The Pulse of Healthcare

Following the DOJ's massive crackdown on over $6.5 billion in Medicare fraud, we dive deep into the hidden crisis of fraudulent claims threatening the commercial insurance arena. Healthcare fraud isn't just a government problem—it impacts employers, carriers, and families alike. In this episode, we discuss why insurance carriers should take greater responsibility for policing provider cl...

In this episode of The Pulse of Healthcare Podcast, Dr. John, CEO of Ovation Health, and Nick from Member Services examine the growing problem of healthcare pricing opacity. Inspired by an article from Chris Deacon, they explore how complex hospital payment arrangements and hidden contract language can obscure the true cost of care. The discussion uncovers how employers, health plans, and patients...

In this episode, Dr. John and Nick explore the challenges surrounding healthcare pricing and why understanding the true cost of care has become increasingly difficult. The discussion dives into Reference Based Pricing (RBP), cash pay options, and the ongoing issues surrounding hospital cost transparency. Learn how these approaches can help patients and employers navigate rising healthcare expenses...

In this episode, Dr. John and Patient Advocate Kia Baker discuss the often-overlooked drawbacks of traditional healthcare networks—limited provider access, unexpected out-of-network charges, and rising costs that can catch employers and members off guard. They contrast these challenges with the advantages of an open access network model, which offers greater flexibility, broader provider choice, a...

Dr. John sits down with Member Services specialist Nick Trapani to talk about his first year on the job and the eye-opening lessons he’s learned along the way.  From navigating the complexities of the healthcare system to supporting members in real, meaningful ways, Nick shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to make a difference. He also reflects on just how much there is still to learn...

Ever feel like your healthcare is just one giant shell game? You’re not imagining it.  This video pulls back the curtain on how the "Big Players" have basically bought every part of the game. They are big-box insurance conglomerates that own every link in the chain: the doctors, the pharmacies, the data platforms, and even the "middlemen" (Pharmacy Benefit Managers). This is ca...

In this episode, we’re diving into the new Trump Rx initiatives and the latest rules focused on PBM price transparency. What do these changes actually mean for employers and plan members? We break down how greater visibility into prescription pricing could reduce hidden markups, improve accountability, and help control rising drug costs. If you’re looking to better understand what’s happening in t...

In this episode, Dr. John and guest Virginia Groce (Claims Administrator for Ovation Health) explore how Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) empower individuals and employers to save for healthcare with unmatched tax advantages—while also examining the government rules that restrict their full potential.  In this discussion, we break down how HSAs work, why they can be a smart long-term financial and h...

In this episode, Dr. John and Peter unpack the growing dilemma employers face as healthcare costs continue to rise at an unsustainable pace. Despite mounting pressure on budgets, many brokers still funnel employers toward the same Big Box health insurance carriers—often overlooking newer, more innovative plan options from smaller, regional insurers that can deliver better value.  We explore why th...

Do you believe that size equals stability?  In this episode, Dr. John challenges the mindset that “bigger is better” to help employers and employees understand what truly matters when choosing a health plan—value, transparency, and the member experience.   Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovation.health  We help employers save up to 35% on their healthcare costs. For a free consultation call...

In this episode, Dr. John shares his journey from the military—where clear, precise communication can mean the difference between success and failure—to the complex world of healthcare, where miscommunication too often leads to confusion, mistakes, and missed opportunities for better care. Drawing from firsthand experiences on both sides of the system, this podcast explores how a lack of clarity,...

Dr. John discusses the benefits of Telehealth and the changes ahead for those on Medicare with guest co-host John Wileman of Excelsior Higher Care. Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovation.health  We help employers save up to 35% on their healthcare costs. For a free consultation call 866-549-4199 or email dr.john@ovation-health.com

Are your rates going up again this year? For many Americans health insurance premiums are increasing an average of 20-30% in 2026. Great benefits don't have to come with a big price tag. Ovation Health is providing level-funded approved plan rates for small groups in the Greater Houston area that can save you up to 40%.    Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovation.health  We help employe...

