How Using Opioids for Acute Pain is Like Burning Coal for Energy

Introduction Throughout history, humanity has sought efficient and accessible sources of energy to power societies, fuel industry, and improve living standards. Coal, for centuries, has been a primary energy source—abundant, reliable, and inexpensive—yet its environmental and health costs have grown increasingly apparent. Similarly, in medicine, opioids have long been the mainstay for managing acute pain—widely … Read more

PCMH Fails Natural Experiment

Introduction The Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model has been heralded as a transformative approach to primary care, emphasizing comprehensive, coordinated, accessible, and patient-centered services. Launched to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance patient experience, the PCMH concept has garnered significant policy and financial support. However, empirical evaluations reveal mixed or disappointing results, raising questions about … Read more

UDHPs Enable New Ecosystems & Strategic Partnerships

Introduction In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance their competitiveness, expand their market reach, and foster collaborative growth. One of the transformative developments in recent years has been the advent of User-Driven Hybrid Platforms (UDHPs). These platforms are reshaping business ecosystems by enabling new forms of collaboration, fostering … Read more

Mayo Clinic Platform: Healthcare platforms and AI

Introduction The landscape of healthcare is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, digital transformation, and an increasing emphasis on personalized medicine. Among the pioneers leading this transformation is the Mayo Clinic, renowned for its patient-centered approach and innovative research. The Mayo Clinic Platform (MCP) represents a strategic initiative to harness the power of digital health … Read more

The World’s Psychoactive Drug of Choice

Introduction Throughout human history, substances that alter mental states—psychoactive drugs—have played a complex role in societies worldwide. From ancient rituals to modern recreational use, psychoactive substances have been intertwined with culture, religion, medicine, and social behaviors. Today, the global landscape of psychoactive drug use is vast and multifaceted, encompassing legal and illegal substances, traditional and … Read more

How Health Systems are Losing Contact with their Clinicians

Introduction The relationship between health systems and their clinicians is foundational to effective, patient-centered care. Clinicians—doctors, nurses, allied health professionals—are the frontline providers who translate policies, protocols, and organizational goals into tangible patient outcomes. When this relationship is strong, health systems benefit from motivated staff, high-quality care, and better patient satisfaction. However, in recent years, … Read more

Tom Knight, HealthcareDiversion.org

Introduction Healthcare diversion is a complex and pressing issue that affects communities, law enforcement, healthcare institutions, and public health at large. It involves the illegal and often dangerous practice of redirecting prescription drugs, especially controlled substances like opioids, from legitimate medical channels into illicit markets. This practice fuels the ongoing opioid epidemic, contributes to drug … Read more