MHA released a new episode of the MiCare Champion Cast featuring Rick Pollack, president and CEO of the American Hospital Association (AHA), in which Pollack joined MHA CEO Brian Peters to discuss a variety of topics relating to past, present and future healthcare trends.
The AHA, the largest membership association for hospitals and health systems in the U.S., is one of the most respected and effective advocacy organizations in the U.S. In addition to providing strong advocacy leadership, Ms. Pollack has been instrumental in addressing historic workforce challenges, expanding access to care, improving the quality and safety of care, and eliminating health care disparities.
After recounting his journey to the AHA, Pollack spoke about the fundamental changes he has seen within the nation’s healthcare landscape and what issues will remain at the forefront through 2025, regardless of the outcome of the general election.
“We always try to be a resource for candidates on both sides of the aisle and make sure they have the information they need on the data and where we stand,” Pollack said. “Some issues are just not going to go away, regardless of the election outcome,” he added, citing affordability, drug pricing, value-based payment and insurer accountability as examples of bipartisan issues.
Pollack then spoke about the important role that grassroots efforts play in health care advocacy at the local level.
“People don’t need to be afraid when engaging with their legislators,” Pollack said. “They’re working for you, and you can be a resource for them. I’ve always tried to explain to kids what a lobbyist does: Part of the job is to be an objective educator on issues that you’re an expert on, and they’ll look to you for guidance and advice… And as a former congressional staffer, don’t forget the staff.”
Peters and Pollack also discussed cybercrime, challenges and opportunities for rural hospitals, the importance of the 340B Prescription Drug Pricing Program, and more. This episode is available to stream on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud and YouTube.
To learn more about MiCare Champion Cast, contact Lucy Ciaramitaro at MHA.
