PODCAST · technology
Talking HealthTech
by Talking HealthTech
Conversations with clinicians, vendors, policy makers and decision makers to promote innovation and collaboration for better healthcare enabled by technology. Learn about digital health, medical devices, medtech, biotech, health informatics, life sciences, aged care, disability, commercialisation, startups and so much more.
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630 - Beyond Dashboards: How Command Centres Enable Real-Time Hospital Operations
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Manuel Pérez Vallina, former CIO in the Spanish health system, Femi Ladega, Group Chief Digital Officer at Dedalus, and Dr Vinod Seetharaman, Chief Medical Officer for Dedalus in Australia and New Zealand.The discussion covers the evolution of hospital command centres, the shift from using dashboards for retrospective data towards enabling proactive, real-time operational decisions, and how these changes impact clinical workflows and patient outcomes across different health systems.Recorded live, the conversation draws on experience building one of Spain's first hospital command centres alongside lessons from health systems in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.The panel unpacks why familiar pressures such as underused operating theatres, growing waiting lists and bed shortages appear so consistently across borders, and what separates a command centre from a wall of screens.Along the way, they examine the four principles that determine whether the model delivers real change, the cultural and governance work that sits behind the technology, the role artificial intelligence can play in filtering meaningful signals, and the practical first steps for organisations weighing up where to begin.Key Takeaways🚑 Hospital command centres enable real-time, actionable insights beyond traditional dashboards, improving operational efficiency and patient care.🛠️ Implementing command centre solutions requires aligning technology, organisational culture, and governance to drive sustained change.📊 Demonstrating value and securing investment means clearly defining the use case, limiting initial project scope, and engaging stakeholders early.⚡ Effective change management and clinician engagement are crucial for successful adoption and maximising impact.🌐 Challenges and solutions discussed are common globally, but must be tailored to local healthcare system maturity and needs.Timestamps00:00 - Episode introduction & topic overview03:42 - Manuel Pérez Vallina on Spain’s command centre journey05:55 - Femi Ladega: Global perspectives and data orchestration08:29 - Dr Vinod Seetharaman on capacity management challenges10:26 - Command centres vs. dashboards19:02 - Clinical benefits and flow management22:13 - Stakeholder engagement and return on investment32:07 - Real-world impacts and cascading benefits39:48 - Implementation challenges and change management48:59 - Integrating AI, primary care, and data governance53:45 - Final advice for hospital leadersCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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629 - RingCentral: Cloud Migration, AI and the Future of Voice Communications in Australia
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Steve Saunders, Healthcare Principle at RingCentral, about what is really at stake for Australian healthcare organisations still running on legacy phone systems and why the move to cloud-based communications is becoming increasingly urgent.They cover the risks of relying on ageing PABX infrastructure, the barriers that slow down migration decisions and how a modular, evolutionary approach to modernisation can reduce risk and build confidence across an organisation.The conversation also gets into the role of AI and automation in transforming how healthcare manages calls, appointments and patient interactions, as well as the critical importance of data sovereignty, privacy and security when moving to cloud-based platforms.Steve shares why voice remains the most important communication channel in healthcare, why general-purpose tools are not built for clinical environments, and what healthcare leaders should look for when choosing a long-term technology partner rather than a one-off supplier.For more information check out RingCentral at www.talkinghealthtech.com/ringcentralHave a question about this episode? Reach out directly to Steve:Steve SaundersHealthcare Principle | RingCentral📞 +61-2-9157-6831✉️ [email protected] Takeaways📞 Voice communication remains the number one application in healthcare, with unique requirements compared to other sectors.☁️ Healthcare is at a crossroads, moving away from legacy on-premise PABX phone systems towards resilient, cloud-based communications platforms.🤖 AI tools are being used for pre-interaction triage, live transcription, translation, and post-call analytics to improve efficiency and patient experience.🛡 Data sovereignty and security are top priorities, with strict compliance with Australian regulations and onshore data processing for AI.🔄 Major barriers for adoption are fear of change and complacency, not just competition from other vendors.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction & guest background00:37 - Why voice is critical in healthcare03:41 - Unique challenges for healthcare phone systems07:31 - Transitioning from legacy to cloud11:25 - AI & efficiency in communications16:25 - Data sovereignty & security18:39 - Industry landscape & barriers to change22:09 - Advice for healthcare providersCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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628 - Smart Health Asia Insights: Technology, Collaboration, and Healthcare's Future in Asia
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Madhu Sasidhar, CEO and President of Apollo Hospitals, Luciano Bristia, Asia Pacific Business Lead at InterSystems, and Kym Chua, Executive Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific.The discussion covers healthcare system challenges, digital transformation, AI adoption, workforce shortages, regional collaboration, and what it takes to drive innovation across Asia-Pacific health sectors.The conversation explores how AI is easing pressure on clinicians, from assisting radiologists with scans to helping nurses pull up patient information faster.It also touches on the urban and rural divide in access to care, Indonesia's push for a unified national health record, the importance of adapting solutions to local markets rather than adopting them outright, and how sustainability is shaping infrastructure decisions across the region.This episode was recorded during Smart Health Asia in Singapore, an event that brought together over 3,000 participants from 18 countries.It features interviews and observations captured during the event, highlighting perspectives from senior leaders, technology providers, and event organisers.Key Takeaways🩺 Access to healthcare and technology is a significant challenge in India and Southeast Asia, with urban-rural divides and workforce shortages affecting service delivery.🤖 AI and digital technologies are being leveraged for efficiency gains, assisting with diagnostics (radiology, stroke, colonoscopy) and reducing clinician workload.🌏 Regional health challenges and solutions differ greatly; mature markets like Australia and Japan contrast with fast-growing, young populations in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.💡 Collaboration across healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology vendors is seen as essential for scalable, effective innovation.🔥 Initiatives like Indonesia's "Satu Sehat" (One Health) aim to create nationwide health records, especially targeting preventive care as a strategy for future public health management.Timestamps00:00 - Event Introduction: Smart Health Asia00:48 - Madhu Sasidhar, CEO Apollo Hospitals08:23 - Luciano Bristia, InterSystems, Asia Pacific23:02 - Kym Chua, Event Organiser and Executive Director, Messe Berlin Asia PacificCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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627 - The Future of Biopharma: AI, Automation, and Clinical Trial Breakthroughs at BIO2026
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Jayden Rogers (CEO, Linear Clinical Research), Dr Stacie Calad-Thomson (Business Development Lead, Nvidia for Pharma Labs and Manufacturing), Arjun Bhat (Co-Founder, Clinrol), and Tran Le (General Manager, Hippocratic AI).The conversations cover the changing landscape of clinical trials and drug discovery, the growing role of AI in patient recruitment and drug development, and innovations in technology and operational efficiency in life sciences.The discussion covers why Australia has become an attractive destination for global clinical trials, from its regulatory environment and world-class clinicians through to the integrated networks that help international sponsors find the right partners.It also looks at the practical realities of running a trial site, where regulatory approvals, staffing, patient engagement, and sensitive data all need to be managed at once, and how purpose-built platforms are taking on the repetitive work so research teams can focus on patient care.This episode was recorded during the BIO International Convention in San Diego, featuring conversations with scientists, founders, investors, and healthcare decision-makers addressing challenges and opportunities across the biotech sector.Key Takeaways🧬 AI and automation are transforming clinical trial recruitment, streamlining patient matching, eligibility screening, and follow-up tasks🚀 Australia’s reputation for clinical trials continues to grow, supported by a strong regulatory environment and quality healthcare ecosystem💡 Open source tools and AI models are making computational drug discovery more accessible for non-specialists in science and medicine🧑⚕️ Technology advancements allow clinicians and trial sites to focus more on patient care by reducing manual and repetitive efforts🔗 Collaboration across pharma, biotechs, technology providers, and regulators is essential to tackle operational bottlenecks and accelerate drug developmentTimestamps00:00 - Introduction01:07 - Jayden Rogers, CEO, Linear Clinical Research08:25 - Dr Stacie Calad-Thomson, Business Development, NVIDIA17:55 - Arjun Bhat, Co-Founder, Clinrol26:52 - Tran Le, General Manager of Life Sciences, Hippocratic AICheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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626 - Turning Trends Into Action: Oura Ring 4 and Its Place in Healthcare
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Robyn Birch about their experiences using the Oura Ring 4, exploring how this wearable device fits into the broader clinical ecosystem.The conversation focuses on the practicalities and implications of using wearables for health monitoring, such as bringing data into clinical consultations, comparing its ongoing data with clinical-grade tools, and considering the everyday healthcare impact for consumers and clinicians.After six months of daily wear, Peter and Robyn share what the ring got right, where it fell short, and the moments the data prompted real action, including a GP visit that led to a formal sleep study.They also discuss the scepticism patients can face when bringing consumer device data to their doctor, the role of trends and baselines over exact numbers, and what wearables are revealing about areas like sleep, recovery and women's health.Key Takeaways🟢 Wearables like the Oura Ring are increasingly used to support meaningful conversations with healthcare professionals🟢 Data trends from wearables are more useful than one-off readings for both consumers and clinicians🟢 Ongoing wearable monitoring complements, but does not replace, clinical grade diagnostic tools like sleep studies🟢 Presenting continuous wearable health data can help drive further medical investigation when necessary🟢 Wearable data is becoming more accepted by clinicians, helping patients become proactive participants in their healthTimestamps00:00 - Introduction & Oura Ring overview02:27 - Wearables in clinical conversations04:05 - Data trends vs. one-off readings05:07 - Wearable data leading to clinical action09:35 - Clinical sleep study vs. wearable metricsCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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625 - Breaking Silos at DHF26: Telstra Health's Corus™ Modernises Patient & Clinician Experience
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Monica Trujillo, Chief Health and Risk Officer, and Farhoud Salimi, Chief Technology Officer, both from Telstra Health.The discussion covers the ongoing fragmentation of Australia's healthcare system, the challenge of integrating diverse legacy systems and the announcement of Telstra Health's new platform, Corus™, a unified care intelligence ecosystem built in partnership with Snowflake, Smile Digital Health and Salesforce.Peter, Monica and Farhoud explore how modern cloud architecture, interoperability standards, cybersecurity and AI are being brought together to support seamless healthcare delivery, from the data spine that unifies patient records through to curated AI agents designed to ease clinical workflows.They also unpack the shift in thinking from connected care to care connected, keeping the moment of care at the centre with the technology built around it.The episode was recorded live at the Digital Health Festival 2026 in Melbourne, part of a series of episodes captured at the event, where more than 8,000 health leaders, clinicians and innovators gathered to explore what's next for the sector, and brings together perspectives from both technology and clinical leadership on what meaningful digital change in health really takes.Key Takeaways🩺 Healthcare in Australia is made up of multiple independent, legacy systems, rather than a single integrated system🕸️ Integration challenges stem from varied data standards, terminology, and the need for high data reliability🌐 The new Corus™ platform combines modern interoperability standards (FHIR), a robust data spine, and partnerships with technology providers like Snowflake, Smile Digital Health, and Salesforce🔒 Cybersecurity and clinical governance are crucial in developing safe, secure, and trusted digital health solutions👩⚕️ Corus™ aims to empower both patients and clinicians by enabling more efficient workflows, seamless data access, and self-management, supporting a shift toward preventative and proactive healthcareTimestamps00:00 — Episode introduction and guest intros01:48 — Why healthcare remains fragmented03:47 — Technology challenges integrating systems04:15 — Modernisation and standards aligning05:12 — Corus™ platform announcement07:09 — What Corus™ enables and its architecture10:00 — The "data spine" explained11:06 — AI integration and customisation13:17 — Managing cybersecurity and clinical governance15:04 — What success looks like for Corus™Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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624 - Telehealth for Regional Australia: Updoc's Mission to Bridge Healthcare Gaps at DHF26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech Peter Birch speaks with Dylan Coyne, co-founder at Updoc, about the origins and growth of the Updoc platform, the challenges and opportunities of providing accessible healthcare across Australia, and the balance between technology, trust, and scalability in digital health.The conversation traces back to a personal injury that exposed the inefficiencies of the traditional healthcare system, sparking the idea for a platform built around convenience and access.The episode explores how Updoc is addressing gaps in rural and regional healthcare access, fostering a supportive culture for both patients and clinicians, and participating in the development of national telehealth standards.Recorded live at the Updoc booth during DHF26, The Digital Health Festival, the conversation highlights the ongoing innovations and real-world community engagement driving the company's mission.Key Takeaways🩺 Updoc aims to be a digital "front door" to healthcare, offering on-demand consultations without the need for traditional appointments or waiting rooms.🌏 Rural and regional Australians represent nearly 40% of Updoc’s consultations, reflecting critical healthcare access barriers outside metropolitan areas.🔒 Trust and data security are central to Updoc's operations, safeguarding both patient and doctor information while fostering confidence in telehealth solutions.💡 Bootstrapping the company drove a focus on sustainability, leading to scalable offerings like unlimited telehealth subscriptions.📜 Updoc played an active role in developing national telehealth standards, advocating for shared quality, credentialing, and feedback systems across the industry.Timestamps00:00 - Updoc's origin story02:07 - Making healthcare accessible and convenient04:22 - Impact and scale—reaching over a million Australians05:24 - Building trust with patients and clinicians08:20 - Serving rural and regional communities09:09 - Community Access Programme and in-person outreach12:01 - Attracting and supporting clinicians through flexibility15:06 - National telehealth standards initiative16:36 - Updoc's future and role in the healthcare ecosystemCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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623 - Digitising Healthcare at Scale: Safe AI, Smarter Workflows and the Future of Care
