Amanda Bury: Pioneering Member Engagement in Healthcare as Chief Commercial Officer at Infermedica
In an era where the healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and a shift towards value-based care, the role of member engagement has never been more critical. At the forefront of this transformation is Amanda L. Bury, the Chief Commercial Officer at Infermedica, an AI-powered healthcare platform dedicated to enhancing patient care. With over 15 years of experience in connecting health systems and insurers with innovative technology, Bury is a key player in redefining how healthcare organizations engage with their members.
Understanding Member Engagement
At its core, member engagement refers to the active involvement of individuals in their own healthcare journey. In the context of value-based care, this means empowering members to take charge of their health decisions, advocating for their well-being, and actively participating in the services they receive. As healthcare continues to evolve, understanding and prioritizing member engagement has become paramount.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly vital role in this engagement. By providing predictive analytics, decision support, and proactive health management tools, AI empowers members to make informed choices about their health, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
The Challenges Facing Health Plans
Health plans today face numerous challenges as they navigate the complexities of value-based care and population health management. One of the primary concerns is maintaining financial viability in a model that prioritizes quality over quantity. Payers must also adapt to an ever-changing member population, ensuring high levels of satisfaction while managing evolving preferences and needs.
Moreover, the interoperability of internal systems, financial incentives, social determinants of health, and complex regulatory requirements further complicate the landscape. In this context, AI-powered tools emerge as a beacon of hope, offering significant potential to address these challenges.
The Role of AI-Powered Tools
AI-powered tools can significantly enhance member engagement by providing clinically validated navigation tools that offer personalized symptom assessments and guidance on appropriate care options. These tools not only empower members to make informed decisions but also alleviate the administrative burden faced by payers.
Additionally, AI can provide valuable insights into member activities and trends, enabling early detection and intervention to avoid potential health issues. By leveraging AI and care navigation tools, payers can access a wealth of pre-claim information on member behavior and care-seeking patterns, allowing for a proactive and holistic understanding of their member population.
Overcoming Barriers to Implementation
Despite the potential benefits, health plans encounter several barriers when implementing AI-powered tools for member engagement. Privacy concerns and regulatory compliance are ongoing challenges that require careful navigation. Furthermore, interoperability and integration with existing tools can present technical hurdles, as payers strive to create a seamless and efficient ecosystem.
Variability in member populations, including differences in digital literacy and access, must also be considered. Ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability remains a primary concern for payers. To overcome these barriers, health plans must focus on addressing core business concerns while recognizing the shift towards patient-driven change.
Trends Shaping the Future of Member Engagement
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, several trends are shaping the future of member engagement, AI adoption, and value-based care. The rise of self-funded plans and unique payment models reflects a growing desire for more personalized, flexible healthcare options. Preventative health and provider collaboration are gaining prominence, as payers recognize the importance of proactive care and integrated services.
Virtual care, remote care, and AI-powered virtual assistants are becoming increasingly common, offering members convenient and accessible support regardless of location. Personalization has emerged as a key factor in maintaining member engagement, as individuals seek tailored experiences and recommendations.
Amanda Bury’s Vision for the Future
As Chief Commercial Officer at Infermedica, Amanda Bury is at the forefront of these transformative changes. Her extensive background in healthcare technology positions her uniquely to drive innovation and collaboration within the industry. Bury previously served as Vice President of Global Strategic Alliances at TeraRecon, where she focused on medical imaging visualization and AI development. Her experience also includes a significant role at Kyruus, where she was Senior Director of Channel Development & Strategy.
Bury has become a leading voice in the healthcare technology community, presenting at various industry conferences and events, including SHSMD, HCIC, and HIMSS. Her commitment to enhancing member engagement through AI and technology is evident in her work at Infermedica, where the focus is on delivering efficient, safe, and reliable care to patients.
Conclusion
Member engagement plays a vital role in the future of healthcare, particularly in the context of AI and value-based care. As payers navigate this transformative landscape, embracing tools and strategies that prioritize member involvement and empowerment will be essential.
By leveraging the potential of AI and adapting to the demands of value-based care, payers can position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive and dynamic industry. The path forward requires a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast focus on the needs and preferences of healthcare consumers. Under the leadership of Amanda Bury, Infermedica is poised to lead the charge in redefining member engagement and improving healthcare outcomes for all.