Premiums rise. Artificial intelligence expands.

Dr. Eddie Patton looks at the impact of expiring ACA subsidies, projected healthcare premium increases, and possible changes to Medicare Part B. He outlines artificial intelligence’s role in health systems, regulatory challenges, and how changes might affect patients, providers, and insurers. 

Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton HERE.

Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 

Key Takeaways

1. Dr. Patton explains that significant premium hikes are expected in 2026, particularly for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. The expiration of federal subsidies could lead to double- or even triple-digit increases in monthly costs, resulting in more people being uninsured and higher overall healthcare expenses.

2. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare is rapidly accelerating, with AI impacting everything from clinical support tools to claims automation. While AI has the potential to drive efficiency and enhance patient-provider relationships, it also introduces challenges around transparency ("black box" algorithms) and regulation, which will be crucial to address in 2026.

3. The future of healthcare premiums is closely tied to decisions made by Congress and the Senate regarding subsidy extensions for ACA plans. Policy changes have a cascading effect on the cost and accessibility of care for all insurance types, not just those in the marketplace.

4. With rising premiums and the possible expiration of ACA subsidies, more individuals may drop their health coverage, leading to a larger uninsured population. This shift increases the burden on emergency care centers and drives up costs throughout the healthcare system.

5. Dr. Patton highlights ongoing issues with stagnant Medicare reimbursement for physicians, which has not kept pace with inflation. This economic challenge contributes to workforce shortages, particularly in fields like pediatrics and psychiatry, and needs to be addressed to maintain the quality and accessibility of healthcare.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 2026 Premium Hikes & AI

03:15 "Healthcare Costs and AI Impact"

09:07 Rising Healthcare Costs Explained

12:41 Medicare Costs and Changes 2026

15:12 AI and Healthcare: Upcoming Impacts

17:19 "AI's Promise and Risks in Healthcare"

21:46 AI Enhancing Healthcare Efficiency

26:32 Healthcare Innovations and Physician Support

Premiums rise. Artificial intelligence expands.
Dr. Eddie Patton looks at the impact of expiring ACA subsidies, projected healthcare premium increases, and possible changes to Medicare Part B. He outlines artificial intelligence&rsquo;s role in health systems, regulatory challenges, and how changes might affect patients, providers, and insurers.&nbsp;
Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton <a href="https://www.eddiepattonmd.com">HERE</a>.
Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-health-your-wealth/id1753618933">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5Kt5d56fOGpaPnn2PmwPb2?si=c6f20d1320484e33">Spotify</a>, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.&nbsp;
Key Takeaways
1. Dr. Patton explains that significant premium hikes are expected in 2026, particularly for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. The expiration of federal subsidies could lead to double- or even triple-digit increases in monthly costs, resulting in more people being uninsured and higher overall healthcare expenses.
2. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare is rapidly accelerating, with AI impacting everything from clinical support tools to claims automation. While AI has the potential to drive efficiency and enhance patient-provider relationships, it also introduces challenges around transparency ("black box" algorithms) and regulation, which will be crucial to address in 2026.
3. The future of healthcare premiums is closely tied to decisions made by Congress and the Senate regarding subsidy extensions for ACA plans. Policy changes have a cascading effect on the cost and accessibility of care for all insurance types, not just those in the marketplace.
4. With rising premiums and the possible expiration of ACA subsidies, more individuals may drop their health coverage, leading to a larger uninsured population. This shift increases the burden on emergency care centers and drives up costs throughout the healthcare system.
5. Dr. Patton highlights ongoing issues with stagnant Medicare reimbursement for physicians, which has not kept pace with inflation. This economic challenge contributes to workforce shortages, particularly in fields like pediatrics and psychiatry, and needs to be addressed to maintain the quality and accessibility of healthcare.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 2026 Premium Hikes &amp; AI
03:15 "Healthcare Costs and AI Impact"
09:07 Rising Healthcare Costs Explained
12:41 Medicare Costs and Changes 2026
15:12 AI and Healthcare: Upcoming Impacts
17:19 "AI's Promise and Risks in Healthcare"
21:46 AI Enhancing Healthcare Efficiency
26:32 Healthcare Innovations and Physician Support

In Your Health, Your Wealth, renowned neurologist Dr. Eddie Patton exposes the hidden forces driving up medical costs for millions of Americans. From the fragmented healthcare infrastructure to hospital billing practices and pharmaceutical pricing, Dr. Patton provides an exhaustive examination of why the U.S. spends significantly more on healthcare than other nations.