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dalibor Frtunik, CEO of Sorsix, about how their platform Pinga® is building the backbone for the future of digital healthcare.The conversation covers Sorsix's origins in North Macedonia, where the company cut its teeth integrating an entire national health system from the ground up, through to the concept of a health operating system and what that means in practice for clinicians, administrators, and patients alike.Frtunik unpacks how AI-powered digital pathways are being deployed safely within clinical workflows, why the balance between customisation and standardisation matters more than ever, and how Sorsix approaches compliance and governance using frameworks like ISO 42001.The episode also explores the growing role of data in preventative care, the limitations of old-style integration, and what the next decade of digital health transformation will demand from platforms and health systems alike.Key Takeaways💡 Sorsix’s platform Pinga® acts as a health operating system, integrating different healthcare workflows from individual clinics to entire countries⚙️ Pinga® supports both clinical and administrative workflows, including triage, long-term care management, screening programs, and preventative pathways🤖 AI is already in practical use within Pinga®, supporting operational efficiency and improved clinical outcomes, but safety and compliance remain priorities🔒 ISO 42001 certification for AI is a critical part of building trust and governance in healthcare platforms🌏 Sorsix’s experience shows that future health systems will need interoperable, flexible, AI-enabled technology that adapts to local workflows and supports ongoing digital transformationTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to Sorsix and Pinga®05:22 - Concept of a health operating system07:04 - Solving healthcare interoperability and scheduling13:02 - Balancing customisation with compliance17:04 - Building clinical and administrative digital pathways31:36 - Certification, ISO 42001, and AI safety37:11 - Looking to the future of interoperable, patient-centred systemsCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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622 - From Legacy Systems to AI-Driven Healthcare: Tackling Cybersecurity and Innovation at DHF26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch sits down with Cameron McBride, Divisional Director of Digital Technology Services at Western Health, Chris Fisher, Head of Solution Engineering for Asia Pacific and Japan at Island, and Jeroen Nguyen, Solutions Architect from Endpoint Focus to explore what it really takes to modernise digital workspaces in healthcare.The conversation moves through the everyday challenges of implementing secure and efficient technology in hospitals, the flow-on impact on clinician workflows, the cybersecurity considerations that come with managing sensitive patient data, and the complexities of compliance in a global context.The discussion also looks ahead to the future of AI integration at the point of care and what it will take for emerging technologies to earn the trust of clinicians and patients alike.Recorded live at DHF26, the Digital Health Festival held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, this episode features a multi-guest panel discussion captured in front of a live audience at one of Australia's premier health innovation gatherings.Drawing on real-world examples from Western Health and technology partners active in the Australian healthcare sector, the panel offers a grounded look at how digital transformation is unfolding on the ground, not just in theory.Key Takeaways🖥️ Legacy applications and insecure browsers create significant risks and challenges, addressing them simplifies IT service delivery and enhances security🔒 Moving security controls into the browser provides more effective protection and flexibility compared to traditional network-based layers⚡ Improving clinician access to critical systems, such as electronic medical records, directly impacts patient care by reducing wait times📊 Enhanced analytics and visibility tools enable IT teams to better monitor user behaviour and application performance🤖 Integrating AI-driven workflows and secure technology environments is paving the way for future innovations in healthcare deliveryTimestamps00:00 - Introduction and guest backgrounds03:04 - Challenges with legacy apps04:08 - Island's place in security landscape07:02 - Security at the browser level09:01 - Clinician workflow improvements11:36 - IT analytics and reporting benefits12:57 - Implementing technology changes in healthcare17:27 - Future plans and AI integrationCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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621 - From Innovation to Adoption: Solving the Digital Health Distribution Problem at Scale
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Bettina McMahon, CEO of Healthdirect, clinical governance and digital health safety expert Chris Boyd Skinner, and Leon Young, founder of Cogniss and Ripple Scale, about the ongoing challenges and potential solutions in scaling the adoption of digital health tools beyond pilots and siloed deployments.The conversation explores why so many effective tools in women's health, mental health, children's health, and long-term care struggle to reach the people who need them most.The group discusses portfolio-based adoption models, the limitations of one-app-at-a-time procurement, and the growing case for a digital health publisher model that can validate, distribute, and maintain tools at scale.The episode also covers clinical trust and regulatory frameworks, the risks of shadow IT, the barriers facing direct-to-consumer digital health, and how innovations such as Ripple Scale are working to address the gaps in app distribution and uptake.Together, the guests make a compelling case for why collaboration, shared infrastructure, and smarter funding models are the next step forward for digital health.Key Takeaways🌐 Many digital health tools struggle to scale beyond pilots due to barriers in adoption by health providers.🤝 Clinicians and researchers are often required to become startup founders to drive adoption, even if their expertise is in care, not business.🏥 Health systems face challenges in assessing, procuring, and managing hundreds of separate digital health apps.🔒 Clinical safety, regulation, and building trust are essential for the widespread uptake of digital health technology.🚀 Portfolio-based models and digital publishers like Ripple Scale offer alternatives to fragmented app distribution, making it easier for providers to offer trusted digital solutions across key health areas.Timestamps00:00 - Introductions & background03:21 - Cogniss mission and innovation04:52 - The need for a digital health publisher05:28 - Barriers to adoption: system and innovator challenges12:37 - The perspective of Health Direct and large organisations17:57 - Consumer vs. provider-facing digital products19:00 - Clinical safety, trust, and governance26:30 - "Shadow IT" and its impact33:52 - Advice for digital health tool creators36:15 - Next steps for Ripple ScaleCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:THT+ Company PartnershipLearn more about THT+ Company Partnership options for start-ups, scale-ups and enterprise digital health companies looking for visibility, content, community access and industry connection: talkinghealthtech.com/partners.Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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620 - From Know-What to Know-How: Medcast’s Journey with Medical-Grade AI at DHF26
Find out how Medcast is building trustworthy medical-grade AI in this episode of Talking HealthTech, recorded live at the Digital Health Festival 2026 in Melbourne, Australia's premier gathering for health innovation, technology, and policy.Peter Birch sits down with Dr Stephen Barnett, CEO of Medcast, to explore what it genuinely takes to make AI safe, reliable, and fit for purpose in a clinical setting.With a background spanning general practice, research, and digital health innovation, Barnett brings a grounded and practical perspective to one of the most talked-about topics in healthcare right now.Together, they unpack the concept of knowledge translation, the persistent gap between cutting-edge AI and trustworthy clinical tools, and why large language models alone are not enough.The conversation covers retrieval-augmented generation, the risks of AI hallucinations, the importance of curated and validated data sources, and the orchestration layer that sits between a powerful model and a safe medical answer.They also discuss how clinical workflows are changing, the shift in how doctors use digital tools in front of patients, and the emerging conversation around patient-facing AI.Key Takeaways🧑⚕️ Knowledge translation in healthcare relies on getting the right information to the right person at the right time, impacting both clinician learning and patient outcomes.🤖 Large language models require an orchestration layer and data curation processes to be considered "medical grade" and trustworthy for clinical use.🔎 Retrieval-augmented generation and other governance measures help address hallucinations and bias in AI-powered healthcare solutions, supporting quality, safety, and auditability.💡 Medluma, Medcast's AI platform, addresses compliance, standardisation, and onboarding within healthcare organisations, while empowering clinicians with trusted knowledge access.📱 Patient-clinician trust depends on using validated, professional tools for information sourcing, and future AI integrations may also support patient self-service within set guardrails.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction and guest overview00:44 - Medcast origins and purpose02:54 - Obsession with AI and knowledge translation03:49 - Medical safety in language models06:13 - Techniques for trustworthy AI10:01 - Adapting to rapid AI changes13:32 - Knowledge translation across clinical and non-clinical roles14:49 - Patient trust and professional boundaries18:22 - Medcast and Medluma future roadmapCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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619 - Practical AI in Public Health: Eastern Health at the Microsoft Stand at DHF26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Suma Shivalingaiah, Chief Information Officer at Eastern Health, about the practical use, governance, and impact of AI and digital technologies in a large Victorian public health service.The conversation covers the AI journey at Eastern Health, from addressing a significant cyber incident that reshaped the organisation's digital strategy to building internal capability, upskilling staff, and deploying AI across both administrative and clinical workflows.Suma shares how Eastern Health approaches AI governance through a dedicated committee that assesses and manages risk across all tools and platforms, why cybersecurity remains the organisation's top priority, and how clinician buy-in is central to any successful implementation.The discussion also touches on real-world pilots including GP referral triage systems, help desk and policy management agents, and Emergency Department wait time predictions, as well as the role of university partnerships in accelerating AI adoption.This episode was recorded live at the Microsoft stand during the Digital Health Festival 2026, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in May 2026, as part of a series of conversations captured across the event.Key Takeaways🛡️ Governance and cybersecurity are foundational for AI deployment in healthcare, and a dedicated committee is needed to ensure safe use of digital tools⚙️ Real-world AI success starts with addressing repetitive and administrative tasks for staff and clinicians, using agents like help desk and policy management tools👨⚕️ Clinician and staff buy-in is critical. Adoption depends on early engagement and solving actual pain points📊 AI in clinical workflow includes initiatives like triaging GP referrals and predicting ED wait times, always as a support tool, not a replacement for clinicians🎓 Building AI literacy, continuous training, and partnerships with universities are essential for capability uplift and safe technology integrationTimestamps00:00 - Introduction & Episode Setting00:28 - Overview of Eastern Health01:35 - Practical AI applications02:51 - AI agents & support tools03:57 - Importance of clinical buy-in05:33 - Governance & cybersecurity foundations06:30 - AI use case—triaging referrals08:31 - Justifying AI adoption in public health10:02 - Automating clinical notes & admin11:16 - Multi-pronged strategy & advice12:02 - Lessons for healthcare leadersCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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618 - Real World Challenges & Successes in Implementing Healthcare Technology with Rauland Australia & New Zealand
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Jacqueline Leeds, CEO of Rauland Australia and New Zealand, Vickie Knight, General Manager for Clinical Services at Rauland Australia and New Zealand, and a panel including Robin Mann, Chief Digital Information Officer at Monash Health, Richard Taggart, CEO of eHealth NSW, Jayne Barclay, National Director of Healthcare Platform at St Vincent's, and Emily Mailes, Executive Vice President at Optimum Healthcare IT.Recorded live during the Healthcare Leaders Breakfast with Rauland Australia and New Zealand in Melbourne, the conversation brings together some of Australia's most experienced digital health leaders for an honest discussion about what it actually takes to deliver technology that works in a real clinical environment.The panel covers the realities of implementing healthcare technology from strategy through to execution, including the importance of co-designing with clinical teams, navigating legacy infrastructure, managing stakeholder engagement, and dealing with the resource constraints that shape what is achievable.The conversation also explores how organisations can build a compelling business case, ensure measurable benefits are realised, and scale innovation without losing sight of patient care.Key Takeaways🧩 Enterprise thinking is essential for managing complex healthcare tech environments, particularly integrating new solutions into legacy systems👩⚕️ Clinical workflow mapping, including workarounds, is crucial for successful technology deployment and co-design with clinicians💸 Investment in digital innovation must balance legacy system costs and future benefits, requiring creative funding solutions and engagement with financial leaders📞 Standardising processes, such as critical consumer escalation pathways, improves safety and user experience🔍 Focus on defining and measuring the actual problem solved by technology, ensuring real value and operational impact for healthcare staff and patientsTimestamps00:00 - Event introduction and context03:10 - Jacqueline Leeds on Rauland's platform approach09:59 - Vickie Knight on execution challenges in healthcare17:31 - Panelist intros and real-world project examples28:54 - Innovation, investment, and budget barriers41:43 - Final advice for healthcare leadersCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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622
