In the latest episode of the National Health Executive Podcast, listeners can delve into the exciting world of digital health and its transformative effects on the NHS, featuring insights from Dr. Penny Kechagiolgou.As we navigate through the challenges that the NHS faces, Penny highlighted the importance of digital empowerment for clinicians and the need for data-driven decisions. With waiting times for cancer treatments being a pressing concern, this episode sheds light on how innovation can improve patient outcomes and experiences. The conversation also touched on the significance of integrated health services and the crucial role of partnerships in driving change.One of the key takeaways from this episode is the necessity of a strong leadership framework to facilitate transformation. Penny emphasised that leadership is not just about having a bold vision; it’s about implementing a strategy that incorporates sound plans for execution. The importance of engaging with healthcare professionals and patients alike is underscored, as their insights are invaluable in shaping the future of healthcare.Moreover, the episode discusses the implementation of electronic patient records (EPR) and the lessons learned from large-scale digital transformations. Penny shared her experiences with the challenges of integrating new technologies while maintaining a focus on patient safety and satisfaction. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability and resilience in leadership, particularly during turbulent times.To make sure you are up to date with the latest insight into how digital transformation and innovation can drive improvement in the NHS, listen now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our latest podcast episode, we delve into a topic that is crucial for the future of healthcare: cyber security. With the rise of digital services in the NHS, the opportunities are immense, but so are the risks. Our expert panel consisting of Chris Clinton, Michael Knight, Patrick Maw, and Nasser Arif discusses the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the essential strategies needed to protect our systems, staff, and patients.One of the key points raised during the discussion is the importance of building a strong security culture within healthcare organisations. Nasser Arif emphasises that visibility is critical; cyber security professionals should not remain invisible behind the scenes but rather actively engage with their colleagues across departments. By fostering relationships and understanding the unique challenges faced by different teams, cyber professionals can tailor their awareness initiatives to effectively address the specific needs of their organisation.Michael Knight reflects on the evolution of cyber security in healthcare, noting that there has been significant progress in recent years. More information security professionals are now working within organisations, and there is a growing recognition at board level that cyber security is a vital component of patient safety. However, as the threat landscape continues to evolve rapidly, there is an ongoing need for healthcare organisations to adapt and strengthen their cyber strategies.Chris Clinton highlights the critical role of suppliers in ensuring cyber security. Many breaches stem from suppliers who may not adhere to the necessary security standards. It’s essential for NHS trusts to engage with their suppliers from the very beginning of the procurement process, ensuring that security considerations are integrated into the product design phase rather than treated as an afterthought.The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by medical devices, which must be both functional and secure. Patrick Maw explains that while some suppliers are proactive in maintaining security standards, others lag behind, creating vulnerabilities that could impact patient care. The panel agrees that building strong relationships with suppliers and fostering open communication is vital to mitigating these risks.Throughout the episode, the experts stress the importance of focusing on the basics of cyber security. Simple measures such as implementing two-factor authentication, keeping systems updated, and educating staff about phishing attacks can significantly reduce the risk of cyber incidents. As Chris points out, 90% of cyber attacks can be prevented by adhering to these fundamental practices.As we wrap up the episode, there is a sense of optimism about the future of cyber security in the NHS. The shared learning and collaboration among professionals in the field are paving the way for a more secure healthcare environment. By prioritising communication, education, and proactive measures, we can work together to protect our patients and ensure the integrity of our healthcare systems.Tune in to the full episode to gain deeper insights into these critical discussions and learn how we can all contribute to a safer digital healthcare landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In an era where the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, the role of NHS leaders has never been more crucial. Our recent panel discussion, titled "Empowering the NHS Leaders Through Continuous Learning," brought together a group of experts to shed light on the importance of ongoing education and training for leaders in the NHS.The conversation began with Sean Pusey from Pearson, who highlighted the significance of understanding emerging skills