Health Calls

Catholic Health Association
  • 4.9 (17)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

From ethics to advocacy, Health Calls brings together thought leaders from Catholic health care, academia, public policy, and other organizations to discuss timely topics related to the common good and creating a more just and healthy society. Hosted by Brian Reardon, Health Calls is the official podcast of the Catholic Health Association of the United States.

  1. MAR 31

    Collaborating to Curb Medication Costs with Civica RX

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 14 examines how health systems across the United States are collaborating to lower medication costs through the groundbreaking nonprofit manufacturer Civica Rx. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka speak with Dr. Daniel Roth, Executive Vice President and COO of Trinity Health, about how Civica was founded to address persistent generic drug shortages, supply chain disruptions, and affordability issues affecting hospitals nationwide.  Dr. Roth explains how Civica brings together Catholic health systems, nonprofit providers, for‑profit partners, and philanthropic organizations to create a health‑utility model that prioritizes stable supply over profit. He details how Civica now supports more than 1,400 hospitals with affordable generic medications and is expanding its portfolio based on national clinical need. This episode highlights why cross‑sector collaboration is essential for U.S. patients, clinicians, and caregivers—and how collective action can reduce costs, strengthen supply chains, and advance whole‑person care across the country Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    23 min

  2. MAR 17

    Different Faiths, Same Goal: How Interfaith Engagement Elevates Human Flourishing

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 13 explores how interfaith engagement strengthens whole‑person care and human flourishing across the United States. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Suzanne Watts Henderson, PhD, Senior Director of Faith & Health at Interfaith America to discuss religious diversity as a civic asset and a practical lever for community trust in health care. The conversation traces Interfaith America’s move from higher‑ed leadership development into health care settings, accelerated during the pandemic as faith leaders partnered with clinicians to bridge trust and boost vaccine confidence—including stories from Charlotte and other local communities. Henderson unpacks a simple framework—respect, relate, cooperate—for Catholic and non‑Catholic partners to deliver spiritual care that honors human dignity for everyone, not only Catholics.  Resources Read Suzanne Watts Henderson and Eboo Patel's 2024 article in Health Progress Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    22 min

  3. MAR 3

    “You Are Not Alone”: Responding to the Immigration Crisis with the USCCB

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 12 explores how Catholic ministries across the United States are responding to the growing immigration crisis. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Bill Canny, Executive Director of the USCCB’s Secretariat of Migration, to discuss the national You Are Not Alone campaign.  Rooted in Catholic social teaching and launched in response to heightened fear among immigrant communities, the initiative offers support to families facing deportation threats, lack of legal protection, and barriers to accessing health care, schools, and parish life. Canny explains how dioceses nationwide are mobilizing volunteers, parish groups, and Catholic health care to provide accompaniment, resources, and reassurance. With fear driving declines in clinic visits and school attendance across many states, this conversation highlights how the Church is uniting for change, standing with vulnerable immigrants, and affirming their dignity during an especially challenging moment. Resources Watch the USCCB's Special Pastoral Message on Immigration Learn more about the You Are Not Alone campaign Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    23 min

  4. FEB 17

    Washington Update: Advocacy Partnerships and Policy Victories

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 11 delivers an important Washington health policy update, as host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Paulo Pontemayor, CHA’s Senior Director for Government Relations. Paulo breaks down the latest federal health care policy developments impacting Catholic health care, including the expiration of ACA premium tax credits, rising insurance costs, and ongoing coalition advocacy through Keep Americans Covered.  The conversation also highlights key wins in recent appropriations bills, such as extensions for essential Medicare and Medicaid provisions, telehealth flexibilities, and delayed Medicaid DSH cuts. Looking ahead, Paulo previews 2026 priorities—Medicaid work requirements, maternal health initiatives, and immigration policies rooted in human dignity. As a pivotal election year shapes congressional action, listeners learn how CHA members and community partners can stay engaged through advocacy alerts, local outreach, and collaborative efforts that strengthen access to care and support whole‑person health across the country. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    25 min

  5. FEB 3

    A Collaborative Model for Community-Based Wellness

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 10 highlights Healthspan Nevada County, an innovative community‑based wellness model redefining whole‑person care. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka talk with Dr. Scott Neeley, president and CEO of Dignity Health’s Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, about how this collaborative approach strengthens community health beyond traditional clinical care. Rooted in four pillars—movement, food, connection, and youth development—the Healthspan model brings together nonprofits, arts organizations, schools, and health leaders to prevent chronic disease and promote long‑term wellness. Dr. Neeley explains why community connection, healthy environments, and shared purpose play a critical role in improving health outcomes. Read more about the HealthSpan Nevada County initiative in Health Progress. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    23 min

  6. JAN 20

    Partnering with Parishes for Community Health

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 9 explores how Catholic health care extends beyond hospital walls through parish nurse programs. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Megan Timm, Regional Director of Community Health for SSM Health in Wisconsin, to discuss a model that has flourished in SSM Health's local communities. Timm explains how parish nurses serve as trusted health resources within parishes and neighborhoods, blending clinical expertise with community connection. These nurses provide screenings, education, and navigation support while addressing social needs and offering spiritual care, embodying the whole-person care that Catholic health systems strive to provide. Megan also shares insights on program impact, recruitment strategies, and the importance of adapting to evolving community needs. This episode underscores collaboration as a cornerstone for improving health outcomes and strengthening ties between faith and care. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    24 min

  7. JAN 6

    Mission Integration and the Next Generation of Health Care Workers

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 8 centers a conversation about mission integration and the formation of the next generation of health care workers. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka are joined by Chip Chipman, Manager of Pastoral Care and Mission Integration at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, who reflects on the role of spiritual care as a core element of whole‑person care and how it extends beyond chaplaincy to every member of the care team.  The episode explores how students and new clinicians are introduced to Catholic mission, ethics, and values through relationship‑building, case studies, and real‑world engagement. Chip also discusses how technology, including e‑chaplaincy, can expand access to spiritual care while reinforcing the importance of presence and human connection. Together, the conversation highlights how Catholic health care can prepare future caregivers to lead with compassion, courage, and integrity. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    22 min

  8. 12/16/2025

    Partnering with the Formerly Unhoused to Care for Those in Need

    Health Calls Season 6, Episode 7 explores how CommonSpirit Health partners with those who have lived experience of homelessness to shape solutions and fund grants. Host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Nicole Wilson, Community Health and Housing System Manager at CommonSpirit Health, to discuss the Research and Equity Advisory Council for Housing Insecurities (REACHI). Wilson explains how REACHI elevates voices of the formerly unhoused in decision-making, from grant allocation to program design, ensuring initiatives reflect real-world needs. The conversation highlights innovative approaches like safe parking programs for women living in vehicles and the importance of trauma-informed care and low-barrier housing options. Nicole shares how authentic power-sharing and feedback loops transform strategies across diverse communities, from Los Angeles to Washington State. This episode underscores Catholic health care’s commitment to collaboration and equity in addressing homelessness and housing insecurity. Resources Read recent Catholic Health World articles on REACHI and one of the programs it helped fund, Safe Parking LA Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Learn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

    26 min
See All (113)

4.9
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

From ethics to advocacy, Health Calls brings together thought leaders from Catholic health care, academia, public policy, and other organizations to discuss timely topics related to the common good and creating a more just and healthy society. Hosted by Brian Reardon, Health Calls is the official podcast of the Catholic Health Association of the United States.

Information

  • Creator
    Catholic Health Association
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    113
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Catholic Health Association of the United States
  • Show Website
    Health Calls