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Written by Casey Hite, CEO at Aeroflow Health

At Aeroflow Health, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are foundational principles that guide our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves. DEI is more than just a strategy for us—it’s woven into the fabric of our company culture, where the voices of all employees, especially those from marginalized groups, are heard and supported. Our goal is to ensure that every individual feels safe and supported to bring their true selves to work every day. DEI isn’t just a policy; it’s a promise to our people. According to Marshall Staton, Director of Human Resources at Aeroflow Health, “Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) were a vital addition to our DEI strategy because they create spaces where individuals with shared backgrounds and experiences can connect, foster belonging, and amplify underrepresented voices. By empowering employees to lead these groups, we aimed to build a more inclusive workplace, where diverse perspectives are not only heard but valued. Our goal is to ensure every employee feels seen, supported, and able to contribute fully to the success of our organization. Through ERGs, we hope to drive cultural awareness, professional development, and a sense of community across all levels of the company.” 

Creating an Inclusive Workplace

Aeroflow’s inclusive culture is built on a commitment to ensuring that all employees feel a sense of belonging. One of the ways we’ve embraced this commitment is through our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). For example, Out Health, one of our six ERGs plays a critical role in giving a voice to those who may otherwise feel unheard. These groups provide not only a safe space for employees to express themselves but also a direct line to leadership to address key issues. Kathleen Burke, Senior Customer Experience Representative for Aeroflow’s Mom & Baby team, says “ERGs are a benefit that most companies probably would not even think about. But I think it’s great because it encourages a community feeling when we are working remotely.”

Through Aeroflow Health’s ERGs, Aeroflow employees are empowered to be their true selves. Whether by addressing discriminatory incidents or shaping policies to protect employees, Aeroflow is creating a culture where authenticity is celebrated. ERGs like Out Health are actively collaborating with other company ERGs to tackle important issues, such as mental health, LGBTQ+ parenting, and neurodivergence, demonstrating how these groups work together to uplift the entire workforce.

The Impact of DEI Initiatives in Healthcare

Aeroflow’s DEI initiatives have had a significant impact on employee satisfaction and engagement. Employees who participate in ERGs and DEI efforts report feeling more connected and supported within the company. For many, being able to bring their full selves to work has fostered not only a sense of belonging but also increased professional confidence.

“Being a part of Out Health has truly been transformative for me,” shares Mike Edwards, Customer Account Representative for Aeroflow Urology. “Aeroflow has empowered me to be an out, gay male at work, and with the support of my ERG, I’ve been able to help lead initiatives that make sure everyone has a voice. Knowing that I can be myself and that Aeroflow stands behind me is a feeling I wish everyone could experience.”

In addition, Aeroflow’s DEI initiatives have also driven meaningful policy changes. For example, after addressing issues of discrimination, Aeroflow is now working with HR to create standardized anti-discrimination procedures across all departments. This codification ensures that all employees are protected, supported, and treated fairly, reinforcing our culture of inclusivity.

Challenges and Opportunities

Like any organization, Aeroflow faces challenges in implementing DEI initiatives. Mike Edwards shares, “People can sometimes be hesitant to embrace change, especially when other companies are scaling back on their DEI efforts. However, the commitment from our leadership, particularly Casey Hite’s active participation in ERG meetings, reassures everyone that this work is here to stay and is vital to our success.”

One of the biggest challenges faced by ERGs like Out Health is addressing the fear of coming out professionally or being perceived as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Aeroflow is working to address these concerns by creating a visible, safe, and welcoming space for all employees, whether they are members of the LGBTQ+ community or allies.

Fostering a Future of DEI in Healthcare

Aeroflow Health remains deeply committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves. We recognize the importance of DEI not only for individual success but for the success of the organization as a whole. By embracing diversity and creating a supportive environment, we are building a company where everyone is empowered to thrive.

If you’d like to learn more about Aeroflow’s DEI efforts or explore opportunities to join our team, we encourage you to connect with us. Together, we can continue to build a culture of authenticity, belonging, and growth.

As we navigate the difficult aftermath of Hurricane Helene, we are reminded of the strength and compassion that unites us, not just as a company but as a community. The devastation that has impacted Western North Carolina has been profound, but the response from our team members has been nothing short of inspiring.  

At Aeroflow Health, we have always prided ourselves on fostering a culture of empathy, integrity, and unwavering support for our patients and partners. In these trying times, that commitment is being demonstrated daily by our incredible employees, many of whom are facing significant challenges in their personal lives. Despite power outages, water shortages, and disrupted living conditions, our team has shown resilience, ensuring that our patients continue to receive the vital medical supplies they depend on. 

Here’s a look into how Aeroflow Health is bringing #HopeAfterHelene our our employees, patients and community:

Our Employees 

Our employees are the heart of Aeroflow Health, and during this time of crisis, we wanted to make sure to support them just as they support our patients around the clock. In the aftermath of the storm, we were able to confirm that all 600 employees living in the Western North Carolina area were safe; however, 55 of them had lost their homes, cars, and food. Our teams have jumped to action to be able to meet the needs of these impacted employees. Here a few ways Aeroflow has sought to meet these needs:

  • Secured housing, food, and transportation at no cost for employees in affected areas, so no one has to worry about basic needs during this time.
  • Aeroflow-sponsored relief pay was offered to employees to alleviate the financial burden caused by the disaster.
  • Created an employee pantry stocked with essential resources, offering further relief to team members impacted by the storm.
  • Our remote employees stepped in to cover responsibilities for those who were unable to work, embodying our company’s commitment to teamwork and resilience.

Our Patients 

Our priority has always been to ensure that patients receive the care they need, no matter the circumstances. After Hurricane Helene, with the help of our warehouse crew working through the weekend, we rapidly restored our systems to continue providing essential medical supplies to those who depend on us. We also extended our support in the following ways:

  • Donations of incontinence products to Elevate Health and Swannanoa Valley Pelican Health and Rehab, facilities hit hard by the storm.
  • Delivery of incontinence products to hurricane victims in Ashe County, ensuring that essential care supplies reached those in dire need.
  • Manual breast pumps provided to community members affected by the disaster, ensuring new mothers could continue to care for their infants even amid the disruption.

