Rebecca Love RN, MSN, FIEL

I generally don't post about VBC/VBP and stick to data and health equity in pop health—I see VBC/VBP through those lenses, and there are so many great thought leaders already covering its nuances. But today some of my favorite topics intersected, so I had to share this Modern Healthcare article about how "health equity execs [are turning] to [VBP & tech] to improve care." Ok, I'll take the bait. After reading, a couple things stood out to me: 1) The continued headline about growing opposition to work centered on diversity, equity and inclusion (in the context of health equity), and how they're often referred to together. I've talked about this before: some similarities but some major differences. I'd like to talk more about decoupling these in 2025. 2) Increased awareness and discussion of "upstream" (structural) determinants of health and investment in communities. While it goes much deeper, this is still an encoraging step forward, one that I am happy healthcare is starting to address but one I'm still undecided if healthcare can or even touches on the depth of. More conversations to be had in 2025. 3) Focusing on bringing equity to technology design—the utter importance of this is still so understated, which is why I'm really excited about work being done by HIMSS and others on digital determinants, and Alma First on digital health equity. Intersection points like this further demonstrate just how pervasive inequity is beyond "just" health disparities, and is one we should talk more about in 2025. 4) Increased incorporation of "underserved mix" risk adjustments (like the article mentions in ACO REACH) and equity-related metrics coming out from regulatory bodies like CMS, NCQA, TJC, etc. I see this increasing, even if not under the "equity" name. I think this is super compelling for a number of reasons, love to hear your thoughts on how you think it could work (or not) in practice or action. The piece itself is short and sweet, but these are larger trends I'm tracking about how health equity is (or isn't) being woven into other core areas of healthcare and mainstream conversations, and are exciting to see.

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⚡ Your healthcare start-up does NOT have to attend the high-profile/cost conferences. Or pay to be a guest on a healthcare podcast. Or [insert high-cost tactic here]. I have nothing against ANY healthcare conference or podcast or the myriad of other pay-to-play opportunities. But in the early days of a start-up, targeting the proper channels at the right time is key to protecting your precious resources: ⏱ and 💰 Your marketing strategy should be based on opportunity, not obligation.

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The only path to meaningful change in healthcare is through transparency, accountability, and facing the corporate behemoths—head-on. LDOs, particularly DaVita Kidney Care and Fresenius Medical Care, have long touted a commitment to "patient-centered" and "value-based" care. But the reality? A relentless drive for profit that jeopardizes patient safety, erodes the quality of care, and betrays the core medical oath—“Do No Harm.” The words "value-based care," "patient empowerment," and "wraparound patient engagement" sound like music to the ears of those seeking real health solutions. But make no mistake—these are buzzwords masking a stark truth: These corporations profit from human suffering while deepening socioeconomic divides. LDOs continuously craft a narrative that glosses over the reality of the industry: that executive bonuses, inflated salaries, and venture capital investments come before patient lives. As we peel back the layers, we see glossy marketing campaigns like NxStage Medical, Inc.'s outdoor dialysis initiatives, which claim to enhance patient independence. However, it's not about aesthetics or flashy tech; it's about oversight and genuine patient care. Where’s the accountability in how life-saving treatments are implemented and communicated? It's an industry-wide problem: The consolidation of care facilities, cost-cutting at the expense of patient safety, and the systemic underserving of marginalized communities are more than missteps—they’re tactics. DaVita's CEO receives multi-million-dollar compensation packages while patients face understaffed facilities and lower-quality care. How is this equitable, patient-centered, or ethical? Patients are not profit margins; they are humans with real needs. When "#innovation" means tools and technologies inaccessible to marginalized communities, it only deepens the distrust. "Patient engagement" should not be a privilege for the wealthy; it is a right. The issue is clear: The unchecked greed of the LDOs directly contradicts the care they claim to provide. I stand ready to expose this truth and fight for the millions of patients whose lives depend on access to quality dialysis care. We need more oversight, governance, and Corporate Social Responsibility in this industry. Patients must be at the center, not investors. It's high time that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) takes action. Patients deserve more than slogans—they deserve genuine care grounded in ethical principles. Attached to this post is the letter sent to Secretary Becerra, detailing this pressing issue and calling for immediate action. #PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareReform #QualityCare #EthicalHealthcare #DoNoHarm #CorporateAccountability #HealthcareJustice Andy Pate #valuebasedcaresmokescreen #NxStage

