BBQ, Blood Sugar & Bureaucracy: Happy Birthday America!

Episode Highlights:Why the Fourth of July hits different for healthcare professionalsGrowing up in a military family and how it shaped Matt’s valuesFireworks, peaches, and facility BBQs—holiday traditions in senior careReflections on government involvement in healthcare—what’s working, what’s notThe impact of Medicaid changes and how value-based care fits inWhy Disneyland ruined fireworks (and how to reframe your expectations)Key Takeaways:Celebrate your country and challenge the systems that need reformHealthcare professionals must have a seat at the policy-making tableValue-based care isn't perfect—but it's a step in the right directionReferenced:CMS Innovation CenterGilbert Peach FestivalFort Jackson fireworksKaty Perry's “Firework” (unfortunately, also now Matt’s personal performance piece)