The Good Tech by the Medical Software Industry Association (MSIA)

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Kirk Kikirekov from HealthTrack, Chris Smeed from Cubico, Dr Safwan Sayyal from Sayyal Health Services, Helen Souris from Cardihab, Cameron Sampson from Telstra Health, Maxwell Holmes from MediRecords, Marcus Wilson from Surgical Partners, Robert Best from MIMS, Jan Chaffey and Cameron Jaffrey from Stat Health. This special episode is focused on essential software tools for GPs and specialists, highlighting the leading solutions helping Australian healthcare providers streamline processes, maintain safety, improve efficiency, and support sustainability.

A series of in-depth interviews with founders, CEOs, clinicians, and product leads from multiple companies serving primary and specialist care. Covering the development and evolution of clinical and practice management systems, data integration, digital transformation, medication safety, multidisciplinary care, billing and business optimisation, and prevention.

Key Takeaways:

1. Integrating digital capture of medical devices and medication usage at the point of care improves workflow efficiency. Helping clinicians respond swiftly to recalls and ensure accurate billing and stock management (Kirk Kikirekov, Dr Safwan Sayyal).
2. The transition from on-premises to cloud-based practice management systems is an ongoing journey, with organisations navigating security, connectivity, regulatory requirements, and clinician preferences. (Maxwell Holmes, Cameron Sampson, Jan Chaffey, Cameron Jaffrey).
3. Evidence-based digital therapeutics and preventive care technologies, such as remote cardiac rehabilitation platforms, demonstrate improved outcomes (e.g., reduction in hospital bed days), greater equity of access, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional care. (Helen Souris).
4. Robust reporting, analytics, and care optimisation tools help practices spot care opportunities, improve outcomes, and strengthen financial health. Seamless integration with existing systems delivers daily data-driven insights while supporting compliance and long-term sustainability. (Chris Smeed, Marcus Wilson).
5. Authoritative medication information and up-to-date decision support enable safe prescribing and dispensing. Centralised resources like MIMS provide clinicians with real-time PBS updates, reliable medication guidance, and safe management tools, while also supporting IT vendors through trusted partnerships. (Robert Best).
6. Interoperability across platforms within practices and large organisations is becoming essential. Open APIs, FHIR standards, and marketplace models make it easier to connect add-ons, integrate technologies like AI scribes, and tailor workflows to varied clinical needs.(Maxwell Holmes, Cameron Sampson, Jan Chaffey, Cameron Jaffrey).
7. Business efficiency in healthcare relies not only on clinical excellence but also transparent, automated financial management. (Marcus Wilson).
8. Industry collaboration among software vendors, government, professional groups, and clinicians is essential in navigating digital health challenges, supporting innovation, and driving adoption of tools that demonstrably improve care quality and organisational sustainability.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Gerard Stevens from Webster Care, Dr Ben Hurst from HotDoc, Dr Frank Pyefinch and Lorraine Pyefinch from Best Practice, and Jenny O’Neil from Episoft about the journeys of industry founders, inventors, and stars who have shaped the landscape of Australian health technology.

Covering the personal stories behind the development of well-known products such as the Webster Pack, HotDoc, Best Practice, and Episoft. Each guest shares the inspiration that led to their innovations, challenges faced during their development, and the ongoing impact of their work within healthcare. Exploring topics in creating practical technology for medication management, driving efficiency in clinical settings, the role of practitioner founders in product success, interoperability, and advice for new entrants to the sector. Focusing on real-world problems, the iterative nature of health tech innovation, and the critical need to address evolving requirements in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• The Webster Pack was developed to improve medication compliance and patient independence, now widely recognised in aged care and community settings.
• HotDoc enables GPs to reduce administrative burden and focus on quality patient care, offering digital solutions for bookings and patient engagement.
• Best Practice originated from the direct needs of clinicians and grew through continuous feedback, practical innovation, and strong industry standards.
• Founders with clinical backgrounds are well-placed to identify practical problems and build relevant solutions, as demonstrated by Best Practice and Episoft.
• Addressing interoperability and standardisation (such as adopting FHIR) is critical for efficiency and future-proofing industry partnerships.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Grahame Grieve, founder of HL7 FHIR, about international trends in healthcare interoperability, with a focus on the Australian landscape. Exploring which interoperability approaches are working, which are not, and what the next steps are for both software and frontline care.

Discussing the problems at the core of interoperability, including why FHIR was created and the progress made over the years. Talking on the ongoing challenges faced by clinicians and consumers, the importance of standards and governance, and the balance needed between innovation and conformity. Grahame gave insight into the differences between Australian and global initiatives, such as SPARKED and Argonaut, reflecting on the roles of government and industry, and the critical need to build technical and clinical capacity for future progress.

