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Lack of transportation is one of the biggest barriers to patient care. But when employers cover transportation for patients, it can lead to better health outcomes and lower overall costs.  Casey Billington of Concierge Nurse Navigators explains why employers need to incorporate transportation into their health plan benefits so that patients can travel to doctor appointments or get an important second opinion. And co-hosts Terry and Bob talk about the latest news from Washington, D.C., including the VA's decision to cover a new Alzheimer's treatment for veterans. Plus, a new bill in Congress, the HELP Copays Act, would prevent insurers from "double-dipping" into patient savings. Write to your representative to support this bill here! Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at the Patients Rising Helpline. Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers. 

Vertical integration in the vision insurance market has led to higher costs and fewer options for patients. Two optometrists, Dr. Ron Benner and Dr. Bill Reynolds, explain how this impacts the price of your glasses, and how the DOC Access Act could fix this problem.  And Terry and Bob break down a new poll that shows consumers support FDA regulation of repairs to medical devices.  Links WATCH: Stop Vision Benefit Manager Abuses READ: Legislative Solutions to Overpriced Eyeglasses Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at the Patients Rising Helpline. Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers.

The Patients Rising Podcast has moved to Monday mornings!  In this episode, hear how Florida is poised to take on PBMs, the pharmaceutical middlemen, and how potential reforms would help patients access affordable medications. Jared Willis gives his updates from the Sunshine State.  And a shortage of kidneys available for transplants has patient advocates sounding the alarm. Co-hosts Terry Wilcox and Bob Goldberg talk about the crisis facing patients with end-stage renal disease. Plus, a story of rare disease advocacy in the MLB.  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at the Patients Rising Helpline. Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers.

Ahead of Rare Disease Day, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) joins the podcast to discuss new legislation that would ban the use of a discriminatory health care metric, quality adjusted life year, or QALY.  Learn how the QALY hurts treatment access for patients with rare diseases and disabilities, and how a government ban on QALYs would create more equitable access to care.  Plus, hear from Jean Baker, who shares her challenges getting coverage for her husband's rare form of cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer. And our patient correspondents from the rare disease community talk about the health care issues that impact them.  This is also our last Friday episode of the Patients Rising Podcast! You'll be able to catch the Patients Rising Podcast on Mondays, starting March 6th, in a brand new format.  Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Chair, House Energy and Commerce Committee Jean Baker, Rare Disease Caregiver and Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Advocate Maggie Senese, Patient Correspondent Kaitlyn Trevathan, Patient Correspondent Tomisa Starr, Patient Correspondent Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger, Patient Correspondent Links:  Chairs Rodgers, Smith, and Reps. Burgess, Wenstrup Introduce Legislation to Ban QALYs Contact your Representative and Urge Them to Ban the QALY Rare Disease Day February 28, 2023  Health Technology Assessment Best Practices for Rare Disease Drugs Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers.

Current barriers to clinical trial access make it difficult for patients from underserved communities to access cutting edge care. Those barriers include restrictive eligibility criteria, which can lead to an underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials.  Lucile Adams-Campbell, Ph.D., breaks down those barriers and outlines solutions to improve diversity in clinical trials and to ensure that participants receive continued care post-trial. Plus, hear from Sandra Washington, a board-certified patient advocate who shares why she fights for health equity and advocates on behalf of all patients.  Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Lucile Adams-Campbell, PhD, Sandra Washington, Managing Owner, Medi-Helpz LLC Chi Chi Nnoli, Patient Correspondent Links:  Layoffs and Shutdowns Hit Biotech Industry in U-Turn Personal Health Journal and Planner  Sandra Washington's Black History Month Series Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers. 

Stephen Kay took a job 10 hours away from his wife. Why? Because he needed insurance that would cover the costs of her multiple sclerosis care. While she had Medicare before turning 65, she was unable to purchase a supplemental plan, or Medigap plan, to cover her major costs.  This is a reality facing numerous patients who live with disabilities, including ALS and End-Stage Renal Disease. Melanie Lendnal of the ALS Association explains that while patients with disabilities can receive Medicare before the age of 65, they often can't access the supplemental plans they need. Learn about how legislation at the state and federal levels could close this gap for patients.  Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Melanie Lendnal, Senior Vice President of Advocacy, ALS Association Stephen Kay Katie Coughlin, Patient Correspondent  Links:  North Platte couple urges state to close gap in Medicare coverage for disabled Medicare Information | ALS Association Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers. 

Over the past 30 years, cancer death rates have declined by 33%. Ahead of World Cancer Day, hematologist Dr. Rafael Fonseca joins the podcast to talk about the latest innovations and improvements in cancer care delivery that have contributed to this decline. Plus, many patients with chronic diseases depend on employer-sponsored health plans. But losing a job and the health insurance that comes with it can leave patients scrambling for a plan that doesn't interrupt their care. Montana Kirby shares her experience with this situation, what to know about COBRA health plans, and her advice for patients who may find themselves in a similar scenario. Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Rafael Fonseca, MD, Chief Innovation Officer, Mayo Clinic in Arizona Montana Kirby, Patient Advocate Sherri Gorbett, Patient Correspondent Links:  States jump into fight over prior authorization requirements When Prior Authorization Practices Go Too Far US cancer death rates falls 33% since 1991, partly due to advances in treatment, early detection and less smoking, report says What young adults need to know about health insurance enrollment Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers. 

This year, six biosimilars for the top-selling medicine, Humira, will enter the market, with the first launching on January 31, 2023. Increased competition from biosimilars can drive down costs. But experts argue that insurers and pharmacy benefit managers will receive those savings – not patients.  On this episode, hear from pharmacists, health economists, patient advocates, and health care experts about what biosimilar milestones 2023 will bring for patients. Plus, how to fix the system so that patients get the cost-savings they need. And listen to Brandi Privitera's story, where she discusses her health care journey with fibromyalgia and lends advice to fellow parents who live with a chronic illness.  Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Robert Popovian, PharmD, Chief Science Policy Officer, Global Healthy Living Foundation Wayne Winegarden, PhD, Senior Fellow and Director of Medical Economics, Pacific Research Institute Peter Pitts, President, Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Vickie Wilkerson, Patient Advocate Sameer Awsare, MD, Executive Director, The Permanente Medical Group Brandi Privitera, Founder, BeingFibroMom.com Kristy Birchard, Patient Correspondent Links:  Special Report: The Biosimilars Market in 2023: Important Trends and Milestones for Chronic Disease Patients Share Your Health Care Story in the Patients Rising Now Storybook Record High in U.S. Put off Medical Care Due to Cost in 2022 Connect with BeingFibroMom on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers.