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Learn how to write a patient care report that meets industry standards. Craft an effective PCR narrative with this helpful checklist and examples. ⬇

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Indeed a turning point for women's health. I am not a political person, but this is something I can proudly support. Very proud of my friends Liz Powell, Jodi Neuhauser, and Candace McDonald for launching this Women's Health PAC who have the support of thousands of women in the healthcare industry. With more money, research, information, innovation, funding, and focus on women's health... everyone wins. Including men. This is not exclusive, this ensures inclusion of all people, especially women who have been excluded from most of the above including in healthcare. Equity ensures equality, and without a focus on women's health there will be not achievement of equity. #healthequity #healthequityforwomen #womenshealth #women #equality #womeninhealth #womenleaders #womeninleadership #womeninmedtech #PAC #womenshealthPAC

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RFK Jr. Threatens the Very Fabric of Healthcare — A vote to give Kennedy power is a vote against public health There is such truth to this article, public health truly matters, we are going back twenty years Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been making headlines after presidential candidate Donald Trump indicated that if he were elected, Kennedy could "go wild on health" with a health policy role in the White House. Kennedy made alarming comments about overhauling critical health agencies, and over the weekend he said that fluoride is an "industrial waste" and should be removed from public drinking water. All of this has sparked renewed discussion about the future of our healthcare system. Everyone in this country should be concerned with rhetoric like this. According to a 2022 Gallup poll, only 38% of Americans expressed confidence in the healthcare system, the lowest level recorded since the survey began in 2001. The consequences of Kennedy's leadership could extend far beyond policy changes; they could influence the very fabric of our healthcare system. I am nervous and very concerned when politics usurps common sense in health policy. You should be nervous as well. #badhealthpolicy, #politicshasnoplaceinhealthpolicy https://lnkd.in/e43beqgT

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Healthcare is something we often take for granted—until we experience a moment that changes everything. Whether it’s a sudden health scare, managing a chronic condition, or caring for a loved one, these experiences can be life-altering. They remind us of how crucial it is to have access to the right care, at the right time. In today’s world, technology is stepping in to fill the gaps in ways we never imagined. From wearables that track our vitals in real-time to AI that predicts health risks before they become critical, smart healthcare technology is transforming the way we approach health. The rise of these technologies isn’t just about convenience—it’s about making healthcare more accessible, responsive, and effective. With innovations like remote monitoring, predictive analytics, and telemedicine, we are re imagining healthcare systems that put the individual at the centre of care. In moments where every second matters, having the right technology can be the difference between life and loss. #HealthcareInnovation #SmartHealthcare #AIInHealthcare #HealthTech #ProactiveCare #FutureOfHealth #HealthMonitoring #DigitalHealth #PreventiveHealthcare #HealthSolutions #TechForGood #HealthInsights #EmpoweredHealth HUMANOID

