Alex Azar, former secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and a board member at Interwell Health, joined Kidney Health Connections to share his personal connection to chronic kidney disease (CKD) through his father’s experience and reflect on the aims and impact of the Advancing American Kidney Health (AAKH) initiative he spearheaded. Azar explains how value-based models aim to improve CKD management by fixing incentive structures and rewarding quality outcomes—including slowed CKD progression, increased optimal starts, and higher transplant rates. He also offers his predictions on whether the new administration will continue to support the ongoing shift to value-based kidney care.

This episode explores key topics including how the laws of economics have shaped our current healthcare system, Medicare’s influence on healthcare payment models, and the growing pains that come with large-scale healthcare transformation. With a focus on early intervention, patient-centered care, and innovative technologies, Azar shares his optimism for the future of kidney care in the United States.

Tune in to this insightful discussion for an in-depth look at the policy decisions in the making, the tangible benefits already taking shape, and how these shifts impact patients, providers, and payers.

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