Congress has the power to improve patients' access to affordable and transparent care. That's why it's important for patients to know which lawmakers support legislation that positively impacts patients across the country. To make this information accessible, Patients Rising Now created a beta 117th Congress Advocacy Scorecard. This inaugural report shows how many bills each chamber considered that would impact patients, and it tested whether lawmakers had opportunities to support pro-patient legislation or Dear Colleague letters. Spoiler alert: because Congress has been only voting on sweeping gigantic legislative packages, a lot of pro-patient policy never even made it to the floor for votes, and Members of Congress didn't have enough bills to consider for our report card. We will be watching this trend and working on the Hill to make Members get the opportunity to vote on pro-patient policy. Next year with a more comprehensive scoring system, Members of Congress will also be notified when Patients Rising Now will be watching and grading specific votes that affect patients.   Hosts:  Terry Wilcox, CEO, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Guests: Rachel Derby, Executive Director of Patients Rising Now Diane Talbert, Patient Correspondent and Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Patient Advocate Links:  117th Congress Advocacy Scorecard Find Polling and Voting information near you Midterm Elections Debrief Webinar Registration Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

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The finish line for the vaccine race is just around the corner. Terry and Dr. Bob react to vaccine developments and respond to ICER's recent attacks.  Plus, the second part of our interview with Dr. Robert Popovian gives us the latest on Operation War Speed, President Trump's executive orders and the impact on drug costs for patients. And Kate brings us an inside look at a clinical trial from participant Ian Haydon.  Guest: Robert Popovian, PharmD. VP of U.S. Government Relations, Pfizer Inc.  Robert Popovian is currently Vice President, U.S. Government Relations at Pfizer Inc. where he leads the advocacy function in the U.S. Robert brings over two decades of experience in numerous facets of the biopharmaceutical and health care industry with a strong track record of expertise in Health Care Policy and Economics, Government Relations, Medical Affairs, and Strategic Planning. Robert has published and presented extensively on the impact of biopharmaceuticals and health policies on health care costs and clinical outcomes, including authorship in clinical and healthcare delivery journals, and is a published expert source in First Word, The Hill, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Pink Sheet, Managed Healthcare Executive and Bloomberg News amongst many others. He also writes a regularly published column in Morning Consult regarding health policy and economic issues relevant to the biopharmaceutical industry. He is a frequent speaker at healthcare policy and medical conferences on topics such as payment and delivery reform, pricing, reimbursement, biosimilars, biopharmaceutical innovation, and health economics. He currently serves on the Board of Councilors of the University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy and Board of Advisors for Capital RX. He is one of the few researchers who has studied and published both clinical and policy related economic analysis as well as one of a handful who have studied and published empirical data regarding emerging payment models in the U.S. healthcare system and for biopharmaceutical reimbursement. He also was one of the first to secure inclusion of health outcomes data regarding labeled indication of a biopharmaceutical. Robert completed his Doctorate in Pharmacy and Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy degrees at the University of Southern California with honors. He also has completed a residency in Pharmacy Practice/Adult Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at the Los Angeles County – University of Southern California Hospital and a fellowship in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy at University of Southern California. Robert is married to Maylin Megran Popovian. They have two daughters, Katrina and Natalya. They have residences both in Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC. Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Robert Popovian Voices from the Pandemic: Ian Haydon The Federal Program That Keeps Insulin Prices High by Adam J. Fein How Lilly is Helping Discounts Reach People with Diabetes in 340 B Contributions of Public Health, Pharmaceuticals, and Other Medical Care to US Life Expectancy Changes, 1990-2015 How 'Emergency Use' Can Help Roll Out a COVID Vaccine Pfizer Opted Not to Take Fed Money to 'Liberate Scientists from any Bureaucracy' Terry's Twitter Response  Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

Get an inside look into the drug supply chain and the factors that impact your bill at the pharmacy counter. Dr. Robert Popovian, VP of Government Relations at Pfizer, joins Terry to discuss how benefit design and rebates impact the cost of your medicine. Plus Kate speaks with Jackie Price, a double lung transplant recipient, on cystic fibrosis and the importance of organ donors.  Guest: Robert Popovian, PharmD. VP of U.S. Government Relations, Pfizer Inc.  Robert Popovian is currently Vice President, U.S. Government Relations at Pfizer Inc. where he leads the advocacy function in the U.S. Robert brings over two decades of experience in numerous facets of the biopharmaceutical and health care industry with a strong track record of expertise in Health Care Policy and Economics, Government Relations, Medical Affairs, and Strategic Planning. Robert has published and presented extensively on the impact of biopharmaceuticals and health policies on health care costs and clinical outcomes, including authorship in clinical and healthcare delivery journals, and is a published expert source in First Word, The Hill, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Pink Sheet, Managed Healthcare Executive and Bloomberg News amongst many others. He also writes a regularly published column in Morning Consult regarding health policy and economic issues relevant to the biopharmaceutical industry. He is a frequent speaker at healthcare policy and medical conferences on topics such as payment and delivery reform, pricing, reimbursement, biosimilars, biopharmaceutical innovation, and health economics. He currently serves on the Board of Councilors of the University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy and Board of Advisors for Capital RX. He is one of the few researchers who has studied and published both clinical and policy related economic analysis as well as one of a handful who have studied and published empirical data regarding emerging payment models in the U.S. healthcare system and for biopharmaceutical reimbursement. He also was one of the first to secure inclusion of health outcomes data regarding labeled indication of a biopharmaceutical. Robert completed his Doctorate in Pharmacy and Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy degrees at the University of Southern California with honors. He also has completed a residency in Pharmacy Practice/Adult Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at the Los Angeles County – University of Southern California Hospital and a fellowship in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy at University of Southern California. Robert is married to Maylin Megran Popovian. They have two daughters, Katrina and Natalya. They have residences both in Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC. Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Robert Popovian Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