trends within the healthcare sector. With over 4.5 million individuals employed in the UK health and social care workforce, the demand for effective communication, teamwork, and patient care skills has reached an all-time high. As we look towards 2030, the need for leadership and emotional intelligence will only grow, especially as technology continues to reshape the way healthcare is delivered.Corinna Thomas from NHS England elaborated on the evolution of leadership and management training programmes. The introduction of a unified set of core leadership standards, as recommended by the MESSENGER review, aims to enhance the professional status of NHS managers and ensure consistent, accredited training across the board. This alignment with new competencies is essential for fostering effective leadership in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.Adele Kendrick, an Interim Organisational Development Consultant, emphasised the need for leaders to develop both relational and technical skills. As they navigate the complexities of modern healthcare, the ability to build strong relationships, communicate openly, and inspire teams will be paramount. These soft skills, alongside technical expertise, will enable leaders to foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace, ultimately improving patient care and staff morale.Amy Fornah, a Service Manager, shared her inspiring journey through a leadership apprenticeship. She spoke about how the programme not only boosted her confidence but also significantly impacted her career progression. By applying the skills learned during her training, Amy has successfully led her team through challenges, demonstrating the tangible benefits of continuous learning in leadership roles.The panel concluded with powerful insights on the importance of embracing continuous learning. Each panellist encouraged listeners to seek out opportunities for growth, whether through formal training, mentorship, or peer networks. As the NHS continues to face unprecedented challenges, investing in leadership development will be key to ensuring a resilient, future-ready workforce.For anyone looking to enhance their skills and contribute positively to the NHS, now is the time to embrace continuous learning. With the right support and resources, leaders can not only navigate the evolving healthcare landscape but also inspire those around them to do the same. Listen to our panel discussion to hear more about these vital insights and learn how you can be a part of this transformative journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our latest episode, we sit down with Andrew Cannon, CEO of Medica Group, to explore the transformative role of teleradiology in the NHS. Learn how Medica addresses diagnostic backlogs, maintains clinical excellence, and embraces innovative technologies to enhance patient safety. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of healthcare! Listen now to find out more about the challenges and innovations shaping the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the advent of virtual wards and telemedicine presents an exciting opportunity to reshape patient care within the NHS. With 40% of hospital beds occupied by patients who could potentially recover at home, the need for innovative solutions has never been more pressing. In our latest podcast episode, we bring together a panel of experts to discuss the transformative potential of these technologies and the challenges that lie ahead.Virtual wards serve as a remote monitoring platform that allows patients to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes. This model not only alleviates pressure on hospital resources but also empowers patients to take charge of their health. As Dr. Gurnak Singh Dosanjh aptly points out, the focus must always remain on the patient and their journey. By prioritising patient needs, we can design services that truly cater to their requirements.However, implementing virtual care solutions is not without its challenges. Our panel highlights the importance of robust infrastructure and workforce training to ensure the success of these initiatives. Lee Gutcher emphasises the need for a tailored approach, as different NHS trusts may have varying levels of readiness and resources to support virtual care. This underscores the necessity for tech suppliers to provide flexible solutions that meet the unique needs of each organisation.Equally important is the role of public perception and acceptance. The panel discusses how many patients may be unfamiliar with virtual wards, often hearing about them for the first time when they are already in a state of crisis. To address this, we must promote awareness and understanding of these services, ensuring that patients feel comfortable and confident in their use. As Helen Hughes notes, effective communication and support systems are vital to bridging the digital divide and preventing health inequalities.Ultimately, our discussion reveals that virtual wards and telemedicine are not merely about reducing hospital admissions; they represent a fundamental shift towards patient-centred care. By leveraging technology to monitor health proactively, we can identify potential risks and intervene before patients deteriorate. This preventative approach not only enhances patient outcomes but also optimises healthcare resources.As we continue to explore the future of healthcare, it is clear that virtual wards and telemedicine will play a pivotal role in shaping a more efficient, effective, and compassionate NHS. Join us in this enlightening conversation and discover how these innovations can transform the way we approach patient care. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 54 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Dr Rehan Hairdry, consultant gastroenterologist at the Cleveland Clinic London, to speak about diagnostics, efficiencies, patient outcomes and more through the medium of oesophageal motility disorders.Dr Haidry explained how these disorders impact patients’ quality of life and the knock-on effect on the NHS too. He also discussed some of the innovation happening at the Cleveland Clinic, specifically with something called the Endoflip.Outlining the benefits of this diagnostic technique, Dr Hairdry, said: “The first thing it improves is the patient experience because what can often be a prolonged and fragmented diagnostic journey is brought together. So, from a patient perspective it’s great. They get an answer, they’ve got something to hang their hat on and then they know what they need doing.”He also explained the efficiencies and cost savings on offer for the wider health system. Listen to the full podcast to find out more about diagnostic efficiencies and health service savings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 53 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by the Centre for Mental Health’s CEO, Andy Bell, to speak about the government’s approach to mental health and care, reforming the Mental Health Act, and how the short, medium and long-term future of the NHS looks.Speaking on some of the NHS’s future plans and goals, Andy highlighted the importance of people being willing to change. The current service model is not going to be suitable forever, he added, in fact it does not even suit the population now – at least for certain groups of people.“That does have to shift and co-design is one way of doing that and indeed co-production of care,” he said. “We’ve seen many examples of the some of the most exciting ways of providing mental health support over the last few years have been developed within communities.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 52 of the National Health Executive podcast we were joined by National Voices’ CEO, Jacob Lant, to talk about the first weeks of the new government, his relationship so far with health secretary Wes Streeting, how Lord Darzi’s report should land, and the way forward for the third sector.Speaking on what he wants to see over the course of this parliament, Jacob said: “A bit more forensic analysis on who is waiting longer – we know from previous research that it tends to be people living in the poorest communities in the country who wait longer, it tends to be ethnic minority individuals, it tends to be women, [and] people with disabilities.”Helping people wait better and being smarter about those experiencing the worst outcomes is critical for Jacob.He added that the biggest thing that charities can help the NHS with is being that connection into the community and the organisations that National Voices represents are not there to deliver services “on the cheap” but in fact to be a strategic partner.Listen to the full episode to hear Jacob thoughts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 51 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Dr Dan Rose, who is the medical director for UK and Ireland at Everlight Radiology, to explore the radiology workforce crisis, what solutions can be put in place to address the issues, and whether teleradiology can be the future for the sector.On flexible working, Dan said that it is a key recommendation from the royal college that was accelerated during the Covid-19 pandemic.He added: “The additional benefits that brings is that it’s a recognition that the old ways of working – globally, not just in medicine, not just in radiology, but globally – have undergone a sea change essentially. Colleagues are much more aware of the ability to be able to work flexibly.”Listen to the full podcast to learn more about how teleradiology and Everlight Radiology are creating a more sustainable workforce, the ‘follow the sun’ model’ and the three key takeaways for listeners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 50 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Dr Nicky Huskens, CEO at the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission, to talk about everything from some of the recent investment being funnelled into the sector, to hopes for the future with the new Labour government.Some of the funding includes the next stage in the government’s £40m pledge to develop new lifesaving research. That pledge was made by the previous Conservative government – on collaboration with the new government, Dr Huskens said: “I’ve spoken with the [DHSC] team before they came into power and they are big fans of the mission-led approach and the work that the brain tumour community has been doing“I think going forward, in the first instance, will be working together with the civil servants to launch those three calls – the HP call, the consortium, the care call – and to do that really well and engage the community to participate. From there, I would say the sky is the limit!”Listen to the full podcast to hear Dr Huskens’ thoughts on improving best practice sharing, the state of the neuro-oncology workforce, the importance of data in the sector, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For Episode 49 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by David Hemming, who is service lead for major programmes at NHS Shared Business Services. We spoke to David before our Estates online conference, where he featured on our Building the Hospitals of the Future panel.We asked him about the NHS estate, Hospital 2.0, and the New Hospital Programme (NHP)—right before chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a pause to the NHP so it could undergo a “complete rest”.