#400 Exploring the Future of Digital Health: AI, Wearables, and Empathy with RJ Kedziora

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into the transformative world of digital health with RJ Kedziora, Co-Founder, CEO, and CTO of Estenda Solutions. RJ joins us to discuss how AI, wearable technology, and an empathetic approach to user needs are shaping the future of healthcare. With over two decades of experience leading Estenda, RJ brings a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and patient care.

The conversation begins with RJ’s journey into tech and healthcare, including his motivations for focusing on patient-centered solutions that have a direct impact on people’s lives. He shares insights into Estenda’s projects with Fortune 50 medical companies and startups alike, shedding light on how data analytics, custom software, and AI applications are driving innovation in health tech.

We explore the evolution of digital health over the last 20 years, from the early challenges of accessing healthcare data to today’s rapid advancements enabled by APIs like FHIR and the advent of wearables. RJ discusses the role of continuous monitoring through devices such as glucose monitors and heart rate sensors, highlighting how these technologies empower individuals to understand their health better and enable healthcare providers to make more informed decisions.

One of the key themes RJ emphasizes is the importance of privacy and security, particularly when handling sensitive patient data. He dives into the complexities of regulations like HIPAA in the U.S. and GDPR in the EU, explaining how these frameworks protect patient information while promoting data sharing to improve care.

As we move into the AI discussion, RJ shares his perspective on the revolutionary potential of generative AI in healthcare. He highlights applications such as ambient listening and note-taking, which are beginning to assist doctors in managing patient information more effectively. RJ also envisions a future where AI can support healthcare professionals by suggesting relevant questions based on patient data, ultimately enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

More about RJ:

RJ Kedziora, co-founder of Estenda, has over 25 years of software product design, development, and management experience. At Estenda, he focuses on people and process management and provides strategic technical direction, guidance, and innovative insights into creating cost-effective digital health solutions that make a difference in people’s lives, helping them live longer and healthier. His work has won multiple awards, including a HIMSS Davies Award and, recently, the Health 2.0 Outstanding Leadership Award.

00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show with Mehmet

00:48 Introducing RJ Kedziora

01:16 RJ's Journey and Estenda Solutions

04:17 Impact of Digital Health and AI

06:41 Evolution of Healthcare Data

11:32 Privacy and Security in Healthcare

16:08 Generative AI in Healthcare

33:11 Wearable Devices and Future Trends

45:25 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

47:55 Conclusion and Farewell