In celebration of Labor Day, we look at a business that is empowering the chronic disease community. Kate interviews Keisha Greaves, founder of the clothing brand Girls Chronically Rock. Plus, Terry and Dr. Bob discuss a potential COVID-19 vaccine by fall and provide an update on Erica Dean's canceled ICER speech.  Guest: Keisha Greaves, Owner, Girls Chronically Rock Keisha Greaves is a motivational speaker, the founder of Girls Chronically Rock, and the Massachusetts State Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Girls Chronically Rock offers inspired fashion celebrating muscular dystrophy and other chronic illnesses.  Over the past few years, Keisha has been featured in Improper Bostonian, Boston Voyager, Herself 360, and Liz on Biz, among other outlets on and offline. She's lent her voice to audiences at the Spaulding Rehabilitation Center in Charlestown, Massachusetts General Hospital, the Boston Muscle Walk, local "Fill the Boot" events, Cambridge City Hall, and most recently, Girl's Night Out for Muscular Dystrophy, a Boston-area fundraising event held by NextonScene. Keisha spearheaded fruitful collaborations with other notable fashion influencers which resulted in thousands of dollars raised for MDA, the most successful collaborations being with renowned designer Sara Campbell and Althea Blackford, the woman behind Caribbean Fashion Week.  One of Keisha's proudest moments happened after working and meeting with Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker: Keisha got September 30 officially proclaimed Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day. She also received the proclamation from Mayor Marc McGovern from the city of Cambridge. Keisha earned her bachelor's degree in fashion design and merchandising from Framingham State College, and her master's in business management from Cambridge College.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Girls Chronically Rock Keisha Greaves Owning Personal Health Records is the Key to Medical Innovation, by Dr. Robert Goldberg Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

The lives of chronic and rare disease patients depend on the progress of medical discoveries. Dr. Gary Michelson explains how investment in innovative, high-risk research will improve patient outcomes. Plus hear from Lindsey Kizer, who depends on the U.S. Postal Service to deliver medication for her narcolepsy.  Guest: Gary Michelson, M.D. Founder, Michelson Medical Research Foundation Dr. Gary Michelson is an orthopedic spinal surgeon, inventor, and philanthropist. He is an accomplished surgeon, having made numerous contributions to the medical field through his research and development of 950 patents.  After over two decades of medical practice, Dr. Michelson began several philanthropic efforts. In 1995, he founded The Michelson Medical Research Foundation (MMRF), which invests in innovative research projects to improve patient outcomes across the world.  Through MMRF, Dr. Michelson has been involved with a variety of philanthropic projects, including the Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience at USC, Michelson Ethical Research and Education, Michelson Prizes for Human Immunology and Vaccine Research (HPV), and more. Dr. Michelson received his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College of Drexel University, and his bachelor's degree in biology and psychology from Temple University in Philadelphia.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob," Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Michelson Medical Research Foundation America's Needed Medical Revolution Lindsey Kizer Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

ICER's pricing models assess the value of a drug and whether your life is worth paying for it. Health economist Dr. Paul Langley explains how ICER's recommendations devalue patient lives and create barriers to accessible treatments. Dr. Bob and Terry examine the high profits recently reported by health insurance companies, while Kate speaks with Jen Hepworth on accessing cystic fibrosis treatments for her daughter.  And we hear from Erica Dean, a mom with a daughter living with cystic fibrosis, who ICER canceled from speaking at their event next week. We allow her to share her story with us!  Guest: Paul C. Langley, Ph.D. Health economist and adjunct professor in the College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota  Dr. Paul C. Langley is a health economist with an extensive background in drug evaluation for pharmacy and therapeutics companies. In the early 1990s, Dr. Langley evaluated the economics for the introduction of new pharmaceutical products. In Australia, he worked to analyze cost-effectiveness cases brought forward by pharmaceutical companies introducing new products until 1994.  After moving to America, Dr. Langley produced numerous research projects regarding evaluation techniques for the introduction of new pharmaceutical and therapeutic products to the United States. In 1997, he also established the Center for Pharmaceutical Economics at the University of Colorado.  From 1999 to 2005, Dr. Langley used his global experience and perspective in his role as International Manager of Health Economics at 3M Pharmaceuticals.  Dr. Langley's research focuses on issues of population health. His recent publications have analyzed how ICER's cost-effectiveness claims in the U.S. do not meet scientific standards.  Currently, Dr. Langley is the director of Maimon Research LLC, an Arizona-based health economics consulting and research company. He also works as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota's College of Pharmacy. Dr. Langley is currently an Advisory Board Member and Research Director for the Institute of Patient Access.  Dr. Langley earned his bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Hull in the U.K., his master's degree from Carleton University, and his doctorate degree from Queen's University in Canada.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Maimon Research LLC Langley PC. More Unnecessary Imaginary Worlds – Part 3: Cystic Fibrosis and the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review's Draft Evidence Report. Inov Pharm. 2020;11(1): No. 15 Langley P. Value Assessment in Cystic Fibrosis: ICER's Rejection of the Axioms of Fundamental Measurement. Inov Pharm. 2020;11(2):No. 8 Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

With a vaccine still months away, Americans with chronic disease are adapting to life with COVID-19. Dr. Paul Offit returns to discuss the status of a vaccine and living with the risk of infection. Terry and Bob consider school re-openings, and Kate interviews patient advocate Michael Smith on his work with the FDA to expand treatment options for gastroparesis. Guest: Paul Offit, M.D. Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Infectious Diseases at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.  Dr. Paul Offit has worked at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for over 20 years, where he serves as the Director of Infectious Diseases and as a Professor of Pediatrics. He is a recognized expert on vaccines, immunology, and virology.  Dr. Offit is well known for being the co-creator of the rotavirus vaccine, RotaTeq, which was approved for inclusion in the U.S. vaccination schedule in 2006. For his work on the vaccine, he received the Luigi Mastroianni and William Osler Awards from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the Charles Mérieux Award from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. He was also honored by Bill and Melinda Gates during the launch of their Foundation's Living Proof Project for global health. Dr. Offit has published over 160 papers in medical journals concerning his work on the rotavirus vaccine and overall vaccine safety practices. He also has authored eight books on vaccines and how they are explained to the general public.  Previously, Dr. Paul Offit has been a member of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. He is a founding board member of the Autism Science Foundation and a board member of Every Child by Two.  Dr. Offit earned a B.S. from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, and his M.D. from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Paul Offit Overkill: When Modern Medicine Goes Too Far Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

