Guest: Dr. Jesse Hackell

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Summary

1. **Focus for the Week**: The discussion emphasizes the need for pediatricians to continuously analyze situations, make informed decisions, and act quickly, citing experiences from COVID-19’s impact on operations.

2. **RSV and Flu Data**: Chip Hart presents data on the surge in RSV and flu cases, showing significant regional differences and record numbers of parents missing work due to children’s illnesses.

3. **AAP and National Response**: The American Academy of Pediatrics calls for a national response to the RSV and flu surge, highlighting issues including Medicaid underpayment, hospital bed shortages, and telemedicine flexibility.

4. **Google Analytics Update**: Paulie mentions the need for practices to update to the new Google Analytics platform before the current version ends in June-July, to continue tracking website activity.

5. **Private Equity Impact**: A discussion on the negative impact of private equity on healthcare, including the monopolization and increased costs of medical supplies and services.

6. **Vaccine Purchase Policies**: An explanation of Merck’s new discount policy linking the purchase of their 15-valent pneumococcal vaccine to discounts on other products like Gardasil, and the possible future competition with Pfizer's 20-valent option.

7. **Retirement Planning**: Dr. Jesse Hackel provides a detailed overview of retirement planning for pediatricians, touching on financial preparation, identity beyond the profession, legal agreements, unexpected events, and maintaining interests outside of medicine.