617 - Inside Olinqua's Integrated Platform and Smart Device Deployments at DHF26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch sits down with Martin Moszczynski, CEO of Olinqua, to explore the evolution of hospital communications technology in Australia.They dig into the real-world challenges of moving away from pagers to smartphones, the infrastructure decisions that come with that shift, and what it takes to modernise communications across an entire hospital workforce.Martin shares insights from Olinqua's large-scale projects in Victoria, discussing the practicalities of tech adoption, the importance of system integration, and why the focus needs to be on frontline staff rather than patient-facing solutions.The conversation also touches on the tension between legacy systems and modern platforms, the role of AI in software development, and how real-time location technology is opening up new possibilities for workflow improvement and patient transfer logistics.This episode was recorded live during the Digital Health Festival 2026 in Melbourne, Australia and shares a deep-dive conversation captured at the event.Key Takeaways📱 Hospitals are transitioning from aging pagers to smartphones for greater capability, integration, and reliability🔄 Tech upgrades are often driven by infrastructure maturity and end-of-life legacy systems, not just a desire for new tech✨ Modern solutions centralise multiple workflows: emergency alerts, task management, and mobile duress onto a single platform👩⚕️ The main focus is improving staff experience, convenience, and freeing up time for direct patient care📍 Real-time location technology is a major area of investment, enabling efficient asset and patient tracking for workflow innovationTimestamps00:00 — Introduction and setting00:29 — Olinqua’s current projects01:17 — Pagers vs smartphones in hospitals03:13 — Reasons for upgrading communications tech05:55 — Recent deployment examples08:51 — Staff centricity vs patient centricity12:34 — Impact of AI and easy-to-create software15:55 — Olinqua’s priorities: location tech and innovationCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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621
616 - Inside Lyrebird at DHF26: The Rapid Growth of AI Tools in Australian Healthcare
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, recorded live at the Digital Health Festival 2026 (DHF26), Peter Birch speaks with Kai Van Lieshout, CEO and founder of Lyrebird Health, and Dr Ray Boyapati, Chief Clinical Officer at Lyrebird Health and a practising gastroenterologist at Monash Health.The discussion explores the evolution of Lyrebird Health's AI-driven tools for clinicians, the importance of clinical involvement in product design, and the rapid adoption of AI across Australian general practice.Kai and Ray also unpack what's driving this shift in attitude among clinicians, many of whom were previously wary of new digital health tools, and why this generation of AI is proving different.The conversation covers approaches to maintaining safety and clinical rigour while meeting increasing demand from clinicians.It also looks ahead to where clinical AI may be heading next, from ambient documentation to decision support, and what that means for the future of patient care, clinical workflows, and the relationship between doctors and patients.Key Takeaways🤖 Lyrebird Health’s AI tools have been made freely available to most Australian GPs, significantly increasing adoption among clinicians.🩺 Embedding practising clinicians like Dr Ray Boyapati within the Lyrebird team ensures clinical rigour and relevance in product development.🏥 Clinicians are more willing to adopt technology that demonstrably improves their workflow, as seen with AI-powered medical scribe tools.🚦 Rapid AI adoption in healthcare brings risks, making deliberate, safety-focused implementation essential.🌏 The timing of AI integration in healthcare is critical, shaping future clinical practice and patient care.Timestamps00:00 - Episode and guests' introduction00:40 - Lyrebird Health’s mission and product updates01:39 - Team growth and bringing on Dr Ray Boyapati03:12 - Dr Ray Boyapati’s background and experiences04:38 - Chief Clinical Officer responsibilities07:08 - Clinician technology adoption and impactCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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620
615 - EHDS: Europe's Digital Health Ambition, Global Standards, and the Role of AI
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch joins Dr Seref Arikan, Technical Lead at Ocean Health Systems, for a conversation that spans continents, with Peter joining from Australia and Dr Arikan speaking from London, to explore one of the most ambitious digital health initiatives the world has seen.Together, they unpack what it really means to unify health data across 26 nations and half a billion patients, and why the European Health Data Space is about far more than just technology.Dr Arikan walks through the landscape of health data standards, from HL7 FHIR to openEHR, and explains why having no shortage of standards does not automatically translate to interoperability at scale.The conversation also explores the EHDS's ambition to put patients firmly in control of their own health data and what that looks like in practice across dozens of different legislative and cultural environments.There is also a thoughtful discussion on the role of artificial intelligence in digital health, why this generation of AI is better understood as a skill than a tool, and what it means to be an AI-native clinician in a world where large language models can be as misleading as they are useful.The discussion also looks at Australia's SPARKED initiative and the lessons it offers for Europe, how feedback loops can prevent costly mistakes in large-scale health IT projects, and why stakeholder collaboration remains the hardest and most important part of getting any of this right.Key Takeaways🗂️ EHDS is a major European Union initiative aimed at creating a unified framework for health data use and exchange across member states.🌍 The project’s biggest challenge is coordinating communication and collaboration between a vast range of diverse stakeholders, including patients, clinicians, health systems, payers, and regulators.🔗 Standards such as HL7 FHIR, OpenEHR, SNOMED CT, and others play a central role, but aligning on which to use across the EU remains a complex, ongoing process.🤝 Fast and efficient stakeholder feedback loops, as demonstrated by the OpenEHR Clinical Knowledge Manager and Australia's SPARKED project, are critical to prevent costly missteps in developing compliant solutions.🤖 Artificial intelligence is viewed as a skill to amplify human capability rather than a replacement for stakeholders; good data is essential for effective AI use in healthcare.Timestamps00:00 - Introductions & speaker roles00:30 - Dr Seref Arikan career journey02:54 - What is the European Health Data Space?04:40 - EHDS and health data standards07:27 - EHDS objectives & patient focus10:44 - Challenges of implementation15:12 - The role of feedback & communication19:21: AI’s role in health data projects26:22: Reflections on Australia’s SPARKED project32:46: Ocean Health Systems updatesCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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614 - Improving Access and Outcomes Across New Zealand: Tend’s Integrated Digital-First Care Model
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, guest host Dr Max Mollenkopf sits down with Graham Denyer, GP and Medical Director at Tend, a hybrid digital and physical primary care provider operating across New Zealand.Together they unpack what it really takes to redesign general practice from the ground up, and why getting it right matters more than ever.Graham walks through how New Zealand's capitated funding model shapes the day-to-day reality of general practice, and why the blended model of government subsidy and out-of-pocket costs creates both opportunities and real tensions for patients and providers alike.The discussion also touches into how Tend has built a fully integrated care model that brings together digital technology, telehealth, and physical clinics in a way that feels seamless for patients and clinicians.There is also a candid look at the role of data and AI in lifting the quality of clinical records, how open notes are changing the relationship between patients and their care teams, and why benchmarking clinician performance across a large network is uncomfortable but necessary.The episode also digs into Tend's approach to equity, particularly the work being done to improve access and outcomes for Māori and Pacific communities, and why well-designed digital tools can close gaps rather than widen them.Since the recording of this episode, Tend has announced it is entering into an agreement to purchase Green Cross 'The Doctors' (pending shareholder approval). This network of 65 clinics across New Zealand will roughly triple Tend's footprint, and will see Māori iwi becoming one of the largest shareholders.More information can be read in Tend's press release here.Key Takeaways🧑⚕️ Capitated Funding Model in NZThe New Zealand primary care funding model is based on capitation, with a blend of government funding and patient co-pays, driving unique incentives and challenges.🌐 Integrated Digital & Physical CareTend combines digital platforms and bricks-and-mortar clinics, allowing for unified health records and seamless patient journeys across online and in-person services.📈 Data, AI, and Open NotesTend leverages AI for scribing and standardising clinical records, open notes for patient transparency, and centralised data to drive quality and continuity across care teams.🌏 Equity and Access InitiativesSpecific strategies are in place to improve primary care access for Māori and Pacifica communities, with representation at the board level and targeted service design.👩🔬 Multidisciplinary, Team-Based CareTend’s model supports distributed care teams, drawing on nurses, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists, positioning the GP as a team leader rather than sole provider.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction02:03 - New Zealand’s capitation model07:11 - Hybrid physical and digital clinics12:55 - Unified technology/app experience13:59 - Right channel, right care approach21:15 - Telehealth workforce and flexibility25:46 - Pricing, co-pays, and structure28:54 - Data quality and AI scribe44:12 - Clinical benchmarking and open data54:59 - Māori and Pacifica health equity01:03:21 - GP productivity and team-based careCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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618
613 - Preventative and Personalised Primary Care: EverLab on Data, Engagement and Innovation
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Dr Max Mollenkopf sits down with Steven Lu, co-founder and medical director at EverLab.The conversation explores the evolution of primary care through EverLab's preventative and personalised health model.Topics include data consolidation, patient empowerment, healthcare branding, and the role of technology in general practice, as well as the nuances around preventative testing such as whole-body MRI.Steven and Max dig into the real challenges of building a healthcare model that puts prevention first, from navigating the complexities of Medicare funding and GP identity to scaling clinical excellence across a growing network of clinicians.They also get candid about the longevity medicine hype, what good medicine actually looks like in this space, and why behaviour change is just as important as clinical advice.Key Takeaways✨ The role of data consolidation: Everlab collects patients’ health records, empowering both clinicians and patients with consolidated, accessible data to support personalised preventative care.🔄 Primary care branding and evolution: The decision to avoid “general practice” branding is discussed, highlighting how patient perceptions and government funding models shape engagement and commercial viability.🤝 Patient engagement and experience: High-quality, engaging customer experience is positioned as essential for behaviour change, increased trust, and long-term continuity of care.💻 Technology as a driver: Technology, from patient interfaces to clinical audit tools, streamlines high-quality care and creates scalable models beyond traditional GP practices.🧪 Preventative testing and consent: Discussion of commercially popular preventative tools like whole-body MRI, with a focus on appropriate use, informed consent, and aligning clinical outcomes with business models.Timestamps00:00 - Meet Everlab: mission & approach04:41 - Consolidating health data for care06:09 - Target audience and shifting focus08:38 - Rethinking general practice branding13:09 - Longevity & preventative care models17:20 - Defining functional & integrated medicine21:51 - Preventative care—systemic challenges27:50 - Consumer experience in healthcare35:18 - Quality, speed, cost trade-offs40:05 - Scaling and standardising clinical care57:34 - Preventative tests: whole body MRI01:09:04 - Aligning commercial and clinical outcomesCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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617
612 - Small Steps, Big Futures: Solving Maternity Care One Happy Baby at a Time
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Brendan Tang and Peter Rady from Medicity.Together, they discuss EVE, a digital health platform improving maternity care, supporting parents, and optimising outcomes in the crucial first 2,000 days of life.The discussion covers the strategic framework behind early childhood health, the ways technology can enhance communication between hospitals and clinicians, and how feedback from both clinicians and families drives EVE's development.They also explore the real-world impact of the platform, including how one Melbourne hospital reduced maternal hypertension and hyperemesis admissions by 50%, the economic case for early intervention, and why getting the first 2,000 days right has consequences that reach well beyond the maternity ward.The conversation also touches on the importance of building support networks that extend beyond the mother, and the challenge of scaling digital solutions equitably across communities.Looking further ahead, Brendan and Peter R share their vision for what prevention-focused perinatal care could look like at a state and national level.Key Takeaways🍼 Focusing on the first 2,000 days, from conception to age five, can transform a person’s lifelong health and reduce social and economic burdens.📱 EVE delivers hospital-curated information, communication tools, and community support directly to parents via a mobile app, improving engagement and health outcomes.🏥 Maternity hospitals using EVE have seen up to a 50% reduction in maternal health admissions from early intervention based on remote monitoring and direct messaging.🤝 EVE adapts and evolves based on ongoing feedback from parents, clinicians, and healthcare systems to address real-world needs.🌏 The next steps for EVE involve expanding beyond individual hospitals to state and country-wide implementations to maximise impact.Timestamps01:03 - Medicity’s evolution and focus02:21 - The “First 2,000 Days” strategy03:44 - Tools to improve early years06:07 - Brain development importance12:19 - Hospital outcomes with EVE16:46 - Community and loneliness support19:38 - Appointment and immunisation tools22:33 - Building based on feedback28:03 - Scaling EVE state and nationwideCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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616
