Talking HealthTech

In this audio-only episode of Talking HealthTech, Dr Max Mollenkopf, a Newcastle GP and practice owner, speaks with Tim Doyle, founder and CEO of Eucalyptus, about the evolution and future of primary care in Australia.The discussion explores Eucalyptus’s digital health model, how it is changing patient experiences, supporting clinicians, and connecting with traditional general practice.The conversation covers key challenges facing healthcare today, including continuity of care, regulatory considerations, clinician engagement, and the shifting expectations of patients in a digital era.They share candid insights on scaling digital clinics, balancing technology with human connection, and the opportunities and limitations of hybrid care models.This episode offers practical perspectives on how digital and traditional care can work together, the evolving role of the GP, and what the next generation of Australian healthcare may look like.Key Takeaways🩺 The rise of digital-first clinics is changing how patients interact with primary care, focusing on convenience and continuity through technology.👩‍⚕️ Clinician independence and quality assurance, including pre-screening and audit systems, are central to responsible digital healthcare delivery.💡 Patient engagement is evolving, with increased demand for more data, self-ownership of health, and a desire for ongoing support beyond traditional appointments.💬 The lines between wellness, primary care, and marketplace health products are blurring, raising questions around clinician roles, value, and regulation.🔗 Integrating digital and in-person (hybrid) care paths is viewed as essential for the future, with attention to necessary safeguards, incentives, and patient consent.Timestamps00:00 — Introduction00:36 —Dr. Max Mollenkopf on panel experiences and challenging ideas02:02 —Tim Doyle explains Eucalyptus’s origins and vision06:11 — Addressing continuity, fragmentation, and care platforms13:29 — Access to health information and regulatory challenges17:33 — Business models, clinician obligations, and monetisation24:45 — Regulation, industrial standards, and cannabis clinics26:58 — Quality audits and the role of technology in large-scale care32:23 — Value in care, rebates, and consulting models37:00 — The intersection of wellness, screening, and preventative health42:38 — A hybrid model for future healthcareWant to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here:View Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch sits down with Dr Vienna Tran, Professor Gordon Cable, and Dr Lisa Brown to explore the fascinating intersection of healthcare and space.The discussion focuses on space medicine and how clinicians care for astronauts living in microgravity, exposed to radiation, and operating far from Earth’s hospitals.Learn about the unique challenges of human physiology in space, from fluid shifts and bone loss to immune changes and heightened cancer risks.The panel also examines how technologies developed for astronauts, including wearable health monitors, AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine systems, and on-demand medical tools, are now being adapted for remote and resource-limited healthcare settings on Earth.The conversation highlights the parallels between rural healthcare in Australia and medicine in space, drawing on lessons from the Royal Flying Doctor Service and other innovative programs.It also explores the role of international collaboration, cross-disciplinary research, and microgravity studies in shaping the future of both space missions and terrestrial medicine.Key Takeaways🚀 Space medicine is likened to extreme remote healthcare, highlighting autonomy and resourcefulness.🧑‍🔬 Technologies originally developed for space, like telemedicine and imaging tools, now benefit rural healthcare in Australia.🌱 Innovations such as plant growth research and pharmaceuticals in microgravity have Earth applications, impacting food security and medicine shelf-life.🧠 Deep space missions require new psychological and physical support systems due to isolation and altered gravity.🩺 Collaborative research in Australia and New Zealand is advancing knowledge in areas like organ health, gallstone formation, and cancer associated with space environments.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction02:13 – Dr Vienna Tran22:25 – Professor Gordon Cable39:20 – Dr Lisa BrownWant to keep the conversation going?The full article and extended show notes for this episode are available inside the THT+ Community here:View the Full Article HereIn the THT+ Community, our members keep the discussion going, share perspectives, and unpack what this episode actually means in practice with other people working in healthtech.If you’re enjoying the show and want access to full articles, episode discussions, meetups, and member-only content, you can learn more about becoming a THT+ Solo Member here: talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus.And if this episode was useful, leaving a review or sharing it with someone in the industry always helps.

This is a special bonus episode of the Talking Healthtech podcast featuring one of the shows in our Podcast Network called MSIA - The Good Tech Podcast.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: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).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).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).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).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).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).Business efficiency in healthcare relies not only on clinical excellence but also transparent, automated financial management. (Marcus Wilson).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.

