, and the necessity for Employers to assert their needs.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Brenda Motheral, RPh, MBA, PhD
CEO, Archimedes

Marilyn Barlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFA
Senior Policy Fellow, National Academy for State Health Policy

Stacy Barrow, JD
Partner, Barrow Weatherhead Lent LLP

]]> It's time for Employers to ensure they safeguard their interests and shield themselves with robust contracting language. 

Carrier and vendor agreements are often crafted by their legal teams to safeguard the interests of the vendors, which may not always align with the needs of the employer. Far too often, employers have simply accepted these standard contracts, granting vendors the authority to dictate billing practices, define services, and even control data sharing. The moment has arrived for Employers—whether they're managing a Health Plan or acting as the payor—to take charge and reshape our delivery system, ensuring they receive the necessary support for their plans. 

Join our expert panelists as we explore the intricacies of carrier and vendor agreements, often skewed in favor of vendors, and the necessity for Employers to assert their needs.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Brenda Motheral, RPh, MBA, PhD
CEO, Archimedes

Marilyn Barlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFA
Senior Policy Fellow, National Academy for State Health Policy

Stacy Barrow, JD
Partner, Barrow Weatherhead Lent LLP

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-15111264 Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400 3247 2 3 full false Root Cause Approach to Managing Healthcare Spend Root Cause Approach to Managing Healthcare Spend At least 80% of healthcare spend is influenced by our habits, environment and approach to caring for ourselves. Employers invest over $51 billion each year in vendors to empower individuals in making informed choices and alleviating strain on the healthcare system. Unraveling the genuine needs of the population proves to be an intimidating task, and addressing those needs presents an even greater challenge. Join us as we spotlight three forward-thinking employers who have navigated this complex terrain from diverse perspectives. Discover how they have successfully managed to curtail healthcare costs while actively supporting their plan members in enhancing their overall well-being. 


This episode includes guest speakers:
Lisa Allen
VP, CHRO, Goodwill Industries of Central & Southern Indiana

Roger McMichael
Associate Superintendent, Carmel Clay Schools

David Hines
ED, Benefits, Metro Nashville Public Schools

]]> At least 80% of healthcare spend is influenced by our habits, environment and approach to caring for ourselves. Employers invest over $51 billion each year in vendors to empower individuals in making informed choices and alleviating strain on the healthcare system. Unraveling the genuine needs of the population proves to be an intimidating task, and addressing those needs presents an even greater challenge. Join us as we spotlight three forward-thinking employers who have navigated this complex terrain from diverse perspectives. Discover how they have successfully managed to curtail healthcare costs while actively supporting their plan members in enhancing their overall well-being. 


This episode includes guest speakers:
Lisa Allen
VP, CHRO, Goodwill Industries of Central & Southern Indiana

Roger McMichael
Associate Superintendent, Carmel Clay Schools

David Hines
ED, Benefits, Metro Nashville Public Schools

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-14779503 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400 3065 2 2 full false Leveraging GLP-1s to Improve Health Without Killing Your Budget Leveraging GLP-1s to Improve Health Without Killing Your Budget The utilization of GLP-1s has skyrocketed since entering the market. Tune into this latest podcast of The Pulse to discover how you can effectively implement GLP-1 medications while improving the health of your population and lowering the financial impact.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Denise Fields
PharmD, Population Health Pharmacist

Robin Rankin, RPh
AVP, Clinical Pharmacy, AEC-RX, An Alera Group Company

Sean Hashmi, MD, FASN
Obesity Medicine Provider

]]> The utilization of GLP-1s has skyrocketed since entering the market. Tune into this latest podcast of The Pulse to discover how you can effectively implement GLP-1 medications while improving the health of your population and lowering the financial impact.

This episode includes guest speakers:

Denise Fields
PharmD, Population Health Pharmacist

Robin Rankin, RPh
AVP, Clinical Pharmacy, AEC-RX, An Alera Group Company

Sean Hashmi, MD, FASN
Obesity Medicine Provider

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-14329837 Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:00:00 -0500 4006 2 1 full false Managing Catastrophic Care and Cost Managing Catastrophic Care and Cost The threat of higher cost cases looms as new therapies are brought to market.  Certainly, there are advances in healthcare that everyone wants to enjoy. Employers need to make sure their monies are not wasted so they can afford to support their people.

  • What can and should employers do to protect their budgets?
  • Did you know that many carriers pay for catastrophic care as a percentage of billed charges?
  • Who is auditing to make sure those billed rates, or the services are appropriate?

This episode includes guest speakers:
Marilyn Bartlett
Senior Policy Fellow, National Academy for State Health Policy

Valerie Saurez
Director of Medical Risk, Symetra Life Insurance Company

Michael Thompson
President & CEO, National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions

]]> The threat of higher cost cases looms as new therapies are brought to market.  Certainly, there are advances in healthcare that everyone wants to enjoy. Employers need to make sure their monies are not wasted so they can afford to support their people.

  • What can and should employers do to protect their budgets?
  • Did you know that many carriers pay for catastrophic care as a percentage of billed charges?
  • Who is auditing to make sure those billed rates, or the services are appropriate?

