Rich McKown
Rich McKown is the director of healthcare projects for Burns & McDonnell. With more than 24 years of experience in project management, mechanical engineering design, and construction administration, he specializes in healthcare, commercial and industrial facilities.
McKown has a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from Kansas State University and a Master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Kansas. He is a registered professional mechanical and fire protection engineer in multiple states.
McKown will be an honored speaker at MetroWireMedia's 2016 Healthcare Summit on November 9. Ahead of the panel discussion, we asked Rich what topics and trends in healthcare and development are weighing on his mind.
Are you concerned about how the election results will affect the healthcare market?
RICH MCKOWN: "All current indications lean toward the Democrats remaining in office. My personal opinion is that this election won’t significantly impact the healthcare market. I see this election outcome more as 'business as usual.' I see Medicaid costs continuing to rise.
"Hillary has stated: 'I've fought for quality, affordable health care my entire career. As president, I'll defend the Affordable Care Act, build on its successes, and go even further to reduce costs. My plan will crack down on drug companies charging excessive prices, slow the growth of out-of-pocket costs, and provide a new credit to those facing high health expenses.'
"My question is where does the money come from to pay for lower costs to under-insured patients? It must come from either lower reimbursable rates or higher Medicare and Medicaid costs. With the aging population growing and the average person leading a less healthy life, healthcare facilities and need can’t retract. The real question is where does the money come from to pay for the need?
"Due to our considerable diversity, a downturn in the healthcare sector won’t significantly impact Burns & McDonnell. An upturn could help growth, however."
What new trends in healthcare do you foresee surfacing in 2017? What is your outlook for the overall healthcare economy for 2017?
RM: "Doing more with less. Less costly and more efficient structures would aid in lowering cost. I see a continued trend toward outpatient facilities. As stated above, the need is increasing, but there is a lot of pressure to make care more affordable. We have to do our part to make the facilities less costly and more efficient."
What kind of long-term goals would you like to see the healthcare market achieve?
RM: "More acceptance of the design-build delivery method. There are so many advantages including speed, lower cost, less finger pointing, and mutual decision making at the right time."
Interested in hearing more from Rich? See more details and register to attend our 2016 Healthcare Summit, which takes place next week! Sponsorship opportunities also remain; Find more information here.