Our Community 

While the recovery process is still underway, we are incredibly grateful for the hard work, determination, and sense of responsibility our team has displayed. Personal donations were made to the Asheville Police and Fairview Fire Department to support local first responders in need, some employees used ATV’s to deliver meals, and others led efforts to help secure and deliver insulin. There are countless stories that continue to stream in from our team, but here are a few we want to highlight:

Brianne Griffis, IBCLC, CLC, CD, CLSP, Bri Blackenbicker, RN, IBCLC, and several additional Aeroflow Breastpumps lactation providers, went above and beyond to support moms and babies in areas like Burnsville, Black Mountain, and Marshall, which were impacted by the storm. Whether traveling by horse, fire rescue, or on foot, they truly redefined the phrase “boots on the ground.” In partnership with the North Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition, they visited sites to organize feeding supplies, conducted breastfeeding consultations, provided rapid-response infant feeding assessments, and educated mothers on safe cleaning of bottles and supplies following CDC guidelines for disaster preparedness.

These dedicated providers made house calls, ran donor breast milk deliveries (essential in power outages since the milk is only good for 24 hours), and offered vital support through welfare checks, assessments, and consultations. Working tirelessly until 7 p.m. each night, they trekked back home, often not arriving until 10 or 11 p.m., only to do it all again the next day.

At Aeroflow, we teach that our goal is to honor a parent’s intuition while offering education and support throughout the parenting journey. Even in the face of adversity, without power, water, or internet, Brianne and the team remained committed to meeting families where they were—offering safe feeding solutions no matter the obstacles.

Brianne says, “Western North Carolina and this deployment has forever changed my life. The devastation and things I saw will not have any words, but I want to highlight the beauty that came out of this. Twin preemies were supported, a 38 week mama could get set up and take a sigh of relief, a 2 week old could be weighed and assessed, just to name a few, families could feel support and resources and safety with safe cleaning supplies. We changed lives. The way this community not only came together but welcomed me and came around for any need was beautiful.”

Asheville resident and Managed Care Associate, Neeka Alami jumped to action to help bring #HopeAfterHelene to her local community. In less than a couple days, she was able to raise $12,650 so far to help buy relief supplies that she and her partner delivered to Fairview, Swannanoa, Candler and other impacted towns! 

 Neeka says, “The paradox of grief, unity, and love has been profound. After visiting Swannanoa’s wreckage, we saw a rainbow emerge from the wiped out neighborhoods. That moment felt symbolic of our hope to rebuild something even more beautiful together.”

Kiera Walsh, a Charleston, South Carolina employee, knew she had to step up and support moms and babies in need after Hurricane Helene’s destruction. Through a partnership with #OperationWashBox—a relief effort specifically focused on helping moms safely feed their babies in the aftermath of a disaster, she was able to raise $1,065+ to help buy essential items like bottle brushes, wipes, bleach, dish soap, washcloths, and detailed instructions for safely sanitizing feeding supplies even when basic utilities aren’t available.

Kiera says, “I personally delivered these supplies to the Burnsville Fire Department and Lilac Birth Center. Getting boots on the ground was the only way to make sure these donations went directly into the hands of the moms and families who need them most. It’s been incredible to see the community rally together, but there’s still more work to be done.”

These stories are not exhaustive and our teams continue to do outstanding act after outstanding act. To read more about those efforts, click here.

Want To Help Support Western North Carolina?

At Aeroflow, we believe that the true measure of a company is found in how we respond in times of adversity, and our employees, community and patients have demonstrated an extraordinary capacity for empathy, resilience, and integrity. Casey Hite, CEO of Aeroflow Health said it well when he said, “Though the road ahead is long, we are confident that together, we will emerge stronger” in a recent interview with North Carolina Public Radio Station, WUNC

If you would like to partner with relief efforts in Western North Carolina, here are a few reputable organization to consider:

Thank you for your continued partnership and for standing with us as we support our team members and communities.

To read more #HopeAfterHelene stories and stay updated on Aeroflow’s response to Hurricane Helene, please follow our LinkedIn Company page.
Picture of Written by Joy Payne

Written by Joy Payne

Joy is the Senior Content Coordinator at Aeroflow Health. With over a decade of experience in bringing brand stories to life, Joy has a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling.

As a graduate of Western Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in English: Professional Writing, Joy has actively contributed to various publications, including Grit & Virtue, AdventHealth's Experience Magazine, and Thryve Mag. Through her work, she has demonstrated a keen eye for expressing unique perspectives that resonate with audiences and elevate brand voices.

In her free time, Joy enjoys driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, writing songs, and discovering the best coffee spots in town. Her diverse experiences and commitment to shining a light on meaningful stories underscore her expertise in the field.

Written by Casey Hite, CEO at Aeroflow Health

Earlier this month, I was honored to have the opportunity to speak at and be among the sponsors of the Nourish & Nest event hosted by Haywood Street Community Development, a collaborative effort between Cúrate and Chai Pani, featuring Asheville’s renowned chefs Katie Button and Meherwan Irani. 

This fundraising event highlighted a cause that is very close to my heart, affordable housing. The money raised at this event will go towards a building project that will consist of 41 deeply affordable rental units in Buncombe County, North Carolina. It is expected to house at least 60 people, with sixteen units of two-bedroom and four units of three-bedroom apartments to best support struggling families.

The intent is to create an atmosphere that speaks of individual worth, to create homes, not just housing. Proper housing is what can make a crucial difference in a child’s ability to learn, have positive friendships, and develop into the best adults they can. 

A study by Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry from April 2022 revealed that 184 women and children were on the housing waitlist. In 2020, Western North Carolina had more than 280,000 residents fall into one or more of the “special needs housing” categories. One of those categories is single parent households. These numbers call for action from local organizations and businesses like Aeroflow Health. We need to do our part to help our neighbors. Partnering with Haywood Street Community Development in promoting radical inclusion and providing deeply affordable housing is one way Aeroflow hopes to help transform these statistics. 

The project is a public-private-partnership with Buncombe County, the City of Asheville, and Dogwood HealthTrust. I personally want to thank James Beard Chef Katie Button of Cúrate, and James Beard Chef Meherwan Irani of Chai Pani as well as Burial Beer, East Fork, French Broad Chocolate, and Paddle Energy for also being a part of this fundraiser, which brought Haywood Street Community Development closer to its $1 million goal.

For more information, visit https://haywoodstreethousing.org/. There is no reason for homelessness in America and together, we can make a difference in ending it.

This content has been reviewed for accuracy by Mike Cantor, Chief Medical Advisor at Aeroflow Health.

Dive into our blog inspired by our webinar, “Breastfeeding & Health Equity Disparities: Innovative Strategies for Health Plan Providers,” to discover how you can play a pivotal role in fostering inclusive healthcare environments and ensuring every mother receives the support she deserves. For more comprehensive insights, don’t miss the chance to watch the webinar playback.

Table of Contents

What do lactation consultants and doulas do, and how do their roles differ? What does it look like to be an Aeroflow Health lactation consultant? 