Key Takeaways: 

• Interoperability in healthcare is a complex, ongoing process requiring agreement across thousands of elements, not just technical connections.
• A major challenge is that end-users of software (clinicians) are often not the purchasers, leading to misaligned priorities in solutions delivered.
• Effective standards necessarily limit flexibility for individual users to ensure broader societal benefits, which can be a source of frustration at the clinical level.
• Australia’s approach, driven by strong governance and community engagement, provides a solid model, though long-term technical capacity remains a limiting factor.
• The success of interoperability can be determined by which healthcare providers would be hampered if existing tools were taken away.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Grahame Grieve (Health Intersections), Jessica White (Best Practice), David Young (Healthlink), and Brad Porter (Orion Health) about the current state and future direction of interoperability in Australian healthcare, with a particular focus on new standards, integration challenges, and real-world implementation. 

Covering the progress Australia has made in embracing interoperability, with initiatives such as the Sparked FHIR community and the transition to cloud-based systems. Case studies from leading software vendors reveal what is needed to deliver on interoperability, from practical governance and partnership frameworks to addressing the increased stress placed on vendors as new standards and requirements are introduced.

Key Takeaways:

• Australia is playing catch-up on interoperability but is making significant strides with strong community and government collaboration around standards like FHIR.
• Successful interoperability requires shared vision and coordinated investment between industry, government, and institutions.
• Vendors face challenges adapting products for variable and inconsistent integration requirements; common standards like FHIR will streamline this in future.
• Building trust and clear governance processes is essential for data sharing, privacy, and secure integration between healthcare providers and third-party partners.
• Change management and education for end-users often falls to software vendors, who require recognition and support for this critical work.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Margaret Wright (RLDatix), Kate Quirke (Alcidian), Jenny O’Neill (Episoft), and Paul Beraldo (Dedalus) about the practical application of technology in hospitals to improve productivity, interoperability, patient and workforce satisfaction, and overall healthcare outcomes in Australia.

Discussions focused on tools for clinical governance, workforce management and rostering, data consolidation and interoperability platforms, digital front door solutions for hospitals, AI in administrative and clinical support, and patient engagement tools. Sharing real-world examples of operational improvements, cost savings, and safer patient care resulting from these technologies. Along with focusing on the barriers to broader uptake, including procurement reform, policy alignment, funding for change management, and the need for agile implementation, and on the tangible benefits already experienced across public and private healthcare settings.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective rostering and incident management platforms can deliver significant cost savings and improvements in staff utilisation without reducing workforce numbers.
• Interoperability platforms like Alcidian’s help consolidate data from multiple systems, resulting in better patient flow, reduced wait times, and more informed decision-making
• AI and automation in hospitals can release clinicians’ time from administrative burdens, and to focus more on patient care while supporting safer and more efficient outcomes.
• Digital front door platforms, such as Episoft’s, streamline all aspects of patient admission processes, saving time for administration and clinical staff and improving the patient experience.
• Patient engagement apps empower patients to participate actively in their own care, reducing administrative workload and supporting more sustainable healthcare delivery.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Professor Jeanie Patterson (University of Melbourne), Karthik Margabandu (Prospection), Kai Van Lieshout (Lyrebird), Dr Vikram Palit (ConsultMed), and Dr Ben Condon (Heidi Health) about the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in Australian healthcare software, with a focus on safety, regulatory frameworks, efficiency, and the practical implementation of AI solutions.

Discussing the balance of benefits and risks in adopting AI across healthcare sectors, the need for responsible governance from the ground up and the practical outcomes achieved by integrating AI in clinical workflows. Exploring regulatory considerations, such as the alignment of TGA frameworks with new AI standards, the ongoing need for AI literacy within health organisations, and how AI-enabled tools are increasing productivity, improving patient care, and reducing administrative burden.

Key Takeaways:

• Responsible AI governance should be embedded from the outset, not added as an afterthought.
• Risk-based regulatory frameworks must be coherent, compatible, and clear to avoid unnecessary complexity.
• AI tools can significantly reduce administrative workload, freeing clinicians to focus on patient care and decision making.
• AI in healthcare is best viewed as an assistant that augments and does not replace human expertise and clinical oversight remains essential, especially in high-risk applications.
• Collaboration, ongoing education, and real-world case studies are fundamental to promoting productivity, safety, and trust in AI health technology.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry.

Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we delve into various aspects of healthcare innovation with our esteemed guests. Fay Flevaras from the Department of Health and Aged Care discusses digital transformation under the new Aged Care Act, which is followed by examples of companies working with Aged Care.

Key Takeaways:

• Yupin Robson of Edify Medical highlights the importance of inclusive learning systems to overcome language barriers in training. 
• Arthur Shee, CEO of Humanitex, shares insights on optimizing time management in aged care through advanced algorithms. 
• Annette Hilley from AlayaCare explains how their comprehensive platform improves efficiency and client interaction by leveraging AI. 
• Gerard Stephens from Webster Care discusses the Unit Dose Seven system, which enhances medication safety and administration in aged care facilities.

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry.

Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, Greg Hunt speaks about the future of healthcare, focusing on opportunities and mega trends within the medical software sector.

