Delaware Health Care Reality

Podcast Episode 9 - A Vision for America's Future: A Conversation with a U.S. Senate Candidate

Join host Nicholas Biasotto, DO, for a compelling discussion with Michael S. Katz, MD, MBA, Independent candidate for U.S. Senate. With a distinguished career in medicine, including his Fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital, recruited to A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children and tenure as a Delaware State Senator, Dr. Katz brings unique insights on pivotal issues facing Delaware and the nation. From addressing the economy and inflation to reforming health care, education, and immigration, and advocating for veterans, first responders, and military defense, this conversation delves into the future of Delawareans. Tune in as Dr. Katz shares his vision for preserving the American dream and improving health care access while addressing prior-authorization reform.

Podcast Episode 8 - Breaking the Silence: Addressing Physician Suicide

Join us for a critical and heartfelt conversation with host Dr. Nicholas Biasotto, DO, and special guest Katie Godfrey, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and the Director of the Center for WorkLife Wellbeing at ChristianaCare as they delve into one of the most pressing issues in healthcare: physician suicide. In this episode, we confront the silent struggle that many physicians face—the stigma surrounding seeking help, compounded by a culture that often values resilience over vulnerability.
Discover eye-opening statistics, the hidden risk factors, and why feelings of isolation, the loss of connection, and even a loss of fear toward death are haunting realities for many in the medical profession. You'll also learn how legislation in Delaware is paving the way for change, removing barriers for physicians seeking mental health support, and making it safer for doctors to reach out for help.
This episode is a call to action for individuals and healthcare organizations alike to take steps to break down the stigma and foster an environment of openness and support.
Remember: you’re not alone. Help is always available. Tune in to find out how we can all be part of the solution. If you or someone you know is in distress, call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, 24/7 support. Physicians and medical students can also reach out to the Physician Support Line at 1-888-409-0141 for confidential, peer-driven assistance.
For more information on National Physician Suicide Awareness Day, visit npsaday.org.

Episode 7 - Campaign for Kids, "IT'S OBVIOUS"

Get ready for an enlightening episode as host Nicholas Biasotto, DO, sits down with Stephen Kushner, DO, FAAFP — a distinguished family medicine physician, Past President of the Medical Society of Delaware (MSD), Chair of the MSD Program Planning Subcommittee, and voted as a 2024 Delaware Top Doc. Together, they dive into the groundbreaking Campaign for Kids and its "It's OBVIOUS" initiative, tackling seven critical issues affecting Delaware's youth: Obesity, Bullying, Violence, Intelligent decisions, Opioid use, Underage drinking, and Suicide. Tune in to explore how this initiative aims to enhance communication between physicians and youth while empowering the community with vital education and resources. Don't miss this important conversation!
Please send your questions, comments or ideas about our podcasts to HealthCare.Reality@medsocdel.org.

Episode 6 - Legislative Wrap Up, Key Takeaways

Join host Nicholas Biasotto, DO for an insightful discussion with Richard Henderson, MD, FACOG, a board-certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist, MSD Past President, and Chair of the MSD Government Affairs Committee. In this episode, they expand on key takeaways from the 2024 legislative session, covering critical topics like the passage and controversy of various health care bills. From monitoring costs, access to care, and scope of practice, to truth in advertising, fiscal responsibility, insurance mandates, and more as they detail highlights leading up to the General Assembly's conclusion on June 30, 2024. Don't miss this engaging conversation that sheds light on the legislative changes shaping health care today.

Episode 5 - Navigating Health Care Legislation

Join host Nicholas Biasotto, DO, as he dives into the world of health care legislation with two distinguished guests. In this episode, we welcome Richard Henderson, MD, FACOG, a board-certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Chair of the MSD Legislative Committee, and Past President of MSD, along with Kimberly B. Gomes, MPA, Partner at ByrdGomes and a seasoned lobbyist. Together, they explore the crucial role lobbyists play in shaping health care policies in Dover and beyond.
Discover why lobbying is essential for health care professionals and patients alike and get the latest updates on pivotal legislative issues. From SB10 on Prior Authorizations and SB 120 on Primary Care Reform to Education Transparency/Title Misappropriation, Medical Aid in Dying, HB 285 on Medical Marijuana, SB 283 & 185 on Mandatory CME for Alzheimer's, SB 13 on the Protect Medicaid Act of 2024, HB 350 on the Diamond State Hospital Cost Review Board, and SB1 for SB2 on Deadly Weapons – this episode covers it all.
Tune in for an enlightening discussion that underscores the impact of legislation on health care and the importance of advocacy in driving change. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from experts at the forefront of health care policy!

Episode 4 - Understanding Obesity: Health Impacts, Weight Loss Strategies & Eating with Shalini Shah, MD, MPH, ABOM, dipABLM

Dr. Shalini Shah, MD, MPH, ABOM, dipABLM, explores the intricate nature of obesity and its profound effects on one's well-being. In this segment, she offers a thorough examination of how obesity is diagnosed in individuals, as well as the severe health issues and shorter lifespan linked to it. Dr. Shah presents key tactics for altering behaviors to attain lasting weight loss and delves into the psychological components of managing weight. Furthermore, she assesses the wide array of dietary plans on the market today, providing audience members with valuable perspectives and practical guidance for embracing a healthier way of life. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that has the potential to revolutionize your approach to health and wellness.

Episode 3 – Prior Authorizations, Where Do I Begin? | Dr. Nicholas Biasotto

Nicholas Biasotto, DO tackles critical issues facing health care in Delaware. In this episode, Dr. Biasotto addresses the contentious topic of prior authorization in medicine.
Prior authorization is a process requiring physicians to obtain approval from insurance companies before certain treatments, medications, or procedures can be administered or prescribed. Dr. Biasotto explores how this practice:
Challenges physician expertise by second-guessing treatment decisions
Causes significant delays in patient care
Imposes substantial administrative burdens on medical practices
Can lead to adverse health outcomes for patients due to treatment delays or denials
The discussion highlights the growing concern among health care professionals about the negative impact of prior authorization on patient care quality, practice efficiency, and overall health care delivery. Dr. Biasotto provides insights into how these processes can undermine the physician-patient relationship and potentially compromise patient health.
This episode offers a professional, in-depth examination of a critical issue affecting both physicians and patients in Delaware, aligning with the podcast's mission to inform listeners about pressing healthcare challenges and innovations in the state.

Episode 1 - Delaware Healthcare Challenges & Solutions | Dr. Nicholas Biasotto & Dr. Robert Varipapa

In the inaugural episode of "Delaware Health Care Reality," Dr. Nicholas Biasotto, a board-certified family medicine physician and past president of the Medical Society of Delaware, delves into key issues facing healthcare in Delaware. Dr. Biasotto shares insights from his extensive experience, discusses the impact of prior authorizations and Obamacare, and highlights the importance of physician engagement in legislative matters. The episode also features an enlightening interview with Dr. Robert Varipapa, the current president of the Medical Society of Delaware, who addresses physician shortages, reimbursement challenges, and the need for educational transparency in health care.

Episode 2: Delaware Health Care Insights with Mark Thompson | Medical Society of Delaware

In the second episode of "Delaware Health Care Reality," Dr. Nick Biasotto welcomes Mark Thompson, Executive Director of the Medical Society of Delaware. Mark discusses his background in health care administration and his journey to becoming the Executive Director. The conversation explores the comprehensive role of the Medical Society in supporting physicians and patients in Delaware. Key topics include non-profit and for-profit initiatives, legislative advocacy, and programs like the VIP initiative for high-risk patients. The episode highlights the importance of physician engagement and the benefits of society membership.