“Many people are aware of the NHP, [but] there are different levels of understanding of what its actually going to deliver—there is still quite a lot of work to actually get that level of communication and stakeholder engagement out.”He continued: “Part of this is [that] I’m bringing my knowledge of NHP. Do I have a complete and full knowledge of the NHP? I would say ‘no’ because it’s such a large programme—there are many different elements, but I’m also keen to understand, from other people’s perspective, what is their perception of the NHP [and] where do they think there are issues because that helps my understanding.” Knowing this can help NHS SBS modify their service offering.Listen to the full podcast to hear David’s thoughts and stay tuned for National Health Executive’s next magazine edition for what the NHP pause could mean for the health system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 48 of the National Health Executive podcast, we spoke to award-winning and internationally acclaimed broadcaster and journalist, Pete Price, about his life and experience with aversion therapy on the NHS. This episode contains explicit language and strong viewsIn the podcast, we explored how aversion therapy ties in with conversion therapy and what the Bill that has been making its way through parliament since last year means for the LGBTQ+ community and society as a whole.Notably, the Bill was included in the King’s Speech this month, as it seems Sir Keir Starmer intends to press ahead with banning conversion practices.“First of all, conversion therapy: I knew nothing about,” said Pete. “It’s reared its ugly head a few times, I’ve been on television and talked about it. Conversion therapy is where they brainwash you; aversion therapy is what they did to me, so that’s what we’re going to be talking about.”In the podcast, Pete discusses his childhood, family and the period of time he spent in a ‘hospital’ undergoing aversion therapy.He explained: “Growing up was very difficult for me because at the age of 12 I discovered I was a homosexual and didn’t understand it, didn’t know what it was about — all I knew was my pals were all going out with girls and I wasn’t.“I wasn’t attracted to girls but I went out with girls, so I fought my sexuality; growing up I fought my sexuality because, in those days, I was a criminal — it was against the law to be a homosexual!” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 47 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Sue Holden, the CEO at the Advancing Quality Alliance — otherwise known as Aqua.Sue spoke about her leadership philosophy, where that mindset comes from and the epiphanies she’s had while working in the NHS.She said: “We can focus on the ‘what’ and forget the ‘how’ is where the magic happens, so — from my point of view — I’ve had the privilege to work with a lot of organisations in various different guises.“Certainly when I was working with trusts that were really challenged, not one of those organisations didn’t have magic in it, didn’t have a brilliant service, didn’t have a team that was going above and beyond, and didn’t have people that were doing exciting things.”There were also small pockets that needed support and the mark of a good leader is fostering an environment that enables the people who are struggling to access the help they need, explained Sue.Sue also highlighted the four times in her career she has had an epiphany or “things that have really sat me back on my heels and made me rethink my own perspective” as she puts it.“The first one was when I was a student nurse — that was back in the 80s...”Listen to the full podcast to hear Sue’s insights and the pivotal moments in her career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Episode 46 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Trish Greenhalgh, who is a professor of primary care health sciences at the University of Oxford, as well as a former GP.Trish offered insight into how the primary care digital transformation journey is going, specifically since the explosion of innovation observed following the pandemic.Trish highlighted some of the recent research she has been doing in general practices looking at digitalised aspects of care that have in fact impacted disadvantaged people negatively, widening already existing health inequalities.“The pandemic was a pretty big shock,” said Trish when explaining some of the theory around external shocks speeding up the innovation process.She added: “We had to immediately, or in the space of a fortnight-three weeks, shift general practice from a face-to-face model to a remote model and I think it is one of the major achievements of general practice in this country that we did that — we did it really quickly and we did it effectively.