In this episode of the Care Catalyst series hosted by Cognizant Product Director Chenny Solaiyappan, NCQA CPO Krishna Kandula speaks on the organization’s transformative initiatives in the healthcare industry. Krishna shares his journey from a technologist to a healthcare quality and risk management expert, and how his experience has informed his work at NCQA. The discussion delves into the importance of HEDIS (Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set) and NCQA’s shift towards digital quality measurement and data aggregation and validation. Krishna explains how these initiatives are aligned with CMS’s strategy to transition all quality measures to a digital format, enhancing data accuracy, interoperability, and ultimately, patient outcomes.
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Show Notes
- Krishna’s career journey from a technologist to a healthcare quality and risk management expert.
- The importance of listening to customers and building products that drive value in the healthcare industry.
- The concept of product-centric culture and how it applies to healthcare products.
- The role of profitability, feasibility, desirability, and viability in prioritizing product investments.
- Krishna’s journey to becoming the Chief Product Officer at NCQA and his prior engagement with the organization.
- The evolution of HEDIS from HMO Employee Data Information Set to Healthcare Effectiveness Data Information Set.
- The significance of healthcare quality measurement and the shift towards real-time data exchange.
- The importance of technology, data interoperability, and AI in healthcare, and the need for standardization and responsible AI practices.
- NCQA’s plans for digital transformation, including the establishment of a timeline and collaboration with CMS.
- NCQA’s approach to innovation, emphasizing customer engagement and industry conversations.
- The process of idea management, including sourcing, prioritizing, and vetting ideas.
- The need for focusing on the right use cases for AI and the importance of a responsible AI practice in healthcare.
- Krishna’s vision for the future of healthcare, emphasizing the importance of standardization and embracing disruptive technology.
- Advice for aspiring healthcare entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of focus, discipline, and innovation.
- The need for continuous customer engagement and listening to both internal and external customers.
- Krishna’s desire to influence federal programs and support providers in delivering better care.
- The importance of assuming one’s role in healthcare and continuously improving and adapting to evolving market trends.
- The potential for significant improvements in healthcare quality and value through standardization and digital transformation.
- The role of NCQA as a thought leader in driving the standardization of healthcare processes and data exchange.
- The analogy of healthcare professionals as “stockbrokers” who provide the right services and solutions as the industry evolves.
About the speaker
27 years progressively working in Healthcare space, and bringing innovative solutions to the ever evolving landscape. Unique mix of expertise in Healthcare Business and Technology with proven leadership experience. Deep analytic expertise - focused on Outcomes and driving better patient care. Strong expertise in product management from strategic planning to execution and delivery to the market. Proven ability to speak/present and engage with senior executives from clients/prospects. String Enthusiasm and agility for learning new and emerging regulations and technology.
About the host
Chenny Solaiyappan is the Director of Product Management for Cognizant Trizetto's Government and Quality Solutions, and a founding member of the ClaimSphere suite of products, encompassing quality, HEDIS ®, CMS Stars, and clinical solutions. An accomplished Intrapreneur and Lean Startup Practitioner, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall product strategy and serves as the HL7 DaVinci Business Co-chair. With a notable track record, Chenny has provided consultancy to over 30 health plans across the nation, consistently raising Quality and Star ratings in Medicaid, Medicare, Federal Employees Health Plan, and Commercial health plan sectors, collectively supporting 30 million lives. His outstanding leadership and innovative contributions have earned him prestigious awards, including the 2023 Top 20 Global Product Manager Award by Products That Count, as well as the 2021 and 2019 Product of the Year awards by Cognizant Trizetto.