Will you be VICTIMIZED AGAIN by inflated premiums at renewal time? Did you know there are alternatives that can save you up to 35% on medical costs? Don't let fear stop you from lowering your healthcare costs and increasing the financial stability of your company. It's time to do things differently!  We can show you how. Learn more 👉 https://ovation.health #GroupHealthInsurance #Afforda...

A denied claim can be a financial shock for employers and employees alike. In this episode Dr. John and Peter discuss why claims get denied, how often this happens and how lack of cost transparency fuels surprise bills. Find out how we keep our claims denial rate as low as 2%, compared to the legacy carriers that have a denial rate of up to 35%.  If you've ever wondered why healthcare feels l...

In this episode, Dr. John and Peter discuss the fears that many employers have about switching to a self-funded plan, thinking mistakenly that they are going to pay for every dollar the group incurs for medical claims. Learn how stop-loss protects against large claims and how tailored benefits, patient advocacy and data driven reports can result in dramatic savings. #SelfFundedPlans #SelfFundedHea...

The ACA is on track to raise premiums up to 30% in 2026. This will cause legacy carriers to raise rates as well, with employers and employees ultimately paying the price.  The good news is, there are alternative ways to obtain health care for those who are willing to do things differently. Ovation Health is proud to say our groups haven't had a rate hike since 2018!  Tune in as we discuss the...

In this episode Dr. John and Peter discuss the issues related to healthcare fraud and how this directly impacts both members and employers. Find out how prior authorizations can help minimize fraud and also lead to better patient outcomes.  #priorauthorization #affordablehealthcare #costtransparency #claimsdenials #lowerhealthcarecosts #patientadvocacy Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovatio...

In this episode, Dr. John explains the real reason preauthorizations are necessary and how this relates to quality of care and cost transparency.  #priorauthorization #lowerhealthcarecosts #costtransparency #qualityhealthcare #healthcaresavings #claims Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovation.health  We help employers save up to 35% on their healthcare costs. For a free consultation call 866...

Why do Americans pay substantially higher costs for prescriptions and medical care than other countries?  Tune into Part 3 of the series on "Understanding US healthcare costs", as Dr. John and Peter explore the issues related to "Price Transparency" in the healthcare system.  #HealthcareCosts #PriceTransparency #HealthcareReform #USHealthcare #HealthcarePolicy #HealthEconomics...

Why do Americans pay substantially higher costs for prescriptions and medical care than other countries?  Tune into Part 2 of the series on "Understanding US healthcare costs", as Dr. John and Peter explore the issues related to "Price Transparency" in the healthcare system. #costtransparency #risinghealthcarecosts #prescriptioncosts #pricetransparency  Learn more about Ovation...

Have you ever wondered why Americans pay substantially higher costs for prescriptions and medical care than other countries? Tune into Part 1 of this series on Understanding US healthcare costs, as Dr. John and Peter discuss the healthcare system and what is causing these higher medical costs in the US.  #costtransparency #risinghealthcarecosts #prescriptioncosts #pricetransparency  Learn more abo...

Innovative technologies were designed to streamline and increase efficiency in healthcare, and government regulations put in place to safeguard patients. So why do healthcare costs continue to rise?  In this episode, Dr. John and Peter discuss how regulations and technology have affected Primary Care and how they created financial burdens and contribute to the rising costs of medical care. #health...

The holidays can be a stressful and anxiety provoking time for many people. Tune into this episode as Peter and Dr. John discuss improved access to mental health services through telemedicine via phone and video chat, and how we can support one another during this holiday season. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthsupport #telemedicinesolutions #telemedicineawareness #wellnessjourney #holidaystress Learn...

In this episode, Dr. John interviews his father Don McCormick who shares the history and evolution of health insurance as we know it today... and the lessons learned from his experience in the healthcare industry. #healthcareevolution #healthcarehistory #healthcareinequality #healthcareindustry #tailoredbenefits #healthcarecosts #healthcareeducation Learn more about Ovation Health at www.ovation.h...