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When considering the health challenges facing Native American communities, dialysis care might not be top of mind. Yet, it’s a critical issue connected to broader themes of inequality and neglect Native Americans face disproportionately high rates of end-stage renal disease. The incidence of ESRD has increased significantly in recent years, far outpacing other ethnic groups. Diabetes and hypertension, both prevalent in these communities, are the primary culprits leading to kidney failure and the need for dialysis Getting access to dialysis isn’t easy. Geographic isolation is a major barrier. Many reservations are remote, far from urban centers where healthcare facilities are located. For example, in the Navajo Nation, patients might travel hours over rough terrain to reach the nearest dialysis center—a trip they need to make multiple times a week. Socioeconomic factors add to the challenge. High poverty rates, low employment, and lack of health insurance make it difficult for Native Americans to afford the costs associated with dialysis, such as transportation and medications. Although the Indian Health Service (IHS) is supposed to help, it’s severely underfunded, leading to inadequate care and worse outcomes Cultural differences also play a significant role. Traditional healing practices are central to health and well-being for many Native Americans, but these are often misunderstood or dismissed by healthcare providers. This cultural disconnect can lead to mistrust, causing patients to disengage from treatment—a dangerous prospect for those on dialysis. There is hope, though. Telehealth and mobile dialysis units are emerging as vital tools to overcome these barriers. Telehealth allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for long trips. Mobile units bring dialysis directly to patients in remote areas, ensuring they receive consistent care. Another promising area is genetic research, particularly the study of the #APOL1gene, which may explain the higher rates of #ESRD among Native Americans. Understanding genetic predispositions could lead to more effective treatments. Policy changes are also crucial. Increased funding for the IHS, Medicaid expansion in states with large Native American populations, and respect for Native American sovereignty in healthcare are all necessary steps. These policies can help address the systemic issues that underlie healthcare disparities. The path forward requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, policymakers, researchers, and Native American communities. By investing in innovative solutions, training providers in cultural competency, and advocating for necessary policy changes, we can begin to close the gap in healthcare outcomes. Most importantly, we must listen to Native American voices. They understand their needs better than anyone else Rubin Chandran Jeffrey Gold #NativeAmerican #Dialysis #CKD #HHD #SDoH

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The U.S. renal care system is plagued by fragmentation, workforce shortages, and inconsistent care, leading to poor outcomes for millions of Americans with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. In this article, I dive into the root causes of these issues, exploring how a lack of standardized care protocols, gaps in training, and the shortage of nephrologists are affecting patient care. Through comprehensive analysis, we propose actionable solutions that could transform the system into one that prioritizes patient outcomes over operational inefficiencies. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: 🩺 Lack of continuity in care: How gaps between primary care physicians and nephrologists contribute to delays in #CKD diagnosis and poor patient outcomes. 💡 Workforce shortages: The impact of the #nephrologist shortage on healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas, and how telemedicine could bridge the gap. 📋 Standardized protocols: The importance of enforcing uniform care standards across all dialysis centers to ensure consistent, high-quality care for every patient. 👩‍⚕️ Training improvements: Why virtual training for dialysis staff is falling short and how in-person, hands-on mentorship can enhance patient-centered care. This article also highlights the crucial role of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in driving these changes. By standardizing care and improving training, we can create a renal care system that works for everyone. Read the full article to learn how we can reduce healthcare disparities and improve kidney care for millions. Fresenius Medical Care NxStage Medical, Inc. DaVita Kidney Care National Kidney Foundation American Kidney Fund Tim Fitzpatrick Alfred Sadler MD FACP Charles Bearden PA-CPTC

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There was a time when I was the only doctor I knew who was leaving (or was even thinking of leaving) medicine. Leaving medicine back then was scary because we had no template to follow, almost no case studies to copy. Nobody to talk to about it who had actually done it. To junior doctors today- that sounds completely alien- but it was only two decades ago. The idea of a doctor having a career on a bank trading floor, or getting into F&B, being an advertising creative or being an entrepreneur- was completely alien. The idea of doctors being disruptive to anything was alien too- the way to get ahead was to have a senior physician/surgeon take you under their wing- and if you did exactly what they said, you would have a long and lucrative career. Adding to the resources young doctors have today to inform them on alternative ways to impact is an excellent podcast by Dr. Selina Chew and team (and no I am not just saying it because I was on it!). I would encourage those of you with kids/nieces/nephews/friends who are just starting on their medical journey to tell them to have a listen of the other episodes in the series (which are a lot more interesting than mine!). They should know that there is always another option, and that their ability to have impact doesn't have to be defined by a university course choice they made at age 18. https://lnkd.in/gYyMzhYZ

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DAX Copilot automatically documents the patient/physician conversation, reducing physician burnout and increasing productivity. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/e86xfcb7

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✨ Prioritize Your Health to Power Your Success ✨ In the fast-paced world of busy executives, it's easy to overlook self-care. Remember, "without your health, you have nothing". In our latest episode with Jillian Keaveny, we discuss the importance of maintaining all aspects of health—physical, mental, and emotional. Don’t wait for a crisis to remind you of your health’s importance. Tune in now and learn practical tips to stay on top of your game. 🎧 Listen here: ronanhc.com/podcast #healthforexecutives #wellnessforbusypeople #healthcarecompliance #healthcarepodcast #compliancepodcast

