Talking HealthTech

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Updated 2025-12-07

APR 20

Syphilis update in Australia

In this episode, Dr Tim Koh speaks with Dr Grace Phua, a GP and public health clinician from the Health Department of Western Australia’s Syphilis Response Team, to provide an update on syphilis in Australia and practical guidance for general practitioners. Key Points: Changing Epidemiology: They highlight the recent increase in syphilis, with cases now extending beyond traditional higher-risk groups. All sexually active patients may be at risk, making ongoing awareness in general practice essential.Clinical Presentation: The primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages of syphilis, noting the diverse and often atypical presentations. Classic signs such as ulcers and rashes may vary, and neurological symptoms can occur at any stage.Screening and Testing: GPs are reminded to include syphilis serology in routine STI screening and to swab any ulcer for syphilis PCR (using a dry swab and requesting “syphilis PCR” on the form). Pregnant people require syphilis screening in early and late pregnancy, and higher-risk groups need more frequent testing.Serology Interpretation and Treatment: The use of treponemal and non-treponemal tests. Benzathine benzylpenicillin is the recommended treatment. Empirical treatment of contacts, especially for hard-to-reach patients, is encouraged.Further Resources and Support: GPs are advised to access national guidelines and decision-making aids for detailed management and to consult public health units as required. The Good GP Podcast 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 If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

Apr 20

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16 min
APR 27

Cardiac amyloidosis recognition and diagnosis for GPs

In this episode, host Dr Krystyna De Lange speaks with Sydney-based cardiologist Dr Natasha Gorrie from St Vincent's Hospital and the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. They discuss cardiac amyloidosis, an under-recognised cause of heart failure in older adults and a condition with evolving diagnostic and treatment approaches. Dr Natasha Gorrie outlines the basics of amyloidosis, emphasising that it is an umbrella term for disorders characterised by the deposition of abnormal protein fibrils in tissues and organs. Key Points: Understanding Amyloidosis: The pathology and range of organ involvement; why diagnosis depends on identifying the causative protein.Epidemiology and Prevalence: Recent recognition that transthyretin-related amyloidosis (ATTR) is more common than previously thought, with prevalence as high as one in six in certain heart failure populations.Key Clinical Clues: Red flag features in patients (particularly those over the age of 65), including heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, left ventricular wall thickening, atrial fibrillation, aortic stenosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and unexplained changes in blood pressure medication requirements.Diagnostic Pathway: The importance of timely suspicion, appropriate specialist referral, and the role of the monoclonal screen (serum and urine electrophoresis and serum free light chains) to rule out AL (light chain) amyloidosis. The role of bone scintigraphy and when tissue biopsy is indicated.Therapeutic Options: Overview of disease-modifying treatments available for different amyloid subtypes, including the PBS-approved medication tafamidis for ATTR cardiac amyloidosis.The GP’s Role: GPs are essential for early suspicion, referral, initiation of screening tests, and, following diagnosis, ongoing care; including regular review, heart failure management, coordination of multidisciplinary care, and supporting the patient’s mental health and quality of life. Dr. Natasha Gorrie also highlighted an upcoming Australian Prescriber article (due for publication mid 2026) on cardiac amyloidosis, which expands on today’s discussion with practical flowcharts and insights into the central role of GPs. Well worth checking out! https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/ Links & Resources: St Vincents Heart Health Amyloidosis page: https://www.svhhearthealth.com.au/conditions/cardiac-amyloidosisAustralian Amyloidosis Network: https://aan.org.au The Good GP Podcast 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 If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

Apr 27

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29 min
MAR 23

Eating Disorders: Management in Primary Care

In this episode, Dr Krystyna de Lange is once again joined by Dr Karen Spielman and Dr Rachel Kalman, GPs with a special interest in eating disorders, for part two of this series on eating disorders. Their conversation centres on the ongoing management of patients with eating disorders in general practice. Dr Kalman provides guidance on the frequency and nature of medical monitoring, including when to order blood tests and ECGs. Dr Spielman discusses how to assess and respond to medical instability, particularly cardiovascular risks and rapid weight loss, while emphasising clinical judgment and individualised care. They discuss common medical complications associated with eating disorders, such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine issues, along with practical tips for symptom management and patient education. The importance of the GP’s role in long-term management, continuity of care, and maintaining hope for recovery. A detailed walkthrough of the Eating Disorder Treatment Plan (EDP), addressing eligibility, use of templates, and the expanded access to psychological and dietetic support. They encourage GPs to utilise the EDP and Medicare Safety Net to make comprehensive care more accessible for patients. Dr Rachel Kalman also discusses the review of an eating disorder management plan. Please note that this review can occur via a psychiatrist or paediatrician, not a psychologist as mentioned in the episode. Links & Resources: Inside Out Institute GP Hub: https://gp.insideoutinstitute.org.auCEED Table for medical monitoring: https://ceed.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Medical-Monitoring-in-Eating-Disorders.pdfEating Disorders Family Australia: https://edfa.org.auSick Enough Book by Dr Jennifer L. Guadiani: https://www.sickenough.com The Good GP Podcast 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 If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

