Faces of Digital Health

In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, host Tjasa Zajc sits down with Nasser Arif, a Cybersecurity Manager for two NHS Trusts in Northwest London. The conversation moves beyond the technical "bits and bytes" to explore the human element of security. Nasser explains his daily routine of balancing urgent patient-care fixes with long-term strategy and emphasizes that effective cybersecurity in a hospital setting requires a deep understanding of clinical workflows. The dialogue covers the impact of high-profile attacks like the 2024 Synnovis incident, the importance of "cyber-hygiene" in personal life as a bridge to professional safety, and the evolving regulatory landscape of the NHS. Nasser argues that cybersecurity is moving away from being a sub-department of IT and emerging as a standalone profession critical to patient safety.

1 view Mar 19, 2026 In-person video interviewsThe European Health Data Space (EHDS) isn't just a new regulation—it’s a "Magna Carta" for healthcare innovation. In this interview from the Smart Bridges Event, we sit down with industry expert Dennis Geisthardt, Head of digital.lab, to break down the implementation timeline (2025–2031) and what it means for the pharmaceutical industry, medtech, and patients across Europe. We dive into the "Countdown to 2027," the challenges of intellectual property vs. data sharing, and how opening up access to clinical data could finally unlock breakthroughs for rare diseases and personalized medicine. In this video, you’ll learn: The 3 major milestones of EHDS implementation (2027, 2029, 2031). Why "Primary Use" vs. "Secondary Use" of data matters for your healthcare. The risks and rewards for the private sector and Big Pharma. How EHDS could revolutionize market access (AMNOG) and AI-driven drug discovery. 00:30 – Introduction: The Smart Bridges Event 03:45 – Why EHDS is a 100-year milestone for healthcare 04:30 – The role of the private sector in co-creating the framework 04:10 – What is EHDS? Primary vs. Secondary data use explained 05:00 – The Timeline: The "Countdown" to 2027, 2029, and 2031 06:30 – Who is a "Data Holder"? (Hospitals, Pharma, & MedTech) 07:45 – Industry Challenges: IP Rights, Trade Secrets, and Competition 08:50 – Revolutionizing Market Access (AMNOG) through data 09:40 – A "Magna Carta" for Rare Diseases and AI Research 10:30 – Identifying why therapies work (or fail) using broader datasets 11:20 – Closing: Why EHDS requires a "European Village" to succeed

Are we overhyping AI in healthcare before building the foundations? In this interview from the HIMSS Global Conference, Anne Snowden (Chief Scientific Research Officer, HIMSS) breaks down the latest data on global digital health maturity. We discuss why "Person-Enabled Health" is lagging, how countries like Germany are using data to transform their hospital systems, and why the shift from disease management to proactive prevention is the only way to save our healthcare economy. Topics covered: - The 4 dimensions of digital health transformation. - Why AI requires better data governance and interoperability. - Comparing digital progress in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. - The role of "Agentic AI" in supporting patients at home. Video: https://youtu.be/6e8pzH_VslE?si=y6b6y89IoTgtw5at www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: www.facesofdigitalhealth.com

How is AI actually changing the day-to-day life of a clinician? In this episode, we sit down at the Smart Bridges GmbH Digital Health Excellence Forum in Frankfurt with Dimitri Varsamis PhD, Senior Programme Manager, Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust and Georgi Nalbantov, PhD, Chief AI Officer at Hospital Zdraveto. They covered the impact of AI on the clinical workforce: 🎯 The Administrative "Wraparound": How AI is tackling the PDF-heavy burden of patient record review. 🎯 The Shadow AI Trend: Why doctors are using ChatGPT "under the table" and how hospitals should respond. 🎯 Vibe Coding: Can a doctor build an app without knowing how to code? 🎯 The Intelligence Debate: Is AI de-skilling the medical profession or just evolving it? 🎯 The Data Dilemma: Why 97% of healthcare data is still unused and how AI might finally fix it. Video episode: https://lnkd.in/dzpMuvrU www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: http://fodh.substack.com/

Denmark has been a digital health frontrunner for over two decades. In this episode, recorded live in Barcelona, Morten Elbæk Petersen, CEO of sundhed.dk, shares how Denmark launched its national patient portal in 2002 — long before most European countries began digitizing patient access. Now, as Denmark prepares for a major health reform culminating in the establishment of Digital Health Denmark in 2027, the country is modernizing legacy systems, strengthening cybersecurity, integrating secondary data, and shifting care from hospitals to homes. This conversation explores what long-term digital maturity really means — the benefits, the legacy challenges, and the governance reforms shaping Denmark’s next chapter.

In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, Tjaša Zajc speaks with Dale Atkinson, a stage 4 oesophageal cancer patient who was told he had 11.5 months to live—and who is still alive today. Dale shares how he applied his compliance and investigation skills to healthcare: reading thousands of research papers, building a research-grounded AI workflow to sense-check drug interactions and pathways, and learning how to communicate with clinicians to be taken seriously. We discuss patient agency, the doctor–patient relationship, the promise (and risks) of AI for patients, the digital divide in healthcare, and why quality of life must be central to care decisions. Dale also shares how his journey led to new work in patient advocacy, the Beyond the Standard foundation, and the Clear Path Clinic vision for integrative oncology and wellness. Topics include: patient empowerment, AI in patient journeys, evidence-based complementary approaches, healthcare equity, clinician workload, prognosis anxiety, and new patient-led models of care. TIMESTAMPS (CHAPTER-STYLE) * 00:01 Intro: why patient agency matters more as systems strain * 04:12 Dale’s story begins: diagnosis after wife’s lung cancer + mother’s death * 07:22 Stage 4, inoperable, palliative care: the emotional impact * 08:31 Asking for a timeline: why Dale wanted prognosis data * 09:18 How a financial crime investigator becomes a “patient investigator” * 10:55 The deep dive: thousands of papers, books, and expert conversations * 12:09 Where AI enters: building a research-grounded model for sense-checking * 15:00 Standard of care + complementary approach (not “alternative”) * 16:08 Friction with clinical advice; nutrition and chemo trade-offs * 17:48 Choosing treatments based on quality of life and realistic benefit * 20:06 When Dale felt the trajectory could change: from survival to stability * 21:11 Anxiety, recurrence risk, and “no evidence of disease” vs remission * 24:46 Missed symptoms, dismissal, and why patient agency is learned the hard way * 28:32 “Love-hate” to collaborative: a new model for doctor–patient dynamics * 32:16 How to communicate to be heard: bite-sized, stakeholder-specific info * 35:28 Clinicians under pressure: emotional load and “factory line” care reality * 37:58 AI impact in the patient community—and why it’s accelerating * 40:27 Digital divide concerns: will digital skills determine outcomes? * 42:36 AI and emotion: pessimism loops, “horror statistics,” and mental safety * 45:02 A new career: Beyond the Standard, Clear Path Clinic, book, advisory work * 49:25 Closing reflections and thanks Video: https://youtu.be/VeIZkRraxWc www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, host Tjasa Zajc sits down with Bart de Witte for a candid conversation on what agent-based AI really means for healthcare. Recorded during a car ride in Ljubljana, the discussion explores why healthcare needs an operating system for AI agents, the risks of agent autonomy, privacy-by-design through on-device AI, and why monolithic EHRs struggle with the next generation of clinical workflows. Bart also shares his vision for open, decentralized AI ecosystems, certified clinical agents, and swarm intelligence and explains why Europe may be uniquely positioned to lead this shift. A practical, forward-looking episode for anyone working at the intersection of healthcare, AI, and digital infrastructure. Youtube video version: https://youtu.be/F_GRfIbqJJM?si=qheSsKvcg6WXUqTU