Patients deserve easy access to their medical records. With digital healthcare solutions on the rise, new companies are providing patient-centric solutions to gather, own, and share personal health data.  Dr. Bob speaks with Seqster CEO and Co-Founder Ardy Arianpour, who is striving to make health data more accessible for patients. And Kate interviews Marie Dagenais-Lewis about creating inclusive workplaces for employees with disabilities.  Guest: Ardy Arianpour, Seqster, CEO and Co-Founder Ardy Arianpour is CEO & Co-Founder of Seqster, an award-winning SaaS healthcare platform that enables organizations to drive efficient healthcare via comprehensive medical records (EHR), individual genomic profiles (DNA), and personal health device data.  For the first time, users create their own matched, longitudinal health data profile across all of their U.S.-based healthcare data sources through person-centric interoperability. Ardy is a visionary health tech executive and serial entrepreneur in biotech and digital health. Prior to starting Seqster, Ardy launched several clinical and consumer-based genetic tests as CCO of Pathway Genomics, and served as SVP of Ambry Genetics, which sold to Konica in 2017 for $1 billion.  As a key player in the 2013 landmark SCOTUS decision scrapping gene patents, Ardy played an instrumental role in expanding genetic testing access with the launch of BRCA testing benefiting patients and family members across the country. He made Medical, Marketing, and Media's (MMM) list as a Top 40 Healthcare Transformer and was recognized among the San Diego Business Journal's 40 under 40. Ardy received his bachelor's degree in biological sciences from UC Irvine and his MBA from Marshall Goldsmith School of Management. Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Seqster Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

President Trump's recent executive orders are a move to lower prescription drug prices for patients. But what changes should patients expect to see? We talk to the former lead health advisor to President Trump, Katy Talento, who breaks down exactly how the orders will impact patients.  Terry and Bob discuss the policies, including co-pay accumulators and rebates. And Kate speaks with Jack Haskins, who has to pay thousands of dollars for medication due to co-pay accumulators.  Guest: Katy Talento Katy Talento is an epidemiologist, licensed benefits consultant, and healthcare policy advisor. Ms. Talento most recently served as the lead health advisor to President Trump on the Domestic Policy Council. In her White House role, Ms. Talento worked to promote healthcare price transparency, lower prescription drug prices, and promote affordable healthcare options.  Currently, Ms. Talento is the President of KFT Consulting, where she advises organizations and employers on health programs, updates in healthcare policies and the resulting industry impacts, and strategies for lowering costs while improving quality of care.  Ms. Talento has been active in both the public and private sectors. For fifteen years she advised five U.S. senators on health policy. Within the private sector, she helped energy companies implement plans to protect their workforces from infectious diseases.  Ms. Talento earned her bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Virginia, and her master's degree in epidemiology from Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Katy Talento  Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Value-based healthcare models are a way to improve patient outcomes and lower the cost of care. Dr. Bob speaks with former FDA and CMS chief Dr. Mark McClellan, who says the pandemic has shown the benefits of value-based care and digital medical technologies.  And as many offices begin reopening, immunocompromised employees are put in a difficult position. Kate speaks with New York City resident Danielle, whose doctor advised against her return to her workplace.  Guest: Mark McClellan, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. Mark McClellan is a physician and economist with healthcare policy experience in both the government sector and academia. Dr. McClellan served as commissioner for the Food and Drug Administration from 2002 to 2004. He then immediately transitioned into his role as administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where he served until 2006.  Dr. McClellan's research focuses on improving the quality of healthcare, economic and policy impacts on healthcare decisions, and how digital technologies can impact care delivery and cost.  Currently, Dr. McClellan is the Director of the Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy at Duke University. The center conducts extensive interdisciplinary research on health policy initiatives to improve the value of healthcare. Additional public service roles include Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy at the Department of Treasury, member of the President's Council of Economic Advisers, and White House Senior Director for Healthcare Policy.  Dr. McClellan earned his medical degree from the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, and his doctorate in economics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Mark McClellan Margolis Center for Health Policy Complaints Related to COVID-19 Regulations (New York) Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Despite interruptions due to COVID-19, Congress continues working to address health disparities, chronic disease, and relief for coronavirus. Terry interviews Congressman Fred Upton, co-author of the 21st Century Cures Act, to find out what is in store for Cures 2.0. And Kate speaks with Lori Long, who faces losing her disability benefits if she marries her fiancé.  Guest: Congressman Fred Upton, U.S. Representative, Michigan's 6th Congressional District Congressman Fred Upton represents Michigan's 6th Congressional District, which is home to agricultural, auto parts manufacturing, and biomedical industry centers. In 2014, Rep. Upton co-authored the 21st Century Cures Act, with a goal of expediting the research and delivery of rare disease treatments. The bill was signed into law by former President Barack Obama in 2016.  Currently, he serves as the top Republican leader of the Subcommittee on Energy. From 2010 to 2016, he served as Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, where he oversaw matters of healthcare, trade, manufacturing, and more.  Prior to his election to Congress in 1986, Rep. Upton worked in the Office of Management and Budget under former President Ronald Reagan.  Rep. Upton received his bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Michigan.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: U.S. Representative Fred Upton The government is still telling disabled people whom they can marry and this woman has had enough of it. Lori's Law Petition Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