Leteace: As a lactation consultant, we’re there to sometimes clarify breastfeeding goals with moms and give them the education and support that they need. We know that with breastfeeding, support is one of the most significant indicators of success and preparedness, so we try to give them a headstart for that and also let them know that we’re there to support them after the baby arrives. Currently, Aeroflow Breastpumps offers both group and 1:1 education sessions for moms. The group sessions seek to help further clarify knowledge on specific topics, and then 1:1 sessions are dedicated to meeting mothers where they are in an individualized format. This could look like helping write a birth plan or providing tailor-made tips and education based on mom’s needs. A recent Aeroflow Breastpumps study that found that 97% of moms who attended our classes felt more confident in their breastfeeding journey. 

Aleah: A doula is a non-medical person trained to assist families during childbirth and who might also support the family after the baby is born. Where doulas and lactation consultants differ is that not all doulas will have additional lactation-specific education and training. As far as doula certification, many doulas will take more breastfeeding classes to get basic knowledge but they may not get the full certification to attain the additional tools that help families be successful with breastfeeding initiation and to help with the duration of breastfeeding.

How do commercial insurance plans, typically employer-sponsored, differ from Medicaid programs in terms of providing these maternal health benefits?

Kiera: We’re seeing many differing coverages regarding policies for doulas and lactation consultants. In addition to what Aleah said, Aeroflow stands out when it comes to prenatal education. We help ensure that mom and dad or the parents feel prepared. We are seeing that we have to educate many health plans on the differences between doulas and lactation consultants. It can be easy to misunderstand the differences between the two. With commercial plans, we’re seeing a lot more coverage with doula services and lactation, which is wonderful, and we’re seeing a lot of Medicaid states break into that space as well. We are excited to see many policies really come to terms with the day and age of allowing telehealth services, which is wonderful as well.

As a physician who cares for mothers and babies and partners with Canopie, what opportunities do you see for health plans to better support their members with maternal mental health services, particularly about lactation?

Dr. Haggerty: There is definitely room for improvement in the lactation and mental health space. In my private practice, Fourth Trimester Doc, I focus on caring for dyads as a whole, so we see birthing people and newborns and serve them as a unit. We must identify that the health of the infant is reliant on the health of the birthing person and vice versa. Around the mental health space, I don’t see that health plans are providing the same level of coverage. Many people have cost-sharing requirements, out-of-pocket expenses or have trouble finding care with providers that are well-versed in perinatal education. This is definitely a barrier to care for folks.

Mental health is critical for breastfeeding or body-feeding success, especially when challenges arise. We see that lactation challenges and perinatal mental health disorders go hand in hand. When we have someone who has challenges with lactation, it’s almost inevitable that they will also have challenges with their mental health and vice versa. I actually use lactation challenges for diagnosing or deciding if there are mental health concerns that need to be addressed. For example, if someone has a huge freezer stash of breast milk that they keep storing, this is an indicator for me that there might be postpartum anxiety involved. This is just another reason why lactation and mental health go hand in hand and must be addressed in correlation to one another.

Recently, Aeroflow Health collaborated with Canopie, Florida Blue and GuideWell to better provide access to mental health services and reduce health disparities. Can you explain what we learned?

Ryan: It has been an interesting journey to partner with Canopie and Florida Blue. We’ve seen the evolution of the breastfeeding benefit that initially came about as a part of the Affordable Care Act and has slowly begun to change over the years. We’re starting to see the strides and elements coming together. The breast pump was one of the first items covered under the ACA for health plans and then breast pumps and supplies were introduced alongside the importance of access to clean parts to continue breastfeeding. Then came the introduction of lactation consulting and doulas, which has led to additional positive outcomes. Now, we’re seeing the opportunity to interweave mental health into the benefit. It was interesting in the Florida Blue pilot; we were able to reach many of their members who wouldn’t otherwise engage with their health benefits and then help them engage with maternal mental health resources through Canopie. We also were able to help Florida Blue identify members that were medium to high risk and needed extra support, and then Florida Blue was able to deploy their case management teams to better focus on those members who presented a need.

Based on a recent United States Lactation Consultant Association study, only 21% of IBCLCs identified as non-white. Why is this concerning, and what is a maternity care desert?

Leateace: Great question! Recently, March of Dimes released a report on maternity care deserts across the United States, speaking to how there is a lack of maternity care resources like hospitals, birth centers, and other locations where moms can get support during the perinatal period. Access is genuinely a concern. In terms of providers and diversity, it’s important because patients want to see themselves in their healthcare providers. While cultural humility is a big agenda item right now, it’s also vital to have culturally congruent care, where they feel like their provider is a safe space where they can share their concerns and worries and receive the support that’s specific to them. So, it’s important to try to increase the diversity in this profession. 

Aleah: One of the things we love to have, after our classes and consultations, specifically with Aeroflow, we have these surveys that patients can immediately fill out. It’s very helpful to get this feedback. For example, here’s one testimonial from a patient speaking about her experience with Leteace: “The Aeroflow classes have taught me a wide range of information that I did not get from taking classes for my first birth. Leteace consistently had great information to share with the classes I was in and was very knowledgeable about birth and breastfeeding, and I plan to work with her again if and when I schedule another appointment.” These moms are getting the care that they need and are very much coming back for seconds and thirds. They want this help and support via telehealth because they can’t sometimes get it in these maternity care deserts. Sometimes the people that we see in the classes are from small cities where there is 1 hospital and 1 lactation consultant or no consultant at all. Being able to provide that virtual space for these families is so helpful and they deserve to have it. 

When you think about the challenges we face in improving maternal health and the health of babies, what gives you hope, and what worries you?

Aleah: As far as what is giving me hope, we are making leaps and bounds on getting more access to these insurance companies that are allowing for more access and support. Part of the challenge that I feel like I have, especially as a person of color, is that we just need to find more avenues to get more people credentialed to be able to help more people because that ultimately affects the rates of differing ethnicities among providers. Leteace and I work so hard to do what we do to show others that it is possible to do what we do. I am hopeful that we are going to continue to make great strides in a positive direction.

Leteace: What gives me hope is that there are still people out there who need help; they never go away. If the hope goes away, then the help goes away. My mind tells me that I have to keep pushing through for these people; it’s not about me, it’s about the bigger goal. We see the maternal health rates in our country and see how people have suffered. On the positive side, we’ve seen more equity scholarships to make access to education easier for those wanting to provide maternal support. We are seeing more baby steps taken towards telehealth, and there’s always hope that these steps become a little bit bigger. Holding onto hope for ourselves is important. We see that what we’re doing is making a difference, whether in the surveys we receive or the face-to-face meetings, and it encourages us to keep moving forward. 

