Scaling Medicaid Innovation with Rajaie Batniji, Sanjay Basu, and Afia Asamoah
AI Summary
Background: AIA discusses her recruitment by Google in 2014 to support Health tech product development, focusing on improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved populations.
Experience and Transition to WayMark: After nearly nine years at Google, AIA wanted to test technology for transforming care delivery by closely collaborating with healthcare professionals. She was introduced to WayMark through a connection at a16z, reflecting the blending of healthcare expertise with a consumer-oriented approach.
Sanjay’s Role and Perspective: Sanjay, also involved in primary care and Medicaid, emphasizes the importance of a holistic view of care in underserved communities and how that informs their work at WayMark.
WayMark’s Vision: They aim to reduce unnecessary acute care in Medicaid by implementing community-based care approaches, emphasizing that social needs should not be burdened by the healthcare system.
Current Landscape: Approximately one in five Americans rely on Medicaid, highlighting the challenges and the growing need for effective Medicaid-focused interventions. A significant amount of acute care in Medicaid is considered avoidable.
Innovative Approach: WayMark leverages machine learning to target “rising risk patients” before they escalate to costly emergency care. They focus on preventive care outside traditional clinics, engaging community health workers to assist in medication adherence and overall management of social determinants of health.
Outcomes and Results: After the first year of operation, WayMark reported a quarter reduction in emergency visits and hospitalizations among the 60,000 patients served. Improvements were also noted in health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Community Engagement: Building trust and connections within local communities is vital for effective care delivery. WayMark collaborates with various organizations to address social needs impacting health outcomes beyond just clinical interventions.
Research and Validation: WayMark is committed to rigorous research, demonstrated through publication in academic journals, and aims to redefine care delivery using evidence-based methods.