Take Care

Melody Mulaik
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Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

  1. 36m ago

    Some of the Hidden Rules of Health Insurance Coverage in America with John Hennessy

    In this episode of the Take Care podcast, Melody Mulaik sits with John Hennessy, an Associate Principal at Payer Sciences, to unpack one of the most confusing and frustrating parts of modern healthcare: how patients actually access care once it’s been prescribed. From insurance plan documents to prior authorizations, GLP-1 coverage debates, and oncology drug access, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how “coverage” really works in practice, and why patients often find themselves stuck in the middle. John brings deep experience from oncology operations, including leadership at Kansas City Cancer Centers, and combines it with patient advocacy training and real-world cases he’s currently helping navigate. Key Topics Covered: The Reality of Healthcare Access TodayThe GLP-1 Case Study (Sleep Apnea Coverage)ERISA vs State-Regulated Insurance PlansAppeals, Denials, and the Paper Trail ProblemPrior Authorization in Oncology and BeyondThe Burnout Factor in Healthcare SystemsThe Bigger Shift: From Insurance to “Defined Contribution” ModelsPatient Behavior, Cost Fear, and Delayed CareThe Core Message: Be Curious About Your CareKey Takeaways: “Covered” does not always mean accessibleEmployer-based plans can vary widely under ERISA rulesPrior authorization is a major bottleneck across oncology and specialty drugsAppeals often work, but only if patients persist through documentation layersFinancial toxicity is a real part of patient harmCuriosity and early planning are among the most powerful patient toolsTimestamps: 00:00 - John Hennessy is introduced as a healthcare strategist and oncology operations expert focused on value-based care and patient access.00:01- He explains how patients now spend significant time navigating administrative barriers just to access healthcare.00:03 - A real case shows how GLP-1 drugs for sleep apnea can be FDA-approved yet still denied by employer-based insurance plans.00:06 - The episode clarifies the key difference between ERISA self-funded employer plans and state-regulated insurance coverage.00:11 - Oncology care is heavily affected by prior authorizations, often leading to delays, appeals, and affordability challenges despite approval.00:22 - John closes by urging patients to be curious, proactive, and aware of both short-term coverage and long-term treatment implications.Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    24 min
  2. Why Prescription Drug Shortages Happen and How to Respond | Take Care Together

    Jun 16

    Why Prescription Drug Shortages Happen and How to Respond | Take Care Together

    Running out of medication is stressful enough. Finding out the pharmacy doesn’t even have it in stock adds another layer of frustration. In this episode of Take Care Together, Melody Mulaik and Ashley share a real-life experience of navigating prescription drug shortages after Ashley’s move across states and transition to a new healthcare team. What started as a simple refill request for ADHD medication turned into a conversation about prescription shortages, insurance formularies, controlled substances, specialty pharmacies, manufacturer coupons, and how patients can advocate for themselves when access becomes difficult. If you’ve ever been told, “Sorry, we’re out of stock,” this episode gives practical next steps and helpful strategies to keep moving forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why prescription drug shortages happenThe ongoing ADHD stimulant shortage and what caused itHow controlled substances create extra refill challengesWhy supply cannot instantly increase during high demandHow insurance formularies affect medication accessHow to check medication coverage inside your insurance portalWhat specialty pharmacies are and when they become usefulHow manufacturer savings programs and coupons workQuestions to ask your doctor when medications are unavailableWays to advocate for yourself and explore alternativesTimestamps: 00:00 Welcome back and Ashley’s healthcare transition update 02:00 Refill challenges after moving states 03:00 Discovering ADHD medication shortages 05:00 Why patients often don’t hear about drug shortages 08:00 Social media, ADHD awareness, and rising diagnoses 10:00 Why manufacturers can’t simply produce more medication 12:00 Understanding insurance formularies 14:00 Using insurance portals to compare medication coverage 16:00 Why similar medications may not work the same 17:00 Exploring newer medications during shortages 19:00 Manufacturer coupons and specialty pharmacy options 21:00 Final advice: advocate for yourself and don’t stop searching Resources: Where Should I Get My Prescriptions Filled? Mail Order vs Local PharmacyTake Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    24 min

