The Exam Room

If value-based care represents better care… why isn't it standard for every patient? In Part 2 of this Exam Room Podcast series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor continues her conversation with Dr. Ben Schwartz, exploring the deeper challenges behind value-based care adoption. This episode dives into physician incentives, operational complexity, and the reality of running parallel care models in today's healthcare system. Dr. Schwartz argues that value isn't created by payment models alone—and that meaningful change requires rethinking how care is designed and delivered. If you're working to implement value-based care—or questioning its impact—this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective.

Is value-based care actually working—or is it falling short of expectations? In Part 1 of this two-part Exam Room Podcast series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Dr. Ben Schwartz, a former orthopedic surgeon turned healthcare leader, to take a critical look at value-based care in practice. From bundled payment models to CMS strategy, this conversation explores the gap between theory and reality—why some models have struggled, what's driving provider frustration, and whether the system is evolving in the right direction. If you're navigating value-based care in today's healthcare environment, this episode offers an honest, experience-driven perspective.

Are we measuring the right things in healthcare—or just the easiest things to track? In Part 2 of this Exam Room Podcast series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor continues her conversation with healthcare advisor Kathy Letendre, diving into the critical difference between outputs and outcomes. This episode explores how over-reliance on productivity metrics and proxy measures can distort priorities, contribute to clinician burnout, and limit real progress. Kathy shares practical insights on how organizations can shift toward more meaningful measurement—focusing on systems, collaboration, and outcomes that truly reflect patient impact. If you're a healthcare leader looking to align strategy, measurement, and culture, this episode offers a clear path forward. Kathy's recent article "Are You Delivering What Matters Most?" expands on our conversation. Her Excellence Advantage Inspirations newsletter is a great source of information, guidance and inspiration for leaders and change-makers. Finally, Kathy mentions the Evidence-Based Leadership approach of PuMP during our conversation. Want to know more about this? You can reach out to Kathy directly or find out more here. Kathy can be reached at [email protected]. She welcomes connections on LinkedIn as well at www.linkedin.com/in/kathyletendre.

What does real transformation in healthcare actually look like? In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with healthcare advisor and former executive Kathy Letendre to challenge a common assumption: that improvement comes from quick fixes and rapid change. Instead, this conversation explores why meaningful, lasting transformation takes time—and why many organizations struggle when they try to move too fast. Drawing on her experience helping healthcare systems move from average to exceptional performance, Kathy shares insights on leadership, patience, and the importance of aligning strategy with measurable outcomes that truly matter. This is Part 1 of a two-part series focused on sustainable transformation in healthcare. 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for Part 2.

In the final episode of this three-part series, The Exam Room concludes its conversation with Joslyn Mikeworth, a community health worker at Canyonlands Healthcare, with a focus on growth, accountability, and what it takes to create better systems for frontline healthcare workers. Building on earlier conversations about frontline realities and advocacy, this episode explores what meaningful change can look like in practice. Joslyn reflects on lessons learned from challenging workplace experiences and highlights the importance of communication, leadership accountability, and continuous improvement. The discussion emphasizes that creating supportive environments isn't just about identifying problems — it's about taking action. From fostering open dialogue to building trust across teams, Joslyn shares insights into how organizations can better support staff while improving patient care. The episode closes on a hopeful note, reinforcing that when frontline voices are heard and acted upon, healthcare systems can evolve into environments where both staff and patients thrive. 🎙️ Part Three and conclusion of a series on frontline healthcare, leadership, and advocacy in rural communities.

In Part Two of this three-part series, The Exam Room continues its conversation with Joslyn Mikeworth, a community health worker at Canyonlands Healthcare, exploring the realities of advocacy and workplace culture on the frontlines of healthcare. Joslyn shares candid experiences navigating environments where support isn't always consistent, and where speaking up can feel difficult — but necessary. She reflects on the emotional toll of feeling unheard, as well as the importance of advocating for both patients and colleagues when systems fall short. The conversation highlights how workplace culture, communication, and leadership behavior directly impact not only staff well-being, but also the quality of patient care. Joslyn also discusses the personal growth that comes from finding her voice and learning to speak up, even in uncomfortable situations. This episode offers a powerful look at the importance of psychological safety, accountability, and creating environments where frontline workers feel empowered to contribute and be heard. 🎙️ Part Two of a three-part series on frontline healthcare, leadership, and advocacy in rural communities.