611 - Bold Upgrades, Zero Downtime: How Smart Labs Are Modernising Pathology
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch sits down with Dan Burke, Managing Director at Magentus, and Ben Richardson, CEO at Labflow, for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of pathology in Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.With half a billion pathology tests processed in Australia every year and a workforce of only 2,500 pathologists, the sector is under significant pressure.Dan and Ben unpack what that means for labs trying to modernise without disrupting the critical services that clinicians and patients depend on every day.The discussion covers the growing role of artificial intelligence in diagnostic settings, exploring where AI is already delivering practical value and where human oversight remains non-negotiable.The episode also digs into the challenge of legacy technology, making the case for incremental, modular modernisation over risky large-scale overhauls that can put operations at risk.Beyond the technology, the conversation explores how consumer expectations are reshaping pathology, from the direct-to-consumer testing boom across Asia-Pacific markets to the rise of genomics and personalised medicine.Key Takeaways🔬 The pathology sector in Australia faces a significant workforce shortage and increasing test complexity, putting pressure on digital transformation in labs🧩 Incremental modernisation and interoperability are addressed as more practical than full system replacements for pathology lab infrastructure🧑⚕️ AI in diagnostics is positioned as a support tool for clinicians and administrative workflows, rather than replacing human experts🌏 Consumer-driven demand, particularly in APAC markets like India and Malaysia, is accelerating digital adoption and expectations for health data access🧬 The falling cost of genomics and genetics is setting the stage for personalised preventive healthcare and more targeted diagnosticsTimestamps00:00 - Introductions & episode overview00:54 - What is Magentus?01:55 - The origin of Lab Flow03:48 - The pathology landscape in 202608:42 - Fragmentation & technology challenges13:58 - Incremental modernisation explained17:38 - Interoperability & complexity in labs19:05 - Role of AI in laboratory services25:57 - Social perspectives on AI in healthcare29:25 - Genomics, personalisation, and the futureCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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615
610 - Exploring AI and Innovation in Healthcare at the RLDatix Summit 2026
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Paula Stephenson (Executive Director of Clinical Excellence, Mercy Health), Bianca Todd (Improvement Innovation Advisor, Western District Health Service), The Hon. Victor Dominello (CEO, Future Government Institute), and Dan Michelson (CEO, RLDatix).The conversation explores the evolving landscape of healthcare compliance, workforce management, and digital transformation across the health sector.It also examines the practical impact of AI and emerging technologies on healthcare delivery, organisational change, and patient care.The discussion highlights the growing importance of accessible and meaningful data in improving quality, safety, and patient outcomes, alongside the challenges organisations face when modernising legacy systems and fragmented workflows.Speakers reflect on the role of interoperability, digital maturity, and leadership in shaping more connected healthcare environments, while also examining how AI is influencing decision making, workforce planning, and service delivery.The episode also delves into the cultural side of technology implementation, including change fatigue, clinician engagement, and the importance of building values-driven teams that can support long-term transformation.This episode was recorded at the RLDatix Connected Health and Care Summit for Asia Pacific in 2026, capturing discussions from healthcare leaders and technology innovators during the event.Key Takeaways💡 Patient-centred care is the focus of digital and AI innovation in healthcare.💡 Transitioning from paper to digital systems brings both challenges and opportunities for compliance, efficiency, and workforce management.💡 Change management and team engagement are crucial for successful technology adoption in clinical environments.💡 Breaking down data silos is essential for harnessing the full value of AI in healthcare.💡 Organisational values and a customer-obsessed approach drive better outcomes in healthcare technology projects.Timestamps00:00 – Peter Birch: Episode and event introduction00:42 – Paula Stephenson, Executive Director, Clinical Excellence, Mercy Health07:57 – Bianca Todd, Improvement Innovation Advisor, Western District Health Service16:08 – The Hon. Victor Dominello, CEO, Future Government Institute21:29 – Dan Michelson, CEO, RLDatixCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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614
609 - Automating Primary Care Admin with Care GP: AI Solutions for Australian Clinics
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Melvin Chen, CEO and founder of Care GP, about the evolving role of automation and artificial intelligence in primary care administration.The conversation digs into the very real administrative pressures facing Australian GP clinics today and how Care GP is working to address them in practical, measurable ways.Melvin walks through the development and growing uptake of Care GP's products, Samantha and Veronica, sharing firsthand insights into how these tools are being received by practices on the ground.Their discussion also explores broader themes around workforce efficiency, technology adoption, and what it truly means to build technology that fits the way clinics actually work.The episode further explains why AI-driven admin solutions are becoming an essential part of the future of general practice in Australia.Key Takeaways💡 Administrative costs are a significant burden in healthcare, making up to a third of overall spending; automating these processes leads to major efficiency gains.💡 Care GP’s solutions, particularly Samantha for document processing and Veronica for voice automation, are being rapidly adopted, with customer demand driving product focus.💡 Clinics have realised direct workforce cost savings—up to $55,000 per year at mid-sized sites—by automating document management tasks.💡 The conversation highlights that technology is not about replacing staff, but about redeploying people to higher-value tasks and enabling practice growth.💡 Customisation for medical workflows and continuous user feedback are essential for the successful implementation of AI-based admin tools in healthcare.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction & Care GP recap02:11 - Admin burden in primary care05:06 - Launch and adoption of Samantha14:05 - IT budget vs workforce savings22:41 - Veronica voice agent demonstration31:07 - What's next for Care GPCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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608 - From Burnout to Breakthrough: Real World Impact of AI Scribes at Heidi Unlocked
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Catherine Skellern, Dr Nancy Cibotti and Dean Mills about the adoption and impact of Heidi Health technology in clinical and community health settings.The conversations cover clinician-driven implementation, reducing administrative burden, and transforming the way healthcare professionals engage with patients and families.The discussion explores how AI documentation tools are reshaping daily clinical workflows, relieving the cognitive load that has long contributed to burnout and attrition across the sector.From the experiences of a consultant paediatrician to insights from a US-based Chief Medical Information Officer and a community services technology leader, the episode draws on a breadth of perspectives to examine what responsible, effective AI adoption looks like in practice.This episode was recorded at Heidi Unlocked in Melbourne, Australia and features a selection of conversations Talking HealthTech captured during the event with healthcare professionals, clinicians and technology leaders.Key Takeaways🔹 Clinician-led adoption of technology is critical for effective implementation in healthcare settings.🔹 AI scribes like Heidi can reduce documentation burden and cognitive load for clinicians and social workers.🔹 Technology enables healthcare providers to focus more on patient interaction and less on paperwork.🔹 Addressing privacy and risk assessment is essential when implementing AI in healthcare.🔹 Grassroots demand from users can accelerate the adoption and scaling of new digital tools.Timestamps00:00 - Peter Birch: Introduction00:36 - Dr Catherine Skellern, Child Development Network06:30 - Dr Nancy Cibotti, Heidi Health10:27 - Dean Mills, Anglicare VictoriaCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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607 - Bringing Consistency to Complexity Through AI-Driven Decision Support
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Simon Taylor Cross, Chief Commercial Officer, and Dr Daniel Stiglitz, Director & Co-Founder at Atidia Health.Together, they explore the realities of perioperative care today, including the challenges created by variability in pre-surgery patient management and what that means for both patient safety and system performance.The conversation looks closely at how Atidia Health’s Patient Optimiser Platform (POP) uses clinical decision support and AI to identify risk earlier, support more consistent care, and help clinicians make better-informed decisions without disrupting existing workflows.It also unpacks what it actually takes to implement technology in real hospital settings, from change management and clinician engagement to aligning stakeholders across complex health systems.Along the way, the episode highlights a broader question facing healthcare today: how can we reduce preventable harm while systems grow more complex and clinicians face increasing pressure?This discussion offers practical insights into the intersection of clinical practice, digital health, and real-world implementation, highlighting how smarter, evidence-based approaches can support safer and more reliable patient outcomes.Key Takeaways🔍 Variability in preoperative care leads to inconsistent patient outcomes, with a significant proportion of complications being preventable🤝 Embedding clinical expertise with technology and commercial strategy is essential for building effective solutions like POP⚙️ POP is designed to work within existing healthcare workflows, ensuring support rather than disruption for clinicians and staff💡 Early identification and intervention using data-driven decision support can prevent adverse events and system inefficiencies🚀 Effective change management, cross-disciplinary partnerships, and clear return on investment are critical for successful technology adoption in health settingsTimestamps00:01: Introductions & Atidia Health overview03:23: Preventable complications in perioperative care09:57: Example: Patient risk identification with POP12:29: Integrating technology with clinical workflows16:35: Role and limits of AI in healthcare25:43: Large-scale implementation & change management32:28: Lessons in partnership for healthcare leadersCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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606 - Consumer Engagement Done Right: Designing Digital Health Experiences With Consumers
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Shelley Thomson, Co-Founder and Director of the Patient Experience Agency and host of the Consumer Health Partnerships podcast.They explore what genuine consumer engagement looks like in healthcare and digital health, why it is often missing, and how organisations can move beyond basic feedback towards meaningful, ongoing partnerships with patients and consumers.The conversation unpacks the gap between how healthcare is designed and how it is actually experienced, highlighting how patients move across multiple services and touchpoints while systems often remain siloed.Peter and Shelley discuss why many digital health solutions still miss the mark by focusing on workflows and technology rather than lived experience, and why honest, open feedback is both essential and difficult to capture in practice.They also examine the difference between consultative feedback and true collaboration, and why engagement must be continuous rather than treated as a one-off activity.This episode offers a grounded look at how healthcare organisations can build consumer engagement as a core capability, creating more connected, effective care that better reflects what matters most to the people it serves.Key Takeaways🧑🤝🧑 Consumer engagement is about genuine partnership, not just surveys or one-off feedback.🧭 Building organisational capability is needed—consumer engagement is an ongoing practice, not an add-on.🌏 Digital health solutions often focus on workflows or tech and miss the lived experience of patients.🔑 Honest feedback requires safe environments for open conversations with all stakeholders.🗺️ Patient journey mapping helps identify real issues that sit between services, not just within them.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction01:12 - Shelley Thomson’s background & role02:21 - Defining consumer engagement04:02 - Why it’s often missing06:16 - Measuring what “good” engagement is09:30 - Recruiting the right people13:12 - Common challenges in engagement18:05 - How to start: practical strategies19:59 - Real-world example: dementia journey22:35 - About Consumer Health Partnerships podcastCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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605 - The Cost of Care: Improving Transparency and Access in Australian Healthcare