As artificial intelligence rapidly enters healthcare, bold claims about replacing doctors dominate headlines. But on the clinical frontline, the reality is far more complex. In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, oncologist Dr. Derrick Khor shares an unfiltered view from inside the NHS, unpacking what AI actually changes — and what it doesn’t. Rather than framing AI as a threat, the conversation explores how it already supports clinicians and patients alike: simplifying complex medical information, helping patients understand their diagnoses, and accelerating access to evidence. Yet the biggest constraint isn’t technology — it’s data. Without reliable access to their own health records, patients and AI tools alike remain limited. The discussion also tackles a growing contradiction in healthcare systems: simultaneous staff shortages and doctor unemployment. Training bottlenecks, hiring freezes, pay erosion, and misaligned workforce planning have created a situation where well-trained clinicians struggle to find roles, even as demand for care continues to rise. Beyond workforce pressures, Dr. Khor explains why most health tech never makes it into daily clinical use. Solutions often fail not because they’re unsafe or ineffective, but because they don’t fit real workflows. If technology adds friction even a single unnecessary click — clinicians won’t adopt it. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/

Ambient documentation is becoming normal in clinics. But the most interesting “voice” capability may not be transcription at all.In the latest episode of Faces of Digital Health, Henry O'Connell (Canary Speech) explains why voice biomarkers stalled for decades: the field analyzed words, not the neurological signal behind speech production.Canary’s approach focuses on the “primary data layer”—how the central nervous system drives respiration, vocal cord vibration, and articulation in real conversational speech. A few details that stood out: ⏱️ ~45 seconds of conversation can be enough for assessment 🎛️ 2,590 voice features analyzed every 10ms (millions of data points) 🎯 Reported accuracy: 98%+ for progressive neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s/Huntington’s/Alzheimer’s), while behavioral health tends to be lower (often in the 80s) 🌍 Validation is repeated per language/culture—no “deploy and hope” model 🧭 Use cases go beyond diagnosis: screening in primary care, clinical trials outcome tracking, and even in-room aggression risk signals to help protect staff One line that captures the idea: it’s about measuring what’s present in the moment—objective signals that complement clinical judgment. Time stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Voice Biomarkers in Digital Health 01:48 Historical Context and Evolution of Voice Analysis 06:52 Innovative Approaches to Voice Data Analysis 08:54 Technical Insights into Voice Analysis 16:07 Accuracy and Efficacy of Voice Biomarkers 28:27 Challenges and Acceptance in Clinical Practice 35:04 Ethical Dilemmas in Genetic Testing 36:32 Understanding Genetic Information and Its Implications 37:58 Objective vs. Subjective Assessments in Mental Health 39:59 Proactive Care and Early Detection of Cognitive Decline 42:43 Technology in Wellness and Employee Mental Health 45:18 Data Privacy and Ethical Considerations in Health Tech 49:06 Remote Monitoring and Clinical Trials 01:00:57 Future of Health Technology and Global Expansion Youtube: https://youtu.be/662VfHhdSFQ?si=t80_PblCf1L6dv4V Website: www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

The conversation explores the impact of robots on mental health and their role in healthcare. Anthropologist Tanja Ahlin and Faces of digital health host Tjasa Zajc discuss the fascination with robots, the ambiguous identity of robots, their use in elder care, the challenges of integrating robots, the global perspective on robots, and the misconceptions and realities of robots. The conversation explores the impact of technology on different generations, the role of individual choices in technology use. The speakers also talk about concerns about children and technology, the role of parents, and the impact of technology on human development and creativity. It also emphasizes the importance of optimism and flexibility in adapting to technology. Chapters 02:00 The Fascination with Robots 15:01 Robots in Elder Care 14:15 The Global Perspective on Robots 20:46 Misconceptions and Realities of Robots 29:57 Technology and Generational Sensitization 35:19 The Role of Technology in Creativity 44:28 The Societal Impact of Technology 51:54 The Biological and Psychological Impact of Technology

In this episode, Dipak Kalra, President of the European Institute for Innovation through Health Data, joins Faces of Digital Health to break down the real progress (and real gaps) in European health data, from legacy “hybrid” paper/digital workflows to the underused potential of clinical decision support that depends on structured data. We explore what EHDS changes—especially the promise of a standardized, downloadable patient dataset—and what it could unlock for patient-facing apps, analytics, and more active self-management. We also tackle the hard questions: how to protect citizens from misuse and scams, how opt-out choices might create bias in research and AI, why “beating clinicians with a stick” won’t fix data quality, and why delays aren’t just bureaucratic—they can translate into avoidable harm. 02:00 The State of Healthcare Data in Europe 07:59 Challenges in Data Interoperability 12:31 The Role of Patients in Data Management 16:37 AI and Data Privacy Concerns 22:01 Patient Consent and Data Usage 28:00 Optimism for the Future of Health Data 31:03 Optimistic Futures for EAGDS 33:02 Preparing for EHDs: Readiness and Challenges 35:48 Data Quality and Workforce Challenges 37:58 Delays and Future Discussions on EHDs 39:53 The Urgency of Health Data Readiness 42:38 The Evolving Role of Patients in Healthcare 50:19 Building Trust Among Healthcare Stakeholders 57:58 The Future of Healthcare Data Discussions