Michelle: Hope for me is seeing that so many companies are being so innovative and addressing these issues by connecting and coming together to find solutions. Personally, what keeps me up at night is that I want to move toward an insurance model or coverage that provides holistic dyad care. I think that siloing patients out from each other doesn’t make sense and doesn’t work. This coverage would include lactation, mental health, physical recovery, and newborn care, all of which would be covered by insurance. This model addresses the fact that people need support during this transition time and it’s not just individual things that people need to meet their deductible for and have cost-sharing for; let’s do it as a whole and provide this coverage as a whole unit.

Kiera: What’s really great is Aeroflow is really meant to be that partner for that continuity of care. We’re here to provide care to moms from the moment they find out they are pregnant all the way through postpartum.  We’ve made some major strides since this time last year. We’re partnering with Virginia Medicaid, Tennessee Medicaid, and Georgia Medicaid, so the coverage of lactation and doula services are definitely expanding. We really are seeing health plans view the Affordable Care Act as the floor and not the ceiling. We’re seeing health plans truly align their policies, as far as maximum benefits with the affordable care act to be that continuation throughout the duration of breastfeeding. For example, if parents want to attend classes prenatally and then all the way into postpartum until their child is 2 years old, limiting class coverage to 3 or 6 classes, this is truly not the duration of breastfeeding without cost-sharing because at some point they will most likely have to tap into deductibles or involve copays if they meet that maximum benefit. So, we are really seeing a lot of health plans correlate their policies along with the true meaning of the Affordable Care Act. It’s really great to see these policies expanding into the Medicaid space as well as further flourishing in the commercial space. We’re seeing a lot more coverage with the group classes. Health plans and stakeholders are seeing the true benefits as well as the value of telehealth. Meeting parents where they are is crucial. We want to be that partner to lift any barriers. We’re finding studies that show telehealth is as effective, if not more effective than in-person care.

Are you looking to stay updated with health plan insights just like the ones covered above? We’d love to extend the invite to subscribe to our email communications. To subscribe to Aeroflow Health’s email communications, please click the button below
Picture of Michael Cantor, M.D.

Michael Cantor, M.D.

Dr. Mike Cantor is a geriatrician and attorney who has extensive experience designing and implementing value-based care, quality improvement, and care management programs for healthcare providers and health plans. He works as a fractional (part-time) Chief Medical Advisor for Aeroflow Healthcare, Uber Health, and other technology-enabled health services companies, value-based care organizations and digital health companies. Previous roles include: CMO for Bright Health Plan, an innovative health
insurer; CMO for CareCentrix, a leading outsourced home health, durable medical equipment, and post- acute care benefits manager recently acquired by Walgreens; and CMO for the New England Quality Care Alliance (NEQCA), the physician network affiliated with Tufts Medical Center, where he implemented network-wide quality improvement and care management programs for 150,000 managed care lives. He trained in internal medicine at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston and did his geriatrics fellowship at Harvard Medical School. He has degrees in law and medicine from the University of Illinois.

Picture of Ryan Bullock

Ryan Bullock

Ryan serves as Chief Strategy Officer at Aeroflow Health, a premier nationwide provider of durable medical equipment. In his current position, Ryan oversees strategic operations, corporate development and government relations. For over 14 years, Ryan has provided exceptional leadership, management and vision to Aeroflow, resulting in incredible growth and profitability for the company. Ryan holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Electronic Engineering from Western Carolina University and resides with his family in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.

Picture of Kierra Walsh

Kierra Walsh

Kiera Walsh is a dedicated Managed Care Associate at Aeroflow Health, specializing in coordinating contracting and credentialing efforts for the lactation division. In her role, Kiera effectively communicates with health plans to ensure seamless integration and compliance, enhancing the efficiency and quality of lactation services provided.

With a background in doula services and midwifery, Kiera brings a unique perspective to her position, informing her meticulous approach to managed care. Her responsibilities include negotiating contracts, managing credentialing processes, and fostering strong relationships with health plans, all aimed at optimizing operational workflows and service delivery.

Kiera is passionate about supporting preventative maternal care and breastfeeding support, driving her commitment to excellence in her role. Her work ensures that mothers receive the highest quality care and support throughout their breastfeeding journey.

Picture of Dr. Michelle Haggerty, DO, MPH, ABOIM, NABBLM-C, IBCLC, PMH-C, RYT-200

Dr. Michelle Haggerty, DO, MPH, ABOIM, NABBLM-C, IBCLC, PMH-C, RYT-200

Michelle Haggerty, DO, MPH, ABOIM, NABBLM-C, PHM-C is an innovator, adventurer, and advocate. She is a mom to 3 young boys and two angel babies. Dr. Haggerty is an integrative family physician and lactation medicine specialist who is passionate about revolutionizing postpartum care so that people have the tools and resources they need to confidently navigate the 4th trimester. She has a private practice providing in-home medical care to dyads during the 4th trimester and beyond called Fourth Trimester Doc (www.fourthtrimesterdoc.com), is co-executive director of the nonprofit Center for 4th Trimester Care (www.c4tc.co) providing professional support for healthcare professionals working with families postpartum, and also provides coaching services for postpartum folks nationally. She is consistently recognized as a Top Doctor in various publications.

Picture of Aleah Walker, IBCLC, CD (DTI) - Lactation Manager & Birth Team Captain, Aeroflow Breastpumps

Aleah Walker, IBCLC, CD (DTI) - Lactation Manager & Birth Team Captain, Aeroflow Breastpumps

Aleah Walker is a Lactation Consultant, Nutritionist and a Certified Labor and Postpartum Doula. She has worked for Aeroflow since November 2020. She has been married for 17 years and is a mother to 2 precious kiddos. Aleah started her career at her local WIC office as a Nutritionist right out of college in 2008. Moving up the ranks to a Nutrition Manager, Aleah found a passion for the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor program while working at WIC and made a lateral move to working with that program. After the birth of her first child, Aleah felt the urge to become a doula as she utilized doula support for her birth. With her certification, she started her own private practice supporting families in her community as a doula and lactation consultant. After almost 12 years at WIC, Aleah ventured to a new atmosphere obtaining a job as a Lactation Consultant in a hospital. Then during the pandemic, Aleah was approached with the opportunity to continue pursuing her passion and providing Lactation care and support to families across the nation through an up-and-coming virtual platform with Aeroflow and the rest is history!