This is a special bonus episode of the Talking Healthtech podcast featuring one of the shows in our Podcast Network called MSIA - The Good Tech Podcast.In this episode of the MSIA - The 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 Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Max Mollenkopf, Dr Michael Bonning, and Dr Nicole Sleeman at GP25, the annual conference for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) in Brisbane.The episode covers the changing landscape of general practice in Australia, with a focus on the involvement of private health insurers in primary care, recent bulk billing changes, the environmental impact of healthcare, and the role of artificial intelligence.This episode was recorded during GP25 in Brisbane, the largest national gathering dedicated to general practice, organised by RACGP.Key Takeaways🌱 The increasing presence of private health insurers in primary care raises questions about patient outcomes, funding models, and the viability of independent clinics.💸 Changes to bulk billing are shifting the financial landscape for GPs, with government policy aiming to relieve cost-of-living pressures for patients but introducing new considerations for clinic owners.🌏 Healthcare contributes significantly to carbon emissions in Australia, and there are opportunities to decarbonise the sector by focusing on prevention, reducing low-value care, and adopting low-carbon options in clinical practice.🤝 The general practice sector must define and advocate for its core strengths amidst disruption by corporate interests and technology, particularly the integration of AI in supporting clinical decision making.🚦 Clinicians and clinic owners can take actionable steps, such as joining advocacy groups, reviewing care practices, and engaging in preventative health, to respond proactively to these sector changes.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction01:02 – Dr Max Mollenkopf06:43 – Dr Michael Bonning16:33 – Dr Nicole SleemanCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information, visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with technology consultant, Dr Shane Black, and Associate Professor Amina Tariq and Professor Steven McPhail from The Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) at Queensland University of Technology (QUT).The discussion covers the current wave of artificial intelligence in healthcare, exploring its real-world implementation, governance, workforce readiness, and how clinicians and technologists can collaborate effectively.The guests share their experience and perspectives on digital health transformation, the challenges of adopting new technologies, and the evolving role of AI in Australian healthcare.They also dive into practical examples of AI in action, from AI-powered scribes easing administrative burdens to tools that support clinical decision-making.The episode highlights the importance of human-centred design, adaptive governance, and building trust among clinicians and patients.Listeners will gain insight into how AI is being thoughtfully integrated into Australian healthcare, balancing innovation with safety, workforce needs, and patient outcomes.Key Takeaways✨ AI adoption happens in waves, moving from hype to normalisation, requiring realistic expectations and robust capability building🧠 Effective governance in healthcare doesn’t have to slow innovation; adaptive frameworks can support safe and agile implementation💬 Human factors and real-world workflows are critical when designing and implementing healthcare technology solutions🤝 Workforce readiness and co-design, embedding digital health concepts into clinical education and involving clinicians in design, leads to better outcomes⚡ AI tools are increasingly seen as essential infrastructure, with growing clinician and patient comfort, but trust and ongoing usability remain crucialTimestamps00:00 – Introductions and overview of panellist backgrounds05:18 – Is the AI bubble in healthcare about to burst, or just mature?07:59 – Differences in risk tolerance between tech and health, and how that affects adoption10:33 – Sustainability and the risk of “serial piloters” in healthcare AI13:22 – Sentiment toward AI in healthcare vs other industries18:08 – How real-world workflows affect technology adoption20:02 – Growing public and healthcare professional awareness and trust in AI tools21:53 – Governance strategies and balancing safety with speed25:22 – The need for responsive, risk-tiered governance frameworks28:02 – AI’s place in healthcare: from a “bubble” to essential infrastructure30:43 – Role of flexibility and user choice in AI adoption32:03 – Trust, augmentation vs automation, and failed AI pilots34:47 – Real use cases: AI scribes and clinician-patient interaction36:34 – Building meaningful workforce readiness for AI38:08 – Embedding digital health and AI literacy in clinical training43:07 – Rethinking workforce composition to support technology adoption44:23 – Closing remarks and further resourcesCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information, visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dan Wijeratne from Modern Innovations about the evolving landscape of billing and operational efficiency in Australian primary care clinics.They discuss the recent and upcoming changes