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🎙️ New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎙️ We're diving into Chapter 5 of "Mastering Healthcare Excellence" where the focus is on empowering teams by cultivating a culture of growth and accountability. Our goal is to emphasize that #Empowerment isn't a buzzword... it's a strategic necessity in healthcare. We share practical strategies and introduce two vital tools to support staff empowerment: 1) the Ideal Talent Alignment Tool and 2) the Role Optimization Framework. Check out the latest episode! and ... Join the Conversation: Share your insights and success stories on our LinkedIn group, Excellence in Healthcare Community. Connect with like-minded professionals and exchange innovative ideas. Your experience might be the inspiration someone else is looking for! #HealthcareExcellence #PatientCare #TeamEmpowerment #HealthcareInnovation #LeadershipInHealthcare #ProfessionalDevelopment

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***10/24 deadline to apply*** I’m honored to be part of ScaleHealth’s Strategic Advisory Network, where I get to work with some of the brightest and most passionate healthtech innovators. One of the most exciting initiatives we’re pushing forward right now is the AscendRural Innovation Challenge. This challenge is focused on finding breakthrough solutions to address healthcare disparities in rural communities—a critical issue that deserves more attention and action. The mission behind AscendRural is simple but powerful: connect innovative healthtech companies with real-world opportunities to make a difference in rural healthcare. This challenge isn’t just about recognition. For selected companies, it means paid pilot opportunities to implement solutions on the ground. Even more importantly, all participating companies will be featured in a curated marketplace that’s being shared with a broad network of rural providers, payers, and self-insurers. For any company passionate about improving rural healthcare, this is a unique chance to get in front of the right stakeholders and drive impact where it’s needed most. I’m excited to see the creative solutions that will come out of this—and encourage all those in my network to help spread the word or get involved! https://lnkd.in/g7FnkQ3d #ruralhealth #founders #ascendinnovationchallenge #SDoH #healthcareaccess

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The rhetoric around “Value-Based Care” has become a marketing tool rather than a meaningful shift in patient outcomes. Companies like Somatus and Interwell Health and others continue to push the narrative that their #VBC programs improve patient outcomes—particularly around issues like graft access survival and central venous catheter (CVC) use. Yet, they provide little to no independently verified data to back these claims. This isn’t reform; it’s corporate spin designed to drive profits while giving the illusion of patient-centered care. Let’s break this down: 1. The Illusion of Data Where is the proof? Bold claims about reducing CVC dependence or improving vascular access outcomes sound great, but without large-scale, peer-reviewed studies, these are just empty promises. Patients deserve transparency, not cherry-picked statistics. 2. Metrics That Mislead VBC often highlights cost savings, not actual improvements in patient safety or quality of life. Saying fewer patients are hospitalized or using catheters doesn’t address whether care is genuinely better—it just means less is being spent. 3. Disparities Are Ignored The idea that VBC offers “education” or “navigation” to all patients fails to account for systemic inequities. Many patients can’t access these services due to socioeconomic barriers. Offering something isn’t the same as ensuring it works for everyone. 4. Patients Become Metrics Instead of putting patients at the center of care, VBC programs often prioritize financial performance. This means patients are reduced to numbers in a cost-benefit analysis, with companies benefiting more than the people they claim to serve. 🚩 The Real Problem With VBC Rhetoric:    •   No independently verified evidence    •   Focus on cost, not outcomes    •   Ignores inequities in access    •   Superficial support lacks follow-through    •   Promotes profit over patient value Until these companies can provide transparent, independent, and reproducible data, the claims about VBC’s transformative impact remain misleading at best and harmful at worst. Patients deserve more than carefully crafted rhetoric designed to sell the idea of care without proving its substance. It’s time for the kidney care industry to stop hiding behind buzzwords like “Value-Based Care” and start delivering real, measurable, and patient-centered results. Anything less is just another corporate strategy disguised as reform. #ValueBasedCareScam #PatientOverProfitNow #HealthcareRhetoricExposed #DataNotBuzzwords #RealCareRealAccountability

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