S7, Ep 1- The $29 Billion Problem: Understanding Influenza's True Economic Toll
Thu Jan 29 2026
In this season premiere of Healthcare Matters, Dr. Robert Popovian and Ben Blanc are joined by Dr. Wayne Winegarden, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Medical Economics and Innovation at the Pacific Research Institute, to discuss a new economic study revealing the true cost of influenza in America.The study finds that influenza imposed a $29 billion economic burden during the 2023-24 season; $16 billion in direct medical costs and $13 billion in lost productivity. Using 14 seasons of CDC data, the research demonstrates that higher adult vaccination rates are significantly associated with lower hospitalizations and mortality, particularly among adults aged 50 and older.The conversation explores why adult vaccination rates have declined, what drives the real economic impact of flu season, and why employers, especially small businesses, should view vaccination as a critical workplace investment. Dr. Popovian and Dr. Winegarden break down the data and discuss actionable solutions for healthcare systems, employers, and policymakers to close the gap between what we know works and what's actually happening.To access the full study and white paper, click here.Contact Our Hosts
Dr. Robert Popovian, Chief Science Policy Officer at GHLF: rpopovian@ghlf.org
Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF: bblanc@ghlf.org
A podcast series produced by Ben Blanc.
We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to podcasts@ghlf.org
Listen to all episodes of Healthcare Matters on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this season premiere of Healthcare Matters, Dr. Robert Popovian and Ben Blanc are joined by Dr. Wayne Winegarden, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Medical Economics and Innovation at the Pacific Research Institute, to discuss a new economic study revealing the true cost of influenza in America.The study finds that influenza imposed a $29 billion economic burden during the 2023-24 season; $16 billion in direct medical costs and $13 billion in lost productivity. Using 14 seasons of CDC data, the research demonstrates that higher adult vaccination rates are significantly associated with lower hospitalizations and mortality, particularly among adults aged 50 and older.The conversation explores why adult vaccination rates have declined, what drives the real economic impact of flu season, and why employers, especially small businesses, should view vaccination as a critical workplace investment. Dr. Popovian and Dr. Winegarden break down the data and discuss actionable solutions for healthcare systems, employers, and policymakers to close the gap between what we know works and what's actually happening.To access the full study and white paper, click here.Contact Our Hosts Dr. Robert Popovian, Chief Science Policy Officer at GHLF: rpopovian@ghlf.org Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF: bblanc@ghlf.org A podcast series produced by Ben Blanc. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to podcasts@ghlf.org Listen to all episodes of Healthcare Matters on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.