Ali Parsa is a serial entrepreneur known for founding companies that challenge traditional models of healthcare delivery. Over two decades, he has built organizations at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and systems redesign—each shaped by an ambition to make care more efficient, accessible, and equitable. In this episode, Tjasa Zajc and Ali Parsa explore how agentic AI is redefining healthcare and what it really takes to build transformative companies in a fast-shifting world.Ali dives into why healthcare remains stuck in an economic imbalance—unlimited demand but constrained clinical supply—and why autonomous, real-time AI agents may finally rebalance the system by taking over 20–30% of routine clinical tasks. He explains how Quadrivia builds agents that can talk to patients, follow multi-step workflows, and operate within strict guardrails to avoid hallucinations and workflow drift.But this episode goes far beyond technology. Ali opens up about entrepreneurship:• why speed is the only real advantage startups have,• how to hire “missionaries, not mercenaries,”• why products must be excellent from day one,• how processes must be simplified and rebuilt for speed,• and why losing control—even briefly—can cost a company everything. 04:00 The Quest for Differentiation in Healthcare 09:21 AI Agents: Revolutionizing Clinical Tasks 12:42 Building a Reliable Knowledge Base 15:17 Ensuring Workflow Integrity in AI 19:46 Global Expansion Strategy of Quadrivia 22:58 Navigating Trust and Cultural Differences 26:04 Competing with Giants in the AI Space 30:22 Agility in Decision Making 31:15 Lessons from Babylon's Legacy 33:08 The Importance of Speed in Entrepreneurship 35:59 Navigating Failure and Success 39:44 Optimizing People, Product, and Processes 41:25 The Role of Luck in Entrepreneurship 47:14 The Birth of Quadrivia 49:04 Insights from Global Healthcare Markets www.facesofdigitalhealth.com http://fodh.substack.com/

In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, we sit down with Anne Forsyth, Hospital leader in clinical applications from Women's College Hospital in Canada, to explore how AI — especially generative AI — is reshaping daily clinical practice. Over the past two years, enthusiasm for AI has skyrocketed inside hospitals, with clinicians themselves requesting new tools rather than resisting them. We discuss the cautious but deliberate rollout of AI scribes, the still-emerging trust in decision-support AI, and the safety and change-management considerations that mirror (and sometimes exceed) traditional IT implementations. Anne offers an honest look at the financial challenges of sustaining AI tools in publicly funded health systems and shares practical advice for hospitals navigating funding models, clinical buy-in, and responsible innovation. Show notes: 01:50 – Current AI Implementations 03:21 – Safety and Risk Considerations 04:00 – Comparing AI Rollouts to Traditional IT Tools 05:10 – The Business Equation: Funding AI in Public Healthcare 06:20 – Advice for Hospitals on Sustainable AI Adoption 06:40 – Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Clinical Applications www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/

In this Faces of Digital Health episode Dr. David Dodick, Chief Science and Medical Officer at the Atria Health Institute and Co-Chair of the Atria Research Institute talks about brain health, dementia prevention, the rapidly evolving science of Alzheimer’s, and how digital tools and AI are transforming care. We also cover why women face higher Alzheimer’s risk, the microvasculature’s role in cognition, and the biggest leap in migraine treatment: CGRP-targeting therapies. A must-watch if you’re curious about prevention, personalized risk, and which consumer tech is actually useful today. Dr. David Dodick trained at the Mayo Clinic and served on the faculty there for more than three decades. At the Mayo Clinic, he founded the Neurology Residency Program, the Headache Fellowship Program, the Sports Neurology and Concussion Program, the Migraine and Headache Program, and co-founded the Vascular Neurology/Stroke Program. What you’ll learn: 1. How much dementia is realistically preventable—and how to lower your risk 2. Why amyloid ≠ destiny, and what “biological vs. clinical” Alzheimer’s means 3. The role of sleep, hearing, blood pressure, metabolic health, and social connection 4. Smart wearables that matter (AFib, BP, CGM) and what’s just hype 5. How AI “diagnostic orchestrators” could supercharge clinicians and empower patients 6. Migraine red flags (when to go to the ER) and the CGRP revolution in treatment

Stephen Ryu, a neurosurgeon and key figure in the Stanford Neuroprosthetics Lab joins Tjaša Zajc on Faces of Digital Health to demystify brain–computer interfaces (BCIs): how they work, why invasive systems outperform non-invasive ones, realistic use cases (motor control and speech), timelines and durability, safety and MRI trade-offs, cybersecurity, business models, and what Paradromics is building as a high-bandwidth BCI platform. Throughout, Stephen separates science fact from sci-fi, stressing near-term potential to restore communication and movement for people living with paralysis, while noting earlier-stage areas like mental health and pain. What we cover: - Invasive vs. non-invasive BCIs, and why electrode proximity to neurons matters for performance - Decoding motor intent and speech: training, language considerations, and LLM-enabled synthesis - Safety, surgery, and durability (why 10-year implant lifespans are a meaningful target) - MRI/CT compatibility trade-offs (and parallels to pacemakers/DBS) - Cybersecurity realities (what BCIs can not do today) - Business models, regulation, and reimbursement paths for medical-grade BCIs - Paradromics’ differentiation: a high-bandwidth platform designed to scale across use cases - Future indications: pain, sensory restoration; earlier stage: mental health biomarkers - The human impact: restoring connection for people who can’t move or speak Chapters: 01:37 How BCIs work; signals, decoding, invasive vs. non-invasive 07:13 Surgery basics, risks, and why proximity boosts performance 09:36 Decoding speech & language considerations 13:31 What’s most advanced today: motor + speech 14:58 Mental health: biomarkers and why it’s early 17:48 Longevity, MRI/CT limits, realistic replacement intervals 21:16 Patient perception: fear, performance, and value vs. alternatives 25:04 Paradromics’ platform & high-bandwidth approach 29:22 Platform use cases by brain area (motor, auditory, etc.) 31:18 Cybersecurity: risks today vs. sci-fi 32:35 Business models, regulation, and access 36:42 Trials landscape; Paradromics’ timeline 37:53 Biggest concerns: hype vs. reality 39:50 Three things everyone should know about BCIs 42:10 Potential in pain management 44:41 Role of AI/ML in decoding and assistive apps 46:36 Final thoughts www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

