In this encore episode of 'Relentlessly Seeking Value,' host Stacey Richter revisits an inspiring conversation with Marilyn Bartlett, a CPA who transformed the State of Montana's employee health plan from a $9 million deficit to a $112 million surplus within three years.
Known for her fiscal discipline and patient-first approach, Marilyn shares her strategic steps, from identifying waste in the system and securing quick wins to negotiating better deals with hospitals and ensuring long-term success. She emphasizes the importance of assembling a strong team, maintaining transparency, and staying focused on the ultimate goal of creating real health value. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to drive meaningful change in the healthcare industry.
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🔗 Show Notes with all mentioned links:
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07:09 What gave Marilyn the confidence to fix Montana's state health plan?
08:35 Why Marilyn knew she would have enough power to make the changes needed in Montana's state health plan.
09:35 What Marilyn achieved in her time as the administrator of the Montana State Employee Health Plan.
11:03 What were the "quick wins" Marilyn was able to achieve when she first took over as administrator?
17:55 EP453 with Claire Brockbank, which covers RFP in detail.
18:12 How Marilyn structured her plan for the Montana State Employee Health Plan.
21:42 What's the key to setting yourself up for success when doing what Marilyn was able to achieve?
25:23 Why putting together your own team is so important.
28:20 EP397 with Paul Homes.
28:24 EP418 with Mark Cuban and Ferrin Williams, PharmD, MBA.
29:28 What happened when Marilyn left the Montana State Employee Health Plan?
31:28 Have the costs of the plan gone up since Marilyn's time working on it?
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