

The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare
RLDatix
The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is your go-to podcast that explores the intersection of technology and human-centred care within the health and care sector.
Brought to you by RLDatix, we navigate how software solutions are connecting healthcare operations and supporting the working lives of health care professionals, with safer care at the centre.
With insights from leaders in healthcare and technology, The Connection delves into the complexities of health and care systems, innovative practices, and the deep impact of technology on healthcare delivery and patient care. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the tech, offering actionable insights and fostering discussions that bridge the gap between technology and health care services.
Brought to you by RLDatix, we navigate how software solutions are connecting healthcare operations and supporting the working lives of health care professionals, with safer care at the centre.
With insights from leaders in healthcare and technology, The Connection delves into the complexities of health and care systems, innovative practices, and the deep impact of technology on healthcare delivery and patient care. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the tech, offering actionable insights and fostering discussions that bridge the gap between technology and health care services.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 20, 2025 • 33min
Technology as a Partnership: Breaking down Barriers in Healthcare Innovation
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, brought to you by RLDatix.In this episode, Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy are joined by Sam Shah, a key voice in digital health, clinical policy, and public health, to share insights on the evolving role of technology in healthcare.What You’ll Learn:The three critical ingredients for successful digital transformationAddressing common fears about AI replacing jobsThe framework for breaking down information governance barriers through better understanding of existing regulationsHow to create effective procurement partnerships between healthcare organizations and technology vendorsThe importance of balancing technology implementation with business change management and cultural transformationSam is a distinguished healthcare leader with expertise spanning clinical practice, digital transformation, and medical regulatory law. As both a clinician and lawyer, he has held key roles in NHS digital transformation and private healthcare, showcasing a unique ability to bridge technology implementation with practical healthcare delivery. His experience includes launching major eCommerce platforms, leading digital health initiatives, and working across international healthcare systems.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode Highlights[06:42 - 10:55] Will AI Take Our Jobs?AI isn't here to replace jobs; it's here to enhance them. Change takes time, and while some roles may evolve, the reality is that we're entering an era where we'll rely on AI to do our jobs better, not lose them. In sectors like healthcare, where long wait times and resource shortages persist, AI can help improve access and efficiency without eliminating human roles. The key is designing AI solutions that are user-centric, adaptable, and personalized to specific needs.[10:55 - 14:35] Why Healthcare Tech Often Fails CliniciansTechnology in healthcare should make clinicians' lives easier, not add to their cognitive load. Too often, new tools are imposed without considering the real-world pressures of fast-paced environments, where staff have little time to adapt. True success comes from co-creating solutions with those who actually use them, who often hold the system together in unseen ways.[14:35 - 21:38] What Tech Companies Need to Know About HealthcareTech companies working with healthcare need to rethink their approach. Successful partnerships aren't just about selling solutions but about building relationships that allow for flexibility and long-term innovation. Companies should proactively identify gaps in customer expectations, offer insights from global successes, and create contracts that leave room for iteration and improvement.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Quotes for Snippets“I can tell you there are always three ingredients: having a strategy that the leadership commits to, having a resourcing plan that is realistic, and having the organizational design to bring about that change and make it happen.” — Sam Shah“Make sure you're kind of willing to adapt. Technology is going to face us in every part of what we do, whether it's our personal lives or professional lives.” — Sam Shah“We are likely to live through an era where we can't do our jobs without technology.” — Sam Shah“We no longer need to have one career or one profession. It's okay to switch every few years if you feel like it. And if you don't and you wanna do the same thing, that's also okay.” — Sam ShahEpisode ResourcesSam Shah on LinkedInNeom WebsiteLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Feb 27, 2025 • 22min
The NHS Productivity Puzzle: How Workforce Tech Can Help
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, brought to you by RLDatix.In this episode, Darren Kilroy, Medical Director at RLDatix, and Liz Jones, Chief Customer Officer at RLDatix, discuss the annual NHS Operational Planning Guidance and its significance in the context of the upcoming ten-year plan. They explore how healthcare organisations facing efficiency and productivity targets can find sustainable improvements without constantly seeking revolutionary changes.Here are some talking points from the conversation:The challenge of finding new ideas for efficiency when organisations are "out of ideas"How small, incremental improvements can lead to significant productivity gainsThe concept of "living within your means" and its application to healthcare financesThe growing role of data and technology in healthcare planning and deliveryIntegrating community care and reducing fragmentation in patient journeysThe importance of including patient and carer perspectives in healthcare planningThrough personal anecdotes and professional insights, Darren and Liz highlight the human impact of policy decisions and technology implementation. Their conversation moves beyond abstract planning to consider how operational changes affect both healthcare staff and patients, particularly in community settings.