"The US healthcare system emphasizes autonomy and choice for patients,” said Dr. Patton during episode one. "Accessibility is a key term that will be important in healthcare as we move forward." 

Dr. Eddie Patton is a recipient of Texas Monthly Magazine's SuperDoctors®, Houstonia Magazine's Top Doctors awards, and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Council on Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders. These accolades, along with his decades of experience, make him the ideal host for a podcast like this.

The podcast is a must-listen for anyone grappling with skyrocketing premiums, outrageous medical bills, or lack of access to quality care. Dr. Patton encourages listeners to "Increase your mindset, health set, and heart set as it pertains to your health and the healthcare system.”

In Your Health, Your Wealth, renowned neurologist Dr. Eddie Patton exposes the hidden forces driving up medical costs for millions of Americans. From the fragmented healthcare infrastructure to hospital billing practices and pharmaceutical pricing, Dr. Patton provides an exhaustive examination of why the U.S. spends significantly more on healthcare than other nations.
"The US healthcare system emphasizes autonomy and choice for patients,” said Dr. Patton during episode one. "Accessibility is a key term that will be important in healthcare as we move forward." 
Dr. Eddie Patton is a recipient of Texas Monthly Magazine's SuperDoctors®, Houstonia Magazine's Top Doctors awards, and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Council on Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders. These accolades, along with his decades of experience, make him the ideal host for a podcast like this.
The podcast is a must-listen for anyone grappling with skyrocketing premiums, outrageous medical bills, or lack of access to quality care. Dr. Patton encourages listeners to "Increase your mindset, health set, and heart set as it pertains to your health and the healthcare system.”

Your Health, Your Wealth

How 2026 Healthcare Premium Increases Will Affect You

This episode originally aired on 12/9/24

Why do some individuals take adversity and turn it into advocacy?

Jenesha Barnett's struggle with multiple sclerosis propelled her to become a powerful voice for healthcare reform and MS awareness. Faced with high medical costs and insurance battles, she channels her experience into legislative advocacy and community support. Through her efforts, Barnett demonstrates the profound impact one person can make.

Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton HERE.

Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 

Key Takeaways

1. The Ms. Foundation’s support, including providing a laptop, facilitated Jenesha Barnett's ability to work from home and conduct crucial research, enhancing her capacity to manage her MS treatment and life circumstances.

2. Thorough education and research are fundamental for managing multiple sclerosis effectively. Finding a knowledgeable doctor who listens and collaborates on treatment plans is crucial to well-informed and personalized care.

3. Advocacy efforts, including voting and direct communication with legislators, are pivotal in influencing healthcare policies and costs. Barnett emphasizes the importance of voting in all elections to drive systemic changes in healthcare.

4. Positive and proactive support groups, especially online communities, provide essential emotional and psychological support. These communities offer shared experiences and hope, helping individuals cope with the challenges of living with MS.

5. The complexities of insurance policies, including high costs and bureaucratic hurdles like prior authorizations, pose significant challenges to accessing necessary medications. Effective advocacy and proactive communication with insurers are necessary to navigating these obstacles.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Multiple sclerosis: chronic, inflammatory central nervous disease.

03:43 Over 20 treatments available for MS now.

08:04 Trust in experts; your faith guides you.

11:37 Needed work for insurance, avoided financial strain.

15:16 Insurance hurdles and advocacy crucial for medication.

16:26 Medicaid, Medicare, elections matter for healthcare policies.

21:15 Supporting and encouraging in the battle against disease.

24:30 Supportive group offering hope and shared experiences.

27:45 Education and support vital for treatment journey.