Picture of Leteace Lee, RNC, IBCLC - Aeroflow Breastpumps

Leteace Lee, RNC, IBCLC - Aeroflow Breastpumps

Leteace Lee is a Certified Registered Nurse with expertise in Maternal and Newborn Care, Perinatal Mental Health, and as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She serves as a Lactation Consultant and Educator with Aeroflow Breastpumps. As a Holistic Mother-Baby Advocate, Leteace focuses on providing comprehensive support in breastfeeding as well as education in prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. Based in Maryland, she offers local in-person consults and virtual lactation consultations to women throughout the country.

References

2020 United States Lactation Consultant Association 197 Clinical Lactation, 2020, 11(4), http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/CLINLACT-D-20-00023

MarchofDimes. (2023, December). Maternity Care Desert. March of Dimes | PeriStats. https://www.marchofdimes.org/peristats/data?top=23

Written by Jennifer Jordan, Vice President of the Mom & Baby Division at Aeroflow Health

August is National Breastfeeding Month, and while breast pumps play a significant role in our business at Aeroflow Health, our commitment goes beyond just products. We are deeply invested in making breastfeeding supplies, support and education accessible for new and expectant mothers, rooted in our core values of putting patients and healthcare first.

Today, breastfeeding mothers returning to work can expect their employers to provide break time and a private place to pump — a right that was once overlooked and challenging to secure, but is now protected by the Break Time and PUMP for Nursing Mother’s Act.

Not every mother chooses or is able to breastfeed, and every woman should have the freedom to make the decision that is best for her and her family. However, it can be frustrating that myths around breastfeeding still persist in our culture. Despite advances in medicine, access to mental health resources and a growing understanding of its importance, many women still feel intimidated or judged, leading some  to end their breastfeeding journey when returning to work even though they have protections under the law. 

In the United States, breastfeeding rates are lower than in other advanced nations, with the lowest rates among women of color and those in lower income brackets. Women in lower-paying jobs often face greater challenges when it comes to pumping breast milk at work—despite legal mandates requiring employers to provide time and space for this essential need.

Another deterrent is cost. Pumps are expensive – and while the Affordable Care Act mandates that insurance cover pumps, the type of pump may vary, leaving women with options that make it more difficult. 

Aeroflow Health is determined to support mothers in reaching their breastfeeding goals by providing education, supplies and resources. We believe strongly that it is incumbent upon the healthcare industry to do our part in helping mothers navigate what is too often a joyful but stressful time. Under the leadership of our CEO Casey Hite, we are committed to helping women navigate the complexities of insurance and arming them with facts about the benefits of breastfeeding and the laws that protect their right to pump breastmilk at work. 

It doesn’t take much to lift someone’s spirits and show them they have support—even if we don’t personally know the millions of families we aim to help. New moms face countless challenges, and the day they return to work can be one of the most stressful. A little encouragement and understanding can make all the difference.

This National Breastfeeding Month, let’s offer women encouragement and support. Raising a family is not easy. Making it easier for them to give their babies a healthy start helps us all. 

To learn more about how Aeroflow Health can help moms navigate breastfeeding and insurance, schedule time with our team
Picture of Vice President of the Mom & Baby Division at Aeroflow Health

Vice President of the Mom & Baby Division at Aeroflow Health

Jennifer Jordan serves as the Vice President of the Mom & Baby Division at Aeroflow Health. With a passion for building brands and shaping strategic visions, Jenn has propelled Aeroflow Breastpumps to new heights in the competitive healthcare market. Leveraging her extensive experience in marketing, customer experience, sales and operations management, she has overseen the expansion of Aeroflow Breastpumps’ reach, forging key partnerships and driving growth in the maternal health space.

2020 United States Lactation Consultant Association 197 Clinical Lactation, 2020, 11(4), http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/CLINLACT-D-20-00023

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, July 31). About Breastfeeding. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/php/about/index.html#cdc_program_profile_how_it-breastfeeding-statistics 

This content has been reviewed for accuracy by Ashley Haynes, Director of Customer Operations at Aeroflow Health

Artificial intelligence (AI) has gone from a buzzword to a revolutionary tool that has the potential to take healthcare beyond what we thought could be possible in our day. With the opportunity to enhance diagnostics, personalize treatment plans and improve patient care more quickly and efficiently than ever before, Aeroflow Health hopes to leverage this technological advancement as a tool to better serve our teams and the patients we care for, enhancing human capabilities rather than replacing them. According to Jason Wille, Chief Technology Officer at Aeroflow Health, “AI represents a significant step forward in our journey to enhance patient care, giving our teams the insights and tools they need to make faster, smarter decisions that benefit those we serve.”

The Challenge

Rapid company growth creates higher call volumes, handle times and inconsistencies in note taking. Seeking to remain competitive, we sought out a solution from our phone platform, Five9, that had the potential to highly improve efficiency among teams.

The Solution: Embracing AI with Five9 Intelligent CX Platform

Aeroflow Health is committed to responsible AI use that benefits all patients. When building out AI-powered features within Five9, we prioritize ensuring that patients who prefer human interaction have easy access to representatives.

By taking an omnichannel strategy approach, Aeroflow was able to significantly reduce call volume and better meet patients where they are. According to Ashley Haynes, Director of Customer Operations, “Connecting with patients to assist them is key to our mission success. We meet our patients where they are and want them to connect to us in the way they prefer so they can have an optimal experience. The ability to completely customize our IVR with this platform sold us.”

Key components of the implementation included:

  • Five9 Voice, Chat, and Email: Enabling omnichannel communication to meet patients where they prefer.
  • Five9 Intelligent Virtual Agent (IVA): Automating routine inquiries and reducing call volume.
  • Five9 Agent Assist: Improving agent efficiency through automated transcriptions and call summaries.

Results and Impact

The integration of AI-powered solutions has yielded significant benefits for Aeroflow Health:

  • Reduced Call Volume: The implementation of Five9 IVA has led to a 10-15% reduction in call volume by automating common inquiries such as order status and insurance guidelines.
  • Enhanced Agent Productivity: Five9 Agent Assist has streamlined agent workflows by automating transcriptions and generating comprehensive call summaries.
  • Improved Patient Experience: By offering multiple communication channels and providing quick, accurate information, Aeroflow has enhanced patient satisfaction.
  • Data-Driven Insights: The platform’s robust reporting capabilities provide valuable data for optimizing operations and improving customer interactions.

The Future of AI at Aeroflow Health

Aeroflow Health is committed to leveraging AI to further enhance patient care and operational efficiency. The company plans to expand the use of IVAs to additional business units and continue exploring new AI-driven solutions to stay at the forefront of the healthcare industry.

By embracing AI, Aeroflow Health has demonstrated its dedication to providing exceptional patient care while optimizing its operations.