Mazin Gadir, a regional expert in digital health strategy, Director with Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare and Life Sciences in Dubai, reflects on the Middle East’s evolution from early EMR adoption to AI-driven healthcare. From Dubai’s innovation playground to Abu Dhabi’s depth in research, he explains how rivalry between Gulf states fuels progress and why exporting tested models to Africa and beyond is the new norm. He also questions the myth of leapfrogging, pointing out that fragmentation and lack of research remain barriers. This candid conversation explores regulation, interoperability, and the role of academia in sustaining innovation. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ 00:00 – Introduction: blockchain hype and digital health evolution 01:00 – From EMRs to health information exchanges in the Middle East 03:00 – The impact of COVID-19 on digital transformation 04:30 – Rise of patient empowerment and consumerization of healthcare 05:30 – The missing role of academia and research in the region 07:00 – Comparing Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s different innovation models 09:00 – Dubai as a playground for testing, Abu Dhabi for research depth 10:30 – Rivalry across GCC states as a driver of innovation 12:00 – Exporting Gulf digital health models to Africa and beyond 14:00 – Challenges of scaling across Middle Eastern countries 16:00 – Interoperability: current maturity and pilgrim use cases 18:00 – Opportunities and limits of leapfrogging 20:00 – The role of academia and sustainability of innovation www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/

In this interview, healthcare futurist Reenita Das, Partner at Frost&Sulivan, Healthcare Changemaker, voted top 100 women in Healthtech and Femtech, reflects on the balance between rapid digital health innovation and the human side of care. Speaking from WHX Tech in Dubai, she highlights why empathy, kindness, and caregiving remain essential despite the rise of AI. She also shares insights on the UAE healthcare system—its sophistication, inequities for migrant workers, and opportunities in mental health and digital innovation. Drawing from her experience in 10+ healthcare systems worldwide, Reenita compares global approaches and emphasizes food and lifestyle as drivers of health outcomes. 00:00 – Introduction and reflections on WHX Tech conference 01:00 – Why the human side of healthcare is more important than ever 02:30 – Risks of AI reducing clinician-patient time 03:30 – What AI can and cannot do in healthcare 05:00 – UAE healthcare system: sophistication and inequities 06:30 – Migrant workers and challenges of access to care 07:00 – Comparing healthcare systems across the US, Japan, and India 08:30 – Food and lifestyle as drivers of health outcomes 09:30 – Digital health opportunities in the UAE (mental health, diagnostics, aggregation) 10:30 – Misconceptions about women, culture, and technology in the UAE 11:30 – Advice for startups entering the region www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/

Dr. Sam Shah is a clinician, advisor, and former startup founder. At WHX Tech he sat down with Tjasa Zajc to discuss the future of dentistry, oral health, and broader digital health innovation. He explains why dentistry has lagged behind other specialties, how oral health connects to overall wellbeing, and why the UAE stands out as “the most digitally connected place on the planet.” Sam highlights government-backed sandboxes, integration engines, and lessons other countries can learn from the Emirates—while also pointing to persistent challenges in standards, interoperability, and prevention. Show notes: 00:00 – Introduction and Sam’s journey from dentistry to digital health 01:00 – Innovations in dentistry: apps, smart toothbrushes, imaging AI 02:00 – Why dentistry lags behind in digital adoption 03:00 – Oral health and its impact on overall health and wellbeing 04:00 – The social determinants of oral health 05:00 – Career across multiple domains: public health, startups, law, economics 06:00 – Why global solutions can’t simply be “lifted and shifted” 07:30 – What makes the UAE stand out: digital connectivity and government support 08:30 – Key government initiatives: Malaffi and Dubai Sandbox 10:00 – Cooperation between federal and emirate levels 11:00 – Lessons for other countries: leadership that listens 12:00 – Areas for improvement: standards, interoperability, prevention 13:00 – Longevity, wellness, and the need for value-based care

At WHX Tech, cybersecurity expert Dr Leila Taghizade, Group Head of Cyber Risk Management / CISO IberoLatAm at Allianz, breaks down what every individual—and every hospital—should know about protecting themselves in 2025. From the basics of stronger passwords and two-factor authentication to the risks of free apps and third-party tools, she explains in clear terms why “there’s no such thing as free lunch” in cybersecurity. Leila also highlights the dangers of phishing, the vulnerability of medical devices, and how AI both helps defenders and lowers the cost of attacks. Show Notes 00:00 – Introduction: why cybersecurity basics matter in 2025 00:30 – Strong passwords, two-factor authentication, limiting app permissions 02:00 – Giving apps only the access they really need 03:00 – Cybersecurity in healthcare: medical devices as weak links 04:30 – Default passwords and firmware updates as major risks 05:30 – Phishing: why reporting is critical for protection 07:00 – Everyday cyber hygiene: logging out, password managers 08:30 – AI’s impact on cybersecurity: lowering cost of attacks, improving defense 10:00 – The risks of free apps and third-party tools 11:00 – Data leaks and how AI tools may unintentionally share information 12:30 – AI as a double-edged sword: prevention vs. risk 14:00 – Final advice: caution doesn’t mean fear, but informed use www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

Did you know that the lifetime prevalence for experiencing a sexual problem is above 70% for women and 55% for men? And when we talk about the problem in conjunction with the distress, it's 25% in women and around 20% in men. So one in four women has the problem right now they are silently suffering because of various issues - challenges discussing issues with their doctor, inadequate awareness among physicians and more. In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, we dive into a topic often overlooked in healthcare: women’s sexual health and sexual distress. Clinical psychologist and sex therapist from Charite, Berlin Selina Marie Kronthaler discusses the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, why sexual distress is still underdiagnosed, and the impact on relationships and quality of life. We explore how digital health tools and evidence-based interventions are being developed to support women in navigating sexual pain, arousal disorders, and emotional challenges in a private, accessible way. The conversation highlights the gaps in current healthcare training, the role of gynecologists, and why femtech innovation and funding are critical to addressing an underserved area that affects 1 in 4 women. E-Mail: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selina.kronthaler/ (German Therapy Website: https://www.selinakronthaler.de/) www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

In this thought-provoking conversation, surgeon Shafi Ahmed and digital health futurist John Nosta revisit Geoffrey Hinton’s bold 2016 prediction that radiologists would soon be replaced by AI. 🔍 Topics covered: Why AI hasn’t replaced radiologists yet—and what’s holding it back The role of large language models in diagnostics and clinical practice The debate over accuracy, intuition, and the “art” of medicine Accountability and liability when AI makes mistakes in healthcare The deeper question: is AI truly intelligent, or does it think in a way fundamentally different from humans? 💡 Shafi and John don’t always agree—but together they explore the future of medicine, the limits of technology, and the ethical, clinical, and philosophical challenges that will define healthcare in the AI era. 02:02 Introduction and Debate Overview 02:17 AI in Radiology: Predictions vs. Reality 04:00 Challenges in AI Implementation 06:32 Generative AI in Clinical Practice 08:50 Ethical and Regulatory Concerns 10:19 Philosophical Perspectives on AI 16:39 Accountability in AI-Driven Healthcare 19:57 AI's Cognitive Differences and Impact on Healthcare 21:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

