As the world continues to change, so does the landscape of healthcare. The integration of technology and innovation has led to significant advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and overall delivery of healthcare services. In this episode of Talking HealthTech, experts from diverse backgrounds gathered at the Australian Healthcare Week 2024 to discuss the potential of digital transformation in healthcare, the impact of AI, and the global healthcare challenges and opportunities.

Australian Healthcare Week was the perfect platform for healthcare leaders to share their insights and experiences. Numerous discussions revolved around how integrating technology helps advance patient experiences and the healthcare ecosystem.

Dr Emily Kirkpatrick, Executive Medical Director at Calvary-Medibank Joint Venture (CMJV), discussed the future of healthcare, emphasising funding and system reform. Utilising virtual and digital technologies to deliver care, particularly within homes and supported independent living settings, can bridge many gaps in healthcare access.

Changes in funding models are needed to meet the healthcare needs of multicultural communities and individuals with disabilities. This reform is necessary to create a sustainable system that adapts to the constantly evolving healthcare landscape. Modern funding models can ensure that resources are allocated more effectively, and patients receive the necessary care.

Healthdirect Australia's implementation of an AI Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) exemplifies how collecting and acting on feedback can refine healthcare technology.

Nirvana Luckraj, Chief Medical Officer, highlights how the CDSS has been customised to match Australian-specific needs, reflecting ongoing improvement. Feedback from nurses and consumers is invaluable in refining digital tools. Nirvana also shared how healthcare events internationally provide essential global insights, enhancing the scope and understanding of care models. These insights contribute towards the continuous improvement of healthcare solutions, ensuring they are patient-focused and address the unique needs of diverse populations.

Ken Saman, CEO of Personify Care, explained how a digital consent pathway developed alongside a geneticist has reshaped informed consent for genetic testing. They recently partnered with Professor Chris Barnett and the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health in South Australia to develop a digital consent pathway for children undergoing genetic tests. This addresses the issue of long waitlists for such tests and ensures proper informed consent from patients and parents. Innovations like these signify the importance of digital pathways in improving patient outcomes and providing them with a seamless care experience. Providing these pathways digitally ensures a higher quality of consent and better prepares patients for their medical journeys.

Tim Deveson, Account Director at Genesys, elaborated on patient and employee experiences in the digital health space, specifically focusing on patient access and omnichannel engagement. Tim discusses how using self-service bots and digital channels augments patient experience and enhances operational efficiency. These digital tools are crucial in providing patients with timely information and support while freeing up care advocates to focus on high-value tasks.

Dr John Lambert, Chief Clinical Information Officer at NT Health, emphasised the value of bridging the communication gap between clinicians, executives, and IT specialists. With extensive experience in the public sector, Dr Lambert used his unique background as an intensive care specialist and anaesthetist to illustrate the importance of clear communication in driving healthcare improvements. It’s crucial to speak a language that resonates with both clinicians and executives to drive effective decision-making.

Gareth Sherlock, former Chief Information Officer at Cleveland Clinic London, has extensive experience in managing large transformations within healthcare. Gareth’s experience highlights why standardised practices are essential for consistency and quality across healthcare settings. Standardisation ensures that best practices are upheld and that patients receive consistent, high-quality care regardless of location. It is essential to build a culture of gratitude within organisations, engage stakeholders effectively, choose the right partners, implement robust governance structures, and adhere to financial stewardship.

Patient-centric care is no longer a concept but a reality in modern healthcare. Voni Leighton, Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Vitalis Healthcare at Home, emphasises the power of collaboration and its benefits to patients. The key to better healthcare is working alongside former colleagues and friends, creating a network committed to patient-centric care delivery. Vitalis Healthcare at Home has been instrumental in pushing the envelope for at-home care services. By forming strategic partnerships within the healthcare industry, Vitalis Healthcare at Home has effectively met patients’ needs in the comfort of their homes.

Successful digital transformation requires cultural adaptation, stakeholder engagement, effective governance, and choosing the right technology partners.

Australian Healthcare Week 2024 has shown that the future of healthcare lies in strong collaboration, continuous innovation, and a patient-centred approach. As we embrace digital tools and new methodologies, we must ensure that these solutions are accessible and beneficial for all. The fusion of clinical wisdom and digital prowess is the key to unlocking healthcare's full potential.

Original Article: https://www.talkinghealthtech.com/australian-healthcare-week-2024