“We responded to the shock, and then the question is, ‘Well hang on a minute, what do we do now?’”Listen in full to learn more about government priorities, co-design and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 45 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Nathalie Kingston, who is the director the National Institute for Health and Care Research BioResource.Nathalie explained everything from the inner workings of the BioResource and the UK’s research ecosystem, all the way to women in science and the NIHR’s inclusion strategy.On three things to remember, she said: “Make sure to listen to members of the public – their views are key. Also make sure we don’t lose sight of the fact we are safeguarding public data.”To hear all of Nathalie’s insight, listen to the full podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 44 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Tom Bell, who has held management roles in the public, private and third sector – working specifically with the NHS in digital, telehealth and now as a patient safety partner.Tom offered his insight into what patient safety actually means for the NHS, the make-up of the NHS when it comes to patient safety, how data can factor into decision-making, and what the future could/should look like.“The lack of data in the NHS is criminal – if I wind you back through the mists of time, when I worked for Carlsberg at the turn of the century, we had access to lots of data about lots of things,” explained Tom.He continued: “I could sit at my desk and download, in almost real time, who’d bought what, which accounts were up, which accounts were down, which were in profit etc. – that data was there. That was a company, albeit a large company and very well-run company, that was selling sugary alcoholic liquid…“When I came into the NHS a number of years later, I remember saying to my director of strategy, ‘Where’s the dashboard I can access?’ and he looked at me as if I was speaking Swahili.”Listen to the full podcast to learn more about the possibilities for the NHS. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For episode 43 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Dr Penny Kechagioglou, who is a Consultant Clinical Oncologist at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust. Penny spoke about the main challenges and opportunities in cancer care at the moment, as well as how should prevention factor in to policy decisions and the needs of the oncology workforce.Penny said: “How do we strive for excellence? Not just good. There are three points here, so looking upstream – there is a lot of work happening that needs to be consistent across primary and secondary care, when it comes to prevention.”Listen to the full episode to hear Penny’s thoughts and get a sneak peek of National Health Executive’s upcoming digital magazine, where Penny will detail the Charter for Oncology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 42 of the National Health Executive podcast we were joined by Steve Gulati who is an associate professor at the University of Birmingham as well as director of healthcare leadership at the university’s Health Services Management Centre.During the podcast, we discussed the difference between leadership when he first joined the NHS in the 90s and to now, plus the main levers for these changes. Steve also highlighted the ‘well-known truths’ about NHS leadership which are seldom voiced as well as what changes he would like to see in the future.“Leadership in those days was almost synonymous with management – it certainly wasn’t [like] the nuanced distinctions that you get today,” said Steve. “Allied to that, there was a concept that was more prominent of what I would call ‘stewardship’ rather than leadership.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 41 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Dr Angela Smith, research fellow at Bournemouth University, and Andy Oakey, research fellow at the University of Southampton, to discuss the viability of drones within the NHS transport system.Angela and Andy talked about some of the misinformation about drones and suggested that drone travel is not quite ready for the NHS yet.Angela said: “The eDrone project has been focused on NHS case studies, but what we have found is that the reporting around these case studies – the trials in particular – has led to some misconceptions about what the trials are achieving and the future benefits of drones.”Andy explained: “If you actually look back at our project bids, we were sucked into this rhetoric of drones being the next big thing. The original idea was to look at where’s best to use them [drones], with a positive spin, but as we have gone into it we have learnt more and understood how there is a lot more than meets the eye.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 40 of the National Health Executive podcast, we were joined by Lee Carpenter, who is the head of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s UK Stem Cell Bank (UKSCB).During the podcast, Lee explained what the UK Stem Cell Bank is and the significance of its work, what its future holds and some of the opportunities in the world of stem cell research.Speaking on how big a role automation will play in the future of the stem cell field, Lee said: “I think it is going to be fairly critical. We can see the manufacturing of stem cells is hugely labour-intensive, it is expensive too.”Lee goes onto explain how automation can widen patient access and eliminate human errors. Listen to the full podcast to hear more of Lee’s thoughts on the future of stem cells. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.