147 The Perils and Future of U.S. Healthcare Financing with Dr. Bai

The Perils and Future of U.S. Healthcare Financing with Dr. Bai

In this episode, Dr. G. Bai, a professor of accounting and health policy at Johns Hopkins University, discusses the challenges and future of healthcare financing in the U.S. Topics include the limitations of the current system, the impact of regulations, the inefficiencies introduced by insurance companies, and the importance of independent practices. Dr. Bai also advocates for empowering patients by letting them control their healthcare funds, which could drive competition and innovation. The conversation highlights the need for systemic changes and greater public awareness to improve healthcare outcomes and efficiency.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:25 Dr. Bai's Journey into Healthcare Economics
02:47 Understanding Healthcare Spending in the U.S.
04:35 Dysfunction in the U.S. Health Insurance Market
12:55 The Role of Small Businesses in the Economy
14:37 Challenges Faced by Independent Practices
18:44 Government Programs and Payment Issues
22:27 Monopolies and Regulatory Capture in Healthcare
30:35 Proposed Medicaid Reforms and Their Implications
34:48 Economic Priorities and Healthcare
35:45 The Role of Incentives in Healthcare
37:14 Challenges of Centralized Healthcare Policies
41:59 Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Independent Practices
44:48 The Power Dynamics in Healthcare
59:37 Public Health and Preventive Care
01:02:51 Envisioning a Better Healthcare System