Can technology improve healthcare, even without the in-person relationship? Telemedicine has seen an explosion of utilization due to the pandemic. On this episode, we explore the countless new technologies that are changing healthcare as we know it. Dr. Bob speaks with Dr. Eric Topol on advances in artificial intelligence and personalized medicine. And Kate interviews a woman with metastatic breast cancer on the healthcare disparities that impact African American women.  Guest: Eric Topol, M.D. Executive VP, Scripps Research Dr. Eric Topol is a physician-scientist, cardiologist, and author, with over forty years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Topol has conducted extensive research in personalized medicine, which analyzes a patient's biological makeup to pinpoint an appropriate treatment plan. He has also written three best-selling books on technology and the future of medicine.  Currently, Dr. Topol serves as Executive Vice President at Scripps Research. In 2007, he founded Scripps Research Translational Institute, where he now serves as director. The Translational Institute seeks to combine advances in human genomic research with wireless technological developments to promote individualized approaches to healthcare.  Due to his research achievements, Dr. Topol is one of the top ten most cited researchers in medicine. A 2012 poll conducted by Modern Healthcare ranked him as the most influential physician leader in America.  Dr. Topol earned his bachelor's degree in biomedicine from the University of Virginia and his medical degree from the University of Rochester's School of Medicine and Dentistry. Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Eric Topol Jamil Rivers Facing MBC Together Ignoring cancer care now may trade one public health crisis - COVID-19 - for another, NCI chief warns Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

At the pharmacy counter, patients are often surprised by mysterious high costs, due to pharmaceutical benefit managers (PBMs). These middlemen lead to inconsistent and unclear prices, making it difficult for chronic disease patients to access medication. But some PBMs are breaking this mold. We hear from the CEO of Capital Rx, a PBM that is setting the industry standard by putting the patient first.  Guest: A.J. Loiacono, CEO, Capital Rx A.J. Loiacono is a healthcare executive with 20 years of experience in pharmacy benefits, finance, and software development. His diverse skill set led him to develop engineering solutions to improve patient care within the pharmacy benefits industry. Mr. Loiacono is CEO of Capital Rx, a pharmaceutical benefit manager that operates on a "Clearinghouse Model" to deliver price transparency. As CEO, Mr. Loiacono works to improve patient outcomes by reducing employer group prescription drug costs. Prior to Capital Rx, Mr. Loiacono co-founded Truveris, where he served as CEO for eight years. He also founded Victrix, a pharmaceutical supply chain consultancy.  Mr. Loiacono earned his degree in finance from Manhattanville College in Purchase, New York. Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Capital Rx ICER Provides First Treatment to Pricing Models for Remdesivir as a Treatment for COVID-19 Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

COVID-19 has hit minority populations particularly hard, delivering a wake-up call to healthcare policymakers. How can we change the system to help marginalized communities get access to the care they need? Dr. Bob speaks with Dr. Frank L. Douglas, who describes his experiences fighting racism within the healthcare industry. And we hear from a member of the LGBTQ+ community battling the stigma of HIV.  Guest: Frank L. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D.  Dr. Frank L. Douglas has over thirty years of experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry. Most recently, Dr. Douglas served as CEO of TheVax Genetics USA Inc. and Member of the Board of TheVax Genetics Vaccine Co.  Born in Guyana in 1943, Dr. Douglas traveled to America on a Fulbright scholarship to attend college. After completing his studies and receiving his medical degree, he went on to teach clinical pharmacology at the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine. He's also held positions as Chief Scientific Advisor of Bayer Healthcare, First Executive Director of the MIT Center for Biomedical Innovation, and co-founder of Douglas Ahmed Consulting. In 2019, Dr. Douglas published his memoir Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream. It describes his experiences navigating racism within both university and professional settings in America.  Dr. Douglas earned his doctorate in physical chemistry and his medical degree from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Frank L. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D.  Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream COVID-19 Will Help Us Overhaul Clinical Trials Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

Patients with rare diseases may soon have better access to treatments. A second installment to the 21st Century Cures Act is in the works that would make improvements to telemedicine and digital health regulations. Find out what this means for the rare disease community in this interview with Diane Berry, Ph.D. And hear Kate's interview with Lan Sena, a healthcare advocate who has been battling Hodgkin's lymphoma for the past ten years.  Guest: Diane Berry, Ph.D. Senior VP, Global Health Policy, Government and Patient Affairs, Sarepta Therapeutics Diane joined Sarepta Therapeutics in December of 2011 and serves as Vice President, Global Policy, Government & Patient Affairs. She engages policymakers at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as patient advocacy organizations. She works to advance critical policies related to newborn screening, regulatory policy, and reimbursement and access, with the goal of expediting development and patient access to genetic-based therapies for rare diseases. Previously, Dr. Berry served in leadership roles for the federal government in both the legislative and executive branches, overseeing and implementing science, technology and public health activities. She served as a Subcommittee Staff Director and Senior Professional Staff Member for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security and as Chief Scientist and Senior Biodefense Advisor at the Department of Homeland Security inside its Office of Health Affairs.  Dr. Berry was also a Senior Science Advisor at McKenna, Long, and Aldridge, and a Science and Technology Policy Advisor and Fellow within the Department of Defense through the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Dr. Berry earned her Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Northwestern University and her B.S. and M.S. in chemical/biochemical engineering from Tufts University.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Diane Berry, Ph.D.  Be The Match Doctors can still prescribe HCQ to patients, says U.S. Health Secretary  Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Made in the USA: The return of drug manufacturing to the U.S. could help improve drug safety, cost, and accessibility for patients with chronic disease. Dr. Janet Woodcock is director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. She tells us about new technologies and processes to make this possible. Also, Dr. Bob celebrates his birthday by looking into Medicare options. Field correspondent Kate Pecora speaks with Mark Olsen, who describes the challenges of securing adequate healthcare and education for his son who lives with a rare disease.  Guest: Janet Woodcock, M.D. Director, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Since Dr. Janet Woodcock joined the FDA in 1986, she has led numerous FDA drug initiatives while maintaining the reliability of the FDA's regulatory process. She has worked to incorporate risk management practices into evaluating drug safety and has taken the lead on efforts to update drug manufacturing procedures and regulations, an effort known as the "Pharmaceutical Quality for the 21st Initiative." Dr. Woodcock also recently launched two new drug safety initiatives to improve safety management and regulation. In her current position, Dr. Woodcock's organization works to ensure the effectiveness of drugs, provides data and instructions to health care providers and patients, and monitors clinical trials of new drugs.  Dr. Woodcock received her bachelor's degree in chemistry from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and her Doctor of Medicine degree from the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Asymptomatic spread of Coronavirus is 'very rare,' WHO says Manufacturing API, Drugs and Excipients (MADE) in America Act  Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

