All Episodes

November 7, 2025 57 mins

Send us a text

Why Listen 👥

In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of healthcare costs, the impact of policy decisions, and the role of market forces in shaping the healthcare landscape. They discuss the consolidation of healthcare providers, the influence of insurance companies, and the challenges faced by independent practices. The conversation also touches on the COVID-19 pandemic, the response of public health officials, and the lessons learned from the crisis.

Co-Hosts

  • Dutch Rojas – Founder, Bliksem Health
  • Anthony DiGiorgio, DO, MHA – Neurosurgeon, UCSF; health policy researcher
  • Anish Koka, MD – Cardiologist, Philadelphia; healthcare policy commentator
  • Dan Choi, MD, FAAOS – Orthopedic spine surgeon, Long Island; healthcare advocate and social media voice

Episode Overview 📌

The episode explores the doubling of healthcare premiums since 2010, the consolidation of healthcare providers, and the significant market power held by insurance companies. The hosts discuss the challenges faced by independent practices and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public health responses. They also highlight the potential of direct contracting in healthcare and scrutinize the role of pharmacy benefit managers.

Notable Quotes 💬

  • "Healthcare premiums have doubled since 2010."
  • "Consolidation is driving up healthcare costs."
  • "Insurance companies hold the power in healthcare."
  • "Independent practices are struggling to survive."
  • "COVID-19 exposed public health weaknesses."

What You’ll Learn 📚

  • The systemic issues leading to rising healthcare premiums.
  • How consolidation affects healthcare costs and dynamics.
  • The challenges faced by independent practices in a consolidated market.
  • The role of natural and vaccine immunity in pandemic management.
  • The potential of direct contracting to reduce healthcare costs.

The Episode (Timestamps) ⏱

  • 00:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
  • 00:03:00 Healthcare Costs and Consolidation
  • 00:09:00 Insurance Companies and Market Power
  • 00:15:00 Independent Practices and Policy Challenges
  • 00:21:00 COVID-19 Pandemic and Public Health Response
  • 00:27:00 Lessons Learned and Future Directions



🔗 Connect with the Hosts:

• Dutch Rojas on X

• Dr. Anthony DiGiorgio on X

• Dr. Anish Koka on X

• Dr. Dan Choi on X

Dr. Sanat Dixit on X

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Betrayal: Weekly

Betrayal: Weekly

Betrayal Weekly is back for a brand new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack. And make sure to check out Seasons 1-4 of Betrayal, along with Betrayal Weekly Season 1.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.