In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Joslyn Mikeworth, a community health worker at Canyonlands Healthcare, to explore what it's really like to work on the frontlines of rural healthcare. Joslyn shares her journey through multiple healthcare roles — from CNA to medical assistant to community health worker — and how those experiences shape the way she connects with patients today. She explains how community health workers help bridge the gap between clinical care and patients' everyday lives, especially in rural settings where access and communication can be major challenges. The conversation highlights the realities of patient engagement, including the difficulty of reaching patients and the importance of building trust through in-person connection. The episode also takes an honest look at leadership — what supportive leadership looks like in practice, and how transparency, communication, and approachability can empower frontline staff to succeed. Joslyn contrasts these experiences with moments where leadership fell short, offering a powerful perspective on how workplace culture directly impacts both staff well-being and patient care. This episode sets the foundation for a two-part series focused on frontline healthcare, leadership, and the systems that support — or fail — the people delivering care.

In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Heidi Sanborn, clinical professor at the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation at Arizona State University, to explore one of the most pressing challenges in health care today: nurse retention and burnout. Drawing from her unique background in technology, bedside nursing, leadership, and academia, Heidi shares how systems design — both physical and digital — often fails when frontline staff are not intentionally included in the process. From poorly implemented lifting equipment to mismatched software systems, she highlights how well-intentioned solutions can waste resources and increase frustration when end users are left out of design conversations. The discussion also dives into workplace culture, generational shifts in nursing, lateral violence, and the evolving expectations of early-career nurses. Heidi reflects on how orientation models have changed over time, the loss of experienced preceptors, and why customized support during a nurse's first year is critical to long-term retention. This episode sets the foundation for a deeper series conversation about innovation, leadership, and building systems that help nurses stay, grow, and thrive. 🎙️ Part One of a new series on nursing workforce sustainability and innovation.

In the final episode of this three-part series, The Exam Room concludes its conversation with Jessica Yanow, president and CEO of the Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers. This episode focuses on Medicaid unwinding, coverage retention strategies, and what health centers have learned from recent policy transitions. Jessica shares how Arizona's coordinated efforts — including data sharing, renewal alignment, outreach workflows, and "no wrong door" enrollment approaches — helped minimize coverage loss and protect access to care. The conversation then turns toward the future. With rising operational costs, flat grant funding, and evolving federal requirements, health centers face significant financial and regulatory pressures. Jessica discusses the possibility of consolidation, the importance of sustainability planning, and why innovation — both operational and strategic — will determine long-term success. The episode closes on a hopeful note: health centers are deeply rooted in their communities, governed by patient-majority boards, and strengthened by collaboration. In uncertain times, communication, partnership, and community voice remain their greatest assets. 🎙️ Part Three and conclusion of a three-part series on the future of community health centers.

In Part Two of this three-part series, The Exam Room continues its conversation with Jessica Yanow, president and CEO of the Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers. This episode focuses on the growing importance of partnerships and innovation in strengthening community health. Jessica discusses how health centers are collaborating with housing providers, public health agencies, schools, health plans, and other community organizations to address the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. The conversation highlights the importance of building long-term, relational partnerships — not just transactional collaborations — to create sustainable impact. Jessica also shares insights on how digital tools, telehealth, and artificial intelligence are reshaping workflows, supporting providers, and helping reduce administrative burden across health centers. From relationship-building to digital transformation, this episode explores how collaboration and innovation are helping health centers navigate change while continuing to serve their communities. 🎙️ Part Two of a three-part series on the future of community health centers.

In Part One of this three-part series, The Exam Room welcomes back Jessica Yanow, president and CEO of the Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers, for a deeper conversation about the forces shaping primary care in Arizona and across the country. This episode focuses on the evolving policy and funding landscape facing community health centers. Jessica discusses regulatory changes, Medicaid shifts, and the growing financial pressures created by changes in payer mix and rising numbers of uninsured patients. She also highlights major opportunities on the horizon, including investments in rural health infrastructure and new initiatives aimed at improving access and outcomes. The conversation also explores workforce challenges across the health center system. From shortages of primary care providers and medical assistants to the growing demand for behavioral health services, and the strategies organizations are using to recruit, retain, and develop staff. This episode sets the stage for the series by examining the policy, financial, and workforce realities that health centers must navigate today. 🎙️ Part One of a three-part series on the future of community health centers.

In the final part of this three-part series, The Exam Room concludes its conversation with Dr. Mary O'Connor, orthopedic surgeon and national leader in prevention-focused, value-based musculoskeletal care. This episode explores the structural and financial realities shaping health care delivery in the United States — and how those realities influence patient outcomes. Dr. O'Connor highlights the critical role Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) play in supporting whole-person, community-centered care and explains why these organizations are uniquely positioned to influence behavior change and address social determinants of health. The conversation also examines the challenges created by fee-for-service payment models, which often incentivize procedures and surgical volume over prevention and long-term health outcomes. Dr. O'Connor discusses how new models of care, including interdisciplinary and non-surgical approaches, can improve patient outcomes while lowering overall health care costs. Throughout the episode, the discussion emphasizes the importance of challenging the status quo and building sustainable care models that support patients, providers, employers, and communities alike. 🎙️ Part Three and conclusion of a series on prevention, behavior change, and community-driven health.