Mar 23

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21 min
2D AGO

603 - Transforming Patient Experience with Agentic AI: Reducing Administrative Burden at HIMSS26

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Rowland Illing, Chief Medical Officer for Amazon Web Services, about how cloud technology is reshaping healthcare and what that means for the people working within it. They explore the rapid rise of AI and software agents, and how these tools are beginning to change the daily experience for clinicians, patients, and health system operators. They unpack AWS’s dual role as both a global cloud provider and an increasingly active contributor to healthcare solutions, sharing practical examples from health systems and life sciences organisations around the world. The discussion also looks at how infrastructure decisions made today are enabling new models of care, from streamlining administrative workflows to improving how patients access and navigate services. The conversation offers a grounded look at where healthcare is heading, what is already changing behind the scenes, and how technology can support better, more human-centred care when applied with purpose. This episode was recorded during the HIMSS26 conference and captures the latest conversations and innovations at the intersection of healthcare and cloud computing. Key Takeaways 🧬 AWS underpins global healthcare and life sciences, supporting drug discovery, health systems, and tech vendors worldwide 💻 AI and cloud services enable faster, more scalable solutions in drug discovery, imaging, and genomics 🔗 Modular, standards-based services like AWS HealthLake and HealthOmics foster interoperability and innovation for vendors and clinicians 🤖 The emergence of AI agents is automating admin tasks, streamlining scheduling, patient interactions, and clinical workflows 🙋 Patient education and transparency around AI use remain essential to build trust and improve care delivery Timestamps 00:00 – Episode intro & guest overview 01:16 – AWS’s healthcare ecosystem role 05:21 – AI in drug discovery and life sciences 07:27 – Modular services: HealthLake, Imaging, HealthOmics 12:22 – AI agents in patient engagement & admin 18:10 – Human element: clinicians and patient care 21:01 – AI, uncertainty, and patient education 27:16 – Advice for CIOs, CTOs, and next steps Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website. If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes. And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.

2d ago

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32 min
17 HRS AGO

604 - Cutting Through the Hype: Healthtech Solutions and Challenges at HIMSS26

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Tim Ferris, Vice President of Healthcare Practice for Intersystems, Dr Tom Kelly, CEO and co-founder of Heidi Health, and Hal Wolf, President and CEO of HIMSS, about the evolving role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in addressing challenges in healthcare delivery, data integration, and system efficiency. The conversation explores how real-world pressures such as workforce strain, rising demand, and fragmented systems are shaping the way technology is adopted across healthcare. It looks closely at what makes digital tools succeed in practice, from easing clinical workflows to improving access to meaningful data, and why many past solutions have struggled to deliver on their promise. The episode also dives into the growing impact of AI in clinical settings, including its role in reducing administrative burden and supporting better decision-making. Alongside this, it examines the importance of trust, patient expectations, and the need for systems that are not only innovative but practical, reliable, and built to support care where it matters most. This episode was recorded during HIMSS 2026 in Las Vegas and features conversations Talking HealthTech had on the expo floor with industry leaders and innovators. Key Takeaways 🧑‍⚕️ Technology’s evolving role: AI and large language models are poised to transform healthcare delivery by addressing supply and demand imbalances and supporting frontline clinicians. 🔑 Practical implementation challenges: Real-world adoption depends on solving specific clinical problems, ensuring seamless data aggregation, and focusing on user-friendly tools. 💸 Funding and adoption incentives: Different healthcare systems (such as the NHS vs the US) adapt AI and technology for cost, efficiency, and clinician satisfaction, affecting the pace and nature of adoption. 🤝 Data, trust, and usage: The growth of agents and AI in healthcare introduces new complexities around data ownership, patient trust, and security, requiring new ways to manage access and responsible use. 🌏 Innovation across the industry: Global perspectives sync on the value of integrating AI into workflows, from documentation to communication, showing both opportunities and hesitations among clinicians and patients. Timestamps 00:00 - Peter Birch: Episode intro 02:56 - Tim Ferris, Vice President of Healthcare Practice, Intersystems 15:17 - Dr Tom Kelly, CEO & Co-Founder, Heidi Health 23:36 - Hal Wolf, President & CEO, HIMSS 39:42 - Peter Birch: Episode wrap-up Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website. If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.