India’s journey in digital health began just over a decade ago, yet it has quickly grown into one of the most ambitious transformations worldwide. It started in 2012 with maternal and child health programs, expanded to cover non-communicable diseases, and gained momentum with the launch of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) in 2020. At the heart of ABDM is the ABHA ID—a unique 14-digit health identifier for every citizen. Combined with registries for facilities and professionals, and a consent-based health information exchange, India has laid the groundwork for a truly interoperable system. So far, over 800 million ABHA IDs have been created. Yet, only around 20% of facilities and professionals are onboarded, with adoption challenges in the private sector. Ritesh Aeron is a distinguished digital health expert and program management specialist with a strong track record of driving large-scale health systems transformation through digital innovation. He currently serves as a Director at the Equitable Global Healthcare Foundation (EGHF), a role he has held since April 2025. In this discussion he explains: What is the current state of healthcare digitalization in India? How did India’s digital health journey start and evolve? What is the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and how does it work? What is the ABHA ID and why is it important? How does interoperability and consent-based data exchange function? How many people and facilities are onboarded so far? What challenges remain in adoption and regulation? How is data being used for population health and surveillance? What role does AI and innovation play in care delivery? How open is the Indian market for global providers? How is AI affecting both healthcare delivery and the software workforce?

Healthcare technology has long promised efficiency, but for many clinicians, the reality has been different: burnout, frustration, and time stolen from patient care. In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, Tjasa Zajc spoke with Coray Tate, VP of Clinical Research at KLAS Research, about what the data actually reveals about burnout, electronic health records (EHRs), and the role of new technologies like ambient speech and AI. Key takeaways: Culture matters more than technology choice. The Arch Collaborative found that execution and organizational support around EHRs matter more than the specific vendor. Burnout isn’t primarily caused by EHRs. Instead, clinicians report that feeling unheard and disconnected from leadership drives dissatisfaction. The Middle East stands out. Collaboration-focused cultures there show significantly lower burnout rates than the U.S. or Europe. Ambient speech is delivering results. Across ~25 health systems, burnout rates dropped by 12% after adopting ambient documentation tools. AI will redefine expectations. We are at the cusp of moving from “taskmaster” EHRs to supportive assistants that reduce cognitive load and help clinicians reclaim personal time. The future of healthcare technology isn’t just about smarter systems — it’s about listening, collaborating, and ensuring that innovations help clinicians live better lives inside and outside the hospital. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZAhDhrNZu0

In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, host Tjasa Zajc speaks with Dr. Sabine Kapasi, a physician, UN strategist, and founder of a Enira Consulting focused on bridging policy, tech, and clinical practice. The discussion explores the evolving landscape of healthcare in India, touching on digital transformation, rural access challenges, innovative diagnostics, and the role of AI. India’s large population, digital payment infrastructure, and widespread smartphone adoption are unique assets in transforming care delivery. However, gaps in infrastructure, rural clinician availability, and systemic fragmentation remain hurdles. Dr. Sabine emphasizes the importance of human-centered care, especially in the context of AI adoption. Topics covered: Current Public Health Challenges in India Rise in infectious diseases during monsoon Double burden of NCDs and communicable diseases Vaccination Success Polio eradication and near-universal childhood vaccination Demographics & Governance Young population Strong centralized governance aiding digital health Digital Infrastructure UPI adoption Smartphone saturation in rural and urban areas Healthcare Delivery Landscape High access to medications but low access to diagnostics Urban-rural doctor imbalance Role of frontline workers Role of Technology AI in CDSS Mobile diagnostic kits Digital ID (ABHA) and EHR integration Telemedicine and eSanjeevani platform Barriers to Digitization Over 10,000 HIS vendors Lack of mandated digital infrastructure Provider reluctance due to tax implications and informal payments Innovation in Diagnostics Liquid biopsy alternatives for early cancer detection Scalable, low-cost rapid tests suited for Indian climate The Human Element Importance of human touch in healthcare Health as a community-driven concept Future Opportunities GenAI in clinical training and diagnostics Insurance as a digital health accelerator Localization of clinical trials and precision medicine

AI has revolutionized drug discovery by enabling scientists to process vast amounts of historical data, thus accelerating the identification of disease targets and molecule development. AI helps avoid past mistakes and improves the quality of research, making it an indispensable tool in the lab. MSD's approach to AI involves a blend of internal talent and strategic partnerships. By combining computational and web science expertise, MSD ensures that both technological and scientific endpoints are effectively addressed, says Matt Studney, SVP of Research Labs at MSD. Topics addressed: Internal vs. External AI Development at MSD Global Data Management Challenges Generative AI's Impact on Drug Discovery Confidential AI Systems and Documentation Challenges in AI Integration Workforce Upskilling and Cultural Change Future Breakthroughs and Concerns Synthetic Data and Drug Repurposing www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/pgCz-tgHaL0

This discussion covers the global impact of digital health technologies in making healthcare more sustainable and improving health outcomes. The conversation centers on a fundamental question: should we prioritize building better healthcare systems or cultivating healthier populations? Bogi Eliasen, a sought after keynote speaker and advisor for health leaders globally, stresses the urgency of early intervention, particularly in the context of chronic diseases, to ease the growing burden on healthcare systems. He advocates for a shift from reactive to preventative care, emphasizing the role of digital technologies in enabling this transition and improving outcomes at scale. Key barriers to progress include political and commercial inertia, short-term policy thinking, and the escalating costs of acute care. The interview draws on success stories, such as the Nordic Health 2030 Vision, which aims to redesign healthcare to be more preventative, personalized, and data-driven. Innovative applications of existing technologies in regions like Latin America and Africa are also highlighted, showcasing how local solutions can deliver significant improvements in access and care delivery. The conversation further explores the need to reimagine workforce structures in healthcare and underscores the importance of embedding dignity at every level of care. Looking ahead, the focus is on harnessing advanced technologies holistically and strengthening public-private partnerships to accelerate meaningful, equitable change in global health systems. Topics: 01:13 The Importance of Early Action in Healthcare 02:51 Primary vs. Secondary Prevention 05:05 Challenges in Healthcare Systems 06:36 The Role of Public-Private Partnerships 09:14 Nordic Health 2030 Vision 22:36 Digital Health and Global Impact 26:19 Addressing Cardiovascular Disease in Ghana 27:36 Cancer Screening Initiatives in Peru and South Africa 28:24 Challenges in Scaling Healthcare Across Borders 29:49 Rethinking Health Systems for Better Outcomes 31:37 The Role of Primary Care in Latin America 32:43 The Importance of Health as a Societal Driver 33:22 The Future of Healthcare: From Sick Care to Health Care 37:57 The Concept of Dignity in Healthcare 40:46 Emerging Innovations in Global Health 44:12 The Role of AI and Data in Personalized Healthcare 48:28 Movement Health Foundation's Vision for the Future Youtube: https://youtu.be/z6eF6z1H8CM www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/