In Part Two of this ongoing series, The Exam Room continues its conversation with Dr. Mary O'Connor, orthopedic surgeon and national leader in prevention-focused, value-based musculoskeletal care. This episode explores why patients are often more influenced by the experiences of other patients than by clinical advice alone — and why emotional readiness, trust, and peer support play a critical role in lasting behavior change. Dr. O'Connor explains how health coaches, community-based programs, and mentorship models help patients overcome barriers that knowledge alone cannot. We also examine the shortcomings of traditional fee-for-service care, including overutilization of imaging and surgery, and the absence of effective non-surgical, whole-person care. Dr. O'Connor makes the case for an intermediary, non-surgical approach that prioritizes what truly matters to patients — whether that's returning to activity, spending time with family, or simply living without pain. This episode highlights why engaging patients at an emotional level isn't a "nice to have," but a necessity for better outcomes, lower costs, and a more sustainable health care system.

In today's health care system, medical care often begins after people are already in pain — but research shows that medical treatment accounts for only a small fraction of what actually determines health. In Part One of this multi-part conversation, The Exam Room welcomes Dr. Mary O'Connor, orthopedic surgeon, former Mayo Clinic and Yale faculty member, and co-founder of innovative health organizations focused on movement, prevention, and equity. Dr. O'Connor explains why she believes we don't have a "health care system," but rather a sick care system, and why wellness and prevention must move beyond exam rooms and into communities. Together, we explore how individual behavior, social determinants of health, and access to culturally responsive support shape outcomes, particularly for underserved populations. This episode lays the foundation for understanding why behavior change is so difficult, why traditional care models often fall short, and how community-based approaches can unlock healthier futures, not just for individuals, but for entire families and neighborhoods. 🎙️ This is Part One of a continuing series on prevention, behavior change, and community-driven health.

How do health systems move from adopting digital tools to building strategies that truly last? In the final episode of this three-part Exam Room Podcast series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor concludes her conversation with Dr. Ami Bhatt, cardiologist and Chief Innovation Officer at the American College of Cardiology, by focusing on sustainability, access, and the future of patient-centered care. Dr. Bhatt explains why successful digital health adoption depends on infrastructure, communication, and shared understanding — not just technology. From front-desk staff to clinicians and patients, everyone involved in the care journey must understand how and why new tools are being used. Without clear education and alignment, even the best technology can fail. The discussion also explores value-based care, federally qualified health centers, and new payment models that make continuous, home-based care more feasible for rural and underserved communities. Dr. Bhatt emphasizes that digital strategies must respect the realities of patients' lives — including transportation barriers, caregiving responsibilities, and work constraints — if they are to improve access and outcomes. As the episode wraps, the conversation turns toward hope: a new generation of patients who expect partnership, transparency, and agency in their health care. Dr. Bhatt reflects on the power of long-term doctor–patient relationships and how digital tools, when designed thoughtfully, can remove noise and bring humanity back to the center of care. This episode serves as a hopeful conclusion to the series — pointing toward a future where technology supports connection, empowerment, and better health for all.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramibhatt/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramibhatt/ X: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramibhatt/ Website: www.dramibhatt.com  

Is technology pulling health care away from human connection — or helping us get back to it? In Part Two of this three-part series on The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor continues her conversation with Dr. Ami Bhatt, cardiologist and Chief Innovation Officer at the American College of Cardiology, to explore how digital tools and AI can support truly human-centered care. Dr. Bhatt reflects on how modern health care has shifted from deeply personal relationships to time-limited, data-heavy encounters — and why neither patients nor clinicians are satisfied with that reality. She explains how thoughtfully designed digital systems can reduce administrative burden, synthesize complex data, and give clinicians the space to reconnect with patients through eye contact, conversation, and empathy. The episode also dives into the evolving role of AI in health care: from background support that simplifies logistics and documentation, to patient-facing tools that can improve access, engagement, and even help address loneliness. The discussion emphasizes transparency, consent, and choice — allowing patients to decide when they want efficiency and when they want human connection. Finally, Dr. Bhatt explores how generative AI may help health care move beyond surface-level data toward understanding what patients truly value, enabling more personalized, equitable, and meaningful care experiences. This episode is a thoughtful exploration of how technology, when used intentionally, can help health care feel human again.