28:41 Honesty and faith sustain me through pain.

 

This episode originally aired on 12/9/24
Why do some individuals take adversity and turn it into advocacy?
Jenesha Barnett's struggle with multiple sclerosis propelled her to become a powerful voice for healthcare reform and MS awareness. Faced with high medical costs and insurance battles, she channels her experience into legislative advocacy and community support. Through her efforts, Barnett demonstrates the profound impact one person can make.
Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton <a href="https://www.eddiepattonmd.com">HERE</a>.
Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-health-your-wealth/id1753618933">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5Kt5d56fOGpaPnn2PmwPb2?si=c6f20d1320484e33">Spotify</a>, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.&nbsp;
Key Takeaways
1. The Ms. Foundation&rsquo;s support, including providing a laptop, facilitated Jenesha Barnett's ability to work from home and conduct crucial research, enhancing her capacity to manage her MS treatment and life circumstances.
2. Thorough education and research are fundamental for managing multiple sclerosis effectively. Finding a knowledgeable doctor who listens and collaborates on treatment plans is crucial to well-informed and personalized care.
3. Advocacy efforts, including voting and direct communication with legislators, are pivotal in influencing healthcare policies and costs. Barnett emphasizes the importance of voting in all elections to drive systemic changes in healthcare.
4. Positive and proactive support groups, especially online communities, provide essential emotional and psychological support. These communities offer shared experiences and hope, helping individuals cope with the challenges of living with MS.
5. The complexities of insurance policies, including high costs and bureaucratic hurdles like prior authorizations, pose significant challenges to accessing necessary medications. Effective advocacy and proactive communication with insurers are necessary to navigating these obstacles.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Multiple sclerosis: chronic, inflammatory central nervous disease.
03:43 Over 20 treatments available for MS now.
08:04 Trust in experts; your faith guides you.
11:37 Needed work for insurance, avoided financial strain.
15:16 Insurance hurdles and advocacy crucial for medication.
16:26 Medicaid, Medicare, elections matter for healthcare policies.
21:15 Supporting and encouraging in the battle against disease.
24:30 Supportive group offering hope and shared experiences.
27:45 Education and support vital for treatment journey.
28:41 Honesty and faith sustain me through pain.
&nbsp;

Transforming MS Challenges into Advocacy

This episode originally aired on 2/24/25.

What makes distinguishing between types of dementia crucial for Alzheimer's research and treatment?

With an alarming rise in Alzheimer's cases, early detection through biomarkers and new treatments like amyloid-removing drugs offer hope. Dr. Paul Schultz emphasizes early intervention to tackle cognitive decline effectively. Lifestyle changes further complement these treatments, offering a comprehensive approach to managing the disease.

Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton HERE.

Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 

Key Takeaways

1. Timely diagnosis is crucial for differentiating between Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders, as well as for beginning treatment that can slow progression. Early signs of cognitive decline, such as short-term memory issues despite intact long-term memory, should prompt medical evaluation.

2. Identifying reversible causes of dementia-like symptoms, such as vitamin B12 deficiency or normal pressure hydrocephalus, is essential. Misdiagnosis can lead to lost opportunities for effective treatment. Comprehensive evaluations are necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. New tools like amyloid PET scans and blood biomarkers have revolutionized the diagnosis of Alzheimer's, allowing for the detection of amyloid plaques during life rather than at autopsy, which supports timely and targeted treatment interventions.

4. Recent advancements in anti-amyloid therapies, such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, have transformed the treatment landscape, providing hope for slowing or stopping the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Ongoing research aims to target multiple aspects of the disease, including tau and brain inflammation, to further improve outcomes.