Jessica Morley, postdoctoral researcher at the Yale Digital Ethics Center joins Faces of Digital Health to discuss the overlooked aspects of AI, including biases, ethical issues, and common misconceptions. AI is not new, magical, or truly intelligent; its roots in healthcare trace back 30 years. While AI is often seen as infallible, it is merely statistical prediction and lacks semantic understanding, which excludes it from genuinely grasping human concepts like pain. Jessica remains skeptically optimistic about AI, noting its potential in scientific advancements and operational efficiency but doubting its transformative impact on diagnostics and patient care. The conversation also highlights the regulatory landscapes in Europe, the UK, and the US, each with varying approaches to AI regulation. Jessica emphasizes the unavoidable nature of bias in AI, advocating for more thoughtful adoption and regulation to ensure AI benefits everyone without deepening biases or relying excessively on surveillance. The discussion concludes with insights into ongoing research aimed at shifting focus from individual health optimization to maximizing population health. 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health and AI 02:21 Debunking Myths About AI 06:13 The Potential and Limitations of AI in Healthcare 11:10 Global Regulatory Landscape for AI in Healthcare 19:36 The Impact of AI on Personalized Medicine 34:41 Addressing Bias and Ethical Concerns in AI 38:39 Future Research and Conclusion www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/jW_p-w39wD8?si=Q34VZdDJPsmzOg44

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare presents both opportunities and challenges that demand careful consideration. The complex interplay between innovation, regulation, and ethical governance are central themes at the heart of global discussions on health AI. This dialogue was brought to the forefront in a recent conversation with Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of Health AI - Global Agency for Responsible AI in Healthcare. Understanding Health AI and Its Mission Health AI, the global agency for responsible AI in health, is at the forefront of steering the development and adoption of AI solutions through collaborative regulatory mechanisms and global standards. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube:

Can video games really save lives? In this episode of Faces of Digital Health, we sit down with Anca Petre to explore the booming intersection of gaming, virtual reality (VR) and healthcare. From Fortnite maps that teach immunity to Roblox worlds that demystify diabetes, we showcase real-world success stories and practical steps for health organizations that want to level-up patient engagement. What you’ll learn 2:00 Intro & why gaming matters in 2025 4:05 Success story #1 – Fortnite immunity map 8:40 Success story #2 – Minecraft mental-health build 11:55 How creator economies (Fortnite Creative, Roblox, Minecraft) open doors for health innovators 16:10 Budgeting & ROI: making the business case 20:30 4-step framework for your first health-game project 26:45 Overcoming stigma & regulatory hurdles 31:00 Future outlook: VR, digital therapeutics & beyond Key takeaways Gaming isn’t just entertainment—it’s a powerful storytelling engine for complex medical topics. Creator platforms already host millions of engaged users: meet them where they play. Partner with influencers and studios to translate clinical insights into immersive worlds. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/sENyLJmk9wc?si=nCDKGtPqdwtqtv6Q

Jack Kreindler is physician, explorer, and CEO of WellFounded, who studies human performance, resilience, survivorship, and longevity. He emphasizes the distinction between longevity, which caters to the fear of death, and health span, which focuses on expanding vitality and ensuring good quality of life in the finite years we have. The discussion dives into human performance medicine and its application beyond elite athletes to everyday individuals and patients in critical conditions. Kreindler talks about integrating human performance science with traditional medicine, improving health outcomes, and assessing current medical practices such as prehabilitation in oncology. He also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on public health perception, the rise in self-directed healthcare, and the importance of mental health and human connection for overall well-being. Show notes: 01:03 Human Performance Medicine: Beyond Athletes 02:31 Integrating Human Performance with Traditional Medicine 06:00 Prehabilitation and Cancer Treatment 11:59 Metabolic Flexibility and Health Optimization 19:41 Founder's Health Program: A New Approach 23:02 Impact of COVID-19 on Health Perception 28:59 Introduction to the Program 29:33 Performance Medicine and Testing 31:37 Mindset Shift During COVID 32:54 Longevity and Healthspan Aspirations 36:34 Challenges and Motivations for Fitness 44:56 Impact of Technology on Health 51:30 Human Connection and Health 55:43 Conclusion and Podcast Information Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOc5reFMk8k&t=7s www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

Philippe Habets is a Dutch physician-scientist and entrepreneur specializing in computational psychiatry and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare. He is co-founder of Evidence Hunt, a health-tech company aimed at revolutionizing medical literature discovery using AI. The AI-powered platform that streamlines the process of finding, analyzing, and utilizing medical evidence, enabling users to access summarized, evidence-based answers with cited sources in seconds. This discussion covers: Why measuring resilience with data is so elusive How Evidence Hunt reduces search fatigue for clinicians and researchers The philosophical challenge of translating emotions into data What makes a good prompt when searching for medical knowledge Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8tC0B4NvpM www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

Starting Summer 2025, researchers and innovators across Europe will be able to apply for access to one of the largest pseudonymized health datasets in the EU—via Germany's Health Data Lab at BfArM. In this discussion, Head of Health Data Lab (BfArM) Dr. Steffen Heß, scientist with has extensive experience in combining scientific expertise with data analysis in the healthcare sector, talks about conditions to access and analyse data from the Health Data Hub, differences between digital twins, synthetic data and real world data and more. 📊 Covering 95% of the population, the dataset includes: Claims data from 95 statutory health insurers Linked electronic health records (from 2025) 💡 Who can apply? Anyone under GDPR jurisdiction with a research project aligned with public interest (medical research, health system improvement, epidemiology). Industry is welcome too—as long as the purpose complies. https://fodh.substack.com/ www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Youtube: https://youtu.be/CltdPRvz_9w #healthdata #digitalhealth #EHDS #AI #research #Germany #syntheticdata #healthinnovation #datasharing #privacy

