Innovating Forward: Strategies for a More Sustainable Healthcare Future - 2026 NextGen Healthcare Summit Recording Series

In this episode of Risk & Resolve, Ricky Hancart and a panel of healthcare innovators unpack why employers feel stuck in a “pay and pray” system—and what it takes to break free. Featuring leaders across underwriting, pharmacy, surgical care, and finance, the conversation explores how strategic partnerships, data transparency, and aligned incentives can transform employer health plans. From skyrocketing cancer drug costs to bundled surgical pricing and smarter risk management, this episode delivers a practical blueprint for building a more predictable, sustainable healthcare strategy.Main Talking PointsThe core problem: healthcare as the most unpredictable and uncontrollable line item on the balance sheet  Why traditional plans feel like a losing game: “good year → rates go up, bad year → rates go up more”  The shift from reactive “pay and pray” to proactive, strategic health plan designBuilding a custom health plan using modular, adaptable components (the “Lego” approach)The importance of control, transparency, and protection for employersHow underwriting actually works: identifying risk drivers and aligning solutions to reduce claimsThe biggest emerging cost threat: cancer and high-cost specialty drugs (J-codes)Price variation shock: the same drug costing $250K vs. $1M depending on facilityTrueRx’s “TrueCodes” strategy: moving infusions to lower-cost, patient-friendly settingsReal patient impact: home infusions, improved quality of life, and reduced employer spendWelbridge Surgical model: transparent, bundled pricing with 50% lower costsWhy zero-dollar (zero-tier) care drives employee adoption and better outcomesThe power of steerage: guiding patients to high-quality, lower-cost care optionsThe role of TPAs and integrated partners in simplifying complexity for employersCase study: Process Alliance’s shift after a 50% premium increaseThe importance of curiosity, leadership buy-in, and willingness to challenge the status quoBalancing cost control with employee experience and access to careThe Conner “Pathway” framework: moving from reactive to intentional healthcare strategy