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode Highlights[00:59 - 04:52] The Challenge of Innovation in NHS PlanningThe operational planning guidance returns annually, but this year feels more significant due to the upcoming ten-year plan. Healthcare leaders express being "out of ideas" for achieving 4% productivity and 1% efficiency savings. Darren challenges this notion, emphasising that innovation doesn't require revolutionary ideas but rather doing existing things better through tenacity and continuous improvement. Small, incremental changes in areas like job planning can collectively deliver significant efficiency gains.[05:26 - 07:40] Living Within Your MeansThe concept of "living within your means" is explored as a central theme in healthcare planning. Darren discusses the importance of setting honest expectations about available finances while showing how working differently and leveraging technology can help liberate additional funding. Liz highlights the misalignment often seen between nursing teams' budgets and finance departments, suggesting opportunities for improvement through better coordination and resource visibility.[11:42 - 19:28] Community Care and Personal ExperienceDrawing from personal experience as a family carer, Liz shares insights about navigating fragmented community healthcare services. She describes challenges like uncoordinated care teams, redundant equipment deliveries, and the intimate nature of home care. The conversation explores how technology could improve coordination between hospital services, neighbourhood teams, and other community providers. They discuss the potential idea of giving family carers visibility of staff rosters and including them more formally in the care team.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Feb 6, 2025 • 17min
Turning Healthcare Data into Action with Andy Cowper & Will Browne
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, brought to you by RLDatix.In this special guest-hosted episode, recorded at the RLDatix Connected Health and Care Summit 2024, Andy Cowper, Owner and Editor of Health Policy Insight, is joined by Will Browne, Chief Technology Officer at Emrys Health, to explore the transformative role of data and technology in healthcare.Here are some talking points from the conversation:The importance of collaboration between data scientists and cliniciansWhat role does organisational culture play in leveraging data effectivelyCritical challenges posed by technology and how to overcome themPractical solutions to improve healthcare workflowsWill has a strong background in data analytics, driven by a passion for uncovering truths through data to inform better decision-making. In his role at Emrys Health, Will is dedicated to enhancing patient information management and accelerating diagnostic innovation for improved health outcomes.Andy is the Editor of Health Policy Insight and has been a journalist covering health policy for 22 years. He is the author of "Cowper's Cut" and contributes regularly as a columnist for the British Medical Journal and Civil Service World.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesAndy Cowper on LinkedInWill Browne on LinkedInEmrys Health WebsiteLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteEpisode Highlights[02:48 - 04:30] Enhancing HealthcareImproving healthcare jobs requires two key changes: harnessing data effectively and simplifying technology. Combining data science with clinical expertise is a game-changer, yet often overlooked, as many still see data as just a means to create dashboards. At the same time, clunky technology makes work harder instead of easier. To attract and retain talent, prioritize smarter, user-friendly systems and fully integrate data into decision-making processes.[04:30 - 10:15] From Data to ImpactHumility and curiosity are the secret ingredients for making data impactful. Instead of treating dashboards as magical answers or fixating on endless metrics, organisations thrive when diverse expertise comes together to interpret data, ask questions, and focus on actionable insights. A culture that values open conversations acknowledges failures without fear, and aligns data-driven efforts with clear goals ensures that information drives meaningful change.[10:15 - 13:47] Building Teams That ThriveBuilding a strong organisational culture is about fostering genuine human connections and creating an environment where people feel energized and valued. The best-performing teams prioritize small moments of joy, humor, and trust, like playing a quick team game or sharing laughs in meetings. These seemingly intangible elements create a sense of belonging and motivation that makes people want to step up, even during tough times.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Jan 16, 2025 • 21min
Why Healthcare Careers Offer Endless Opportunities with Peter Carter
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy, brought to you by RLDatix.In this episode, recorded at the RLDatix Connected Health and Care Summit 2024, Peter Carter, former General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, joined us to discuss the diverse career paths in healthcare.Here are some talking points from the conversation:Why it is important to promote the positive aspects of nursingThe potential for diverse career paths within the NHSThe critical need for better remuneration and working conditions to improve retention rates among healthcare professionalsHow technology and innovation impact healthcarePeter is a seasoned healthcare leader with a rich background in nursing and management. Initially drawn to psychiatric nursing by a friend's encouragement, Peter quickly discovered his passion for the field, leading to dual qualifications in nursing. His career trajectory took him from frontline nursing to management, culminating in a 12-year tenure as Chief Executive of the Central and North West London NHS Trust. He later served as the General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing for nine years, where he advocated for nursing professionals and the importance of patient care.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesPeter Carter on XLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Dec 23, 2024 • 15min