What happens when digital innovation meets human-centered care? In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Dr. Ami Bhatt — cardiologist and Chief Innovation Officer at the American College of Cardiology — to explore the evolving role of digital health and what it means for patients and providers alike. Dr. Bhatt shares her journey from caring for adults with congenital heart disease to becoming an early adopter of telemedicine long before the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated virtual care. Together, they discuss how technology can bring complex care into the communities where patients live, reduce barriers to access, and empower individuals to take ownership of their health. The conversation also dives into the concept of "prescribing time" — reframing longevity around prevention, heart health, and everyday choices that support a longer, healthier life. From wearables and remote monitoring to patient education and continuous care, this episode highlights why the future of digital health isn't separate from health care — it is health care. If you're interested in prevention, innovation, patient agency, and the future of cardiovascular care, this episode offers thoughtful insight and practical perspective.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramibhatt/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramibhatt/ X: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramibhatt/ Website: www.dramibhatt.com

Telehealth is no longer just a temporary solution—it's a permanent part of modern healthcare. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with telehealth and workflow expert Christian Milaster to explore how health centers can move beyond "bolted-on" virtual visits and build fully integrated, high-quality telehealth programs. This wide-ranging conversation breaks down the seven core telehealth workflows—scheduling, onboarding, virtual rooming, the visit itself, follow-up, post-visit communication, and reimbursement—and explains why redesigning each one is critical for long-term success. Christian also shares real-world strategies for training clinicians, improving virtual bedside manner, increasing confidence in virtual physical exams, and creating a seamless patient experience that reduces frustration and builds trust. You'll also hear why change management is often the biggest barrier to telehealth adoption, how leadership buy-in directly impacts success, and how telehealth plays a growing role in value-based care, chronic disease management, and access for rural and underserved populations. Whether you're a health center leader, clinician, administrator, or care transformation professional, this episode provides actionable guidance to help you rethink telehealth as a fully integrated care delivery model—not just a pandemic workaround. Key topics include: Telehealth workflow design and integration Clinician training and virtual exam confidence Patient onboarding and technology readiness Reimbursement challenges and value-based care Change management and leadership engagement Improving access and continuity of care through telehealth 🎧 Tune in to learn how to build telehealth programs that truly work—for both patients and providers.

In Episode 3 of our health literacy series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Catina O'Leary explore what it really takes for healthcare leadership to support clear communication and meaningful behavior change. Dr. O'Leary shares why health systems often struggle to prioritize health literacy, how external experts can help overcome internal barriers, and why written materials—not just verbal explanations—are critical for safety and understanding. They discuss the realities of behavior change, the importance of starting with what patients want to do, and the need for small, achievable action steps instead of shame-based instruction. The conversation also dives into patient self-advocacy, power dynamics in the exam room, and why everyone deserves a provider they feel comfortable communicating with. Dr. O'Leary closes with a practical, high-impact recommendation: leaders should walk their own hallways with fresh eyes and evaluate whether their signage and environment genuinely help patients navigate care.

Health literacy is not about reading level, it's about relationships, understanding, and trust. In this powerful episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Catina O'Leary, President and CEO of Health Literacy Media, discuss how true health literacy starts with empathy and communication, not handouts or digital platforms. Dr. O'Leary explains why health literacy is "a state, not a trait," and how every member of a healthcare team, from front desk staff to physicians, plays a role in building connection and understanding. The episode explores tools like teach-back, chunking, and intentional handoffs that help ensure patients leave every visit informed, confident, and cared for. You'll also hear practical advice on how to make materials more meaningful, reintroduce written takeaways, and use human-centered communication to improve outcomes and trust. Key Topics: Why health literacy is about relationships, not reading levels How technology impacts trust and patient satisfaction Simple interventions that make communication more effective The role of teach-back, chunking, and handoffs in care delivery Practical ways to make every visit more human-centered

In this first episode of our new series on health literacy, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor speaks with Dr. Catina O'Leary, President and CEO of Health Literacy Media. Dr. O'Leary shares her inspiring journey from social work and behavioral research to leading a global nonprofit dedicated to making healthcare communication clear and actionable. They discuss how communication drives behavior change, what it means to build a health literate organization, and how small shifts in language can have a big impact on cost, quality, and patient trust. From personal stories to practical takeaways, this episode shines a light on the real-world importance of making information accessible—and human.