A victory for patients in Oklahoma as the state bans a discriminatory healthcare metric. Quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs) are used by numerous insurance companies to block coverage based on disability or age. Two mothers of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) explain how QALYs impact their children's access to affordable healthcare.  Guest:  Amanda Chaffin Amanda Chaffin is the mother of Kayden, a seven-year-old with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Amanda and her family reside in Norman, Oklahoma, where a ban on quality-adjusted-life-years was recently enacted.  Following Kayden's diagnosis, Amanda faced immense challenges in securing the medical equipment he needed, which propelled her into the patient advocacy space. She works with Cure SMA, an organization that drives funding for SMA research and provides support for families affected by the genetic disease.  Kayden Chaffin made news headlines over the thousands of Christmas cards that strangers sent to him over the holidays.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Oklahoma QALY Ban Patients Anticipate Future Access to Care Troubles from COVID-19 Kayden's Christmas Cards Cure SMA Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Higher quality care at lower prices might be possible. Some companies are harnessing the power of anonymous, patient data to improve patient protocols and replace pharmacy benefit managers. Dr. Bob sits down with two leaders in the health care data industry that are doing just that. And with Memorial Day weekend still fresh on our minds, Kate speaks with a veteran who makes a plea for protecting veteran care under the Veterans Administration. Guests:  Travis Leonardi, Chief Executive Officer at Agilum Healthcare Intelligence Travis Leonardi has been involved in the healthcare space for over 30 years. Mr. Leonardi is a pharmacist and entrepreneur who has combined his medical and business experiences to create several health care-focused companies.  In 2004, Mr. Leonardi founded Sentry Data Systems, where he currently serves as President and CEO. The Florida-based company provides pharmacy procurement and utilization services and focuses on analyzing real-time data to improve the quality of care at lower costs.  Currently, Mr. Leonardi also serves as the CEO at Agilum, a leading provider of Comparative Rapid Cycle Analytics for hospitals, life sciences companies, and payers.  Travis Leonardi is a registered pharmacist and graduate of St. John's Pharmacy School in New York City. William Kirsh, D.O., M.P.H. Chief Medical Information Officer at Agilum Healthcare Intelligence Dr. William Kirsh has over 30 years of experience in the public health field, including clinical practice, healthcare insurance, and software development. Dr. Kirsh is certified to practice geriatric medicine, hospice and palliative medicine, and family medicine. Combined with a background in IT innovation, Dr. Kirsh brings a unique perspective to his current role as Chief Medical Information Officer at Agilum. Dr. Kirsh's work is focused on applying data to solve population-based health problems in order to improve treatment practices and patient outcomes. His interests lie in public health and epidemiology.  Previously, Dr. Kirsh served as the CEO and Chief Medical Officer at Foundation Health Plan of Florida and was the Vice President of Medical Affairs and Quality Assurance at the Physicians Corporation of America Inc.  Currently, Dr. Kirsh continues to practice acute care medicine at several local hospitals and serves as a volunteer physician in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.  Dr. Kirsh received his D.O. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and his M.P.H. from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Agilum Ted Corcoran Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your ZIP code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

What will this cost? It's the big question when it comes to healthcare, and it's often impossible to answer. Health care policy expert David Balat explains how transparent pricing models put patients in control of their healthcare finances, and Kate speaks with Siobhan Benham, a nurse practitioner who explains the patient benefits of Direct Primary Care.  Guest:  David Balat, Healthcare Policy Director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation David Balat is a healthcare finance expert with over twenty years of experience and leadership in the healthcare industry. With his wealth of industry experience, he has served as the healthcare advisor for the Texas House of Representatives and has counseled numerous members of the U.S. Congress on healthcare policy.  Currently, Mr. Balat serves as the Healthcare Policy Director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, where he leads the Right on Healthcare Initiative, which aims to put patients in control of healthcare decisions through price transparency and expanded healthcare options.  Mr. Balat has worked extensively within executive management positions in the healthcare field. Starting in 2013, Mr. Balat served as the Executive Director of Olive Branch Management Services, where he worked extensively within the healthcare field to improve patient access and processes while decreasing costs. Past experiences also include serving as the President of Torch Recovery Services, Interim CEO of Humble Surgical Hospital, LLC, and CFO of Mobile Diagnostics.  Mr. Balat received a B.S. in biology from the University of Houston, and a joint M.B.A./M.H.A. from the University of Houston Clear Lake.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Colorado Changes How Coronavirus Deaths are Counted Right on Healthcare Initiative  Free to Care Hearthside Family Health Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.    