To learn more about Aeroflow Health’s innovative approaches and stay tuned for future updates, subscribe to our communications below
Picture of Written by Joy Payne

Written by Joy Payne

Joy is the Senior Content Coordinator at Aeroflow Health. With over a decade of experience in bringing brand stories to life, Joy has a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling.

As a graduate of Western Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in English: Professional Writing, Joy has actively contributed to various publications, including Grit & Virtue, AdventHealth's Experience Magazine, and Thryve Mag. Through her work, she has demonstrated a keen eye for expressing unique perspectives that resonate with audiences and elevate brand voices.

In her free time, Joy enjoys driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, writing songs, and discovering the best coffee spots in town. Her diverse experiences and commitment to shining a light on meaningful stories underscore her expertise in the field.

This content has been reviewed for accuracy by Amanda Minimi, Director of Corporate Development for Aeroflow Health.

The terms “ghost networks” or “phantom networks” emerged during discussions of mental health parity at the start of COVID-19. Coined by Mike Evans, partner at K&L Gates and former Senate Finance Committee official, these terms captured the frustration of patients encountering inaccurate provider directories. What began as a mental health-specific issue has since broadened to acknowledge the wider problem of outdated directories and the need for regulatory action.

According to Yale Law & Policy Review, between 45% and 52% of provider directory listings had errors, with some individual plans having error rates as high as 98%. While it may seem straightforward that having providers who are no longer licensed or practicing in their field or unable to take on new patients is a problem, ghost networks can extend beyond that. Sometimes, directories are too broad and can overwhelm patients with options that do not actually provide the specific type of care they need. Additionally, some provider categories, such as lactation providers or language specifications, may be missing from the directory altogether. In short, there are many optimizations that need to be done in order to meet the needs of patients.

Ways To Improve Directories

Improving directories can be achieved by taking a holistic approach to a patient’s healthcare journey. By considering all of the possible points and barriers in the care continuum, we are able to ensure directories are user-friendly and that patients can easily find the information they need to make the informed decisions about their care. Improving provider directories is critical to ensure patients have access to the care they need when they need it. In order to do so, we should:

  • Increase transparency: Health plans and all providers should provide clear and concise information to patients about the providers in their network, including their contact information, office hours, and specialties. Health plans should also provide real-time updates, inclusive of product and services specific information, to their provider directories to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.
  • Improve provider data collection: Health plans should improve their provider data collection processes to ensure they are collecting accurate and complete information about their network providers, including their availability and acceptance of new patients. This can be achieved through the use of automation and standardized data collection forms.
  • Improve network contracting: Networks should not be reviewed by the provider type but should be reviewed by the product category or specialty. This review can be completed by holding network teams accountable through taxonomy code reporting. This can also help health plans better identify the types of providers they need to add to their network to meet patient needs.
  • Deeply understand the patient journey: Patients should be encouraged to provide systematic feedback on their experiences with healthcare providers. Understanding how patients both initiate and continue their care allows us to design richer processes that help them coordinate the best courses of action. This feedback not only improves the accuracy of provider directories but also ensures they are designed with patients’ needs in mind. By engaging patients in this way, we can make it easier for them to find the appropriate care, ultimately enhancing their overall healthcare experience.
  • Increase collaboration: Health plans, providers, and regulatory agencies should collaborate to improve the accuracy of provider directories. This can include sharing best practices, developing standards for data collection and reporting, and working together to develop innovative solutions to improve provider directories.

How Aeroflow’s Integrated Approach Provides A Solution

Since 2001, Aeroflow Health has been working closely with their health plan partners to collaborate and improve the communication and engagement between patients and their health insurance providers. Through an integrated care model, Aeroflow streamlines the patient care journey, seamlessly weaving in complementary benefits that patients often seek, thus eliminating confusion and fragmentation in their care.
Aeroflow’s integrated approach combines personalized patient care with a robust network of healthcare services and benefits. By coordinating with health plan partners, Aeroflow ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, from initial consultations to follow-up care, and access to additional services like medical equipment, home health solutions, and wellness programs. This holistic approach not only improves patient outcomes but also enhances overall satisfaction.

Aeroflow’s integrated care model aids in the ghost network frustrations by seamlessly displaying all services and providers that are in-network with various insurance plans, often down to the employer-group level. Patients can easily access benefits through their in-network providers, eliminating the frustration of encountering ghost networks. Additionally, Aeroflow maintains an active directory of providers who are currently accepting patients and available through their insurance. By keeping this directory up-to-date and transparent, Aeroflow guarantees that patients receive care from active, verified providers, enhancing both accessibility and trust in the healthcare system. By eliminating ghost networks and clearly communicating benefits, Aeroflow significantly improves patient satisfaction and health outcomes. Our dedication to patient-centered care and innovation, coupled with our seamless integration of additional benefits, distinguishes us as a trusted partner in healthcare, setting us apart from other DME providers in the market.

Provider directories are essential for ensuring that patients have access to quality healthcare services. The existence of ghost networks and other inaccuracies in provider directories can lead to significant problems for patients, including delayed treatment, frustration, and potentially negative health outcomes. While there are already laws and regulations in place to ensure the accuracy of provider directories, there is still much work to be done to improve the patient experience and address the shortcomings of current systems. This will require a collaborative effort between healthcare providers, insurance companies, and policymakers to find comprehensive solutions that prioritize patient engagement, enforce subspecialties, and prioritize accuracy and timeliness in updating provider directories. By addressing these challenges, we can help ensure that patients have access to the care they need and deserve.

To learn more about how Aeroflow Health is partnering with health plans to eradicate Ghost Networks through an integrated approach, schedule time with our team here.
Picture of Written by Joy Payne

Written by Joy Payne

Joy is the Senior Content Coordinator at Aeroflow Health. With over a decade of experience in bringing brand stories to life, Joy has a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling.

As a graduate of Western Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in English: Professional Writing, Joy has actively contributed to various publications, including Grit & Virtue, AdventHealth's Experience Magazine, and Thryve Mag. Through her work, she has demonstrated a keen eye for expressing unique perspectives that resonate with audiences and elevate brand voices.

In her free time, Joy enjoys driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, writing songs, and discovering the best coffee spots in town. Her diverse experiences and commitment to shining a light on meaningful stories underscore her expertise in the field.

References

Burman, A. (n.d.). Laying ghost networks to rest: Combatting deceptive health plan provider directories. Yale Law & Policy Review. https://yalelawandpolicy.org/laying-ghost-networks-rest-combatting-deceptive-health-plan-provider-directories  

Written by Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

I’m proud to reflect on our sponsorship of LatchAVL, a community event organized by the Buncombe County Breastfeeding Coalition in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week. This free family event in Asheville, NC  was dedicated to supporting and educating breastfeeding mothers in our community.

