On Sunday, October 20th, HealthTech 4 Medicaid (HT4M) hosted “Venture Opportunities in Medicaid’s Safety Net.” This session demystified misconceptions surrounding venture investments and safety net providers in Medicaid’s untapped market. Moderated by Adimika Arthur, CEO & Executive Director, HT4M, panelists, Meera Mani MD PhD, Partner at Town Hall Ventures; Michael Penn MD, PhD., Director of Equity & Innovation at American Medical Association; Dan Gebremedhin, Partner at Flare Capital; Lee Shapiro, Managing Partner at 7wireVentures; Julia Liou, MPH, Chief Executive Officer at Asian Health Services; Kyu Rhee, MD, MPP, President & CEO of NACHC; and Rashad A. Collins, Chief Executive Officer at Neighborcare Health highlighted the importance of establishing trust between investors and safety-net providers.

Panelists emphasized the need for collaboration that balances financial returns with community impact. As Michael Penn described, “in order to serve and transform healthcare in our country, there needs to be a dedicated focus on the safety net.”

Key themes included the evolving role of venture capital in healthcare for vulnerable populations, with Dan Gebremedhin underscoring that venture investments focus on long-term potential rather than immediate profits. Other panelists addressed myths like the notion that Medicaid lacks funding or isn’t a viable investment, suggesting that purpose-based solutions within specific populations can yield both societal and financial returns. Kyu Rhee reinforced the idea that “health centers have a history of mistrust… and need time and trust-brokered relationships” to ensure equitable partnerships.

As the session wrapped, speakers reiterated the importance of integrating social determinants into healthcare delivery and leveraging local resources. Rashad Collins noting the need for investing in solutions that extend beyond clinic walls, including telehealth and addressing transportation barriers, to support driving lasting change for Medicaid communities.