A CEO's Case for Foundational Excellence in Healthcare

Vincent Catalano sits down with Dr. Khuram Arif, CEO of Western Health Advantage (WHA), for an in-depth conversation about the future of regional healthcare delivery. With nearly 20 years as a practicing pediatrician, a decade in physician leadership at organizations like Woodland Clinic and Mercy Medical Group, and experience as WHA’s President and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Arif brings a unique physician-leader perspective to healthcare management.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Arif discusses:

• How WHA maintains stable premiums while drug costs have skyrocketed from 15% to over one-third of total premium costs
• The role of care navigation in helping members access the right care at the right time
• WHA’s innovative approach to coverage decisions, including being the first health plan in California to offer covered nutrition services
• The “Plan for Foundational Excellence”—a three-year strategic initiative developed with 300 staff members
• Using AI to reduce administrative burden and physician burnout
• Why WHA chooses strategic restraint over rapid expansion
• Building strong partnerships with physicians and healthcare systems
• The challenges of rising hospital costs (including $30 million per bed construction costs)

Dr. Arif shares candid insights about working at a Federally Qualified Health Center in rural New Mexico, his decade guiding medical groups through the transition from volume to value-based care, and now leading WHA with a clear mission: deliver quality healthcare at sustainable costs while maintaining the regional, relationship-focused approach that has made WHA successful for 30 years.

This episode is essential listening for: 

• Insurance brokers and benefits consultants 
• HR professionals and benefits managers 
• Healthcare executives and administrators 
• Physicians and clinical leaders 
• Anyone interested in practical solutions to America’s healthcare challenges

Key Takeaway: Sustainable healthcare requires a holistic approach—addressing costs throughout the supply chain, leveraging technology thoughtfully, building strong provider partnerships, and always putting member needs first.

Learn more at www.clearhcs.com and www.westernhealth.com

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific situations.