The event featured educational sessions on breastfeeding, safe sleeping practices, and car seat safety, while also connecting families with local support groups and lactation experts.

Jennifer Jordan, our Vice President of Aeroflow Breastpumps, shared, “We were thrilled to support LatchAVL in our hometown, aligning with our mission to provide accessible resources and support for breastfeeding mothers.”

I would like to add, at Aeroflow Health, we believe in fostering a supportive community for new mothers and their families. LatchAVL was a fantastic opportunity to come together and provide the vital resources and education needed for a healthy breastfeeding journey. We are committed to making a positive impact on maternal health and are delighted to have seen the community’s enthusiastic response to this initiative.

Events like these are crucial because they help new mothers feel supported and informed, reducing stress and uncertainty during a pivotal time in their lives. Access to accurate information and professional guidance can significantly improve breastfeeding success rates, which in turn can enhance both maternal and infant health outcomes. A supportive environment can empower families to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

Learn More about Aeroflow Health's Community Impact
Picture of Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

Casey Hite serves as Aeroflow Health's CEO and is a seasoned healthcare executive with a strong background in healthcare operations, strategy and technology. With over 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Casey has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing healthcare organizations. He is passionate about driving operational excellence and improving patient outcomes through innovative solutions and strategic initiatives. As a results-driven leader, Casey is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and driving positive change in the healthcare industry.

In 2002, Casey and his brother Don launched Aeroflow Healthcare, which has transformed the Home Medical Equipment industry. Today, Aeroflow Health stands out from its competitors by basing the entire model around ensuring excellent customer service by placing its customers in control of their healthcare journey through technology and an online adaptive equipment and service selection process.

Casey has overseen and led the creation and growth of Aeroflow Mom & Baby, Motif Medical, Aeroflow Sleep, Aeroflow Urology, Aeroflow Diabetes as well as numerous other entities that operate under the Aeroflow Healthcare umbrella. Providing patient centric focused products and services with an industry leading business model, Aeroflow Companies service patients nationwide, scoring higher than any of its competitors in patient satisfaction.

Written by Lauren Bennett, COO of Aeroflow Health

One of the reasons I was first drawn to Aeroflow and that I have been a part of the Aeroflow Health family for so long is our commitment to patient accessibility.

Our interactions with the healthcare system are very personal. We inherit some attributes and others are a product of our environment. Some may be planned for, like pregnancy or elective surgery and others are accidental, like falling and breaking a hip. Insurance companies cover some remedies and not others.

We can get frustrated, scared, elated, or relieved – all while dealing with the same condition. Working in healthcare – especially for a company like Aeroflow Health that prides itself on being a disruptor and the most innovative DME business around – has given me a greater understanding of the system. Friends and family members often seek guidance, an explanation, or my opinion as to why parts of our system are structured the way they are.

I am so grateful that I have this understanding, because the healthcare system is confusing, bureaucratic, and contradictory. I recognize that many health policies are created by health plans in an attempt to control utilization, manage cost, and of course, reduce fraud, waste, and abuse within the system. Despite these good intentions, such policies can sometimes negatively impact the patients they are meant to serve. Both private and federal health plans can create confusion and uncertainty, often contradicting the care they aim to provide. Some of theses policies simply don’t make sense. They certainly are the antithesis of so much of what Aeroflow stands for as a company.

Take CPAP coverage. It begins with your wife, husband, partner, or roommate telling you that you snore. LOUDLY. You deny it until you one day realize that this may be a problem. Then you tell your doctor, who wants you to get a CPAP machine.

Great! Or so you think. First there is a sleep study. Then if the sleep study identifies you do have sleep apnea, your doctor will write a prescription for a CPAP machine. Like adjusting to new medications or eating habits, it may take you time to adjust to wearing a mask while sleeping, resulting in some nights where you are inconsistent in using your new device. If you dare drop below the deemed level of compliance, generally seventy percent – even by a single percent or one night’s sleep – your coverage can be dropped and you could be forced to pay market rate for the machine.

It sounds ludicrous, right? We know that sleep apnea causes a number of other diseases which could kill you, yet it is something that is hard to notice if you are the person with the condition (since others are usually pointing it out to you). From a coverage perspective, you have no incentive to wear the device if it is not covered anyway. You may even refuse it.

Things like this make no sense.

My friend recently told me a story that at his annual physical, his doctor asked if he wanted his Vitamin D tested. He replied, “of course,” to which his doctor responded, “you just need to know that if your insurance company denies this blood test, you will have to pay $300 for it.”

My friend declined the test.

This doesn’t make sense either. It actually flies in the face of everything we know about the importance of preventative medicine.

Using a CPAP machine even ten percent of the time is better than none at all and testing for a vitamin deficiency makes sense – especially given their importance.

While all of this is overwhelming, I am glad that I work for a company trying to lead by example and one which demonstrates to policymakers and regulators that a common sense and accessible approach to healthcare is one that everyone could benefit from.

There is a reason we go the extra mile – that we spend time counseling patients who are stressed and scared. There is so much they have to deal with, they need to know that we are their ally and fighter for a better system that puts preventative care first and that does not make finances a barrier to treatment.

We must do all we can to infuse every part of America’s health system with these values. It will mean healthier people, longer lives, and a greater chance at financial solvency for so many afflicted with illness.

Picture of Lauren Bennett, COO of Aeroflow Health

Lauren Bennett, COO of Aeroflow Health

Lauren Bennett is Chief Operating Officer for Aeroflow Health, where she leads national operational performance and experience. Lauren joined Aeroflow Health in 2014 and has held a variety of leadership roles within the company in strategy, experience, innovation, data analytics and growth. In her current role, Lauren oversees more than 200 operations employees and leaders across multiple business areas at Aeroflow Health. Lauren's priority is improving the experience for patients, health plans, providers and employees. Previously, Lauren was Vice President of Aeroflow Sleep and Director of Sales Operations for Aeroflow Breastpumps. She is known for driving innovation and efficiency through implementing state of the art automation with a goal of delivering a seamless patient experience

Written by Amanda Minimi, Aeroflow Health

A Night of Culinary Excellence for a Worthy Cause

On May 15, 2024, Aeroflow Health proudly partnered with the March of Dimes at the 42nd Annual Gourmet Gala. Held at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC, this prestigious event brought together 55 Members of Congress, over 700 guests, and a panel of renowned local chefs, all united by a common goal: to support new moms and babies across the nation. This year’s event was a resounding success, raising a record-breaking $1.47 million to further the March of Dimes’ advocacy, research, and educational efforts.

