In this episode we are joined by Bobby Sepucha, CEO of Interwell Health, and Dr. Stephen Friedhoff, Senior Vice President of Healthcare Services at Blue Cross North Carolina, to discuss what's the biggest challenge in caring for kidney disease patients, why treatment for chronic kidney disease is tricky, how new models of value based kidney care improve outlooks for patients and a lot more. This episode is sponsored by Interwell Health.
Summary
New Models of Value-Based Kidney Care Improving Patient Outcomes
Introduction
Bobby Sepucha, CEO of Interwell Health and Dr. Stephen Friedhoff, Senior Vice President of Healthcare Services at Blue Cross North Carolina, discuss the challenges faced by kidney disease patients and new models of value-based kidney care that are improving their outlooks.
The Biggest Challenge in Caring for Kidney Disease Patients
According to Sepucha and Friedhoff, the biggest challenge in caring for the 37 million Americans with kidney disease is the crash landing into dialysis. They discuss how their organizations are collaborating to engage patients earlier and prevent the need for dialysis.
New Models of Value-Based Kidney Care
Chronic kidney disease is complex and requires a multidisciplinary care team to manage. Blue Cross North Carolina is partnering with physicians to provide value-based kidney care that improves patient outcomes and lowers overall costs.
Physicians lead the care team, investing in outreach to individuals with chronic kidney disease, educating them on their condition, and managing it effectively. Early engagement with a kidney specialist is crucial, as preparation is needed for dialysis or transplant candidates.
InterWell is also partnering with physicians to provide better support to patients with chronic kidney disease. Sepucha and Friedhoff state that collaboration can reduce hospitalizations and double the number of people starting dialysis at home.
Conclusion
The collaboration of primary care physicians, nephrologists, and dialysis clinics can provide more holistic care for patients with kidney disease. Value-based models of care can improve patient outcomes and reduce overall costs, providing hope for the millions of Americans dealing with this complex condition.
Note: This is an AI generated transcript, not edited by a staff writer and is solely intended for educational purposes. If you have any questions/concerns, reach out to podcasts@beckershealthcare.com
This episode aired on 03/23/2023 and can be listened here.
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