The nation is focused on development of a COVID-19 vaccine. And there's conflicting information from all sides. For those with chronic illnesses, a vaccine will be even more critical  if they hope to return to offices and clinics for routine treatments and doctor visits.  But what dangers lie in a vaccine being developed too quickly? On this episode, Dr. Paul Offit explores the current state of the COVID-19 vaccine. And recent college graduate Kate Pecora speaks with a patient whose health relies on the vaccination of others.  Guest: Paul Offit, M.D. Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Infectious Diseases at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.  Dr. Paul Offit has worked at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for over 20 years, where he serves as the Director of Infectious Diseases and as a Professor of Pediatrics. His expertise and research focus is on vaccines, immunology, and virology.  Dr. Offit is well known for being the co-creator of the rotavirus vaccine, RotaTeq, which was approved for inclusion in the U.S. vaccination schedule in 2006. For his work on the vaccine, he received the Luigi Mastroianni and William Osler Awards from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the Charles Mérieux Award from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. He was also honored by Bill and Melinda Gates during the launch of their Foundation's Living Proof Project for global health. Dr. Offit has published over 160 papers in medical journals dealing with his work on the rotavirus vaccine and overall vaccine safety practices. He also has authored eight books on vaccines and how they are communicated to the general public.  Previously, Dr. Offit has been a member of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. He is a founding board member of the Autism Science Foundation and a board member of Every Child by Two.  Dr. Offit earned a B.S. from Tufts University in Boston and earned his M.D. from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Paul Offit Overkill: When Modern Medicine Goes Too Far Rare Candace Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Health economist Dr. Paul C. Langley explains the faults in ICER's price calculations. Dr. Bob discusses his antibody test for COVID-19, and Kate speaks with a mother whose son passed away due to insulin rationing.  Guest: Paul C. Langley, Ph.D. Health economist and adjunct professor in the College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota  Dr. Paul C. Langley is a health economist with an extensive background in drug evaluation for pharmacy and therapeutics companies. In the early 1990's, Dr. Langley evaluated the economics for the introduction of new pharmaceutical products. In Australia, he worked, until 1994, to analyze cost-effectiveness cases brought forward by pharmaceutical companies introducing new products. After moving to America, Dr. Langley produced numerous research projects regarding evaluation techniques for the introduction of new pharmaceutical and therapeutic products to the United States. In 1997, he also established the Center for Pharmaceutical Economics at the University of Colorado.  From 1999 to 2005, Dr. Langley used his global experience and perspective in his role as International Manager, Health Economics, at 3M Pharmaceuticals.  Dr. Langley's research papers largely focus on issues of population health. His recent publications have analyzed how ICER's cost-effectiveness claims in the U.S. do not meet scientific standards.  Currently, Dr. Langley is the director of Maimon Research LLC, an Arizona-based health economics consulting and research company. He also works as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota's College of Pharmacy. Dr. Langley is currently an Advisory Board Member and Research Director for the Institute of Patient Access.  Dr. Langley earned his B.S. in economics from the University of Hull in the U.K., his M.A. from Carleton University, and his Ph.D. from Queen's University in Canada.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Maimon Research LLC Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

Many patients with chronic illnesses have had their treatments delayed or postponed as healthcare shifts its focus to COVID-19. Lifesaving procedures for the chronically ill have been put on the back burner.  How does the healthcare system prioritize who is worth immediate care, and what does that mean for the patients put at the end of the line? On this episode, we explore these moral dilemmas in healthcare with the help of Dr. Camosy, a professor of bioethics. And Kate speaks with Jennifer McNary, a mother fighting against ICER's pricing roadblocks in order to get her sons' access to treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.  Guest: Charles C. Camosy, Ph. D. Author and associate professor of theological and social ethics at Fordham University  Dr. Charles C. Camosy is an award-winning author and avid researcher on issues related to bioethics, healthcare, moral anthropology, and more. Through his work on "intellectual solidarity," he aims to unpack the often complex and highly emotional issues that are prevalent in societal discourse.  Dr. Camosy has authored four books that analyze the polarization of topics including abortion, binaries in public discourse, treatment of animals, and healthcare. He has written numerous academic articles on issues of morality and bioethics.  Currently, Dr. Camosy is an associate professor at Fordham University's theology department. He serves on both the board of the College Theology Society and the advisory board of the New England Partnership for the Common Good.  Dr. Camosy earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Dr. Charles C. Camosy  The drugs and treatments that could stop COVID-19 Patients Rights Advocate Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.  

Restaurant menus list their prices. So why not hospitals? Unfortunately, patients usually don't know the cost of their procedure or medication until they get the bill. Getting access to hospital pricing is also just as difficult as getting a hold of your own digital medical records. So how can patients take back control over their healthcare decisions? On this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of price transparency models, and how to pass legislation that will put you in control of your finances and health.  Guest: Cynthia Fisher, Founder and Chairman, PatientRightsAdvocate.org and founder and former CEO of ViaCord, Inc.  Cynthia Fisher is an established science entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the life science industries. She is an advocate for real price transparency, having founded the non-profit Patient Rights Advocate in 2017. Under her leadership, the organization seeks to elevate the voices of patients that are burdened by healthcare costs and to raise awareness of price transparent healthcare models.   Cynthia is best known for establishing ViaCord Inc. in 1993, a company that offers umbilical cord blood banking and genomic testing with the goal of potentially treating select cancers and genetic diseases. In 2000, Cynthia co-founded ViaCell Inc., which absorbed ViaCord Inc. as a new division. At ViaCell Inc., Cynthia served as President and sat on the Board of Directors.  Her experience in healthcare advocacy also extends into the public sector. In 2017, Cynthia was appointed to the Health Information Technology Advisory Committee by former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan.   Cynthia earned a B.S. in Biophysics from Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pennsylvania.  Ursinus College also awarded her an Honorary Doctorate in Science. She earned her MBA from Harvard Business School.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: The APANDEMIC Initiative Patients Rights Advocate The Discomfort Zone The Discomfort Zone Twitter The Discomfort Zone Facebook The Discomfort Zone Instagram Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

COVID-19 has brought global attention to the fragility of the medical supply chain. For those with chronic illnesses, drug shortages and access to medication often are lifelong battles. As the coronavirus spread begins to slow, will the pandemic bring about increased awareness of the everyday struggles of patients with chronic diseases? And how can we bridge the gaps in the medical supply chain? On this episode of the Patients Rising Podcast, we discuss new technologies that can quickly develop small-batch drugs in high demand among patients. We also look into how the pandemic has slowed the supply chain's transportation of APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients).  Guest: Lili Valletta, Founder and CEO of CIEN+, and Marketing Executive at Bright Path Laboratories. Lili Valletta is a marketing professional with over 20 years of experience, specifically in the medical and pharmaceutical industries. In 2010, Lili co-founded CIEN+, which is a Cultural Intelligence Engine designed to help companies bring cultural trends into their business designs and solutions.  In conjunction with CIEN+, where Lili continues to serve as the CEO, she is a marketing executive and strategic partner at Bright Path Laboratories. Bright Path focuses on pharmaceutical manufacturing technology for API production designed to meet drug shortages in the supply chain due to its scalable design.  For 10 years, Lili worked as the Director of Global Marketing at Johnson & Johnson, where she developed numerous diversity marketing initiatives, including the company's first multicultural marketing strategy. PRWeek named Lili one of its Top 50 Healthcare Influencers.  Lili earned her Masters in Business Administration from the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Bright Path Laboratories  The APANDEMIC Initiative Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or positions of Patients Rising.  