The Gourmet Gala: More Than Just a Cook-Off

The Gourmet Gala is no ordinary event; it’s a vibrant celebration of hope and resilience. Members of Congress took center stage in a spirited cook-off competition, showcasing their culinary prowess and serving up their favorite dishes. Their creations were judged by a panel of esteemed local chefs, including Chef Pepe Moncayo of Cranes, Chef Robbie Meltzer of Jose Andres Group, Chef Matt Baker of Gravitas and Michele’s, and Chef Gabe Thompson of Thompson Italian.

The evening also featured the heartwarming story of the Donaldson Family, who shared their emotional journey of welcoming their son Carter into the world at just 25 weeks, weighing a mere 12 ounces. Their story highlighted the critical role that the March of Dimes plays in providing support and resources to families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Culinary Competition Winners

The event’s culinary competition saw Members of Congress vying for top honors in various categories:

  • Easiest Preparation: Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Dr. Marcia Latta with their Oreo Victory Dessert
  • Hometown Hero: Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) with her Tater Tot Casserole
  • Healthiest Recipe: Rep. Rick Scott (R-FL) and Mrs. Ann Scott with their Wild Rice Chicken Salad
  • Judge’s Choice: Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) and Mrs. Corinne Goldman with their Challa
  • Best Presentation: Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) and Mrs. Sarah Landsman with their Shrimp Louis
  • People’s Choice: Rep. Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA) and Mrs. Vivian Bishop with Grandma Betty’s Yellow Corn Grits & Southern Style Spicy Shrimp

A Community United

Dr. Elizabeth Cherot, President and CEO of March of Dimes, expressed her gratitude: “Our annual Gourmet Gala is more than a culinary event, it’s a celebration of hope and resilience for families across the US. We’re incredibly grateful for the support of our Congressional Chefs, sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who make these events possible—their generosity allows us to continue to fight to improve health outcomes for all moms and babies.”

Aeroflow Health’s involvement in the Gourmet Gala underscores our commitment to supporting organizations dedicated to health and well-being. As a company, we believe in making a positive impact in the communities we serve, and our partnership with the March of Dimes is a testament to that commitment.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, Aeroflow Health remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that advocate for the health and wellness of families nationwide. Our partnership with the March of Dimes is just one example of how we strive to make a difference.

To learn more about the March of Dimes Gourmet Gala and to see photos from the event, please visit marchofdimes.org/gourmetgala.

Together, we can continue to champion the cause of healthy moms and strong babies.

Learn More About Aeroflow’s Community Impact
Picture of Amanda Minimi, Aeroflow Health

Amanda Minimi, Aeroflow Health

Amanda is the Director of Corporate Development at Aeroflow Healthcare, the largest provider of breastfeeding equipment and services in the nation. Amanda has led Aeroflow Healthcare's health plan partnership initiatives where there collaboration-based solutions have led to better outcomes through high patient engagement and increased instances and duration of breastfeeding. Amanda also serves as the co-chair of AAHomeCare's Breastfeeding Coalition, a team that works with states and health plans to advocate to reduce barriers in access to breastfeeding.

Written by Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

At Aeroflow Health, our mission has always been to stand out in the DME industry by merging patient access with innovative technology. We understand that healthcare can be overwhelming, often stressful, and uncertain, so we are committed to making it more accessible.

Our role extends beyond merely delivering medical supplies. At Aeroflow Health, we believe our patients deserve partners who provide educational information and cutting-edge technology. We take pride in our supportive and compassionate approach, investing in our people and their communities through volunteer opportunities and programmatic support for organizations making a tangible difference.

When we founded Aeroflow in 2001, we knew that we were entering a sector that did not always embrace change and where community partnerships were rarely, if ever, considered. Our technology helped us successfully impact the medical equipment and larger healthcare sectors in ways even we did not imagine – most notably for new mothers, who need all the support they can get.

It is because of our patient-centered values that we now support more than one million patients each year and are expected to make our 900th hire by the end of 2024.

And it is in that vein that we are launching this new executive blog at Aeroflow – one where our patients will get to hear directly from our company’s leaders regarding important news, marketplace changes, and innovations.

Each of us has a story to tell about what brought us into the medical equipment field and why we spend each and every day working to ensure patients have the best equipment, information, and access.

I hope you become a regular reader and enjoy hearing from us about the different ways we are working together to make Aeroflow Health the best it can possibly be for our employees, our partners and our consumers.

Picture of Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

Casey Hite, CEO, Aeroflow Health

Casey Hite serves as Aeroflow Health's CEO and is a seasoned healthcare executive with a strong background in healthcare operations, strategy and technology. With over 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Casey has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing healthcare organizations. He is passionate about driving operational excellence and improving patient outcomes through innovative solutions and strategic initiatives. As a results-driven leader, Casey is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and driving positive change in the healthcare industry.

In 2002, Casey and his brother Don launched Aeroflow Healthcare, which has transformed the Home Medical Equipment industry. Today, Aeroflow Health stands out from its competitors by basing the entire model around ensuring excellent customer service by placing its customers in control of their healthcare journey through technology and an online adaptive equipment and service selection process.

Casey has overseen and led the creation and growth of Aeroflow Mom & Baby, Motif Medical, Aeroflow Sleep, Aeroflow Urology, Aeroflow Diabetes as well as numerous other entities that operate under the Aeroflow Healthcare umbrella. Providing patient centric focused products and services with an industry leading business model, Aeroflow Companies service patients nationwide, scoring higher than any of its competitors in patient satisfaction.

We are thrilled to announce that Aeroflow Health has been honored with the 2024 Sky High Growth Award! This prestigious recognition celebrates our contributions to the Asheville area and acknowledges our business success and growth.

The Sky High Growth Award, presented by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, recognizes companies in the Asheville/Buncombe area that are creating jobs, fostering growth, innovating, and being actively involved in the community. Aeroflow Health’s remarkable achievements in job creation and revenue growth exemplify these criteria. In 2022, Aeroflow welcomed 348 new hires, with nearly half filling newly created positions, and continued this trend in 2023 with 368 new hires, 204 of which were new roles. This growth was driven by our commitment to world-class customer service, innovation in healthcare technology, and a supportive workplace culture.

Our job creation efforts have been diverse, spanning various roles from entry-level positions to specialized roles and leadership positions. This strategic expansion has allowed us to enhance our service offerings and maintain high standards of patient care.

Aeroflow has also demonstrated resilience and innovation, especially over the last two years, by investing in technology and creating a consumer-driven healthcare platform that simplifies the process for patients. Our community involvement through partnerships, financial donations, and volunteer opportunities further highlights our dedication to making a positive impact.

Interested in Working for a Mission-Based Company?