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Jakomi Mathews, founder and CEO of Goto.health, about the role of technology in improving price transparency, payment workflows, and access to healthcare services for both patients and clinics across AustraliaThe conversation explores how gaps in pricing visibility and payment processes continue to shape patient behaviour and clinic operations, and why these challenges persist despite broader conversations around health system reform.The discussion delves into the origin story behind Goto.health and the real-world experiences that highlighted the need for a more transparent and predictable approach to healthcare payments.It also examines the growing impact of affordability pressures on patients, including delayed care and the risk of bill shock, as well as the operational inefficiencies faced by clinics in managing cancellations, no-shows, and inconsistent cash flow.Beyond these challenges, the episode looks at how digital payment models inspired by other industries can streamline booking and payment processes across different care settings.It also considers broader implications for the healthcare ecosystem, drawing on insights from both Australian and international approaches, and highlights emerging innovations that aim to create a more connected, efficient, and patient-centred healthcare experience.Key Takeaways🩺 Price transparency and accessibility remain major barriers to healthcare; nearly 50% of Australians delay or cancel care due to affordability💳 Goto.health uses a model similar to Uber for healthcare payments, guaranteeing clinic payments and reducing cancellations or no-shows📈 The current healthcare SaaS booking incumbents are still only capturing a small fraction of medical appointments in Australia🦷 The Australian healthcare landscape has significant cost variance, especially in dental care, driving some patients to seek treatment overseas🌏 Regulatory trends are pushing for mandated price transparency, both in Australia and in the US, influencing Goto.health’s roadmapTimestamps00:00 – Introduction & background00:47 – Goto.health origin story02:05 – Clinic workflow challenges03:18 – Price transparency impact07:41 – Out-of-pocket healthcare costs12:02 – Benefits for clinics and patients15:13 – Goto.health’s product in action18:07 – Scaling the model & group implementations21:08 – Payment integrations and industry challenges23:29 – Roadmap and international expansion25:45 – Market context and platform growthCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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604 - Cutting Through the Hype: Healthtech Solutions and Challenges at HIMSS26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Tim Ferris, Vice President of Healthcare Practice for Intersystems, Dr Tom Kelly, CEO and co-founder of Heidi Health, and Hal Wolf, President and CEO of HIMSS, about the evolving role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in addressing challenges in healthcare delivery, data integration, and system efficiency.The conversation explores how real-world pressures such as workforce strain, rising demand, and fragmented systems are shaping the way technology is adopted across healthcare.It looks closely at what makes digital tools succeed in practice, from easing clinical workflows to improving access to meaningful data, and why many past solutions have struggled to deliver on their promise.The episode also dives into the growing impact of AI in clinical settings, including its role in reducing administrative burden and supporting better decision-making.Alongside this, it examines the importance of trust, patient expectations, and the need for systems that are not only innovative but practical, reliable, and built to support care where it matters most.This episode was recorded during HIMSS 2026 in Las Vegas and features conversations Talking HealthTech had on the expo floor with industry leaders and innovators.Key Takeaways🧑⚕️ Technology’s evolving role: AI and large language models are poised to transform healthcare delivery by addressing supply and demand imbalances and supporting frontline clinicians.🔑 Practical implementation challenges: Real-world adoption depends on solving specific clinical problems, ensuring seamless data aggregation, and focusing on user-friendly tools.💸 Funding and adoption incentives: Different healthcare systems (such as the NHS vs the US) adapt AI and technology for cost, efficiency, and clinician satisfaction, affecting the pace and nature of adoption.🤝 Data, trust, and usage: The growth of agents and AI in healthcare introduces new complexities around data ownership, patient trust, and security, requiring new ways to manage access and responsible use.🌏 Innovation across the industry: Global perspectives sync on the value of integrating AI into workflows, from documentation to communication, showing both opportunities and hesitations among clinicians and patients.Timestamps00:00 - Peter Birch: Episode intro02:56 - Tim Ferris, Vice President of Healthcare Practice, Intersystems15:17 - Dr Tom Kelly, CEO & Co-Founder, Heidi Health23:36 - Hal Wolf, President & CEO, HIMSS39:42 - Peter Birch: Episode wrap-upCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotesAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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603 - Transforming Patient Experience with Agentic AI: Reducing Administrative Burden at HIMSS26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Rowland Illing, Chief Medical Officer for Amazon Web Services, about how cloud technology is reshaping healthcare and what that means for the people working within it.They explore the rapid rise of AI and software agents, and how these tools are beginning to change the daily experience for clinicians, patients, and health system operators.They unpack AWS’s dual role as both a global cloud provider and an increasingly active contributor to healthcare solutions, sharing practical examples from health systems and life sciences organisations around the world.The discussion also looks at how infrastructure decisions made today are enabling new models of care, from streamlining administrative workflows to improving how patients access and navigate services.The conversation offers a grounded look at where healthcare is heading, what is already changing behind the scenes, and how technology can support better, more human-centred care when applied with purpose.This episode was recorded during the HIMSS26 conference and captures the latest conversations and innovations at the intersection of healthcare and cloud computing.Key Takeaways🧬 AWS underpins global healthcare and life sciences, supporting drug discovery, health systems, and tech vendors worldwide💻 AI and cloud services enable faster, more scalable solutions in drug discovery, imaging, and genomics🔗 Modular, standards-based services like AWS HealthLake and HealthOmics foster interoperability and innovation for vendors and clinicians🤖 The emergence of AI agents is automating admin tasks, streamlining scheduling, patient interactions, and clinical workflows🙋 Patient education and transparency around AI use remain essential to build trust and improve care deliveryTimestamps00:00 – Episode intro & guest overview01:16 – AWS’s healthcare ecosystem role05:21 – AI in drug discovery and life sciences07:27 – Modular services: HealthLake, Imaging, HealthOmics12:22 – AI agents in patient engagement & admin18:10 – Human element: clinicians and patient care21:01 – AI, uncertainty, and patient education27:16 – Advice for CIOs, CTOs, and next stepsCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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602 - AI and Clinical Coding in Action: Improving Patient Outcomes with Insights from HIMSS26
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, recorded live at HIMSS26, Peter Birch sits down with Troy Kennedy, AVP of Client Partner Technology at Solventum, to explore the evolving role of clinical coding and the growing impact of AI in healthcare.The discussion unpacks how clinical coding underpins care quality, funding models, and system performance, while tracing its journey from manual processes to advanced, technology-enabled workflows.The conversation also dives into the practical application of AI, including how automation is being used to support clinical documentation, improve data accuracy, and ease workforce pressures.It also examines the importance of governance, local context, and human oversight in ensuring AI delivers meaningful and safe outcomes.Drawing on real-world experience, the episode highlights Solventum’s work with hospital systems and offers insight into how health organisations can approach digital transformation in a way that balances innovation with accountability.This episode was recorded during the HIMSS26 conference, capturing industry conversations and innovations showcased at the event.Key Takeaways🛠 Clinical coding is the digital language of health, vital for accurate patient care and health system management🤖 AI and machine learning are transforming clinical coding, enabling automation while retaining the need for human oversight📈 Clinical Document Improvement (CDI) enhances record accuracy, ensuring care is properly reflected and measured💡 Solventum's 360 Encompass platform combines coding, CDI, and quality management for scalable hospital outcomes🔑 Strategic adoption requires trusted partners, regulatory compliance, and understanding the local healthcare landscapeTimestamps00:00 Introduction & Troy’s background01:35 What is clinical coding?03:50 Evolution of technology in coding05:59 Clinical Document Improvement explained09:04 Solventum’s AI tools at HIMSS11:22 360 Encompass platform overview13:19 AI's impact on clinical coding roles15:37 Recommendations for health systems18:56 Key focus areas for Australian healthcareCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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600 - Clinical Evidence at Your Fingertips: AI, Scribes, and the Future of Medical Documentation
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Dr Max Mollenkopf is joined by Dr Tom Kelly to unpack the evolution of Heidi, an AI-powered clinical documentation tool, from its early experimentation in general practice to its growing presence across health systems globally.The conversation traces the realities of building in digital health, including early missteps, product pivots, and the challenge of finding meaningful product-market fit in a complex and highly regulated environment.The discussion goes beyond surface-level AI hype to examine how tools like Heidi are being shaped by real clinical workflows.It explores the practical challenges of integrating with existing practice management systems, navigating regulatory frameworks across different regions, and competing in an increasingly crowded international market.There is also a focus on the rise of AI-powered clinical scribing, the role of large language models, and how these technologies are changing the day-to-day experience of clinicians.Alongside the technical and commercial considerations, the episode reflects on broader questions facing the sector, including safety, interoperability, and the cost of scaling AI in healthcare.It also looks ahead to emerging use cases such as real-time evidence retrieval and patient-facing applications, offering a grounded perspective on where AI is delivering value today and where it may have the greatest impact in the future.Key Takeaways✨ Product evolution and lessons learned Heidi started as a triage and workflow automation tool and shifted focus to clinical AI scribing in response to market needs and advancements in AI models.💬 Integration and interoperability challenges Integrating with practice management systems remains complex and highly dependent on regional vendors and technical standards, highlighting the ongoing struggle for efficient interoperability in healthcare.🌍 Global competition and expansion Heidi's growth strategy and competition vary by country, with different primary competitors in Australia, the UK, and North America, and a keen focus on clinician-centric product development.🛠️ Regulation and medical device territory AI-based clinical tools like Heidi must constantly reassess their compliance with evolving software as a medical device rules, which differ across international markets.🤝 Feedback-driven design Heidi’s freemium model enabled rapid feedback loops from clinicians, shaping product features and spurring adoption in both individual practices and enterprise hospital deals.Timestamps00:00 Heidi’s origins and early pivots03:37 Traction and barriers to product adoption09:01 Pivot to AI-powered scribing14:11 Drivers of Heidi’s growth and market position18:56 Competitors in each market22:45 Evidence product launch and vision29:17 Software as a medical device, regulatory lines37:37 Relationships with PMS providers44:16 Interoperability barriers and national health records52:13 The cost of AI in clinical tools54:40 Expanding to communications and voice products57:32 Consumer-facing applications and future directions59:59 Will AI replace clinicians?--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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599 - Driving Collaboration in Healthcare: Community and Industry Insights at Sparked Hobart
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Kate Ebrill, Grahame Grieve, Dr Chris Moy, Dr John Lambert, Sandra Cook, Dr Jill Freyne, Professor Brett Sutton, and Professor Mark Braunstein about data standards, information exchange, and implementation challenges in Australia’s digital health sector.The discussion explores the Sparked Initiative and its co-design approach to developing national standards, with a focus on creating consistent, secure, and meaningful ways to share health information.The episode also examines what it takes to move from policy into real-world implementation, including the role of infrastructure, vendor engagement, and support for different parts of the health system.Emerging technologies such as AI and FHIR are considered in the context of improving data quality, enabling interoperability, and shaping how health information is created, shared, and used.Across the conversation, contributors provide insights from clinical practice, technical architecture, and national strategy, offering a grounded view of the opportunities and challenges ahead as Australia continues to build a more connected and effective digital health ecosystem.This episode was recorded at the Sparked Community co-design workshops in Hobart, an event dedicated to accelerating the creation and development of national FHIR standards for health information exchange in Australia.Key Takeaways✨ Nationally aligned data standards are essential for enabling safe and scalable digital health innovation across Australia, with implementation and policy alignment now the main focus💬 Sparked focuses on co-design, ensuring data standards are fit for purpose for all Australians through direct engagement with clinicians, consumers, industry, and government🤝 The need for high-quality, standardised data is becoming more urgent as AI adoption increases; clean inputs lead to more reliable outputs🚀 Infrastructure like HealthConnect Australia and a national FHIR repository are being developed to support ecosystem-wide adoption🔄 Tasmania is positioned as an effective testbed for state-scale implementation due to its system structure, highlighting a path for broader national rolloutTimestamps00:00 – Kate Ebrill, Sparked Lead: Event introduction and national objectives03:26 – Grahame Grieve, HL7 FHIR product director: A history and outlook on FHIR development04:54 – Dr Chris Moy, Clinical Co-lead: Clinician and consumer engagement05:25 – Dr John Lambert, Chief Clinical Information Officer, Tasmania: State-scale implementation06:25 – Sandra Cook, Connected Care, ADHA: National implementation infrastructure07:33 – Dr Jill Freyne, Amazon Web Services: Industry implementation momentum08:14 – Professor Brett Sutton, CSIRO Health: Real-time data for clinicians and patients09:23 – Grahame Grieve: Patient empowerment and AI10:15 – Professor Mark Braunstein: The global context and FHIR adoption--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplusAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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604
598 - Behind the Scenes of Medical Software in Australia: MSIA’s Role and Priorities