to Medicare bulk billing incentives, the challenges faced by general practices in adapting to shifting business models, and how tools like MyGPMPtool are helping clinics manage chronic disease care more effectively.The conversation also explores the broader impact of technology on patient experience and clinic sustainability. Listeners will learn how digital tools can streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and support coordinated chronic disease management, allowing practices to deliver higher-quality care while maintaining financial viability. The discussion highlights practical strategies for both bulk billing and mixed billing clinics to adapt to policy changes and remain resilient in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.Key Takeaways🔄 The shift between bulk billing and mixed billing models is having a significant impact on clinic operations, influenced by new Medicare incentives and changing patient demographics.📝 Effective chronic disease management (CDM) relies heavily on operational efficiency and the adoption of digital tools to streamline care planning, eligibility tracking, and patient engagement.👩‍⚕️ Clinics are facing challenges in workforce adaptation, particularly in redistributing CDM-related workflows between nurses and GPs as expectations and demands increase.⏱️ Simple digital process improvements, such as removing paperwork and automating reminders, can result in substantial time and cost savings for clinics.📈 Modern Innovations is developing new CRM and AI features within MyGPMPtool to further support practice efficiency, patient engagement, and care continuity, including upcoming modules for aged care and advanced patient segmentation.Timestamps:00:00:00 – Introduction and overview of MyGPMP tool with Dan Wijeratne00:00:43 – Differences between acute and chronic disease management in general practice00:01:54 – Understanding Medicare item numbers and billing for CDM services00:03:04 – Changes to CDM workflows post-1 July and impacts on GPs00:05:22 – How technology addresses administrative burdens and inefficiencies in care planning00:07:05 – Key features of MyGPMP tool and use of AI for workflow optimisation00:08:44 – The benefits of streamlined CDM processes for patient outcomes00:10:24 – Importance of collaborative, cloud-based solutions for multidisciplinary care00:11:21 – Current priorities and opportunities for GPs in 2025, and market trends00:13:30 – The future of healthcare technology, CRM systems, and patient engagementCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information, visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Ben Hurst, CEO of HotDoc, about evolving patient engagement, clinic efficiency, compliance burdens, and the future of hybrid healthcare delivery in Australia.The conversation explores how HotDoc supports GPs and medical centres with digital tools to automate administrative processes, balance regulatory changes, offer flexible work arrangements, and improve access to care for patients in an increasingly virtual environment.The discussion also highlights the growing pressures on general practice, including workforce shortages, rising patient demand, and competition from virtual-only providers and digital health apps.Listeners will gain insight into how clinics can leverage technology to streamline workflows, capture patient information more effectively, and deliver personalised care, all while supporting doctors in managing burnout and maintaining work-life balance.This episode offers practical perspectives for GPs, practice managers, and healthtech innovators looking to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of primary care.Key Takeaways🩺 The burden of compliance and administrative changes, such as payroll regulations and MyMedicare requirements, creates significant process challenges for GP clinics.⚙️ Automating tasks like recalls, reminders, and bulk-billing consent can improve efficiency and free up time for doctors to focus on clinical care.🌐 The rise of virtual healthcare and online consults is changing patient expectations, with convenience and accessibility taking priority, leading clinics to adapt with solutions like asynchronous quick consults and telehealth on demand.👨‍⚕️ Flexibility for doctors, including hybrid and virtual care models, is crucial to address burnout and ensure sustainable practice amid an impending GP shortage.🔍 Capturing patient intent, matching them with specialised providers, and leveraging technology to serve up relevant information are opportunities for further innovation in patient care pathways.