In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Andy Mayberry joins Dr. Rhiannon Winsor to discuss what it really takes to build rapport with patients. Using his signature "dinner and a show" philosophy, Dr. Mayberry explains why medicine isn't just about getting the diagnosis right — it's also about connection, empathy, and being real. He shares stories from his 25 years in medicine, showing how humor, small talk, and remembering the little details can make all the difference in patient trust and outcomes. If you're a provider looking to improve patient relationships, or simply curious about what makes great care great, this conversation is a must-listen. 🎙️ Topics include: "Dinner and a show": blending clinical skill with bedside manner Why small talk helps build trust Reading the room and meeting patients where they are Staying authentic and human in every interaction

In this follow-up conversation with Dr. Andy Mayberry, a longtime rural family physician with Chiricahua Community Health Centers, we explore how to close care gaps and strengthen care for high-risk patients through better data, communication, and teamwork. Dr. Mayberry explains why annual wellness visits are the foundation of preventive care and how consistent provider-patient relationships drive better outcomes. From care gap reports to risk adjustment scores, he offers a clear-eyed look at the systems behind high-quality primary care—and why every health center should prioritize care coordination and chronic care management. Listeners will also hear honest insights about provider capacity, team-based care, and the fine balance between medical work and social support. Key Topics: Using data and care gaps to identify at-risk patients Why continuity and trust matter in primary care The essential role of chronic care management (CCM) Addressing non-medical barriers like transportation and medication access Building multidisciplinary teams that work at the top of their licenses

In this insightful episode, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Dr. Andy Mayberry, a longtime family physician at Chiricahua Community Health Centers, to explore the art and science of managing high-risk patients. From chronic disease and smoking cessation to care coordination and patient follow-up, Dr. Mayberry explains how proactive communication, preventive screenings, and consistent visits can dramatically improve outcomes. He also discusses the Risk Adjustment Factor (RAF) score as a useful framework for identifying high-risk patients and designing visit schedules that catch problems early. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for improving chronic care management, supporting patients with multiple conditions, and re-centering healthcare around prevention and human connection. Key Topics: Defining and identifying high-risk patients using RAF scores The long-term impact of preventive care Coordinating care among specialists Empowering patients through follow-up and advocacy The role of chronic care management programs (CCM) in improving outcomes

In this powerful follow-up episode, Christian Milaster returns to discuss the Innovation Adoption Maturity Model, a systems-level approach that helps health centers understand where they are, where they're going, and how to get there. He and Dr. Winsor dive deep into what it takes to truly adopt innovation: clinician buy-in, leadership alignment, workflow redesign, and empathetic virtual care. From "webside manner" training to uncovering hidden motivators, this episode is packed with actionable insights for any organization trying to build a culture of sustainable change.

In this episode, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor is joined by Christian Milaster, founder of Ingenium Digital Health Advisors, to explore what true innovation looks like in health care; beyond buzzwords and tech trends. Christian draws on decades of experience, from Mayo Clinic to rural health centers, to explain how FQHCs can adopt digital tools and redesign workflows without overwhelming their teams. From secret shoppers to rethinking pain clinics, this episode reframes innovation as a mindset, not a luxury, for health centers that want to survive and thrive.

Join Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Robert Babyar as they envision the health center of 2030, where integrated services, mission-driven staffing, and strong community impact define success. Learn how Adelante is working toward being Arizona's top FQHC, why value-based care remains essential, and how creative partnerships can fuel innovation. This episode is packed with ideas to help leaders plan strategically and inspire their teams.

Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Robert Babyar explore strategies for navigating change without losing sight of your mission. Topics include innovative staff communication tools like "Daily Dose," preparing for potential Medicaid changes, and finding the positives in policy shifts. Whether you're managing a rural clinic or a large urban health center, this episode offers inspiration and practical tips for staying mission-focused in uncertain times. 

From quality metrics to community engagement, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Robert Babyar discuss how health centers can measure what truly matters. Learn why data alone isn't enough, how to build partnerships that amplify impact, and ways to align your team around a shared definition of success. Packed with real-world insights from Adelante Health Center, this episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to elevate outcomes in value-based care. 

Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Dr. Robert Babyar dive into what it takes to create a health center culture rooted in mission, collaboration, and community trust. They discuss strategies for staff engagement, leadership development, and avoiding "scope creep" so health centers can stay focused on what matters most, patient care. Whether you're leading an FQHC, part of a care team, or working in healthcare strategy, you'll find practical takeaways to strengthen your organization's culture and impact. 

In the final installment of this three-part series, Shaun Romero joins Dr. Winsor to tackle one of the thorniest problems in value-based care: delayed, disconnected data. They explore how FQHCs and ACOs can work together to reduce data latency, improve patient communication, and automate clinical insights. From forecasting trends to texting patients, Shaun offers pragmatic solutions for transforming operational chaos into coordinated care, one dashboard at a time. 

What if every patient received value-based care, regardless of their insurance plan? Shaun Romero returns to The Exam Room to unpack the cultural and operational shift needed to make this possible. From challenging the fee-for-service "chassis" to reducing clinician burnout, Shaun and Dr. Winsor explore how standardizing care workflows can improve quality, rebuild trust, and reduce friction for overburdened providers. They discuss the human cost of fragmented care, the importance of relational trust, and the vital role of ACOs in supporting health centers with social determinants of health. 

In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Shaun Romero, co-CEO of Medwest LLC, to explore how frontline innovation and simplified workflows are helping providers thrive in value-based care models. Shaun shares his personal journey, sparked by his wife's experience as a primary care physician, and explains how Medwest is transforming clinical data into actionable insight. Together, they discuss the challenges FQHCs face with data fragmentation, EHR complexity, and reimbursement models, and how automation and ownership of data can bridge the gap between provider intention and patient impact.

In this episode with Claudia Cometa, she and Dr. Rhiannon Winsor explore the emotional and psychological side of healthcare communication, focusing on illness identity, grey space, and how language can either empower or disempower. Claudia shares how to reframe chronic illness, promote patient resilience, and build trust using trauma-informed communication strategies. Ideal for clinicians, health center teams, and anyone working in value-based primary care, this conversation is a guide to healing beyond prescriptions. Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-cometa-pharmd/ Linked to Avanti Health Consultants: https://www.consultavanti.com/ Buy her book, "Patient, Empower Thyself": https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Empower-Thyself-Claudia-Cometa/dp/1954676891/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8DTPOXIDKY5W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.c6i9pJgO5xDqiF95Bmk5va0ElHRVYlMlsyS95bx1wXmIWWp1WcpGjOfvG6pP8K-D1w5pSLTJ1bY5Peil941ftNCtoB6oD_Bg6K-GRhzBWrI.EU8riR0S-uvFLnM4HPuf_yheVLlUl-VhYHNUbi9iqPc&dib_tag=se&keywords=patient+empower+thyself&qid=1753309900&sprefix=patient+empowe%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-1

This episode of The Exam Room focuses on improving the patient experience through simple but powerful changes rooted in customer service and trust-building. Claudia Cometa shares how "unreasonable hospitality" can be a model for transforming care delivery—from warm welcomes to culturally competent staff to designing trauma-informed waiting rooms. We also explore how these changes directly support equity, access, and value-based care delivery.   Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-cometa-pharmd/ Avanti https://www.consultavanti.com/ Claudia Cometa - https://claudiacometa.com/ Buy her book, "Patient, Empower Thyself": https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Empower-Thyself-Claudia-Cometa/dp/1954676891/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8DTPOXIDKY5W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.c6i9pJgO5xDqiF95Bmk5va0ElHRVYlMlsyS95bx1wXmIWWp1WcpGjOfvG6pP8K-D1w5pSLTJ1bY5Peil941ftNCtoB6oD_Bg6K-GRhzBWrI.EU8riR0S-uvFLnM4HPuf_yheVLlUl-VhYHNUbi9iqPc&dib_tag=se&keywords=patient+empower+thyself&qid=1753309900&sprefix=patient+empowe%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-1

In this episode, we go inside the broken healthcare system with Claudia Cometa, founder of Avanti Health Consultants. Claudia shares her journey from clinical pharmacist to full-time patient advocate, highlighting what clinicians often don't realize about patient trauma, medical gaslighting, and communication breakdowns. We discuss how empathy, trust, and shared decision-making can bridge the gap and improve outcomes across value-based and primary care models. Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-cometa-pharmd/ Avanti https://www.consultavanti.com/ Claudia Cometa - https://claudiacometa.com/ Buy her book, "Patient, Empower Thyself": https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Empower-Thyself-Claudia-Cometa/dp/1954676891/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8DTPOXIDKY5W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.c6i9pJgO5xDqiF95Bmk5va0ElHRVYlMlsyS95bx1wXmIWWp1WcpGjOfvG6pP8K-D1w5pSLTJ1bY5Peil941ftNCtoB6oD_Bg6K-GRhzBWrI.EU8riR0S-uvFLnM4HPuf_yheVLlUl-VhYHNUbi9iqPc&dib_tag=se&keywords=patient+empower+thyself&qid=1753309900&sprefix=patient+empowe%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-1

Dr. Rhiannon Winsor in this impactful episode as she speaks with Altaf Ibrahim, Director of Quality at Sunset Health, about their remarkable success with breast cancer screenings. Learn how Sunset Health has overcome barriers like patient education, resource limitations, and cultural hesitancy to achieve outstanding performance metrics. Altaf shares actionable strategies, emphasizing empathy, community bonds, and personalized patient engagement. If you're looking for effective ways to boost preventive health outcomes, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical tips. 

In this inspiring episode of "The Exam Room," join Dr. Rhiannon Winsor as she talks with Altaf Ibrahim, Director of Quality at Sunset Health in Yuma, Arizona. Altaf shares his remarkable journey from a plastic surgeon in Pakistan to a passionate advocate for preventive healthcare in the United States. Discover how his personal and professional experiences shaped his dedication to chronic disease management and preventive care, and hear powerful insights into overcoming healthcare disparities. This episode emphasizes the essential role of empathy, trust, and cultural understanding in achieving successful health outcomes.

Do CAHPS scores actually affect your bottom line? In a word: yes. In this final episode of The Exam Room's CAHPS series, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Kimberly Gonzalez and Sam Reinhard to connect the dots between patient perception, shared savings, and value-based care. They explore: How CAHPS scores contribute to MSSP and other incentive programs Why low-scoring domains often predict high-cost utilization What health center leaders risk by ignoring patient experience Simple, high-impact actions that improve both scores and care quality Packed with practical insights and strategic takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating value-based care in FQHCs or beyond.

In this urgent special episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor and Producer Benj Braman sit down with Jessica Yanow, President and CEO of the Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers, to talk about the very real and imminent threats to Medicaid in Arizona. With proposed legislation under review, health centers are bracing for a spike in uninsured patients, reduced funding, and operational strain. Jessica shares how health centers are responding through scenario planning, innovation, and collaboration, and why trust, adaptability, and communication are more critical than ever. You'll also hear how advocacy, internal culture, and technology like AI are shaping the way forward. This episode is a must-listen for health center leaders, care teams, and anyone concerned about the future of healthcare access in our communities. For more information, please visit https://aachc.org/ or contact Jessica Yanow at [email protected]

Want to improve your CAHPS scores without burning out your care team? It starts before the patient walks into the exam room. In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Kimberly Gonzalez and Sam Reinhard to discuss proactive strategies that boost CAHPS performance — particularly in high-impact areas like communication, lab result expectations, after-hours care, and trust-building. You'll learn how to: Set patient expectations before frustration sets in Use visual cues, digital signage, and follow-up calls for better engagement Empower staff to see themselves as part of the patient journey — even if they never enter the exam room Shift from reactive to proactive outreach to prevent care delays and ER visits Whether you're a health center leader or frontline staffer, this episode will inspire you to find value in the little things that add up to a better patient experience.

In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor, Kimberly Gonzalez, and Sam Reinhard explore the differences between the CAHPS survey and Press Ganey — and how both can be valuable tools when used thoughtfully. From benchmarking insights to real-time feedback to the realities of mail-based survey returns (yes, people still respond!), this conversation dives deep into the value — and limitations — of using surveys as a foundation for improvement. You'll learn: Key differences between CAHPS and Press Ganey Why survey customization can be a double-edged sword How health centers should interpret patient feedback within context Why surveys are tools — not solutions 🎧 Tune in and close out our CAHPS series with a grounded, practical perspective on survey strategy that actually works.

What are your patients really saying — and are your staff even hearing it? In Episode 20 of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor sits down with Kimberly Gonzalez and Sam Reinhard to break down how low CAHPS scores can become powerful tools for change. This episode focuses on how to use patient feedback to optimize provider and staff behavior — and why it's often the smallest adjustments in workflow, communication, and expectation-setting that have the biggest impact. What you'll learn: Why sharing CAHPS feedback (even the negative stuff) is critical How perception and reality collide in patient satisfaction Ways to support providers without blame Quick wins that can reshape the patient experience 🎧 Tune in and start building a culture that turns feedback into forward motion.

Is your health center unintentionally fueling survey fatigue? In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor, Kimberly Gonzalez, and Sam Reinhard take a hard look at why patients and staff are exhausted by constant surveys — and what to do instead. Tune in as they unpack how to spot the signs of survey fatigue, make feedback feel valuable, and replace checkbox culture with real connection. Learn how a simple phone call, personalized outreach, or even patient portal help can completely change perception — and boost your CAHPS results in the process. Key Takeaways: Why patients ignore surveys (and what makes them engage) The overlooked value of open-ended conversations Creative, human-centered approaches to collecting feedback The surprising power of small workflow changes 🎧 Listen now — and start turning passive data into proactive care.

Are health centers really listening to what patients are saying? Join Dr. Rhiannon Winsor with guests Kimberly Gonzalez (Manager of Population Health Analytics) and Sam Reinhard (Director of Community Outreach at Sun Life) for a candid conversation about the CAHPS survey — what it is, why it matters, and how to turn survey data into meaningful change. From identifying hidden patient needs to small shifts in communication that improve satisfaction, this episode explores the real-world impact of listening to the people we serve. Whether you're in care coordination, operations, or leadership — this is an episode you don't want to miss. Topics include: What the CAHPS survey really measures Why perception matters as much as reality Common mistakes health centers make with patient feedback How data can (and should) drive smarter decisions 🎧 Subscribe and listen on your favorite platform

Dr. Rhiannon Winsor is joined by Tony Rodgers to explore the critical transition from fee-for-service to value-based care. Learn why many health centers are choosing to partner with ACOs, how payment models are evolving, and what this means for patient outcomes, provider incentives, and long-term healthcare sustainability.

In this final episode of the series, The Exam Room brings together Dr. Rhiannon Winsor, Dr. Darlene Melk, and Dr. Shantipriya Siripurapu for a reflective and energizing conversation on the evolution from task-based care to strategies that truly improve outcomes. The doctors emphasize the power of collaboration across health centers, the importance of shared learning, and why focusing on just one small, achievable goal can spark meaningful change. They also explore the critical role of community insight in delivering equitable care — especially in rural areas — and how primary care continues to transform lives through access, prevention, and compassion. 🩺 Key takeaways: Choosing one actionable area for quality improvement The value of peer support and shared best practices Strengthening care through community connection Primary care's role in driving equity and innovation Staying grounded in the mission of "health for all" This episode is a call to action — and a reminder that change is possible when we do it together.

In this episode of The Exam Room, the conversation gets tactical with real-world strategies to improve outcomes in Medicare Annual Wellness Visits and diabetes management. Dr. Darlene Melk shares how her health center significantly boosted wellness visit completion rates by training medical assistants, removing scheduling barriers, and aligning incentives to drive results. The team also dives into challenges like provider fatigue, Medicare eligibility checks, and how operational leadership helped pave the way for success. Later, the focus turns to diabetes care — exploring how clinical pharmacists, patient education, and targeted outreach to high-risk patients are making an impact. The episode also highlights innovative solutions for cost and medication access, including an internal patient support fund that pairs practical support with compassionate care. 🎯 Key topics include: Increasing Medicare Annual Wellness Visit rates Reducing barriers through MA engagement and workflow redesign Managing provider fatigue and Medicare compliance Team-based approaches to diabetes control Outreach strategies for high-risk patients Addressing cost barriers with internal patient assistance programs Whether you're leading operations or working directly with patients, this episode offers powerful insights into how healthcare teams can close care gaps and deliver smarter, more equitable care. 🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more conversations from The Exam Room.

In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor is joined by Dr. Darlene Melk and Dr. Siri for a deep dive into what it truly means to "close the loop" in patient care. Through real-world examples and candid discussion, the team explores how effective communication, collaboration across specialties, and patient-centered coordination can transform outcomes—especially for medically complex patients. They share practical strategies such as multidisciplinary huddles, case conferencing, and leadership rounding to bridge gaps between providers, reduce patient burden, and improve continuity of care. 💡 What you'll learn: What "closing the loop" looks like in action How primary care providers can serve as care coordinators Strategies to improve internal communication across large teams Creative ways to bring staff together across multiple clinic sites The role of leadership in fostering team collaboration Whether you're managing operations, leading a clinical team, or just passionate about transforming care delivery, this episode offers insight and inspiration for building more connected, compassionate health systems. 🔔 Subscribe to The Exam Room for more conversations that move the needle in community health.

What does it really mean to "move beyond task completion" in healthcare? In this episode of The Exam Room, Dr. Rhiannon Winsor is joined by Dr. Darlene Melk and Dr. Shantipriya Siripurapu for a deep dive into the difference between checking boxes and achieving meaningful patient outcomes. Instead of focusing on how many calls or appointments are completed, this conversation shifts toward real results — like completed cancer screenings, improved chronic disease management, and engaged, informed patients. The discussion covers:   ✅The power of patient and caregiver engagement ✅ Making the most of every patient visit ✅ Leveraging technology to improve communication ✅ Using risk stratification for more targeted care ✅ How primary care providers can coordinate across specialties ✅ Why real-time data is essential for driving better outcomes Whether you're a provider, administrator, or care team member, this episode offers actionable insights to help your team deliver more coordinated, impactful care in a value-based world. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that bring the real work of healthcare to life.