17 hrs ago

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42 min
JAN 5

Chlamydia: Why Early Detection and Treatment Matters

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life Podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins discuss Chlamydia trachomatis, the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in Australia. Providing an in-depth, evidence-based overview tailored for general practitioners. Key discussion points include: Epidemiology: Chlamydia remains highly prevalent in Australia, with over 100,000 recorded cases in 2024. The majority of cases occur in individuals aged 15 to 29.Clinical Presentation: The infection is frequently asymptomatic, with 85-90% of individuals not displaying symptoms. When present, symptoms can include vaginal or penile discharge, dysuria, pelvic pain, testicular pain in men, intermenstrual or post-coital bleeding in women, and, less commonly, conjunctivitis and reactive arthritis.Complications: Untreated chlamydia can result in serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in women, epididymo-orchitis in men, and other sequelae including ectopic pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight in affected pregnancies.Screening Recommendations: Outlining current Australian guidelines, recommending annual opportunistic screening of all sexually active women under 25, women with new partners over 25, sexually active men based on individual risk, anyone who requests screening, and individuals with a history of STIs or higher risk exposures.Treatment: Uncomplicated chlamydia is typically treated with a one-week course of doxycycline. Complicated or extra-genital infections may require longer courses or intravenous antibiotics. Contact Tracing: The importance of notifying and treating recent sexual partners (up to six months prior), offering tools such as anonymous online partner notification services to aid this process.Prevention: Reinforcing the importance of barrier protection and patient education to reduce STI transmission. This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast, 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

Jan 5

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18 min
2023-12-07

Quality Improvement in Healthcare: A Conversation with Dr. Tony Lembke

In this episode of the Medicubes Podcast, hosts Riwka and Kim are joined by Dr Tony Lembke, an experienced GP and former clinical director of the Australian Primary Care Collaborative. The episode focuses on the topic of quality improvement in general practice and its impact on patient care, practice sustainability, and provider experience. Dr Lemke shares his insights and experiences from working with numerous general practices, providing practical examples of quality improvements and discussing the importance of a culture of continuous improvement. Key Talking Points: Dr Lembke explains the concept of quality improvement and its significance in achieving better care, health outcomes, and practice sustainability. He shares practical examples, such as proactive chronic disease management, reducing interruptions for doctors, and implementing new processes for workflow efficiency. The discussion delves into building a culture of quality improvement, fostering psychological safety within teams, and the importance of collaborative learning and sharing innovative practices. The Model for Improvement is explored, including the thinking and doing parts, with an emphasis on small iterative steps and measurement to drive continuous improvement. The episode also addresses the challenges and opportunities for practices in innovating and sharing new initiatives, with real-life examples of successful collaborative learning. Dr Lembke's final message focuses on the culture of kaizen (continuous improvement), encouraging practices to adopt a joyous and easy approach to quality improvement, with a focus on patient-centred care. Make sure you subscribe to the Medicubes podcast and visit www.medicubes.com.au for more episodes and additional information. Resource Links; RACGP Standards for General Practices QI Standard 1 Criteria and Indicators Institute of Healthcare Improvement: Model for Improvement Australian Safety and Quality Framework for Healthcare W. Edward Deming’s 14 Points for Total Quality Management Medical Business Services | Membership options for access to monthly online Q & A networking meetings Medicubes 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

2023-12-07

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27 min
2025-02-03

Managing Eczema Effectively: Non-Pharmacological and Pharmacological Treatments with Dr Ian Coulson

Join your host Dr Krystyna de Lange for this episode of The Good GP Podcast, featuring Dr Ian Coulson, a consultant dermatologist from the United Kingdom and editor-in-chief of DermNet. This is part two of a two-part series on eczema, produced in collaboration with DermNet. Dr Coulson outlines essential non-pharmacological management techniques for eczema, emphasising the importance of using emollients correctly. He introduces the concept of GTBR (Get the Basics Right) to ensure that these steps are followed closely. Providing insights into selecting the correct type of emollient based on individual patient needs and preferences. Moving to the pharmacological management of eczema, Dr Coulson explains the appropriate use of topical corticosteroids. He offers practical advice on choosing the right potency and type of corticosteroid, and the concept of weekend treatment to maintain control. He also touches on the importance of avoiding steroid overuse and educates on steroid withdrawal syndrome. For cases where eczema is more severe or unmanageable, Dr Coulson discusses advanced treatment options like phototherapy and systemic agents like cyclosporine, azathioprine, and methotrexate. Dr Coulson's emphasis on a holistic approach—combining both baselines with advanced treatments—could help GPs with practical strategies to manage eczema more effectively in their practice. The Good GP is proud to collaborate with DermNet on this podcast. In early 2025 DermNet is launching a new platform designed specifically for healthcare professionals called DermNet PRO. It features a new search tool, the ability to save pages, and access a host of volunteer opportunities. It’s 100% free and coming in early 2025. Join the waitlist now: (https://pro.dermnetnz.org/). The Good GP Podcast 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 If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. Mentioned in this episode: Build the Career and Lifestyle You’ve Been Looking For, in the Vines. Tired of traffic, long commutes, and feeling stuck in the grind? The Mudgee Region is calling. The Doctors 4 Mudgee Region initiative is working to attract and support GPs and registrars looking to build rewarding, sustainable careers in one of NSW’s most sought after regional destinations, just 3 hours from Sydney. With financial incentives of up to $45,000 for fellowed doctors and lifestyle concierge support for all relocating practitioners, there’s never been a better time to make the move. Learn more at www.doctors4mudgee.com.au Doctors 4 Mudgee Region