Medical supply chains that transport medications for chronically ill patients are at risk of shutting down due to COVID-19. And for those that have contracted the disease, getting access to clinical trials is not an easy process. For at-risk patients, accessing life-saving medications is becoming increasingly more difficult.  This week on the Patients Rising Podcast, we discuss treatment testing for coronavirus. We also discuss how the strain on the medical supply chain is impacting the routine medications relied on by thousands of chronically ill Americans. Finally, we follow up with some good patient news on Michael Goldsmith's acceptance into a coronavirus clinical trial.  Guest: Robert Hariri, M.D, Ph.D Chairman, Founder, and CEO of Celularity Dr. Robert Hariri is an experienced surgeon and biomedical scientist. His research focuses on utilizing stem cells for the treatment of numerous human diseases, particularly in the areas of immuno-oncology and cell therapy. Dr. Hariri's major medical discoveries include his findings on human placenta-derived stem cells, which include pluripotent stem cells and novel immune cells.  For nearly 14 years, Dr. Hariri served as the CEO of Celgene's Cellular Therapeutics division, a global pharmaceutical company. In 2014, he co-founded Human Longevity, Inc., a genomics-based biotechnology company.  Currently, Dr. Hariri serves as Chairman and CEO of Celularity. The biotech company focuses on cell therapy research based on Dr. Hariri's findings on the uses of postpartum placenta cells. This research guides Celularity's work in immuno-oncology and hematology.  Dr. Hariri earned his B.A. in Biological Anthropology from Columbia University and his M.D. and Ph.D. from Cornell University.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Fight Like a Warrior Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising.

As coronavirus continues to spread across New York City, other virus hot spots are emerging across the country, including Detroit and New Orleans. These epicenters are seeing a surge in coronavirus patients but lack the medical supplies and staff to combat this growing crisis. But how exactly do these coronavirus epicenters come to be? And what does this mean for immunodeficient patients living in these places?  This week on the Patients Rising Podcast, we have part two of Dr. Bob's interview with Dr. Hugh Rosen, who explains how and why these COVID-19 hotspots emerge. He also discusses experimental treatments for those who have contracted the virus.  Guest: Hugh Rosen, M.D., Ph.D. Professor of Molecular Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute's California Campus and Chairman and President of ActivX Biosciences Inc. Dr. Rosen has over 30 years of medical experience with a research focus on lymphocyte trafficking. His work at The Scripp's Research Institute (TSRI) led to the development of ozanimod, which helps alleviate brain atrophy for patients with multiple sclerosis. Its benefits may also extend to those suffering from other autoimmune conditions.  Prior to his work at TSRI, Dr. Rosen served as the Executive Director of Immunology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases at Merck Research Laboratories. He was also Chair of the Worldwide Business Strategy Team for Antibacterials and Antifungals.  Currently, Dr. Rosen serves on the Board of Directors at Regulus. In 2017, Dr. Rosen became the President and Chairman of ActivX Bioscience Inc., a biopharmeceutical company focused on the research and development of molecular drugs.   Dr. Rosen earned his M.D. from the University of Cape Town and his Ph.D. in Physiological Sciences from the University of Oxford.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected]

Both the federal and state governments have begun turning to the private sector for solutions to supply tests, masks, and other necessary materials for fighting COVID-19. The private sector may also have potential coronavirus treatments, some of which are already in use for other diseases. On Episode 5 of the Patients Rising Podcast, we discuss the potential treatment options for COVID-19 and the other ways in which the private sector is helping to alleviate the impact of coronavirus.  Guests: Sara Goldberg, Clinical social worker. Hugh Rosen, M.D., Ph.D. Professor of Molecular Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute's California Campus and Chairman and President of ActivX Biosciences Inc. Dr. Rosen has over 30 years of medical experience with a research focus on lymphocyte trafficking. His work at The Scripp's Research Institute (TSRI) led to the development of ozanimod, which helps alleviate brain atrophy for patients with multiple sclerosis. Its benefits may also extend to those suffering from other autoimmune conditions.  Prior to his work at TSRI, Dr. Rosen served as the Executive Director of Immunology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases at Merck Research Laboratories. He was also Chair of the Worldwide Business Strategy Team for Antibacterials and Antifungals.  Currently, Dr. Rosen serves on the Board of Directors at Regulus. In 2017, Dr. Rosen became the President and Chairman of ActivX Bioscience Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of molecular drugs.  Dr. Rosen earned his M.D. from the University of Cape Town and his Ph.D. in Physiological Sciences from the University of Oxford.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands. Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected]  

Fears of shortages of critical health supplies like hospital gowns, masks and drugs are a big topic on every media channel. Public health leaders are concerned about reports healthcare professionals are running short of the personal protective equipment they need. Government officials are working to address the supply chain in time, and this week President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act of 1950 to address predicted supply shortfalls.  On Episode 4 of the Patients Rising Podcast, we discuss how the current pandemic is putting the medical supply chain to the test and how this affects patients with chronic disease.  Guest: Marion Mass, M.D. Philadelphia-area pediatrician and Co-Founder and Executive VP of The Practicing Physicians of America.  Dr. Marion Mass has practiced pediatrics in Philadelphia for over 20 years. She also currently serves as a board member of the Bucks County Health Initiative and as a delegate to the Pennsylvania Medical Society. Dr. Mass has previously been on the board of Physicians Working Together, a grassroots advocacy group focused on educating patients on healthcare issues and empowering doctors to join the healthcare reform movement.  Alongside her extensive medical career, Dr. Mass has also focused on advocating for sustainability within the American healthcare system.  In 2017, Dr. Mass co-founded The Practicing Physicians of America, which gives physicians across America a voice in Washington, D.C., and seeks to protect the patient-physician relationship and support physician autonomy. Her focus is on drug shortages and maximizing patients' value in the healthcare system.  Dr. Mass earned her M.D. from Duke University School of Medicine.  Hosts: Terry Wilcox, Executive Director, Patients Rising Dr. Robert Goldberg, "Dr. Bob", Co-Founder and Vice President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest. Kate Pecora, Field Correspondent  Links: Alabama Rare National Organization for Rare Disorders Patients Rising Concierge  Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health related resources using your zip code for local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at PatientsRisingConcierge.org Have a question or comment about the show, want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: [email protected]