In this episode, we’re joined by gastroenterologist Dr. Brad Pasternak who talks about how his personal experience with ulcerative colitis inspired him to become a pediatric gastroenterologist. Dr. Pasternak realized he needed to advocate for policies that increase access to care after seeing his patients face denied treatments by insurance. He shares the tremendous effect that harmful policies have on the medical community, in delaying treatment for patients and getting in the way of shared decision-making. Finally, he leaves us with hope, discussing the advancements in treatment for inflammatory bowel disease.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:23: Dr. Pasternak shares his personal journey into gastroenterology influenced by his own diagnosis with ulcerative colitis and his love for working with children

04:08: Dr. Pasternak discusses his recent shift towards advocacy, driven by the challenges posed by insurance policies and his desire to fight for better patient care

06:05: Dr. Pasternak recounts his advocacy efforts, including a significant meeting that led to a change in a health plan’s approval process for biologic treatments

10:27: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, and Dr. Pasternak delve into the complexities of health policy advocacy, the slow process of legislative change, and the interactions with policymakers

12:14: Dr. Pasternak explains the burdensome process of prior authorizations and appeals in medical practice, highlighting its impact on medical professionals and patients

16:41: Dr. Pasternak outlines the advancements in patient outcomes over the years due to newer, more effective therapies that aim to heal rather than just treat symptoms

18:46: Dr. Pasternak encourages medical providers and patients to persist in advocacy and fight against inefficient and unjust medical policies

21:10: Dr. Pasternak mentions his local advocacy work, which often yields quicker results than federal efforts, emphasizing the importance of physician involvement in legislative processes

23:12: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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