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch sits down with Emma Hossack, CEO of the Medical Software Industry Association (MSIA), to unpack the often overlooked role of software in keeping Australia’s healthcare system running.The conversation explores how MSIA represents and supports the organisations building the digital infrastructure behind everyday care, and why their work is more critical than most people realise.Peter and Emma dive into the origins and purpose of MSIA, its growing influence on health software policy, and how it is helping shape the governance of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.They also discuss the increasing weight of regulation, the tension between compliance and innovation, and the funding challenges facing local software providers.The discussion offers a practical look at the people and systems working behind the scenes, and why stronger collaboration between government, industry, and clinicians will be essential for the future of digital health in Australia.Key Takeaways💡 Over 95% of Australian healthcare operates on MSIA member platforms, making their work foundational to the sector.🔗 MSIA acts as a bridge between industry and government, shaping and supporting health software policy and regulation.🧑💻 Artificial intelligence in health tech is a major focus, with MSIA developing a voluntary code for unregulated products and leading industry-wide collaboration on AI governance.📊 Regulatory compliance demands have increased significantly, with some software providers now spending up to 80% of their effort on meeting these requirements.🤝 MSIA facilitates collaboration, networking, and knowledge sharing through events, monthly member sessions, matchmaking, and support for overcoming industry roadblocks.Timestamps00:01 — Introduction to MSIA04:00 — Industry impact and membership07:00 — COVID-19 response and digital prescribing12:41 — AI in healthcare and MSIA’s voluntary code19:40 — Regulation vs. innovation in development26:11 — Funding, training, and recent challenges38:37 — Upcoming priorities and activitiesLinks and Resources:The MSIA Voluntary Guide on responsible use of AI - Read More HereThe MSIA 2025 Productivity Brief to Government - Access Here--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full ArticleIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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597 - General Practice in Transition: AI, Technology Adoption and Clinic Operations
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Casey Going, founder of MBSPro and a rural GP, about the evolving landscape of general practice and the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare.The conversation explores the operational pressures facing rural clinics, including workforce shortages, financial constraints, and the realities of delivering care outside metropolitan areas.It also unpacks how technology is being used in real clinical settings, from streamlining administrative tasks to supporting patient triage and improving Medicare billing processes.Broader themes around practice sustainability, recruitment, and the shift towards larger, more specialised clinics are examined, alongside the opportunities and challenges that come with adopting new digital tools.The episode offers a grounded look at how innovation is shaping primary care today, and what the future may hold for practice owners navigating a rapidly changing environment.Key Takeaways🩺 Operational pressures drive tech adoption: Rural clinics face significant recruitment and financial challenges, making technology and AI tools essential for streamlining processes and reducing overhead.🤖 AI enhances efficiency, not replaces staff: Technology is being implemented to reduce cognitive load and repetitive tasks among staff, allowing people to focus on more value-adding activities, not eliminating jobs.💸 Medicare funding misconceptions: Medicare offers rebates, not free care; financial sustainability for clinics requires careful billing and operational strategy as margins remain tight.🏥 Future of general practice: Practices are likely to become larger and more specialised, with AI assistance and a shift toward two tiers of clinics—ultra-lean bulk billing models and comprehensive, tech-enabled fee-for-service clinics.👥 Practice ownership advice: Aspiring owners should seek mentors beyond general practice and embrace technology and business principles from other industries for sustainable operations.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction & guest background03:53 - Rural practice operational pressures07:01 - Balancing clinical care, innovation, and sustainability09:24 - AI implementation examples14:11 - Medicare funding & misconceptions16:41 - Predicted future clinic models19:21 - Accreditation burden & compliance23:16 - Financial sustainability of clinics31:18 - Practical advice for practice owners33:37 - Upcoming MBS Pro features________Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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596 - Smarter Chronic Disease Management & Patient Experience in General Practice
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dan Wijeratne, founder of MyGPMPtool (MGT), and Genevieve McLauren-Lee, a registered nurse and practice manager at My Medical Services Australia.The discussion explores how patient demographics vary across clinics and the evolving role of technology in general practice.It also covers structural changes in care planning within Australian healthcare, along with practical strategies to improve patient engagement and clinician efficiency.The episode unpacks how patient-centric care, effective communication tools, and the balance of business and medicine are shaping sustainable health practices.Key Takeaways🩺 General practice faces diverse patient demographics and challenges🕒 Technology enables faster, more meaningful consultations without compromising patient interaction📝 Structural changes in care planning emphasise patient-centric, team-based approaches🤝 Effective patient engagement depends on meaningful communication and tailored tools💼 Sustainable practice requires tools balancing clinician efficiency, patient experience, and business demandsTimestamps00:00 Introductions & practice overview03:12 Responsive, innovative general practice06:02 Technology's role in patient-GP interaction07:24 Chronic disease vs. preventative care12:24 Health cues and brief assessments14:48 Structural healthcare changes in Australia21:41 Technology supporting patient experience26:06 Balancing patient, clinician, and business needs________Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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595 - How Real Time Sharing and Communication Improve Patient Care and Reduce Ambulance Ramping
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Lars Borup, Clinical Manager at Dedalus, and Andrew Mitchell, Paramedic Clinical Consultant for Australia and New Zealand, about the growing issue of ambulance ramping and the pressures facing paramedics and emergency departments.They discuss the human and operational impacts of patients waiting outside hospitals, and the complex factors driving congestion, from changing social structures to system bottlenecks.The conversation also explores digital solutions for streamlining patient handovers, including real-time data sharing, electronic patient care records, and coordinated care pathways.Drawing on both local experiences and international models from Europe, Lars and Andrew highlight how improved communication between pre-hospital care and hospitals can reduce delays and optimise patient flow.They also show how connecting with primary care providers supports better outcomes across the wider health system.This episode highlights how technology, workflow improvements, and integrated care can transform emergency services.Key Takeaways🔄 Growing demand in healthcare leads to complex ambulance ramping and bed block challenges in Australia and globally👨⚕️ Secondary triage and alternate care pathways are being developed to reduce hospital load📱 Real-time electronic patient care records enable hospitals to prepare more effectively for incoming patients🤝 Seamless communication and integrated data sharing between paramedics, hospitals, and primary care are critical for efficient transitions🚑 Structured digital tools support paramedics in decision-making and workflow, leading to improved patient safety and qualityTimestamps00:00 — Speaker introductions05:19 — Why not just add resources?07:47 — Is ramping just shifting the block?10:23 — Transition and handover points12:23 — Real-time electronic records in Denmark17:26 — Pre-arrival notification in Australia26:15 — Digital support tools for paramedics28:40 — Unified ED and ambulance workflow32:49 — Addressing ambulance ramping: Communication--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplusAnd if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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594 - Building Frictionless Healthcare: Updoc’s Journey to Improving Healthcare Access
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, guest host and clinician Dr Max Mollenkopf is joined by Cliffe Hodgkinson, co-founder of Updoc, to explore the rapidly evolving world of telehealth and digital healthcare in Australia.The discussion dives deep into how Updoc is reshaping access to primary care, using technology to streamline patient intake, triage, and workflow management while maintaining robust clinical governance.The episode also examines the challenges and opportunities of building a digital health business, from recruiting and engaging clinicians with flexible work models to navigating economic pressures and policy changes.The conversation explores patient expectations in the digital age, the practical realities of delivering online consultations, and the ways digital platforms can complement traditional GP services.Cliffe and Max explore what drives patient adoption, how friction points in traditional clinics are being addressed, and what the future may hold for hybrid models of care that blend online and in-person consultations.Key Takeaways🩺 Updoc offers flexible, on-demand telehealth for routine and urgent care across Australia, focusing on accessibility for rural and time-poor patients.🔗 Incremental innovation and listening to user feedback drive continuous improvements in patient intake flows, data integration and care delivery.👨⚕️ Doctors are attracted by hyper-flexible work arrangements, supporting clinicians returning to work and those balancing multiple roles.⚖️ Updoc prioritises clinical governance, developing frameworks for patient safety, credentialing, and collaborating with Patients Australia on digital health standards.💡 Telehealth complements, but doesn’t replace, in-person care, offering new pathways for multimodal, hybrid healthcare delivery in Australia.Timestamps00:00 – Updoc introduction & mission00:05 – Updoc's formative experiences06:47 – Incremental innovation at UpDoc14:30 – Clinician engagement & workforce16:49 – Clinical governance approach22:02 – Accessibility focus: rural/time-poor29:30 – The future of telehealth vs. traditional care38:53 – Potential for hybrid & triage models44:03 – Patient impact story_________Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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593 - Rethinking Private Hospital Care: Technology Integration and Value-Based Models
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, host Peter Birch speaks with Louise Shardey, CEO of Adeney Private Hospital, and William Hadden, Managing Director for Oneview ANZ.The conversation explores how a new private hospital in Melbourne is approaching digital transformation, patient-centred care, and compliance with national standards.It highlights how collaboration between hospitals, clinicians, and technology providers is shaping integrated and seamless patient experiences.Topics covered include the hospital’s “zero out-of-pocket” model, the use of real-time digital tools at the bedside, strategies for reducing waste and improving efficiency, and how technology can support both clinical workflows and compliance requirements.The discussion also examines how data, analytics, and continuous feedback are applied to inform clinical decisions, enhance patient journeys, and design systems and processes that align with patient needs while meeting regulatory standards.Key Takeaways🌱 Starting a private hospital from scratch enables reimagining processes, workflows, and patient engagement, focusing on reducing waste and improving integration.🤝 Collaboration between technology vendors and hospital teams is crucial to achieve seamless data integration, improve workflow, and keep the patient at the centre.📊 Compliance with Australian healthcare standards drives innovation by creating guardrails that help ensure safety, efficiency, and high-quality care without stifling creativity.💡 Digital solutions such as integrated bedside technology, digital rounding, and plans for a digital whiteboard aim to empower patients and staff, support compliance, and enhance patient autonomy and communication.🔗 Continuous evaluation and improvement of digital infrastructure supports scalable success and ensures that adopted technologies genuinely meet clinical and patient needs.Timestamps00:00 - Welcome and guest introductions01:05 - Adeney Private Hospital foundations03:21 - Oneview overview and partnership04:39 - Designing systems from scratch07:17 - Integrating tech at the bedside13:29 - Compliance, data capture, and patient involvement18:41 - The impact of technology on patient outcomes24:14 - Digital whiteboards, real-time evidence, and workflow32:49 - What’s next for Adeney and Oneview--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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598
592 - Technology, Trust, and Transformation: Dr Heidi Baker on Modernising Clinical Practice
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Heidi Baker, an emergency specialist and paediatrician at Podhealth in New Zealand.The episode explores the intersection of clinical practice, digital health adoption, and technology-driven approaches to supporting neurodiversity and developmental paediatrics across New Zealand.Dr Heidi Baker shares her journey as a clinician and business owner, including her transition from emergency medicine to paediatrics and her experiences in setting up a tech-enabled health service.She also discusses her adoption of AI scribe solutions to improve clinical documentation and strengthen patient connections.The conversation dives into the challenges of balancing hands-on patient care with running a private practice, offering honest insights into delegation, workflow, and the emotional demands of generalist medicine.The episode also provides an in-depth look at how digital tools can transform the consultation room, allowing clinicians to spend more time engaging with patients and less on administrative tasks.Key Takeaways🌏 Combining emergency and paediatric care can broaden a clinician’s skillset and approach to teamwork.🧑💻 Setting up a digital health business requires clinicians to delegate non-clinical tasks, leverage tech platforms, and trust others with complementary skills.💡 AI scribe technology is enhancing patient-clinician interaction, reducing admin burden, and enabling better capture of non-verbal cues and clinical details.📝 Transparent communication and consent processes support the adoption of AI documentation tools in clinical practice.🔒 Trust, data control, and careful selection of tech vendors are essential for upholding patient confidentiality and clinician confidence in digital solutions.Timestamps00:02 – Dr Heidi Baker's background and roles00:49 – Paediatrics and neurodiversity focus01:13 – Skills from emergency medicine03:17 – Starting a business as a clinician04:13 – Choosing technology stack06:49 – Delegating and managing capacity07:48 – AI scribe adoption journey09:51 – Transition and patient communication11:47 – Benefits and workflow changes13:49 – Impact on patient care and non-verbal cues16:18 – Advice for clinicians starting with tech18:47 – Balancing tech trust and regulation--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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597
591 - Building Trust in Healthcare AI: Transforming Clinical Trials and Data
