In this episode of AXREM Insights, hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington speak with Richard Coldrick from Elekta and Declan McGregor from Fujifilm Healthcare about the evolving role of AXREM's Service and Operations Special Focus Group. Richard and Declan share their career journeys into healthcare technology and discuss how the group is working to unify the voice of the medtech industry to influence NHS policy and reduce inefficiencies. They reflect on the importance of addressing systemic challenges like DTAC compliance and remote access, emphasising that greater consistency across NHS trusts could improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance both patient care and workforce experience.

The discussion also highlights the value of collaboration within AXREM, providing a safe, non-competitive space where members can collectively solve shared problems and influence national policy. They reflect on tangible achievements, such as the widely adopted AXREM handover form, and call for more engagement and feedback from members to strengthen the group’s impact. The episode closes with a light-hearted exchange, giving listeners a glimpse into the personalities behind the roles, and teases the next episode, which will feature AXREM’s Digital Pathology Special Focus Group.

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In this episode of AXREM Insights, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington speak with Nicola Fishwick, Ultrasound Business Development Leader at GE Healthcare and AXREM’s new Ultrasound Special Focus Group Convener. Nicola reflects on her 19-year journey in the ultrasound field, from clinical radiography into industry, highlighting how the profession has evolved. She notes the shift from collaborative sonography environments to more isolated working, and shares insights into the growing demands and challenges in ultrasound, especially post-COVID. Nicola also discusses the group's key initiatives, including the landmark “Manifesto for Medical Ultrasound” and the push for enhanced recruitment, training, and appropriate equipment access amid the modality’s expanding reach across clinical settings.

The conversation also delves into the group's collaborative ethos—working alongside organisations such as BMUS, SOR, and IPEM to develop critical resources like the transducer decontamination poster and a used equipment checklist. Nicola emphasises the importance of quality assurance and the group’s next priority: developing standardised QA protocols to ensure ultrasound equipment performs optimally. She passionately advocates for industry collaboration, citing the benefits of AXREM’s non-competitive, collective approach in driving change and building a strong professional community. The episode ends on a light-hearted note as Nicola shares who she’d switch lives with for a day—Victoria Beckham, of course!

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this episode of AXREM Insights, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington speak with Graham King, Solution Architect for Analyse AI and Convener of AXREM's AI Special Focus Group, and Ben Reed, Digital Services Business Manager at Siemens Healthineers and Vice Convener. They discuss the recently launched AI Manifesto, which outlines the group’s commitment to responsible innovation in healthcare. A key focus is on the need for scalable adoption of AI across the NHS while minimising duplication, standardising compliance processes, and addressing funding challenges. The conversation also highlights the synergy between AXREM’s AI and Imaging IT groups and the importance of collaboration across the industry to foster standardisation, improve workflows, and ultimately benefit patient care.

The guests emphasise the urgency of adopting AI technologies at scale to tackle growing diagnostic demands, clinician shortages, and rising volumes of imaging data. They reflect on the longstanding role of AI in radiology and explore new applications including large language models for reporting and predictive analytics for patient no-shows. Additionally, they discuss the value of AXREM membership, particularly for SMEs, through shared expertise, access to key stakeholders, and opportunities for partnership. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about time travel, revealing Graham’s curiosity about the past and Ben’s desire to leap into the future.

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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In this special Podcasthon episode, we sit down with Sam and Freya from Action for Children to explore the incredible work the charity does to support vulnerable children and families across the UK. Sam, a regional manager, and Freya, a campaigns and activism manager, share insights into the charity’s 155-year history, its mission to provide essential services, and its advocacy efforts influencing government policies to improve children's lives. From tackling child poverty and supporting children in care to advocating for legislative changes that protect young people from criminal exploitation, Action for Children remains at the forefront of creating meaningful change.

We also discuss AXREM’s fundraising initiatives, including a Million Steps Challenge and other exciting events aimed at supporting the charity’s vital work. The conversation highlights the importance of both funding and public advocacy in ensuring all children have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. Whether through corporate partnerships, community involvement, or policy change, Action for Children is making a lasting impact on young lives.

Podcasthon

Action For Children

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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In this festive Christmas special of AXREM Insights, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington are joined by AXREM Chair Jeevan Gunaratnam and Vice-Chair Huw Shumer to reflect on the highlights of 2024. The episode blends heartwarming personal stories with professional achievements, capturing the spirit of the season.

From Jeevan’s volunteer work at Crisis for Christmas to Sally’s exuberant love of holiday decorations, the team shares their personal traditions and insights. They also discuss AXREM’s remarkable accomplishments over the past year, including the highly successful Parliamentary Reception and the launch of the Sustainability Manifesto, while hinting at exciting plans for 2025, such as the launch of their AI Manifesto and representation at ECR in Vienna.

Adding a touch of humour, the team revisits funny moments from 2024, like the prank singing waiter at the UKIO event and a memorable mishap during an external meeting. Wrapping up, they exchange thoughts on holiday wishes and the quirkiest gifts they’ve received, keeping the episode light-hearted and engaging. The episode serves as a heartfelt reflection on the year gone by and a celebration of AXREMs growing community, with a message of gratitude and optimism for the future.