Winter Reflections: Health Technology and Humanity in 2024
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy, brought to you by RLDatix. In our last episode for 2024, we reflect on the unique challenges of healthcare during the winter months.Here are some talking points from the conversation:Patient flow bottlenecksThe evolution of triage systemsWhat impact do performance league tables have on healthcareThe importance of collaboration between healthcare providers and local authoritiesThe rewards and frustrations of working in healthcare👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode Highlights[01:34 - 05:40] Inside the Realities of Emergency MedicineEmergency medicine is a tale of two seasons: summers bring a fast-paced rhythm with injuries like trampoline accidents and garden casualties, while winter presents unique challenges as we care for patients with more complex medical needs. Despite ongoing efforts to streamline care efficiency, challenges in coordination often lead to delays and higher admission rates. Effective integration of care, supported by accessible resources and communication, is essential to alleviate pressure on emergency departments and improve outcomes for patients.[05:40 - 11:22] League Tables in HealthcarePerformance league tables in healthcare can be valuable when designed thoughtfully, measuring meaningful metrics and incentivising improvement with tangible support like resources or better workforce models. However, when they prioritise speed over quality, they can lead to short-term decisions that compromise clinical outcomes. Innovations like triage and role specialisation emerged to streamline patient flow and match care to needs efficiently, balancing demand, safety, and cost-effectiveness.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Dec 17, 2024 • 36min
Technology + Humanity in Healthcare: Insights from Dan Michelson, CEO of RLDatix
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy, brought to you by RLDatix. In this episode, Dan Michelson, Chief Executive Officer at RLDatix, joined us to share his early reflections on his time in the organization and thoughts on the vital intersection of technology and healthcare.Here are some talking points from the conversation:The importance of human-centered design in health techOpportunities AI brings to the healthcare workforce, safety, and complianceRebuilding trust as a critical step to collaboration and innovation in healthcareThe future for healthcare technologyDan is the newly appointed CEO at RLDatix, bringing over 30 years of experience in the healthcare technology sector. With a background that spans operations redesign, strategy consulting, and a deep commitment to improving patient care, he stresses the importance of viewing healthcare technology through the lens of human impact rather than mere data. Dan's philosophy centers on the idea that the software developed by RLDatix is not just about bits and bytes but about enhancing the lives of individuals and communities.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesDan Michelson on LinkedInLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Dec 5, 2024 • 23min
Why AI and Healthcare Tech Needs to Work for People with Professor Alison Leary
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy, brought to you by RLDatix. In this episode, recorded at the RLDatix Connected Health and Care Summit 2024, Professor Alison Leary, Chair of Healthcare and Workforce Modelling at London South Bank University, joined us to discuss the evolving role of technology in enhancing healthcare without losing the human touch.Here are some talking points from the conversation:Why the latest shift in healthcare workforce planning could be a game-changerHow AI can ease clinicians' burden without compromising careStrategic data collection for improved patient outcomesWhy community care is overlooked and how we can fix thatAlison is an independent healthcare consultant and researcher based in London. With global experience, she has worked on projects for the UK National Health Service and various government, commercial, statutory, and charitable organisations. Alison is also a Senior Consultant in Human Resources for Health at the World Health Organization, a Professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway and Canterbury Christ Church University, as well as a Member Board of Trustees at NLCFN.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesProfessor Alison Leary on LinkedInLondon South Bank University WebsiteWorld Health Organization WebsiteUniversity of South-Eastern Norway WebsiteNLCFN WebsiteCanterbury Christ Church University WebsiteLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Nov 14, 2024 • 39min
Patient-Centred Safety and Innovation with Marcos Manhaes of NHS England
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and Darren Kilroy, brought to you by RLDatix. This week, Marcos Manhaes, Associate Director of Commercial Systems, Data, and Insight at NHS England, joins us to share insights into the evolving intersection of technology and patient safety, offering a glimpse into the future of healthcare innovation.Here are some talking points from the conversation:Marcos' driving force behind patient safetyHow data allows healthcare professionals to meet patient demands for real-time, personalised careThe role of staff engagement and AI innovation in enhancing patient safetyStrategies for making a difference in patient safetyMarcos Manhaes is a dedicated and ambitious senior professional with over 30 years of successful experience in allowing businesses to be more innovative, efficient, and sustainable through effective use of data and business analysis. He has vast experience working with private international organisations, public hospitals, and UK national public health bodies.