Greg discusses the evolving landscape of healthcare driven by technological advancements, and the critical role that medical software plays in patient outcomes. He underscores the importance of genomics, precision health, and the increasing trend towards home care. Personal stories of patients like Ellie and Mackenzie highlight the tangible impact of these innovations. Greg also touches on budget considerations, the significance of consent in data usage, and the need for a coordinated national plan for the medical software industry.

Key Takeaways:

- The integration of genomics in healthcare is becoming standard practice and requires significant computing and diagnostic AI power.

- Precision health helps in early diagnosis and tailored treatments, making healthcare more effective and efficient.

- The trend towards remote health services and telehealth is expected to continue growing, with the aim to improve patient care in the home setting.

- Consent for data use is pivotal for both ethical and practical reasons, ensuring patient trust and compliance.

- A comprehensive 10-year national plan is necessary to streamline the use of medical software in healthcare, ensuring data safety and regulatory harmony.

Links & Resources:

- Zero Childhood Cancer Program: https://www.zerochildhoodcancer.org.au/

- McKenzie's Mission: https://www.mackenziesmission.org.au/

- Australian Cancer Genomics Program:https://www.genomics.org.au/

- MyDNA: https://www.mydna.life/

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary health care tools and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.

In this episode of the MSIA Good Tech Podcast, we speak with Kate Quirke from Alcidion, Michele Blanshard from Magentus, Margaret Wright from RLDatix, and Bettina McMachon from Healthdirect about the empowerment and challenges faced by women in leadership roles within the healthcare tech sector.

During the discussion, the panellists share their personal experiences, insights into leadership styles, and strategies used within their own companies to address challenges such as work-life balance, gender equity, and the superannuation gap. The conversation extends to the impact of such policies on organisational culture and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The attendees also bring forth the audience's inquiries for deeper exploration.

Key Takeaways:

- Embracing feminine qualities like empathy and vulnerability can be a strength in leadership positions.

- The concept of the "glass cliff" illustrates the complex scenarios women leaders often face during crises.

- Effective time and workload management are critical for ensuring quality output over being overly responsive.

- Introducing inclusive parental leave policies for all genders can have a profound positive impact on a company's culture.

- Challenging societal and business assumptions about family responsibilities leads to improved inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

Links & Resources:

- Alcidion's Official Website: https://www.alcidion.com

- Magentus's Official Website: https://www.magentus.com

- RLDatix's Official Website: https://www.rldatix.com/en-apac

- Healthdirect's Official Website: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au

- Information on Norway’s Parental Leave Policies: https://www.navigatingnorway.com/parental-leave

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you the thoughts and insights of industry leaders and professionals. We address pressing health topics, offering tangible solutions to enhance healthcare standards. If you are a healthcare professional or are committed to staying current with industry best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues impacting healthcare today.

Our show is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network, the leading audio destination for healthcare delivery and innovation insights. Visit us at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network to learn more and join the conversation.

Welcome to MSIA Good Tech Podcast. This episode features a discussion recorded at a 2024 Medical Software Industry Association (MSIA) event with Daniel McCabe from the Medicare Benefits and Digital Health Division, Anthony Tassone from The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, and Adj Prof Karen Price, the immediate past president of the RACGP. Hosted by Emma Hossack, we talk about the implications and desired outcomes of extending scope of practice in healthcare and the necessary adjustments in health software to support such changes.

Throughout the panel discussion, the experts deliberate on the need for improved healthcare interoperability and collaboration across sectors, the challenges faced by professionals in adapting to new technologies, and the necessity for redesigning funding models to facilitate multidisciplinary care. They also underscore the importance of co-design in healthcare strategies to ensure effective system changes, considering the specific needs of patients as consumers and the Australian healthcare industry as a whole.

Key Takeaways:

- Enhanced communication and interconnected systems between healthcare providers are crucial for effective medication management and overall patient care.

- Balancing the efficiency and cost implications of healthcare system improvements is vital, especially in regional and remote locations.

- Adjustments in legislation and funding models are necessary to support the full scope of practice for various health professionals and to foster multidisciplinary care.

- The integration of technology, like the My Health Record system, requires continuous development to ensure it meets the practical needs of healthcare professionals and patients.

- Co-design and collaboration across industry and government sectors are quintessential for creating trusting and effective healthcare solutions.

Links & Resources:

- The Pharmacy Guild of Australia: https://www.guild.org.au/

- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP): https://www.racgp.org.au/

- Medicare Benefits Schedule: http://www.mbsonline.gov.au/

- My Health Record: https://www.myhealthrecord.gov.au/

The MSIA Good Tech Podcast responds to hot health topics through expert commentary with practical working responses from industry. Each episode brings you expert commentary and practical insights from industry leaders and professionals. The MSIA addresses pressing health topics and offering tangible solutions. Our goal is to spotlight challenges, bridge gaps, and uncover opportunities that enhance healthcare standards. Whether you're a professional within health service delivery or committed to staying abreast of best practices in Australia, join us for a deep dive into critical issues like AI, aged care, interoperability, primary healthcare tools, and more. With real-life case studies, we demonstrate how cutting-edge technology is transforming healthcare, one solution at a time.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.