Fidelia Cascini is Digital Healh expert engaged by the Italian Ministry of Health on European and national initiative. She recently wrote a book on secondary use of data in healthcare, read it here: Secondary Use of Electronic Health Data Public Health Perspectives, Use Cases and Challenges https://link.springer.com/book/10.100... This conversation covers the categorization of electronic health data, the importance of distinguishing different data types, and the potential applications and challenges in digital health. We also explore healthcare systems' digitalization, patient data privacy, the European Health Data Space (EHDS), and future public health perspectives. Learn about patient-generated data, clinical trials, and the significant role of digital health advancements in shaping the future of healthcare. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbSCXUhIDZ8 Show notes: 01:08 Diving into Different Categories of Health Data 01:35 Discussion on Secondary Use of Data in Europe 02:16 Call for Listener Feedback 03:07 Starting the Interview with Felia Kini 03:36 Importance of Distinguishing Data Types 04:38 Challenges in Using Different Data Sources 06:38 Real-World vs. Clinical Trial Data 07:19 Patient Preferences and Medication Adherence 09:31 Most Suitable Data for Secondary Purposes 10:32 Patient Generated Health Data 11:53 Discussions Among Health Ministries 13:09 Trustworthiness and Integration of Digital Tools 17:45 Patient Reported Outcomes in EHRs 19:35 European Health Data Space (EHDS) 29:55 Patient Control Over Data 33:47 Barriers to EHDS Success 37:13 Public Health Perspectives and Global Changes 40:14 Conclusion and Future Perspectives 42:20 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events

Fidelia Cascini is Digital Healh expert engaged by the Italian Ministry of Health on European and national initiative. She recently wrote a book on secondary use of data in healthcare, read it here: Secondary Use of Electronic Health Data Public Health Perspectives, Use Cases and Challenges https://link.springer.com/book/10.100... This conversation covers the categorization of electronic health data, the importance of distinguishing different data types, and the potential applications and challenges in digital health. We also explore healthcare systems' digitalization, patient data privacy, the European Health Data Space (EHDS), and future public health perspectives. Learn about patient-generated data, clinical trials, and the significant role of digital health advancements in shaping the future of healthcare. www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbSCXUhIDZ8 Show notes: 01:08 Diving into Different Categories of Health Data 01:35 Discussion on Secondary Use of Data in Europe 02:16 Call for Listener Feedback 03:07 Starting the Interview with Felia Kini 03:36 Importance of Distinguishing Data Types 04:38 Challenges in Using Different Data Sources 06:38 Real-World vs. Clinical Trial Data 07:19 Patient Preferences and Medication Adherence 09:31 Most Suitable Data for Secondary Purposes 10:32 Patient Generated Health Data 11:53 Discussions Among Health Ministries 13:09 Trustworthiness and Integration of Digital Tools 17:45 Patient Reported Outcomes in EHRs 19:35 European Health Data Space (EHDS) 29:55 Patient Control Over Data 33:47 Barriers to EHDS Success 37:13 Public Health Perspectives and Global Changes 40:14 Conclusion and Future Perspectives 42:20 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events

In the evolving landscape of work life balance expectations workforce dynamics is reshaping the future of medicine. Dr Amanda Herbrand, clinical data specialist at the University Hospital Basel and former oncologist, shares her insights on this transformation, highlighting the critical role of technology and shifts in physician careers in healthcare. Dr. Herand shares her transition from oncology to healthcare IT and the challenges and solutions in integrating clinical expertise with IT systems. The host and Amanda explore changing workforce expectations, the role of technology in alleviating clinical burdens, and the importance of digital health literacy. The conversation also covers clinical data modeling, international collaborations, and the future vision of healthcare IT development. 00:00 Introduction to Faces of Digital Health 02:00 Interview with Dr. Amanda Herand 02:27 Transition from Oncology to Clinical Data Specialization 04:36 Challenges and Observations in Healthcare IT 11:35 The Role of Digital Health Literacy 14:39 Clinical Data Modeling at University Hospital Basel 27:41 Future of Healthcare Data and Precision Medicine 32:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube:

🩺 57% of patients lie to their doctors, says Dr Jérome BOUAZIZ, CEO of One Clinic. Not maliciously—but out of discomfort, stigma, or fear of judgment. Whether it's drug use, alcohol, sleep issues, or mental health, these omissions can have life-altering consequences. On the other side, many doctors avoid asking sensitive questions. Not because they don’t care—but because of time constraints or uncertainty about how to handle the answers. At One Clinic, a new approach flips this dynamic. ✅ Patients complete a 60–100 question digital pre-consultation. ✅ Responses feed into validated clinical scores (like STOP-BANG for sleep apnea). ✅ Doctors receive structured, AI-supported insights before the visit begins. ✅ Every consultation becomes a "Personal Opportunity for Prevention"—even if the visit was for something as routine as a UTI. This model doesn’t replace doctors with tech. It supports them, enabling faster, smarter decisions that reflect the patient’s full picture. 💡 The secret? Technology as a non-judgmental intermediary. Patients open up. Doctors stay focused. Prevention becomes practical. Tune in to the full discussion recorded at the Digital Health Excellence Forum in Berlin on Youtube: ▶️ https://lnkd.in/dpchqkfP 📽️ www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

NextMed Health in a healthtech and biotech conference exploring the most forward thinking ideas and topics in healthcare. Taking place in San Diego, a four day programme covered topics such as latest developments in AI, aging, increasing lifespan and longevity, addressing mental health and exercise through VR, and more. In this special episode of Faces of digital health, Gary Monk and Tjasa Zajc reflect on the key findings through additional discussions with: Anthony Chang, MD, MBA, MPH, Founder, AIMed. Chief Intelligence & Innovation Office, Children's Hospital of Orange County Daniel Kraft, MD, Founder & Chair, NextMed Health. Bayo Curry-Winchell, MD, Founder, Beyond Clinical Walls. Urgent Care Medical Director, Saint Mary's Health Network Steven Brown, AI developer, Coder, founder, investor, filmmaker Jennifer Garrison, PhD, Professor, Buck Institute. Co-Founder & Director, ProductiveHealth.org Eric Topol, MD, Founder and Director, Scripps Research Translational Institute What's covered: 𝐀𝐈 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 ▶️ Case Study – Stephen Brown ▶️ Custom AI Tool Development: Brown built his own AI-based application using various LLMs (OpenAI, Anthropic, Gemini), emphasizing data cleaning, model cross-evaluation, and reliability testing. Anthony Chang: Claimed it will soon be unethical not to use AI in areas like radiology, where AI improves diagnostic accuracy. 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐈 𝐮𝐬𝐞: ▶️ Lack of AI education among clinicians. ▶️ Absence of AI strategies in hospitals—often even lacking data governance. ▶️ Misaligned financial incentives across stakeholders. ▶️ Bias and Representation 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 & 𝐎𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 ▶️ Ovaries Beyond Reproduction: ovaries regulate broader systemic health via signaling pathways (like “Wi-Fi”), impacting bone, skin, and possibly all organs ▶️ Gaps in Research 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐤 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐞 Eric Topol’s View: ▶️ Real progress in longevity stems from data-driven insights (organ clocks, plasma proteomics) and predictive risk modeling—not supplements or unproven interventions. ▶️ AI enables individualized, timed risk prediction for major age-related diseases (cancer, heart disease, neurodegeneration). 🛑 🛑 Warned against overreliance on consumer-grade longevity services offering generalized, possibly irrelevant tests. RESOURCES If you haven't yet, read the newsletter "NextMed Health Day 1: An Update on AI, AI agents and Agentic AI in Healthcare" https://lnkd.in/dzHQsiMC See recaps from Gary Monk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garywmonk/ Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTZGXjAFMWk&t=33s www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

