From Policy to Practice: Tom Kessler on Medicare Innovation and Oversight Sponsored by vTech Solution

On this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Thomas Kessler, owner of Kessler Healthcare Consulting and former Senior Advisor at CMS’s Center for Program Integrity. With nearly 37 years of federal service, including 28 at CMS, Tom brings unmatched insight into program integrity, fraud prevention, and the evolving role of technology in Medicare oversight. Tom shares highlights from his career, from leading fraud prevention system reports to Congress, to shaping Medicare payment suspension and prior authorization programs, to exploring AI-driven medical record review. He also breaks down CMS’s latest initiatives—the WISEeR model and the Chili Cook-Off—explaining what they mean for providers, contractors, and beneficiaries alike. To connect with Tom, visit his on LinkedIn here.