eHealthTALK NZ

In the first of a four-part podcast collaboration between HiNZ and Blind Low Vision NZ, digital accessibility consultant Neil Jarvis discuss the critical issue of accessibility in healthcare for Blind and Low Vision people and the current mixed state of accessibility within the healthcare system. 

His personal experiences reveal significant gaps in accessibility, the importance of providing information in preferred formats, and the need for systemic changes and national policies to ensure equitable access to healthcare services. 

Neil's vision is for an inclusive healthcare experience that respects the dignity and autonomy of all patients. 

Ryl Jensen, the outgoing CEO of the Digital Health Association, reflects on her journey in digital health, the shifts in New Zealand's health landscape, and the importance of collaboration and innovation.

Ryl discusses the challenges faced by the sector, and the need for a connected health system that empowers patients and clinicians, as well as advice for those looking to get into the world of data and digital health.

In the first of a four-part collaborative series with the Medical Technology Association of New Zealand, eHealth Talk host and HiNZ media editor Rebecca McBeth interviews MTANZ CEO Cushla Smyth about the challenges facing medical device suppliers and the future of the sector.

They discuss findings from MTANZ’s latest member survey, procurement delays, the lack of clarity over whether Pharmac or Health NZ will manage medical device contracting, and what this uncertainty means for investment and patient access to new technologies.

Cushla also shares her vision for building a thriving, patient-focused medical technology industry in Aotearoa.

HiNZ CEO Scott Arrol reflects on 25 years of HiNZ in Aotearoa and his vision for the future. From the organisation’s roots in nursing informatics to its role today as the trusted community for digital health, Scott discusses his own background in health and the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the sector. 

Celebrate the 25th anniversary of HiNZ at Digital Health Week 2025 in Ōtautahi Christchurch - register to attend online 

Sharyn MacDonald, Chief of Radiology at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury, explores the evolving role of artificial intelligence in radiology to improve patient safety and access to care. Sharyn shares insights into how Health NZ is assessing the potential use of AI tools - from fracture detection to improving diagnostic workflows - and discusses the importance of clinician-led innovation, and ensuring safe implementation. 

Auckland GP Reza Jarral discusses his research plans after being awarded the prestigious 2025–2026 Harkness Fellowship to travel to the US and investigate how digital health tools and behavioural science can be harnessed to improve health outcomes.

He discusses how consumer technologies, such as wearables, health apps, and digital coaches, can drive behaviour change, and his hopes to translate this research into both clinical practice and national policy back in New Zealand.

Michael Dreyer, Deputy Chief Executive of Technology and Data at ACC, shares his vision for modernising ACC’s systems to better support injury prevention, rehabilitation, and client outcomes: covering everything from data sharing and privacy to the potential of AI and predictive analytics.

Te Taka Keegan, co-director Māori of the AI Institute at Waikato University, explores the intersection of Te Reo Māori, tikanga, and artificial intelligence. From training large language models to protecting Māori data sovereignty, Te Taka shares insights on how AI can be both a powerful tool and a cultural risk, and discusses the importance of Māori leadership in shaping Aotearoa’s digital future. 

Te Taka is a keynote speaker at the HiNZ Digital Health AI Summit being held on May 20-21 in Wellington, NZ.

eHealth Talk spoke to Kiwi GPs Dr Richard Medlicott and Dr Karl Cole in March 2024 when they were at the start of their journey using AI-powered medical scribes during patient consultations. One year on we check back in to hear about lessons learnt over the past 12 months and advice for other health professionals thinking of using the technology in their own practice.

This episode explores a new report from HiNZ, highlighting concerns raised in a workforce survey about digital health funding cuts and their potential consequences for patient care, as well as opportunities for targeted investment.

With guests - HiNZ acting CEO Scott Arrol and director of engagement Alex Kemp.

Find the report online