Healthcare spending in the U.S. has risen sharply over the past two decades, reaching $5.3 trillion and accounting for nearly 18% of the national economy. Despite this investment, multiple national and international studies continue to indicate that quality of care and health outcomes do not consistently align with spending levels, especially when compared with peer nations. In addition, significant disparities persist for communities facing substantial social determinants of health, highlighting ongoing gaps in access and equity.

At the same time, the healthcare sector is grappling with a complex set of operational, financial and workforce challenges. These pressures underscore the need for innovative, data‑driven solutions. The rapid emergence of AI-enabled methods, advanced analytics and digital health technologies provide a timely opportunity to rethink care delivery, improve efficiency and support more equitable outcomes.

Given this evolving landscape, there is a compelling opportunity for the School of Management to strengthen its role as a thought partner and research collaborator in healthcare. Engaging more intentionally in this domain would allow us to contribute meaningfully to one of society’s most critical challenges while expanding the school’s scholarly impact, visibility and interdisciplinary footprint. 

To strengthen healthcare-related research and create a welcoming forum for faculty with interest in this domain, the school’s Research Committee is once again hosting a series of conversations with experts across the healthcare landscape, with the encouragement and support of Dean Ananth Iyer. Invited speakers include distinguished leaders and seasoned practitioners whose perspectives the many diverse facets of this field.

Healthcare touches a wide range of disciplines, from operations and technology to policy, equity and clinical practice, so we have intentionally curated speakers who bring deep expertise and real-world insight. These informal conversational-style sessions will spark ideas, highlight emerging opportunities and encourage meaningful dialogue that may lead to publications, external partnerships and grant opportunities

We look forward to building a vibrant and supportive community around this important area of inquiry. 

How the Erie County Department of Health Responds to Emerging Population Health Needs
Gale Burstein, MD, MPH, FAAP
Comissioner, Erie County Department of Health
Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, UB Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

• Discussion will highlight public health infrastructure and decision-making frameworks and how they relate to data and surveillance tools. The session will introduce opportunities to improve efficiencies and expand virtual services and potential next steps in AI use and science-based innovations.

Therapeutic AI Use
Gavin Raffloer, PhD
Owner, Wisely AI Consulting

• Discussion will explore the phenomenon of therapeutic AI and will review several current studies, offering a predictive model of the personal attributes and experiences that inform whether an individual will turn to AI chatbots when seeking therapeutic support. The session will explore how regulatory bodies, mental health providers and AI companies are responding to this fascinating user behavior.

Panel Discussion: The Future of Healthcare Leadership, Policy, and AI
Donald Boyd, MBA '97
President and CEO, Kaleida Health

Cynthia Khan, BS '95. MBA '97
Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning, Northwell Health

• Discussion will explore challenges and opportunities facing healthcare leaders and organizations. This session will provide practical insights from experienced healthcare leaders while highlighting important opportunities for future research, learning and collaboration.