5. Lifestyle changes, including exercise and management of cardiovascular risk factors, play a significant role in reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer's and slowing its progression in those who are diagnosed. These strategies are an integral part of comprehensive care for cognitive disorders.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia

03:44 Cognitive Decline with Aging

07:00 Recognizing Early Signs of Cognitive Decline

10:41 Early Detection of Reversible Symptoms

14:33 First FDA-Approved Amyloid PET Scan

16:39 Detecting Plaques: PET Scans & Biomarkers

19:13 Amyloid Plaque Detection and Diagnosis

23:56 Evolving Dementia Clinic Landscape

28:22 Personalized Treatment Adjustments in Medicine

30:16 Understanding Alzheimer's Treatment Side Effects

32:27 Enhanced Safety in Drug Administration

37:02 Underrepresented Men Avoiding Clinics

39:42 Optimism in Early Alzheimer's Trials

42:39 Volunteering Advances Alzheimer's Research

This episode originally aired on 2/24/25.
What makes distinguishing between types of dementia crucial for Alzheimer's research and treatment?
With an alarming rise in Alzheimer's cases, early detection through biomarkers and new treatments like amyloid-removing drugs offer hope. Dr. Paul Schultz emphasizes early intervention to tackle cognitive decline effectively. Lifestyle changes further complement these treatments, offering a comprehensive approach to managing the disease.
Learn more about Dr. Eddie Patton <a href="https://www.eddiepattonmd.com">HERE</a>.
Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-health-your-wealth/id1753618933">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5Kt5d56fOGpaPnn2PmwPb2?si=c6f20d1320484e33">Spotify</a>, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.&nbsp;
Key Takeaways
1. Timely diagnosis is crucial for differentiating between Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders, as well as for beginning treatment that can slow progression. Early signs of cognitive decline, such as short-term memory issues despite intact long-term memory, should prompt medical evaluation.
2. Identifying reversible causes of dementia-like symptoms, such as vitamin B12 deficiency or normal pressure hydrocephalus, is essential. Misdiagnosis can lead to lost opportunities for effective treatment. Comprehensive evaluations are necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
3. New tools like amyloid PET scans and blood biomarkers have revolutionized the diagnosis of Alzheimer's, allowing for the detection of amyloid plaques during life rather than at autopsy, which supports timely and targeted treatment interventions.
4. Recent advancements in anti-amyloid therapies, such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, have transformed the treatment landscape, providing hope for slowing or stopping the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Ongoing research aims to target multiple aspects of the disease, including tau and brain inflammation, to further improve outcomes.
5. Lifestyle changes, including exercise and management of cardiovascular risk factors, play a significant role in reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer's and slowing its progression in those who are diagnosed. These strategies are an integral part of comprehensive care for cognitive disorders.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia
03:44 Cognitive Decline with Aging
07:00 Recognizing Early Signs of Cognitive Decline
10:41 Early Detection of Reversible Symptoms
14:33 First FDA-Approved Amyloid PET Scan
16:39 Detecting Plaques: PET Scans &amp; Biomarkers
19:13 Amyloid Plaque Detection and Diagnosis
23:56 Evolving Dementia Clinic Landscape
28:22 Personalized Treatment Adjustments in Medicine
30:16 Understanding Alzheimer's Treatment Side Effects
32:27 Enhanced Safety in Drug Administration
37:02 Underrepresented Men Avoiding Clinics
39:42 Optimism in Early Alzheimer's Trials
42:39 Volunteering Advances Alzheimer's Research

Cognitive Decline and Alzheimer's Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment Advances

A childhood asthma diagnosis set the course for a lifelong commitment to medicine.

Dr. Eddie Patton’s journey from Birmingham to medical leadership began with early health challenges and encouragement from his family. Years in private practice tested his resilience until burnout forced a reexamination of what medicine should look like. The discovery of augmented intelligence brought a turning point, restoring balance and purpose. Now, he champions technology that allows doctors to reclaim time for patients and family, shaping a more human future for healthcare. This episode is a feed drop featuring Dr. Patton as a guest on Let Doctors Be Doctors, hosted by Texas Medical Association President Dr. Jay Shah, where he shares his personal story and vision for medicine.

Read TMA's disclaimer here.

Subscribe to Let Doctors be Doctors here.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Patton HERE.

Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 

Key Takeaways

1. Dr. Jay Shah interviews Dr. Eddie Patton, who shares how his childhood struggles with asthma and the inspiration from his pediatrician were pivotal in his decision to pursue medicine. Early personal health challenges can profoundly influence career ambitions in healthcare.

2. Dr. Patton describes his evolving interest in neurology, particularly inspired by caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer's. The theme underscores the impact personal family experiences have on specialty choices in medicine and highlights the complexity and draw of neurology.

3. The conversation delves into the realities of physician burnout, the challenge of achieving work-life balance, and the difficulty physicians face in saying no. Dr. Patton emphasizes that self-care and boundaries are essential for sustaining a long and effective career in medicine.

4. There is a discussion about how AI is transforming medical practice, particularly through reducing administrative burdens and streamlining workflow. Dr. Patton shares how AI-powered scribing tools have given him back valuable time, demonstrating how technology can directly enhance physician wellness and patient care efficiency.

5. Dr. Patton stresses the importance of family time, staying involved in professional organizations, and finding personal outlets beyond medicine as key to preventing burnout. The main message is that reclaiming personal and family time is not only crucial for physicians' health but also benefits their professional effectiveness.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 From Asthma to Aspiring Physician

05:35 Navigating Healthcare Career Decisions

09:59 AI's Impact on Healthcare Tasks

13:25 Preventing Burnout Through Balance

14:53 Compassion, Innovation, and Leadership

A childhood asthma diagnosis set the course for a lifelong commitment to medicine.
Dr. Eddie Patton&rsquo;s journey from Birmingham to medical leadership began with early health challenges and encouragement from his family. Years in private practice tested his resilience until burnout forced a reexamination of what medicine should look like. The discovery of augmented intelligence brought a turning point, restoring balance and purpose. Now, he champions technology that allows doctors to reclaim time for patients and family, shaping a more human future for healthcare. This episode is a feed drop featuring Dr. Patton as a guest on Let Doctors Be Doctors, hosted by Texas Medical Association President Dr. Jay Shah, where he shares his personal story and vision for medicine.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eODi-UD9T_Q"></a>
Read TMA's disclaimer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.texmed.org/LetDoctorsBeDoctors/#NoticeDisclaimer">here</a>.
Subscribe to Let Doctors be Doctors <a href="https://www.texmed.org/LetDoctorsBeDoctors/">here</a>.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Patton&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eddiepattonmd.com/">HERE</a>.
Subscribe to Your Health, Your Wealth on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-health-your-wealth/id1753618933">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5Kt5d56fOGpaPnn2PmwPb2?si=c6f20d1320484e33">Spotify</a>, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.&nbsp;
Key Takeaways
1. Dr. Jay Shah&nbsp;interviews Dr. Eddie Patton, who shares how his childhood struggles with asthma and the inspiration from his pediatrician were pivotal in his decision to pursue medicine. Early personal health challenges can profoundly influence career ambitions in healthcare.
2. Dr. Patton describes his evolving interest in neurology, particularly inspired by caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer's. The theme underscores the impact personal family experiences have on specialty choices in medicine and highlights the complexity and draw of neurology.
3. The conversation delves into the realities of physician burnout, the challenge of achieving work-life balance, and the difficulty physicians face in saying no. Dr. Patton emphasizes that self-care and boundaries are essential for sustaining a long and effective career in medicine.
4. There is a discussion about how AI is transforming medical practice, particularly through reducing administrative burdens and streamlining workflow. Dr. Patton shares how AI-powered scribing tools have given him back valuable time, demonstrating how technology can directly enhance physician wellness and patient care efficiency.
5. Dr. Patton stresses the importance of family time, staying involved in professional organizations, and finding personal outlets beyond medicine as key to preventing burnout. The main message is that reclaiming personal and family time is not only crucial for physicians' health but also benefits their professional effectiveness.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 From Asthma to Aspiring Physician
05:35 Navigating Healthcare Career Decisions
09:59 AI's Impact on Healthcare Tasks
13:25 Preventing Burnout Through Balance
14:53 Compassion, Innovation, and Leadership

How 2026 Healthcare Premium Increases Will Affect You

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