Revenue Cycle Innovation, AI and the Evolving Role of the CFO with Jeff Francis
Becker’s Healthcare PodcastSummary
Leaders in the healthcare industry are currently grappling with numerous challenges, including market consolidation, declining reimbursement margins, rapid technological advancements, and workforce issues. Ecker's 14th annual CEO CFO Roundtable, taking place from November 2nd to 5th, aims to support C-suite executives in navigating these complexities. The event will host over 1,500 attendees and nearly 400 speakers, providing a platform for leaders to refine their strategies based on real-world scenarios.
In a recent podcast, Jeff Francis, CFO of Nebraska Methodist Health System, discussed the significant shifts his organization is facing, particularly from insurance company denials and delays in payments, which are impacting revenue cycles. To counter these challenges, Nebraska Methodist Health System is prioritizing improvements in documentation and coding in order to expedite claims processes.
Francis highlighted the positive outcomes of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, specifically mentioning ongoing AI projects that have yielded labor savings and improved claims management. He emphasized the importance of making informed technology investments that deliver quick returns and enhance operational efficiency, particularly during the revenue cycle’s initial registration phase.
The healthcare finance landscape has evolved significantly since Francis became a CFO in 2008, shifting from a traditional controller role focused on historical financial reporting to a more strategic position emphasizing forecasting and forward-thinking. He advises aspiring CFOs to build a network of experienced peers for support and insights.
Overall, Francis's insights reflect a broader trend in healthcare leadership focused on adapting to rapidly changing conditions while leveraging technology and collaboration to drive future success.
Show Notes
In this episode, Jeff Francis, CFO, Nebraska Methodist Health System, discusses how his team is addressing rising payer denials through stronger documentation, coding, and AI-powered revenue cycle tools. He also shares how the CFO role has evolved into a more strategic leadership position and offers advice for the next generation of healthcare finance leaders.
More from Becker’s Healthcare Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Michael Bass, Global Medical Director, Viome, discusses how microbiome testing and personalized nutrition can help clinicians address persistent GI symptoms, improve clinical decision making, and support earlier pancreatic cancer detection. He also explores emerging trends in AI, preventative care, and the future of clinical practice.
This episode recorded live at the Becker's 11th Annual Health IT + Digital Health + RCM Conference features Chris Carmody, Chief Technology Officer, UPMC, who discusses using AI to turn growing volumes of healthcare data into actionable clinical insights, reduce fragmentation and create a more seamless experience across care settings.
In this episode, Dr. Patricia Henwood, EVP, Chief Clinical Officer at Jefferson Health, discusses the health system’s approach to AI integration, including its intent, integration, and impact framework, ambient AI results, and patient facing AI voice agents designed to improve care access, clinician efficiency, and patient experience.
Andy Colbert, Senior Managing Director at Ziegler, discusses the forces shaping ASC ownership and transactions in 2027, including joint ventures, private equity investment, and physician alignment. He also covers deal structure, succession planning, rising operating costs, and developing the next generation of physician leaders.
In this episode, Jody Reyes, Chief Operating Officer of the Clinical Enterprise at UI Health Care, University of Iowa Health Care, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of accountability and ownership in healthcare leadership. She also shares insights on navigating the changing economics of healthcare and adapting operational strategies to meet evolving organizational challenges.