This episode includes guest speakers:
Marilyn Bartlett
Senior Policy Fellow, National Academy for State Health Policy

Valerie Saurez
Director of Medical Risk, Symetra Life Insurance Company

Michael Thompson
President & CEO, National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-13292909 Wed, 26 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400 2879 1 4 full false Managing Specialty Medications: PBM or Health Plan or Place of Service Managing Specialty Medications: PBM or Health Plan or Place of Service One specialty medication can change the performance of a plan. Employers and Advisors are always trying to solve for if a medication should be limited to the PBM or the health plan and then if on the health plan we find significant differences between delivery of those medications. Unfortunately, the answers to solve this are not a one size fits all. Join us as we explore how to evaluate your solution and provide examples of some significant success stories.

This episode includes guest speakers:
Julie Kueppers, PhD, FNP, RN
Vice President of Clinical Analytics and Services, Relph Benefit Advisors

Brenda Motheral, BPharm, MBA, PhD
CEO, Archimedes

Candace Shaffer, M.S., CWPM
Senior Director of Benefits, Purdue University

]]> One specialty medication can change the performance of a plan. Employers and Advisors are always trying to solve for if a medication should be limited to the PBM or the health plan and then if on the health plan we find significant differences between delivery of those medications. Unfortunately, the answers to solve this are not a one size fits all. Join us as we explore how to evaluate your solution and provide examples of some significant success stories.

This episode includes guest speakers:
Julie Kueppers, PhD, FNP, RN
Vice President of Clinical Analytics and Services, Relph Benefit Advisors

Brenda Motheral, BPharm, MBA, PhD
CEO, Archimedes

Candace Shaffer, M.S., CWPM
Senior Director of Benefits, Purdue University

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-12912573 Wed, 24 May 2023 14:00:00 -0400 3686 1 3 full false Provider Quality Provider Quality Most people choose their providers based off a recommendation from friends or other providers. Every person wants to make sure they are utilizing a top provider, but the definition of quality varies by every oversite strategy. In this podcast we will explore the components to consider related to quality, and how access to that information should help support your health plan. We will debate different prospectives related to quality metrics, reporting structure and how employers can empower their covered lives.

This episode includes guest speakers:
Padmaja Patel, MD
President Elect, American College of Lifestyle Medicin

Nick Reber
Chief Executive Officer, Garner Health

John Ryan
Chief Executive Officer, OrthoIndy

Sandeep Wadhwa, MD, MBA
Global Chief Medical Officer, 3M

]]> Most people choose their providers based off a recommendation from friends or other providers. Every person wants to make sure they are utilizing a top provider, but the definition of quality varies by every oversite strategy. In this podcast we will explore the components to consider related to quality, and how access to that information should help support your health plan. We will debate different prospectives related to quality metrics, reporting structure and how employers can empower their covered lives.

This episode includes guest speakers:
Padmaja Patel, MD
President Elect, American College of Lifestyle Medicin

Nick Reber
Chief Executive Officer, Garner Health

John Ryan
Chief Executive Officer, OrthoIndy

Sandeep Wadhwa, MD, MBA
Global Chief Medical Officer, 3M

]]> Buzzsprout-12541337 Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400 2564 1 2 full false Creating Sustainable Change Creating Sustainable Change Research shows that only 1 in 5 people are successful in maintaining their resolutions, creating sustainable improved performance, or maintaining significant weight loss.  Join us as a panel of experts explore why these attempts fail and how employers can support long-term success.

]]> Research shows that only 1 in 5 people are successful in maintaining their resolutions, creating sustainable improved performance, or maintaining significant weight loss.  Join us as a panel of experts explore why these attempts fail and how employers can support long-term success.

]]> Buzzsprout-12068869 Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500 3539 Business, Human Resources, HR 1 1 full false Employer Strategies to Help Reduce Obesity Employer Strategies to Help Reduce Obesity Obesity related medications are supposed to have the largest impact on pharmacy spend next year. Taking a pill to control weight sounds too good to be true. Listen in as 3 healthcare providers debate, educate and create some best solutions to drive improved weight management.

What you will learn from this session:

  • Understand the financial and disease burden influence correlated with obesity
  • Understand how the new medications coming to market for obesity management work
  • Hear from a variety of healthcare professionals on various strategies to provide drive improved weight management
  • Come away with ideas on how to leverage a variety of resources to better support your plan member


This episode's guest speakers:
Meghan Haftman, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES
Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist, Ascension Medical Group

Ryan Flugge, PharmD, BCPS
Medical Account Director, Novo Nordisk

Sean Hashmi, MD, MS, FASN
Assistant Area Medical Director, Kaiser Permanente

]]> Obesity related medications are supposed to have the largest impact on pharmacy spend next year. Taking a pill to control weight sounds too good to be true. Listen in as 3 healthcare providers debate, educate and create some best solutions to drive improved weight management.

What you will learn from this session:

  • Understand the financial and disease burden influence correlated with obesity
  • Understand how the new medications coming to market for obesity management work
  • Hear from a variety of healthcare professionals on various strategies to provide drive improved weight management
  • Come away with ideas on how to leverage a variety of resources to better support your plan member


This episode's guest speakers:
Meghan Haftman, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES
Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist, Ascension Medical Group

Ryan Flugge, PharmD, BCPS
Medical Account Director, Novo Nordisk

Sean Hashmi, MD, MS, FASN
Assistant Area Medical Director, Kaiser Permanente

]]> Vital Incite Buzzsprout-13469243 Wed, 30 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500 3264 1 5 full false