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Julie Hoare, VP and Regional General Manager for APAC, Angela Ryan, Lead Healthcare Executive for APAC, and Amita Malik, Senior Director and Health Sciences Product Manager at Oracle Health and Life Sciences.Together, they explore the evolution from Cerner to Oracle Health and the addition of Oracle Health Life Sciences, highlighting how these changes are shaping clinical trials, healthcare research, and patient care in Australia.The conversation examines the challenges facing clinical trials, including fragmented systems, slow recruitment, and complex regulatory processes, and how data and AI are being used to address these issues.The episode also covers the practical application of AI, the importance of trust and governance in digital tools, and the future direction of Oracle Health and Life Sciences in the region.Key Takeaways🧩 Fragmented healthcare and research data remain a barrier to efficient clinical trials and patient outcomes, highlighting the need for unified platforms.🤖 AI and analytics are being used to automate patient-trial matching, improve data quality, and accelerate research outcomes.📊 Leveraging existing EHR data can transform organisations from record-keepers to research-ready institutions, facilitating faster drug development.💡 Building trust in AI adoption is essential, emphasising the role of clinician validation and evidence-based implementation.🌏 Oracle Health is actively collaborating with industry and government to advance the safe, effective use of AI and unified data in health.Timestamps00:00 – Introductions & episode overview03:23 – Challenges in clinical trials in Australia07:54 – The evolution from Cerner to Oracle Health12:59 – AI’s role in healthcare data & trials18:06 – Clinical and practical use cases of AI19:56 – Building trust in AI and digital tools25:20 – AI Centre of Excellence and future directions---------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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590 - From Patient Flow to Operational Efficiency: Optimising Workflows at the Enterprise Level
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Steve Gomes, Executive Director at Rauland Australia and New Zealand.They discuss the evolution of Rauland’s concentric care platform and how it has been integrated into a variety of healthcare environments.The conversation explores critical communication, optimising clinical workflows, and strategies for implementing technology in both new and existing hospital facilities.Peter Birch and Steve Gomes also discuss data-driven approaches to enhancing patient outcomes and operational efficiency across hospitals and aged care.They dive into real-world examples of how Rauland’s concentric care platform reduces delays, improves patient flow, and supports staff, giving listeners an inside look at the practical impact of digital transformation in healthcare.This episode was recorded virtually, following up from a previous in-person interview at Rauland’s offices.Key Takeaways: 🩺 Integrating multiple systems for streamlined clinical workflows, reducing silos in hospital settings📱 Rauland’s Reach messaging solution manages mission-critical alerts and closes communication loops🏥 Technology adapts to existing hospital infrastructure to bring visibility and operational improvements📊 Data from digital journey boards helps reduce patient length of stay and optimise resource allocation🌏 Enterprise thinking supports consistency and scale across hospital networks, benefiting support and cybersecurityTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & context00:39 – Concentric care platform updates02:04 – Rauland’s platform overview03:10 – Mission-critical messaging06:21 – Clinical workflow and emergency department example08:25 – Deploying technology in established hospitals11:54 – Impact in rehab and aged care14:07 – Emergency department operations16:33 – Importance of uptime and reliability17:16 – Enterprise thinking across hospital networks19:01 – Economies of scale with deployment20:17 – Roadmap for Rauland in 202622:17 – Advice for hospital decision makers--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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589 - The Future of Care: Enhancing Patient Outcomes with Digital Health Collaboration
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr. Mina Baumgarten, Head of Business Process and Care Innovation at Vivantes, Dr Dennis Rausch, Chief Medical Officer at Dedalus, and Vinod Seetharaman, CMIO for ANZ at Dedalus.The conversation examines the challenges and strategies involved in large-scale digital health transformations, highlighting the long-standing partnership between Vivantes and Dedalus.It also explores the implementation of electronic medical records, the shift from traditional vendor relationships to collaborative transformation partnerships, and how lessons from Europe can inform Australia’s digital health journey.The discussion provides insights into interoperability, digital maturity, workflow optimisation, and the use of AI to support clinicians.It highlights real-world examples of successes and challenges, demonstrating approaches to building sustainable, adaptable, and effective digital health systems.Key Takeaways🚀 Digital transformation relies on strategic, collaborative partnerships rather than basic buyer-vendor relationships.🏥 Unifying multiple hospital sites under one digital system boosts scalability and efficiency.🧩 True interoperability requires integrating numerous IT platforms to support complex care environments.🤖 AI and automation are being used for clinical decision support, monitoring, and enhancing patient safety.📊 Rigorous evaluation of digital and AI solutions is essential, prioritising real-world demand, measurable benefits, and strategic alignment.Timestamps00:00 — Introduction01:17 — Vivantes health system overview04:40 — Dedalus' long-term partnership history09:06 — Key elements of digital infrastructure17:53 — Interoperability challenges in Australia20:48 — AI and automation use cases25:17 — Innovation implementation standards--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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588 - Clinical Pathways: Improving Patient Journeys and Efficiency with Digital Health Solutions
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, host Peter Birch speaks with Paul Eleftheriou, Principal and Co-Lead of Digital Health at Nous Group, and Rhonda Morton, Australian Director for Strategy and Partnerships at Streamliners, about the role of clinical pathways in modern healthcare.The conversation explores what clinical pathways are, why they are important, how they interact with technology like medical records, e-referrals, and AI tools, and how they can address inefficiencies and improve patient and clinician experiences across Australia.The discussion also dives into the challenges of translating evidence into practice, the impact of fragmentation in the health system, and the critical role of workforce engagement, leadership culture, and patient-centred design.The conversation provides practical insights into how clear, collaborative clinical pathways can reduce clinician burnout, promote health equity, and create a foundation for safe, smart digital innovation.It examines how evidence-based pathways interact with technology such as electronic medical records, e-referrals, and AI tools, and explores strategies to overcome system fragmentation while improving consistency, efficiency, and patient-centred care across healthcare settings.Key Takeaways✨ Clinical pathways standardise care, providing consistent, evidence-based guidance for clinicians and supporting a seamless patient journey across fragmented health systems.🤝 Integrating clinical pathways with digital tools improves communication, reduces inefficiencies, and helps prevent patients from falling through the cracks in a federated healthcare environment.📉 Pathways can address “hidden taxes” on the system, such as unnecessary tests and duplicated processes, unlocking both cost savings and safer care.👩⚕️ Effective pathways reduce clinician burnout by delivering point-of-care tools that streamline decision-making, and must be co-designed with both workforce and patient needs in mind.🤖 Solid foundational systems are needed before leveraging advanced technologies like AI, ensuring that any innovations support, rather than overwhelm, clinicians and patients.Timestamps00:00 — Introduction00:36 — What are clinical pathways?04:49 — Clinical pathways analogy: restaurants06:09 — Pathways as patient journeys07:42 — Digital’s role and “filling the cracks”12:09 — Inefficiencies and hidden taxes16:58 — Interoperability vs. care pathways24:12 — Clinician burnout and enabling workforce28:04 — AI, tech foundations, and implementation41:20 — Future directions for Streamliners--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full ArticleIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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587 - Collaboration, Equity, and Change: Driving Innovation at HiNZ 2025
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch and Rebecca McBeth from HiNZ speak with Hon. Tracey Martin, Darren Douglass, Debbie Hughes, and Alex Kemp about digital health innovation and challenges in New Zealand.This episode explores the latest developments in digital health and aged care in New Zealand, recorded during Digital Health Week in Christchurch, hosted by Health Informatics New Zealand (HiNZ).The discussion covers the digital transformation roadmap for Health New Zealand, highlighting how technology, clinical leadership, and inclusive design are shaping the future of care.The episode examines the challenges and opportunities in residential aged care, including workforce pressures, funding reforms, and the practical use of AI and digital tools to support frontline staff.The evolving role of HiNZ within the health sector is explored, including efforts to foster cross-sector collaboration, drive innovation, and provide long-term governance.The conversation captures insights from industry leaders and practitioners, offering a comprehensive view of New Zealand’s approach to digital health transformation, grounded in practical, human-centred strategies.Key Takeaways✨ The future of aged residential care in NZ faces both political and practical challenges, with technology positioned to streamline processes and enable more human-centred care.🧠 Co-design and direct involvement of disabled people in digital health solutions is crucial; early engagement helps address accessibility and diversity in technological development.💼 Health New Zealand’s ten-year digital investment plan focuses on stabilising infrastructure, modernising platforms with AI and automation, and ultimately transforming clinical care and patient access.🤝 Building trust and breaking down silos in healthcare are priority strategies for HiNZ, fostering connection and collaboration across the health sector.👥 Leadership, change management, and digital upskilling initiatives are central to delivering sustainable transformation for NZ’s health workforce and systems.Timestamps00:00: Introduction00:43: Hon. Tracey Martin - Aged Care Association, NZ07:27: Darren Douglass - Acting Chief Information Technology Officer, Health NZ17:42: Debbie Hughes - Chief Executive, NZ Disability Support Network22:05: Alex Kemp - Director of Engagement/CEO, HiNZ--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full ArticleIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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592
586 - Innovating Aged Care and Cancer Treatment: Inside ANDHealth Unfiltered 2025
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, host Peter Birch speaks with Carmela Sergi, CEO of the Care Economy CRC, Amanda Caples, Victoria's Chief Scientist, Jeff Malone, CEO of the Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD), and Trang Nguyen, CEO and Founder of SeeTreat, about the intersection of digital health, innovation, and commercialisation in Australia.The conversations explore how health technology is designed, implemented, and scaled in real care settings, with a focus on patient outcomes, workforce realities, and practical adoption.The episode includes in-depth discussion on the future of the care economy and how co-design and end-user involvement are driving more effective, compassionate, and practical solutions.The discussion also dives into the emerging role of quantum technology in healthcare, strategies for translating research into real-world products, and how cross-sector collaboration can accelerate home-grown innovation.This episode was recorded during the ANDHealth Unfiltered 2025 event in Melbourne, Australia, and features several discussions that highlight evolving trends and front-line experiences in Australian healthtech.Key Takeaways🧑🤝🧑 The Care Economy CRC focuses on integrating technology and data to uplift productivity and outcomes across aged care, disability care, early childhood education, and more, with a major emphasis on co-design and workforce involvement.🤝 Effective health innovation requires collaboration among government, academia, and industry, with models like ACMD and event conveners like ANDHealth driving partnerships.📉Technology uptake in healthcare faces barriers including workflow integration, clinician overload, and the risk of unintended consequences, making co-design with end users critical to success.🦠 Quantum technologies and advanced analytics are emerging as significant contributors to research, service delivery, and patient outcomes, with Victoria positioning itself as an ecosystem leader.💊 Translation from research to commercialisation is improving in Australia, but ongoing focus on ecosystem navigation, workforce engagement, and industry partnerships remains essential.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction00:28 – Carmela Sergi, CEO, Care Economy CRC08:34 – Amanda Caples, Victoria’s Chief Scientist16:34 – Jeff Malone, CEO, ACMD26:37 –Trang Nguyen, CEO & Founder, SeeTreat--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with others working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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585 - Optimising Patient Flow: Mindset, Metrics, and Continuous Improvement for Hospital Leaders
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Paul Deffley and Nick White from Alcidion about their new handbook on improving patient flow within healthcare systems.The conversation explores why the handbook has been released now, its intended audience, and how its concepts can support leaders and clinicians in enhancing the movement of patients through hospitals.The discussion examines the current pressures facing hospitals, including rising patient demand, workforce challenges, and system inefficiencies, and considers why traditional approaches to patient flow are no longer sufficient.Lessons from other industries are explored, highlighting how principles such as systems thinking and Lean methodology can be adapted for healthcare.The episode emphasises the combination of real-time data, organisational culture, and continuous improvement as central to creating safer, more efficient, and patient-centred hospital systems.Key Takeaways✅ Patient flow is more than implementing digital solutions—real change requires cultural and behavioural transformation within health organisations✅ Real-time, system-wide visibility is critical for effective patient flow management and making data-driven decisions✅ Adopting approaches from other industries, like Lean principles, must be tailored to the unique clinical and operational environment of healthcare✅ Measuring a broad range of indicators beyond standard KPIs (e.g., length of stay, outliers, medically ready to discharge) provides better insights and guides improvement✅ Practical actions like shop floor engagement and prioritising system-wide visibility can drive immediate and meaningful changeTimestamps00:00 – Introduction00:47 – Who the handbook is for and its purpose01:33 – Why address patient flow now02:41 – The importance of system-wide visibility03:39 – Practical tools from the handbook05:29 – Comparing healthcare to other industries07:52 – Customising industry methods for clinical environments08:57 – Differentiating patient flow discussions from electronic patient records10:46 – The challenge of demonstrating return on investment in patient flow initiatives14:30 – Rethinking metrics for measuring success in patient flow17:27 – Actions health leaders can take today19:01 – Actionable advice for immediate implementation20:25 – How to access the handbook--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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590
