Ep. 6 - Dr. Madelaine Feldman: Part 1 of 3 on How Doctors Help Patients Outside of the Exam Room

Working Healthcare

Join Meredith in the studio for an interview with Dr. Madelaine Feldman, an independent rheumatologist, immediate past president of CSRO and multiple accolade recipient for patient advocacy. Dr. “Mattie” reveals why she chose to become a rheumatologist after earning a theater degree. She walks us through why medications are so expensive and how that lead her to learn more about pharmacy benefit managers (PMBs). Then, she shares how PBMs and vertical integration impacts the doctor-patient relationship. Next, Dr. Mattie enlightens us on CSRO’s priority issues and chats about challenges with step-therapy, specialty pharmacy mandates and copay accumulator programs. She also shares her vision for PBM reform and transparency. Next, Dr. Mattie discusses the fiduciary responsibility of employers who provide ERISA health plans and how medical practices can utilize CSRO’s website to help patients acquire medically necessary medication and avoid required “white bagging.” Finally, Dr. Mattie is offered the magic wand and granted one wish for the healthcare industry. Enjoy!