2025-02-03

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24 min
2D AGO

Performance and Image Enhancing Peptides

In this episode, host Dr Krystyna De Lange is joined by Dr Ashley Bowden, ACRRM registrar and exercise science graduate, to discuss the growing interest in peptides, particularly those promoted in the fitness and wellness sectors. Dr Ashley Bowden defines peptides as short chains of amino acids and distinguishes between regulated, TGA-approved peptides (such as insulin and GLP-1 analogues) and unregulated, research-use-only peptides commonly discussed online and in gyms. Exploring the demographics of peptide users in Australia, noting that use extends from athletes to recreational gym users, occupational groups, and young adults influenced by social media trends. They also addressed the limited evidence for the efficacy and safety of unregulated peptides, highlighting that most claims are based on anecdotal reports rather than robust clinical trials. Associated risks include potential side effects, the dangers of unregulated products, and complications related to injection practices. Dr Bowden provides a practical harm-minimisation approach for GPs whose patients raise questions about or disclose use of peptides. He stresses the value of a non-judgemental, curious approach to build rapport, assess risks, offer regular monitoring, and support overall patient health, while recognising the ethical complexities faced when evidence is lacking. Links & Resources: Healthy Male article: https://healthymale.org.au/health-article/peptides-australia-what-you-need-knowWebinar: Understanding the use of androgens, SARMS and peptides by Australian males: https://medcast.com.au/courses/1153 The Good GP Podcast 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 If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

2d ago

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18 min
APR 27

601 - How Artificial Intelligence Is Influencing the Way Healthcare Software Is Built

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Sean Walker, CTO of Alcidion, about the role of AI in healthcare software development, the architecture behind Alcidion’s Miya Precision platform, and how thoughtful AI adoption is helping improve outcomes for both clinicians and patients. The conversation explores how healthcare software is evolving, from the importance of getting foundational architecture right through to building systems that can scale and adapt as clinical needs change. They also unpack how AI is being used in practice, not just as a clinical support tool, but as a way to accelerate development, streamline workflows, and enhance the way software is designed and delivered. Along the way, the discussion highlights the balance between speed and responsibility, the growing role of regulation, and why keeping clinicians involved remains critical to building trust in AI-driven systems. This episode offers a grounded look at where AI is making a real impact today, and what it takes to build healthcare technology that is both innovative and safe. Key Takeaways 🚀 Building strong software foundations is essential for scaling and integrating advanced capabilities like AI and large language models. 💡 Distinct uses of AI exist: both in software development processes and as clinical decision support tools. 👥 Keeping humans in the loop is critical for maintaining trust and reliability in clinical AI applications. 🛠️ Skills like context engineering and agentic workflows are becoming necessary, beyond simple prompt engineering. 🌐 Registered and codified AI tools, such as Alcidion’s concept detection, enable more robust clinical data and contribute to improved patient outcomes. Timestamps 01:12 — Introduction to Alcidion and Sean’s role 03:06 — Approaching platform architecture in healthtech 06:30 — Disruptive AI capabilities and transformations 10:22 — AI’s impact on software development workflow 19:49 — Outcomes for clinicians and patients 23:48 — TGA certification and concept detection 28:09 — Human-in-the-loop for clinical AI 34:08 — Future-ready software developer skills Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website. If you’re enjoying the show and want access to exclusive healthtech discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealth.tech/solo_shownotes. And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.

Apr 27

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36 min

The Talking HealthTech Podcast Network is the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. The THT Podcast Network is designed to connect healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and enthusiasts with engaging, informative, and inspiring content that delves deep into the world of healthcare technology and innovation. With an ever-growing lineup of specialised shows, the THT Podcast Network provides comprehensive coverage of the latest trends, breakthroughs, and challenges in the digital health ecosystem. The THT Podcast Network fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration within the healthcare community. The shows bring together industry-leading experts, influential thought leaders, and inspiring entrepreneurs to share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the transformative power of technology in healthcare.

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