584 - The Next Wave of Healthcare Payments: Integration, Transparency & Trust
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Pete Williams, CTO of Tyro Health.The episode explores the evolution of healthcare payments, including the transition from Medipass to Tyro Health and the latest trends in digital wallets.It also covers the practicalities of surcharging, regulatory changes, integrated payment solutions, and the potential impact of technologies like stablecoin and PayTo on medical payments for clinics and patients in Australia.Peter and Pete break down what these changes mean for clinics of all sizes, from day-to-day operations to long-term strategy.They discuss how seamless payment experiences can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance patient satisfaction, while also highlighting the risks and challenges practices face in a fast-moving digital payments landscape.The conversation offers practical insights, real-world examples, and a forward-looking view of where healthcare payments are heading.Key Takeaways💳 The shift to digital wallets has reshaped payments in healthcare, with over 90% of card-present transactions now happening via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or similar options.🔁 Surcharging remains a significant consideration for clinics, with around 40% of medical businesses enabling it, though regulations may change.📲 Integration between payment systems and practice management platforms is now common, driving efficiency with over 70% of clinics automating their payment and reconciliation workflows.🪙 Emerging payment innovations such as programmable money and advanced bank-to-bank systems like PayTo have the potential to change how recurring and complex healthcare payments are managed.🏦 Less than 35% of overall healthcare payments are processed through Medicare, making integration with private insurers and funders increasingly critical for clinics.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction00:31 – Changes since Medipass and acquisition by Tyro Health01:32 – Payment technology experiences in healthcare02:46 – Growth of the Tyro Health team03:18 – Clinic perspective on payments04:36 – Impact of digital wallets05:39 – Clinic decisions and recent regulatory changes07:22 – Surcharging rules for debit vs credit cards08:04 – Balancing payment convenience for patients08:43 – Percentage impact of payment costs on clinic margins10:03 – Integrating payments with practice management systems10:52 – Automation and three-way matching in clinics12:29 – Approaches to optimising payments13:53 – Programmable money, stablecoin, and use cases15:46 – Payment innovation and health system challenges17:01 – Distributed autonomous organisations17:21 – PayTo, direct debit, and recurring payments20:37 – Integrating more funders and improving patient experience22:29 – Wrap up and resources--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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583 - Navigating Health Technology Assessments: Overcoming Barriers to Patient Access
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Associate Professor Colman Taylor and Alasdair Godfrey from HTANALYSTS about the evolving landscape of health technology assessment in Australia.The conversation explores how regulatory change, patient engagement and real-world evidence are reshaping the way new technologies are assessed, funded and adopted.It also examines the challenges health tech companies face when bringing innovation to market in Australia and across international settings.They share practical insights into what these changes mean for innovators, clinicians and policy-makers navigating an increasingly complex system.This episode looks at how value is defined beyond the limits of clinical trials. It also highlights why patient experience and practical implementation are becoming increasingly important in decisions about health technology.Together, these insights offer a grounded and timely perspective on the forces shaping the future of Australian health technology.Key Takeaways🔍 The "valley of death" is a significant hurdle for Australian health tech innovators, where promising technologies struggle to secure funding and market access.💡 Health Technology Assessment (HTA) frameworks are adapting to consider new dimensions such as equity, patient-centred outcomes, and system impact, beyond traditional cost and clinical effectiveness.👥 Patient engagement is increasingly recognised as critical, with patients now actively involved in advisory boards and decision-making processes, offering perspectives beyond those of clinicians.📊 Real-world evidence is helping to fill gaps left by clinical trials, providing insight into system readiness, implementation feasibility, and outcomes for diverse populations.🌏 International policy changes, particularly from the US and UK, are influencing Australia’s HTA processes and impacting access to innovative therapies for patients.Timestamps00:00:00 – Introduction00:02:05 – Overview of HTANALYSTS and their purpose00:03:26 – The “valley of death”00:05:56 – Explaining Health Technology Assessment00:07:09 – Traditional metrics vs. evolving HTA frameworks00:08:33 – Government reviews in HTA00:10:46 – The role of patient engagement and inclusion in HTA00:12:29 – Application of patient engagement00:14:10 – Real-world evidence: its role and impact00:16:27 – Faster access, data barriers, and implementation challenges00:18:21 – Agility in assessment processes00:20:09 – Examples of flexibility in healthcare guidelines00:22:26 – What innovators can do now00:23:47 – MFN policy changes in the US00:26:07 – HTANALYSTS’ role as middlemen bridging stakeholders00:27:15 – Lessons about collaboration, evidence, and early alignment00:29:06 – Importance of implementation00:29:55 – Future directions--------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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582 - North Star vs Shiny Star: Supporting Healthcare Workers and Patient Outcomes with AI
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dominique Powis, Chief Technology Officer at Infomedix, Dr John Lambert, Chief Clinical Information Officer for the Department of Health Tasmania, and Dr Jill Freyne, Health Industry Lead at Amazon Web Services.They discuss the practical applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare and explore its real-world operational impact.The conversation also includes insights from attendees during a live Q&A session, offering a unique opportunity to hear questions and challenges directly from healthcare professionals and technology leaders.The panel dives into real-world use cases of AI, including diagnostics, predictive analytics, improving patient outcomes, and boosting administrative efficiency.They also examine the critical importance of governance, privacy, and practical implementation when integrating AI into everyday clinical workflows.This episode was recorded live at AWS in Sydney, Australia, and is supported by Infomedix, providing an up-close look at how healthcare AI is being applied in local and global contexts.Key Takeaways ⭐ Clear problem definition, high-quality data, and context-specific solutions are crucial to successful AI applications in healthcare🤖 Predictive AI currently offers proven impact in areas such as diagnostics and early detection, while generative AI introduces unique challenges🧑⚕️ Human-centred design, usability, and workflow integration are critical to successful technology adoption and patient benefit🔒 Privacy, compliance, and ethical guardrails must evolve with technological advancements, particularly in data handling and patient confidentiality🌏 Sustainability, change management, and continuous improvement are essential considerations in deploying and scaling AI across the health ecosystemTimestamps 00:00 – Introduction & event overview02:00 – Panellist introductions & AI use cases06:35 – AI pattern recognition benefits08:39 – Sniff test for viable AI solutions10:23 – Administrative AI applications12:45 – Impact opportunities: patient & clinician14:28 – Administrative vs clinical AI focus15:35 – Evidence and business cases for ambient scribes20:06 – Guardrails and governance in AI22:35 – Change management for AI rollouts26:30 – Practical advice: North Star vs shiny distractions32:09 – Audience Q&A: patient privacy, data use37:39 – Use of AI in culturally diverse aged care settings44:06 – AI risks, safety, technical guardrails48:11 – Sustainability and long-term impact----------Want to keep the conversation going? The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full ArticleIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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581 - Advice and Guidance in Practice: Improving Equity and Outcomes for Patients and Clinicians
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with a panel of healthcare experts, including Stephanie Hodgson, physiotherapist, health project manager and industry PhD candidate at ConsultMed; Dr Shoma Dutt, paediatric gastroenterologist and senior staff specialist at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead; Dr Matthew Lam, GP and clinical advisor to ConsultMed at Riverstone Family Medical Practice; Charlie Winstanley, general manager of cardiovascular at Guy’s and St Thomas’s NHS Foundation Trust; and Dalia Croxton, senior project manager for digital health and business systems at Mater Group.The conversation dives into the evolving role of advice and guidance (A&G) models in shaping patient outcomes, clinician workflows, and healthcare access across Australia and the UK.The panel discusses practical benefits, such as reducing wait times, improving triage, and supporting GPs to manage complex cases more confidently.Gain insights into how digital referral pathways and emerging technologies like AI are changing the way specialists and primary care providers collaborate.This episode also highlights lessons learned, the importance of leadership and culture, and the challenges that remain in making A&G work effectively for both clinicians and patients.Key Takeaways👩⚕️ Advice and guidance (A&G) allows GPs and primary care providers to obtain timely specialist input without formal referrals, helping address outpatient waitlists and geographical inequities in access to care.🚀 Examples from paediatrics, mental health, endocrinology, and other specialties show A&G resolves a significant proportion of referrals, keeping patients managed in primary care or redirecting them to more suitable services.🌏 Both Australian and UK health systems are implementing A&G at scale, with New South Wales and Queensland adopting statewide models and the NHS seeing significant appointment diversion, reducing waiting times and improving resource use.🤝 Effective A&G relies on streamlined workflows, bi-directional communication between primary and specialist care, clear referral criteria, and support for GPs as central care coordinators.🤖 The future of A&G may include multidisciplinary expansion, integration with allied health, and advanced technology such as AI to improve efficiency and access for patients—while ensuring the focus remains on better outcomes and equity.Timestamps0:00 – Introduction1:18 – Stephanie Hodgson defines advice and guidance3:02 – Dr Shoma Dutt shares real-world impacts in paediatric gastroenterology 5:32 – Dr Matthew Lam describes case studies where A&G adds value and boosts equity9:54 – Stephanie Hodgson discusses the impact of data and equity 13:01 – Dr Shoma Dutt on developing a statewide referral criteria 16:43 – Charlie Winstanley talks about A&G adoption 23:11 – Panel consensus on key ingredients for scaling A&G: leadership, technology, education, making it frictionless for GPs, and measuring impact33:07 – Dalia Croxton on A&G transparency for patients35:20 – Charlie Winstanley and Stephanie Hodgson explore future directions40:21 – Dr Matthew Lam on keeping patient outcomes at the centre-------Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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580 - Beyond Episodic Care: How Digital Health Platforms Transform Care Coordination
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Nalaka Withanage, CEO and co-founder of Data Capture Experts, the organisation behind the Digital Health Platform DC2Vue.The discussion explores the fragmentation of data in healthcare and the importance of longitudinal care records.They also examine the evolving role of digital health platforms compared to traditional EHRs, along with the opportunities and challenges associated with artificial intelligence and data governance in healthcare innovation.Dive into the practical steps healthcare organisations can take to build strong data foundations, improve interoperability, and create workflows that truly support person-centred care.The conversation also goes beyond the hype around AI, examining how real value emerges only when technology is underpinned by complete, accurate, and context-rich data.Key Takeaways🗂️ Data fragmentation in healthcare is a core challenge, often caused by the use of multiple, siloed systems across various care settings.👩⚕️ Longitudinal care records provide a continuous, patient-centred view across different healthcare touchpoints, improving care coordination and outcomes.🔑 Foundational data quality and integration are essential for enabling advanced analytics, artificial intelligence adoption, and workflow optimisation.🔒 Privacy, consent management, and security, using principles like zero trust, must be embedded in digital health platforms to balance innovation with safety.🚀 To unlock the full value of AI in healthcare, organisations should focus on strong data foundations, process-oriented thinking, and workflow automation before layering in advanced technologies.Timestamps00:00:00 — Introduction00:01:25 — Why data fragmentation persists in healthcare00:02:54 — What is a longitudinal care record00:03:59 — Highlighting benefits of longitudinal health records00:05:08 — Differences between Digital Health platforms and traditional EHRs00:07:38 — The role of AI in digital health00:11:12 — Balancing innovation with privacy, security, and governance00:14:04 — Key advice for healthcare CIOs on leveraging data and AI00:15:14 — The roadmap for DC2 View and trends in virtual care and remote patient monitoring———Want to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here: View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.Mentioned in this episode:Sign Up to the Free Talking Healthtech NewsletterSign up to the free Talking HealthTech newsletter for weekly digital health news, events, jobs, partner updates and Pete’s take on what matters across the sector: talkinghealthtech.com/newsletter
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Conversations with clinicians, vendors, policy makers and decision makers to promote innovation and collaboration for better healthcare enabled by technology. Learn about digital health, medical devices, medtech, biotech, health informatics, life sciences, aged care, disability, commercialisation, startups and so much more.
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