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and HotDoc’s mission01:04 – 13 years of HotDoc and supporting GPs with administration02:11 – Patient engagement and streamlining workflows03:32 – Compliance challenges: MyMedicare, assignment of benefit04:38 – GP clinic operations and shifting processes06:00 – Impact of regulatory changes on clinic efficiency08:00 – Competition from virtual providers and patient expectations10:03 – Quick consults, asynchronous care, and responding to convenience demands14:05 – GP workforce shortages, burnout, and capacity challenges16:42 – Flexibility in GP work patterns and reducing burnout18:53 – Benefits of virtual care for information capture20:08 – Personalised intent-based patient matching and technology’s role24:06 – Clinics’ priorities for 2025: automation, differentiation, sub-specialisation, and hybrid-care models27:47 – Closing thoughts and future priorities for HotDocCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information, visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with a line-up of innovators, founders and CEOs participating in the ANDHealth Digital and Connected Health Commercialisation Showcase and the ANDHealth Plus Programme.Recorded at the event in Canberra, this episode highlights successes from Australian digital health companies and explores topics surrounding commercialisation, global expansion, regulatory hurdles, funding models, and lessons learned from building scalable healthtech solutions.This episode was recorded at the ANDHealth Digital and Connected Health Commercialisation Showcase in Canberra, celebrating milestone achievements for the participant companies in the ANDHealth Plus Programme, as well as the 10th anniversary of the Medical Research Future Fund.Key Takeaways🎤 The importance of collaboration and building global networks for healthtech commercialisation.🚀 Scaling digital health innovations internationally requires adapting to local markets and understanding cultural nuances.💡 Knowing your funding, payment, and commercialisation models is crucial for successfully bringing products to market.🧑‍⚕️ Listening to clinicians and end-users, rather than presuming their needs, drives effective product uptake.🛠 Regulatory approval, such as TGA registrations and clinical validation, remain significant steps for healthtech companies.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and event background: ANDHealth Plus Programme and MRFF anniversary00:30 – Sanji Kanaglingam on WeGuide’s expansion, scalability, and digital biomarkers03:08 – Simon Green discusses Immunosis, diagnostics for immune deficiency, and commercialisation06:31 – Carolyn Mee from Soundscouts: Funding, regulatory milestones, and sector expansion10:42 – Tina Campbell on Healthily’s approach to patient education and voice AI for engagement15:16 – Arthur Shih explains Humanetix’s clinical decision support and lessons from aged care19:07 – Dr James Waldie of Cape Bionics: Translating space sciences into compression garments24:24 – John Wright shares about Metabolic Health Solutions: Device-to-software integration and market focus27:22 – Fiona Hammond - Perx Health provides updates on Perx Health’s gamification tech and cognitive decline solutions30:30 – Bronwyn Le Grice - CEO, ANDHealth on commercialisation, digital health sector growth, and ecosystem priorities34:03 – Episode wrap up and call to actionCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus

In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch speaks with Dr Raymond Wen, Chief Growth Officer and Medical Director for Primary Care Services at Telecare Australia, about the evolution of telehealth, challenges in delivering virtual care, and Telecare's unique approach to technology-enabled healthcare service delivery.Check this episode out to gain insights into how virtual care is transforming access for rural and regional communities, from mental health support to specialist consultations.The conversation explores practical strategies for workforce flexibility, process automation, and co-designed service models, showing how Telecare combines clinical expertise and innovative technology to improve safety, efficiency, and patient outcomes across Australia.Key Takeaways🌏 Telehealth in Australia addresses the challenges of providing quality specialist care to rural and remote populations, leveraging virtual consultations and remote technology.🩺 Around 30–50% of clinical scenarios can be safely and effectively managed through telehealth, increasing access without compromising care quality.🔗 Co-designing new models of virtual care with stakeholders enables healthcare organisations to balance risk, optimise workflows, and support community needs when traditional service provision is under strain.💻 Telecare developed its own technology solutions, including a mobile native e-script platform and healthcare process automation tools, to solve practical issues in care delivery and staff optimisation.💡 The future of virtual care involves continued innovation in automation and integration, focusing first on solving “boring” admin and engagement challenges before fully harnessing AI potential.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and overview of Telecare’s background02:33 – Telecare's role and services in Australian healthcare04:40 – The impact and evolution of telehealth for rural communities06:14 – Types of care best suited for telehealth and what Telecare does10:41 – Risk assessment and co-design in developing new care models13:23 – Building technology versus using market solutions; motivations and outcomes17:35 – Service enablement, process automation, and operational efficiency20:23 – Telecare’s acquisition by Teladoc and implications for future growth22:14 – The future of telehealth/virtual care and the role of AI24:43 – Final thoughts and episode wrap-upCheck out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it. Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information, visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus