This panel discussion focused on the CMS 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule and its impact on primary care. Key points included the cautious optimism about the rule's potential benefits, such as expanded behavioral health integration and telemedicine enhancements. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of financial bumps and the need for comprehensive payment models. The panel emphasized the importance of community care hubs, caregiver support, and technology integration. They also highlighted the need for transparency in ACO payments and the challenges faced by small, independent practices in adapting to these changes.

Growing evidence suggests that increasing the diversity of the healthcare workforce is essential to improving access to and the quality of care in communities historically underrepresented in medical professions. BIPOC doctors are more likely to offer treatments in communities of color and treat Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, and patients with complex medical conditions due to unmet health-related social needs. Additionally, patients with the same racial or cultural background as their doctors experience better outcomes and are more likely to be offered preventive care recommendations. Patients are also more likely to report receiving higher quality care and improved communication when their healthcare team members speak their language.

Medical professionals and students' diversity—or lack thereof—affects not only how patients receive treatment but also how faculty design and deliver the curriculum for medical schools and how medical research is carried out. So how can organizations make sure that the healthcare workforce grows more diverse?

Panelists discussed this and other topics, including:

• What the SCOTUS affirmative action decision means for the healthcare workforce
• Who is responsible for addressing inequities in health and broader society
• Challenges faced when addressing inequities in communities
• Ways inequality and social injustice impact health

Angie and Mary talk about Integrated Care, specifically the integration of Behavioral Health into primary care.

During this conversation, you will hear about Mary’s journey as a patient in a non-integrated care model, and how she is now sharing her passion to help others to make healthcare work in an integrated care setting.