Simplifying Payer Operations and Strengthening Provider Relationships
Simplifying Payer Operations and Strengthening Provider Relationships  
Podcast: Becker’s Healthcare Podcast
Published On: Mon Feb 02 2026
Description: In this episode, Sharon Williams, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of the University of Michigan Health Plan, discusses how health plans can navigate rising utilization, workforce shortages, and cost pressures while improving relationships with providers. She shares perspectives on simplifying payer operations, the role of AI, and policy changes needed to improve affordability and access.