  3. Jun 2

    Why You Need a Doctor’s Visit for Medication Refills

    Why does your doctor sometimes refuse to refill a medication unless you schedule an appointment first? It can feel frustrating, especially when you’ve been taking the same prescription for years without any problems. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik explains the real reasons healthcare providers often require follow-up visits before approving medication refills. From monitoring blood pressure and lab work to checking for side effects and adjusting dosages as your body changes over time, these appointments are about more than policies. They are about protecting your health and making sure your treatment is still safe and effective. Melody also discusses: Why doctors are responsible for the medications they prescribeHow aging, weight changes, and health conditions affect medicationsWhy certain prescriptions require ongoing monitoringThe importance of kidney, liver, and cholesterol checksWhy do controlled substances have stricter refill rulesHow side effects can sometimes go unnoticedWhat to do if you are about to run out of medicationHow pharmacies and providers may help with short-term refillsTimestamps: 00:01 – Why doctors require follow-ups for refills 00:02 – Your body changes over time 02:30 – Monitoring organ function and safety 00:03 – Long-term medication monitoring 03:30 – Side effects and better treatment options 00:04 – Controlled substances and legal requirements 00:05 – What to do if you’re running out of medication If you have ever wondered, “Why can’t they just refill my prescription?” this episode offers practical answers and helpful guidance for navigating the process without panic. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    6 min

  4. May 26

    What Is Home Health Care? A Simple Guide for Caregivers and Families

    When a loved one comes home from the hospital, many families suddenly hear terms like “home health,” “physical therapy,” or “homebound” and wonder what it all actually means. In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik breaks down what home health care really is, who qualifies for it, what services are included, and why it can be such an important support system for patients and caregivers alike. Whether you’re caring for aging parents, helping someone recover after surgery, or navigating Medicare for the first time, this episode explains how licensed healthcare professionals can provide skilled medical care directly in the home. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: What home health care actually meansThe difference between home health and caregiving servicesWhat types of professionals may visit the homeHow physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing care workWhen patients typically qualify for home health servicesWhat “homebound” means for Medicare eligibilityWhy home health is often used after hospital stays or rehabHow families can advocate for home health before dischargeWhat conditions may qualify someone for home health careWhy home health can help patients recover safely at homeTimestamps [00:00] Introduction to home health care [01:00] What home health actually means [01:40] Skilled nursing, therapy, and medical support explained [02:00] How home health assessments work [03:00] Why every patient’s care plan looks different [03:45] Medicare and restarting home health services [04:00] When patients typically qualify for home health [04:45] Home health after surgery, illness, or rehab [05:20] Conditions that may qualify for home health [05:45] The role of physicians and medical necessity [06:00] What “homebound” means [06:20] Home health vs caregivers explained [07:00] Why Melody recommends saying yes to home health support Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    8 min

  5. May 19

    Palliative Care vs Hospice: What Families Need to Know

    When a loved one is facing a serious illness, families are often introduced to terms like “palliative care” and “hospice care.” While these two types of care share similar goals, they serve different purposes and are used at different stages of a patient’s journey. In this episode of Take Care, Melody shares her family’s personal experience navigating care decisions for her 91-year-old father-in-law, who is living with late-stage Parkinson’s disease. She explains the important differences between palliative care and hospice, what each one focuses on, and how families can better understand these options when talking with healthcare providers. Melody also discusses how palliative care can work alongside active treatment, while hospice care focuses entirely on comfort and quality of life during end-of-life care. This episode offers compassionate guidance for caregivers, adult children, and anyone supporting a loved one through difficult medical decisions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between palliative care and hospice careWhen palliative care may be appropriateHow hospice focuses on comfort and dignity at the end of lifeWhy palliative care can happen alongside treatmentHow families can navigate difficult healthcare decisions with confidenceTimestamps: [00:00] Why Melody’s family is navigating palliative care vs hospice [01:20] What palliative care actually means [02:45] How palliative care can happen alongside treatment [03:20] What hospice care focuses on [04:20] Real-life hospice experience with Melody’s mother-in-law [05:00] Treatments possible during palliative care vs hospice [05:40] Where hospice and palliative care can take place [06:10] Why hospice can be a compassionate and relieving choice [06:45] Can patients transition from palliative care to hospice? [07:10] Encouragement for families facing difficult care decisions If you’re caring for an aging parent or supporting a loved one through a serious illness, this episode will help you better understand the difference between palliative care and hospice so you can make more confident, informed decisions for your family. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    8 min

  6. May 12

    What Is Theranostics? A Breakthrough in Cancer Care with Dr. Brandon Mancini, MBA, FACRO