The news of the year for UK healthcare in March 2025 was the announcement of the abolishment of NHS England. Many people welcome the move, expecting the healthcare system in the UK to become more efficient. If we look at the history, NHS is under constant restructuring - in the past, for digitalization efforts, two entities were established - NHS X and NHS Digital, and were later merger into NHS England. A few years ago 200+ commissioning groups were restructured into 42 integrated care systems. In this discussion Liam Cahill, Founder of Together Digital, Digital Advisor to Organisations and Healthtech Advisor talks about the impact of the latest restructuring and expected impact. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XB3XXtxvfag&t=19s www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

6% of the hospital budget, EPIC and 100 healthcare IT systems. That's the description of the infrastructure in the Cleveland clinic London. CIO Raihaan Mughal likes to emphasize CEOs are concerned about three things: 1️⃣ Increasing revenue 2️⃣ Reducing cost 3️⃣ Mitigating risk When investing, Cleveland clinic is mindful of Return on investment, return on employee. When it comes to AI, CIO Raihaan Mughal says: "Take your time, be skeptical about vendor promises." Cleveland Clinic in the US is running a pilot comparing 5 ambient solutions before they sign a long-term contract. Tune in to the full discussion with Raihaan, recorded at the Digital Health Excellence Forum by Smart Bridges GmbH in Berlin. Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dKzBrAxS www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

In early March HIMSS Global (https://www.himssconference.com/), the currently biggest global gathering about healthcare IT took place Las Vegas. A few tens of thousands of people visit HIMSS Global every year, it can take 20 minutes to get from one session to another in another building, therefor preparation and planning are key. This year, the key topic seemed to be how are companies embedding AI in their solutions. Hospital leaders talked about cybersecurity, and political uncertainty impacting the future of digital health development. I asked a few participants at HIMSS Global, who are also speaking at HIMSS Europe in Paris in June 2025, about their reflections on the content at HIMSS. You will hear from: Guido Gunti, Chief Digital Officer at St. James Hospital, Ireland Mathew Little, Chief Nurse Information Officer (CNIO) & Associate Chief Nurse, Gloucestershire Hospital NHS Trust, UK Rasu Shrestha, Executive Vice President, Chief Innovation & Commercialization Officer at Advocate Health, USA, Henrique Martins, Associate Professor in Health Management & Leadership, Portugal, Rachel Dunscombe, CEO of openEHR International www.facesofdigitalhealth.com https://fodh.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@facesofdigitalhealth

This short episode will address some of the trends shaping the future of healthcare: agentic AI, Longevity efforts, Uncertain policy in light of the current US government. You will hear from Daniel Kraft - founder of NextMed Health - a unique interdisciplinary community dedicated to catalyzing and accelerating the arrival of a new, human-centric, technology-enabled health age. NextMed Health is a very special event, focused on updates in biotech, policy, convergence of technology and expectations of the future. Daniel shared his views on: the expectation that the current US government will not regulate AI and how will this impact healthtech, what will be covered around longevity and health span at NextMed , Innovations in the brain-mind-body connection and more. Expect updates on the conference at: Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@facesofdigitalhealth Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjasazajc/ www.facesofdigitalhealth.com

When it comes to cancer, prevalence is increasing and there is still a lot we don't understand about the factors and causes of cancers. Many studies have clearly demonstrated the benefits of biomarker testing for cancer therapy. However, broadly speaking, roughly 30% of cancer patients are eligible for targeted therapies based on their tumor profile. And even when the biomarket is present, roughly 30% of the eligible patients respond to these treatments. We have a lot more to uncover. In the discussion you are about to hear, I spoke with Luka Ausec - an expert in the field of biology and computational science. He works as the Chief discovery officer at Genialis, RNA biomarker company which develops and validates clinically actionable biomarkers informed by the world’s most ethnographically diverse cancer data sets to better predict patient responses and guide treatment decisions for targeted inhibitors, immunotherapies, and other emerging therapeutic classes. Luka oversees internal R&D and external partner projects, with the common goal of advancing therapeutic discovery through the rigorous application of data science. Luka’s expertise in biology and computational disciplines makes him uniquely adept at innovating solutions at this nexus. He believes a successful discovery process is built on clear lines of communication and unwavering scientific integrity. In addition, Luka directs the implementation of Genialis’ products. We discussed the current state of cancer research, role of computational science in drug discovery, clinical decision support development and response predictions development in the field of cancer. Read more on cancer research and digital health in our newsletter: https://substack.com/home/post/p-78204410 Website: www.facesofdigitalhealth.com Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/

This episode of Faces of Digital Health explores how digital health solutions can be evaluated for quality and reliability. Tjasa Zajc speaks with Vice President of Digital Medicine Society (DiMe) Doug Mirsky and Boston Children’s Hospital SVP and Chief Innovation Officer John Brownstein about the DIME Seal, a certification designed to help hospitals and clinicians identify trustworthy digital health software. John discusses the challenges hospitals face in selecting and implementing digital tools, emphasizing the resource-intensive nature of evaluation. The DIME Seal aims to reduce this burden by setting a baseline quality standard across evidence, usability, privacy, security, and equity. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing digital health startups, including funding shifts, AI competition, and sustainability concerns. Doug highlights the early success of the Seal and the role it plays in helping both adopters and developers navigate the digital health landscape. The discussion closes with reflections on how digital health innovation will evolve, the role of regulatory bodies, and advice for startups in 2025’s competitive market. Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLkyU4LulVk&t=3s Website: www.facesofdigitalhealth.com #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #HealthTech #DIMESeal #MedicalSoftware #AIinHealthcare #DigitalTherapeutics #Telemedicine #HealthIT #MedicalApps