Welcome to another insightful episode of HTM Insider, your go-to podcast for all things healthcare technology management. I'm your host, Chyrill Sandrini, from MultiMedical Systems, and today we have a remarkable guest who is a true powerhouse in the industry. I've been following her incredible journey since 2016 when she was in Fresno, California, and now she manages at least nine healthcare facilities in New York. Join me in welcoming Arleen Thukral, the VISN 2 Healthcare Technology Manager for the New York and New Jersey healthcare system within the VA.
Arleen shares her incredible journey into the HTM industry, where she started with a technical career field program and quickly realized the potential to make a difference by applying various medical technologies. We also discuss the importance of data in the HTM industry, diving deep into Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and their role in steering healthcare technology departments. Arleen sheds light on critical KPIs like preventative maintenance completion rate and corrective maintenance turnaround time, highlighting their impact on patient care and department efficiency.
We explore the intersection of HTM and cybersecurity, examining the significance of tracking unsupported devices and vulnerability patching to ensure the safety and functionality of medical equipment. Arleen emphasizes the importance of quality assurance programs when working with third-party HTM service providers, ensuring that they meet the highest standards.
But the conversation doesn't stop there. Arleen introduces a fantastic team engagement exercise called "Wins and Woes," which fosters open communication within the team and helps identify areas for improvement. This exercise creates a culture of collaboration and continuous enhancement.
We conclude the episode by discussing the future of data in HTM and how healthcare systems of all sizes can benefit from data-driven decision-making. Arleen's words of wisdom remind us to take a step back, assess the most critical areas for improvement, and involve the entire team in effecting positive change.
If you're an HTM professional or someone interested in the field, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Join us on HTM Insider, where we're dedicated to helping you stay at the forefront of healthcare technology management. Don't forget to check out our partnership with Tech Nation for CE credits, and we'll catch you on the next episode!