👉 At RLDatix, we understand that health and care is a complex landscape where technology must work hand-in-hand with human expertise. In our podcast, we explore how our commitment to safety and operational efficiency can improve the daily experiences of health and care professionals while keeping patient safety at the core of everything we do. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesMarcos Manhaes on LinkedInNHS England WebsiteLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix WebsiteEpisode Highlights[04:15 - 08:28] Turning Pain into PurposeMany people working in patient safety are driven by personal experiences, either a desire to fix something wrong in healthcare or to give back because they or a loved one received great care. Whether motivated by bad outcomes or a positive experience, they often find purpose and healing through their work, using their passion to make healthcare better for others.[08:28 - 14:01] Healthcare's Data RevolutionHealthcare is finally catching up with the data revolution, thanks to growing demand from patients and staff for real-time, accessible information. People expect healthcare to mirror the seamless experiences they have in other sectors, like receiving quick updates and easy access to their own data. As we integrate technology, the key is keeping the patient experience at the centre while ensuring clinicians have the right data at the right time, all while maintaining privacy.[21:37 - 29:58] Enhancing Patient SafetyOne of the biggest highlights in patient safety has been the incredible engagement of frontline staff in voluntarily reporting incidents, from only a few hundred reports to over 2.6 million annually. Additionally, AI and robotics are boosting efforts to improve patient safety by reducing human error and automating tasks like monitoring, medication, and nutrition management. AI may also play a huge role in mental health and elderly care.The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

5 snips
Oct 24, 2024 • 43min
Creating a Culture of Safety Through Listening and Collaboration with Helen Hughes
Helen Hughes, Chief Executive at Patient Safety Learning, brings over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience focused on patient safety. In this insightful discussion, she highlights the difference between patient and clinical safety, emphasizing the importance of organizational culture and trust. Helen discusses the need for system-wide leadership and training to bridge gaps in safety practices. She urges making patient safety a shared responsibility and stresses user-centered design for electronic patient records, advocating for continuous monitoring and adaptation.

Oct 24, 2024 • 52min
The Intersection of Technology and Humanity in Healthcare with Leigh Malyon at NHS Confed Expo 2024
Welcome to The Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare podcast, hosted by Liz Jones and brought to you by RLDatix. This week, we’re coming to you from NHS Confed Expo 2024, and our special guest is Leigh Malyon, Head of Medics at RLDatix. RLDatix is a global enterprise software company offering software and services tailored to healthcare organizations.Here are some talking points from the conversation:The importance of bringing humanity into technologyHow productivity has become a more prominent topic in healthcareThe way there is often more capacity within the system than initially thought, but it is hidden due to inefficient processesThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on productivityEpisode Highlights[06:06 - 07:14] - Healthcare and Hidden Capacity Leigh suggests that productivity is about enabling clinicians to do more of what they are trained for and to eliminate wasteful processes. This includes admin, or “tasks that weren't promoting healthcare for patients and making patients safer”. Leigh says that where he sees real waste is where processes are overly burdensome, with too much paperwork, a lack of visibility, and duplication of effort. He believes that there is often more capacity within the system than initially thought, but it is hidden due to inefficient processes. Leigh emphasizes that productivity is not about “squeezing more out of individuals”.[17:36 - 22:14] Job PlanningLiz introduces job planning as a key tool for improving productivity and maximizing the use of resources within healthcare teams. It is seen as an opportunity to align individual skills and capabilities with the needs of the service. Darren adds that job planning can help eliminate reliance on discretionary effort and highlight the importance of capturing and recognizing the efforts of healthcare professionals. He says that in terms of productivity, “job planning is your friend”. Darren believes that job planning leads to a more sustainable workforce (since they’re not doing extra hours and getting exhausted) and “gives you a much stronger footing to match demand in an objective sense”.[29:22 - 32:44] - Humanising Technology Liz, Darren, and Leigh discuss the need for technology companies to explain how their solutions will improve the lives of healthcare professionals and enable them to deliver better outcomes. They also highlight the significance of language, leadership, and communication in successfully implementing technology in healthcare settings, expressing the need to humanize technology and involve clinical teams in the process—stakeholder buy-in is the only way the technology will realize its full potential. Leigh believes this will also reduce anxiety about technology replacing healthcare professionals. 👉 RLDatix is revolutionising how healthcare professionals interact with software in their daily operations. Our unique approach lies in deeply understanding the complexities of healthcare systems and providing technological solutions that not only aim for operational efficiency and safety but also enhance job satisfaction and productivity. 🎉To find out more, visit rldatix.com. 🏥Episode ResourcesLeigh Malyon on LinkedInLiz Jones on LinkedinDarren Kilroy on LinkedInRLDatix websiteThe Connection: Where Tech Meets Humanity in Healthcare is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so