    What if doctors could see exactly where cancer is located and then deliver treatment directly to those cancer cells with precision? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik is joined by Dr. Brandon Mancini, Medical Director at BAMF Health, to discuss theranostics: an innovative and rapidly growing approach to cancer treatment that combines diagnostics and therapy into one personalized treatment strategy. Dr. Mancini explains how theranostics works, why it’s creating so much excitement in the cancer world, and how it’s already helping patients with prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors live longer with a better quality of life. They also discuss the role of PET scans, how radioactive therapies specifically target cancer cells, the patient treatment journey, access to care through telehealth, and why this approach may become a major pillar of cancer care in the future. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the future of medicine, this episode offers an easy-to-understand introduction to one of the most promising breakthroughs in cancer treatment today. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What theranostics means and how it worksHow PET scans help identify cancer targetsWhy Theranostics is changing prostate cancer treatmentThe difference between theranostics and chemotherapyWho may qualify for theranostic therapiesWhat patients can expect during treatmentHow telehealth is improving access to cancer specialistsThe future of personalized cancer care and clinical trialsTimestamps: [00:02:00] What theranostics is and how it combines therapy and diagnostics[00:04:00] Who qualifies for theranostic treatment for prostate cancer[00:07:00] Inside BAMF Health and the future of theranostics centers[00:13:00] What patients experience during treatment and recovery[00:23:00] Why theranostics may become a major pillar in cancer careResources Mentioned: • BAMF Health Official Website - Learn more about theranostics and cancer treatment options If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone navigating cancer care or looking to learn more about emerging treatment options. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    26 min

  7. May 5

    How to Find a New Doctor When You Move: A Step-by-Step Guide | Take Care Together

    Moving to a new city comes with a long to-do list, but finding the right doctor shouldn’t be left to chance. In this episode of Take Care Together, Melody Mulaik and Ashley talk through the real-life process of relocating and navigating healthcare in an unfamiliar place. From finding in-network providers to managing prescriptions across state lines, they break down what you actually need to do before, during, and after your move. If you’re moving soon, or even just thinking about switching doctors, this episode will help you stay ahead, avoid stress, and take control of your healthcare decisions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to find doctors in a new city (without feeling overwhelmed)Why starting with in-network providers saves time and moneyWhat to do about prescriptions, especially controlled medicationsHow to transfer medical records the right wayThe smartest way to choose a healthcare system and primary care doctorTimestamps: [00:01:00] Starting with your insurance provider[00:04:00] Preparing to transfer medical records[00:05:00] Planning for prescriptions[00:14:00] Scheduling primary care before you move[00:19:00] Knowing where to go for emergency careMoving doesn’t just mean packing boxes; it means rebuilding your healthcare team. Start early, stay flexible, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more prepared you are, the smoother your transition will be. Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    22 min

  8. Apr 28

    Interventional Radiology: Treatments You Didn't Know Exist with Dr. Matthew Hawkins, MBA

    What if some of the treatments you need… don’t require surgery at all? In this episode of Take Care, Melody Mulaik sits down with Dr. Matthew Hawkins, a board-certified interventional radiologist, to explore a powerful yet often overlooked field in medicine. Interventional radiology uses imaging modalities such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to perform procedures inside the body with few to no incisions. That means: Less painFaster recoveryFewer hospital staysIf you’ve never heard of this before, you’re not alone. And that’s exactly why this conversation matters. What You’ll Learn: What interventional radiology is and how it worksThe surprising range of conditions it can treatWhy are many patients never told about this optionHow to ask your doctor about minimally invasive proceduresThe role of interventional radiology in cancer care and pain managementWhat to do if there’s no specialist in your areaHow pediatric patients benefit from these treatmentsTimestamps: [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Matthew Hawkins [01:00] What is interventional radiology? [02:00] Common procedures and real-life examples [03:00] Why IR isn’t widely known [04:00] How patients can find IR specialists [06:00] Interventional oncology and cancer treatment options [08:00] Pain management and palliative care [09:00] What to do if there’s no specialist nearby [10:00] Telemedicine and remote consultations [12:00] Pediatric interventional radiology explained [14:00] Conditions that require specialized care [15:00] A day in the life of an interventional radiologist [17:00] The future of interventional radiology [19:00] Final advice for patients and caregivers Resources Mentioned: Society of Interventional Radiology – Find an interventional radiologist near you: https://www.sirweb.org/ Connect with Dr. Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hawkins-md-93b6b737/ Take Your Healthcare Advocacy Further Navigating the healthcare system doesn't have to be a solo journey. For deeper dives into the topics we discuss on the show, plus exclusive "insider" tips delivered straight to your feed, subscribe to Take Care Newsletter. Subscribe to the Take Care Newsletter Connect With Melody on LinkedInGot a Healthcare Question? Ask Melody Now.

    21 min
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5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming—Take Care is here to change that. Hosted by healthcare leader and industry expert Melody Mulaik, this podcast breaks down the complexities of healthcare so you can be empowered, informed, and in control. Whether you're managing your own care or supporting someone else, each episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you take care of what matters most. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in making healthcare less confusing—and more human.

Information

  • Creator
    Melody Mulaik
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Take Care
  • Show Website
    Take Care