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this BMUS ASM podcast special, hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington are joined by Emma Tucker (COO of BMUS), Peter Cantin (incoming BMUS President), and Shaunna  Smith (Chair of the Education Committee) to discuss the upcoming BMUS Annual Scientific Meeting. The event, scheduled for December in Coventry, boasts a diverse programme including traditional and new streams like a wellbeing session, yoga, and the debut of the Endometriosis Practical workshop, which is already fully booked. Highlights also include a keynote by Dr Colin Dean and an international speaker, Alison Deslanders, who is a pioneer in endometriosis care. With over 30 exhibitors, 365 delegates, and 141 speakers, the event promises vibrant networking opportunities and cutting-edge educational sessions.

The panel also reflects on BMUS’s unique, inclusive atmosphere, describing it as a “gentle meeting” that fosters collaboration among clinicians, manufacturers, and students. They discuss advancements in ultrasound technology, including AI integration and miniaturisation, emphasising the importance of adapting to future innovations. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about superpowers and a mention of AXREM’s session, "How Ultrasound Changes Lives – A Global Perspective," set to explore the role of ultrasound in global healthcare.

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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In this podcast episode, AXREM's Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington interview Andrew New, CEO, and Richard Evans, Executive Commercial Director of NHS Supply Chain, focusing on collaborative efforts to improve NHS operations and supply chain efficiency. The discussion covers recent organisational changes aimed at streamlining procurement processes, fostering innovation, and simplifying supplier interactions. Andrew and Richard elaborate on their strategy to increase consistency and reduce complexity across supply chains, aiming to enhance the NHS's capacity for high-quality, cost-effective patient care. They also touch on the integration of new technologies and sustainability measures to align with NHS goals.

The conversation also highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making, long-term planning, and cross-sector collaboration. AXREM's feedback on industry challenges with NHS supply chain interactions is well received, and NHS Supply Chain is keen on addressing these through improved alignment and transparency. The guests underscore the value of open communication between suppliers and the NHS, especially around sustainability and cybersecurity, setting a collaborative tone for future engagements.

Connect with Richard Evans
Connect with Andrew New

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In this episode, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington host Jacqui Rock, the Chief Commercial Officer of NHS England, who shares insights from her career in finance and government, her motivation for joining the NHS, and her commitment to driving change. Jacqui discusses the NHS reform plan, focusing on shifts from hospital to community care, analog to digital processes, and sickness to prevention. She highlights the role of procurement and supply chain transformation in achieving these goals and the importance of collaboration with trade associations to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare system.

Jacqui also discusses her vision for a more diverse and inclusive workforce, emphasising the value of diverse perspectives in healthcare and med tech fields. She encourages industry leaders to support initiatives like the upcoming Procurement Act and NHS sustainability efforts. To close, Jacqui reflects on her career, sharing leadership lessons and a love for horror novels, specifically Stephen King's works.

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Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this episode of AXREM Insights, hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington interview Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron, discussing his work advocating for improved healthcare access in rural areas, particularly in his Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency. Tim emphasises the challenges his constituents face with access to cancer treatment, such as long travel times for radiotherapy, which negatively impacts patient outcomes. He advocates for the creation of satellite radiotherapy units in rural hospitals, like the Westmorland General, to reduce travel times and improve healthcare access. Tim also highlights the broader need for the UK to invest more in radiotherapy technology and infrastructure, as the country lags behind its European counterparts in equipment and treatment accessibility.

Additionally, the conversation explores the importance of industry collaboration with political leaders to improve healthcare services. Tim encourages AXREM members to build relationships with MPs to advocate for technological advancements and better policies. The episode concludes with Tim sharing his passion for music, notably his admiration for the band Prefab Sprout, and reflecting on how personal connections can drive meaningful changes in both healthcare and community life.

Tim Farron - Connect with Tim

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To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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In this episode of AXREM Insights, host Melanie Johnson and co-host Sally Edgington sit down with David Lawson, Director of Medical Technology at the Department of Health and Social Care, to explore the future of MedTech in the UK. David shares insights into his career journey, from starting as an admin assistant to becoming one of the youngest heads of procurement at a major NHS trust. He also discusses the UK government's first-ever MedTech strategy, published in 2023, which aims to streamline the adoption of medical technology by focusing on key initiatives such as the development of a national product information management system (PIM) and the introduction of the MedTech Compass, a tool designed to simplify procurement and enhance value-based decision-making.

David also highlights the importance of collaboration between the Department of Health and trade associations like AXREM, emphasising the benefits of industry feedback in shaping government policy. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted question about which famous person David would like to meet, revealing an unexpected choice—Taylor Swift, much to the amusement of the AXREM Insights team, his reason? You'll have to tune in to find out. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the current state of MedTech policy and how the government is working towards a more efficient, innovative future for healthcare.

Connect with David

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Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
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And join us next time for more insights from industry.