In this episode of our Partnerships Podcast, Melanie and Sally sit down with Catherine Kirkpatrick, a seasoned professional in the ultrasound community. Catherine shares her journey and insights into the ultrasound field, detailing her multifaceted roles, including her work as a Consultant Sonographer at United Lincolnshire Hospitals and Development Officer at BMUS.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Catherine’s Background:
  Catherine talks about her extensive experience in the ultrasound world, wearing multiple hats, from being a consultant sonographer to her roles in BMUS, including being a former Honorary Treasurer and Council Member.
• Passion for Patient Care:
  Catherine delves into her passion for ensuring patient safety and enhancing the patient experience through her work. She emphasises the importance of advancing sonographer careers and maintaining high standards in the NHS.
• Challenges Facing BMUS:
  With the ongoing cost of living crisis, Catherine discusses the financial challenges BMUS faces, especially in providing valuable membership services and affordable educational events. Balancing quality and cost remains a key focus.
• Workforce Shortages:
  Catherine highlights the critical issue of workforce shortages in the ultrasound sector. She shares how BMUS, under the leadership of Dr. Pamela Parker, is working on strategies to address these challenges, including collaborations with NHSE, the Society and College of Radiographers, and other professional bodies.
• Looking Ahead to BMUS 2024:
  The upcoming BMUS Annual Scientific Meeting in December 2024 will focus on the theme of collaboration. Catherine previews the event, which will explore new techniques, AI advancements, and continued efforts to enhance standards in ultrasound.
• AI in Ultrasound:
  The conversation touches on the evolving role of AI in ultrasound practice. Catherine shares her thoughts on the benefits and challenges of AI, particularly the medico-legal implications and the importance of education around AI use in clinical settings.
• Quirky Question:
  If Catherine could hang out with any famous person, it would be a tie between Michelle Obama and Tracy Neville. She admires both women for their leadership and resilience, and she shares how she would love to learn from them in both personal and professional contexts.

Final Thoughts:

This episode offers an insightful glimpse into the world of ultrasound, the challenges faced by professionals in the field, and the role of organisations like BMUS in advancing the profession. Catherine’s dedication to patient care and her proactive approach to tackling industry challenges shine through in this engaging conversation.

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In this insightful episode, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington welcome Dr. Katherine Halliday, President of the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR). Dr. Halliday shares her inspiring journey from paediatric radiology to becoming a leader in the field. She delves into the challenges and opportunities within the radiology sector, focusing on workforce issues, the integration of AI into healthcare, and the vital role of partnerships in driving quality service improvement.

Dr. Halliday also discusses her passion for the NHS, the future of radiology, and her hopes for continuing impactful work post-RCR presidency. Whether you're in healthcare or simply curious about the innovations shaping the medical field, this episode offers a deep dive into the world of radiology and the importance of collaborative efforts.

Key Topics Covered:

• Dr. Halliday's career journey and her transition into leadership roles
• The critical challenges facing radiology, including workforce shortages and the impact of technology
• The importance of partnerships in healthcare, particularly in quality service improvement
• Insights into the upcoming AI conference in 2025 and its significance for the future of healthcare
• The evolving role of radiologists as leaders and the need for continued innovation and adaptation

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
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And join us next time for more insights from industry.

Welcome to AXREM Insights, where hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington explore advancements in healthcare through MedTech and innovation. In this special episode on the AXREM Patient Monitoring Manifesto, they interview Yasmeen Mahmood, a business leader at Philips UKI. Yasmeen, who joined Philips through a graduate scheme, has extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business roles within the patient monitoring space. She is also actively involved in Philips' well-being and inclusion committees.

During the discussion, Yasmeen highlights the significance of consistency across the NHS, as outlined in the manifesto. She explains that inconsistencies in infrastructure and procurement practices can lead to unequal patient care and delays in acquiring necessary technology. This affects patient outcomes and overall care quality, emphasising the need for standardised processes and investment in infrastructure to ensure all patients receive top-notch care, regardless of location.

Yasmeen also addresses the potential of patient monitoring technology to alleviate capacity issues within the NHS. By enabling early intervention and facilitating quicker discharges through remote monitoring and virtual wards, technology can help manage the limited number of hospital beds and improve patient experiences. The conversation underscores the importance of connectivity and data-driven decisions in enhancing patient care and the need for collaborative efforts within the industry to drive meaningful change.

You can download the Patient Monitoring Manifesto HERE: AXREM Patient Monitoring Manifesto – AXREM

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this pre-election special episode of the podcast, Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington discuss politics with Ila Dobson, AXREM's Government Affairs Director, and Daniel Laing, Senior Account Director at Tendo Consulting. Ila shares her extensive background in healthcare and long-term involvement with AXREM, while Daniel discusses his career in public affairs and healthcare policy. The conversation shifts to the current election campaigns, with Daniel noting the polling favoring a Labour majority and the limited policy discussion in debates. Sally raises concerns about the impact of a large Labour majority on democracy, and Daniel explains the importance of a strong opposition for effective governance and the potential changes in parliamentary dynamics post-election.

Ila Dobson discusses the potential impact of a government change on the NHS and industry, emphasising the need for continuity in ongoing initiatives and collaboration between industry and government to drive positive outcomes. She highlights the importance of early diagnosis and effective implementation of recommendations, while expressing concern about the potential disruption of current progress. Daniel Laing adds that the new government will rely heavily on the civil service and existing policies, with a focus needed on waiting lists and workforce issues. Both stress the necessity of maintaining strong relationships with policymakers and adapting quickly to ensure that key health priorities are addressed effectively.

As AXREM Government Affairs Director, Ila aims to leverage the wealth of data and expertise within their membership to inform and collaborate with parliamentarians. She plans to quickly engage with new and returning MPs, provide them with critical data, and offer recommendations to address healthcare challenges. Daniel Laing emphasises the importance of intelligent engagement, using AXREM's strong membership base to provide solutions to pressing issues. Both highlight the need for a multifaceted approach, including local value demonstration, media involvement, and strong parliamentary engagement, to effectively influence policy and drive positive change in the healthcare sector.

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this episode of AXREM Insights, hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington interview several key attendees live from the UKIO event.

Dawn PhillipsJarrett, with 20 years of experience in radiology, shares her journey from studying chemistry and working in energy and water conservation to her current role in healthcare imaging. She emphasizes the importance of UKIO for networking and fostering industry connections. Dawn highlights Everlight Radiology's 24/7 reporting services that support the NHS by allowing radiologists to rest while ensuring continuous patient care. She also expresses admiration for Freddie Mercury for his ability to unite people through music.

Claire Donaldson, former president of the Society and College of Radiographers, discusses her extensive involvement with UKIO and her current role as a superintendent radiographer focusing on workforce planning and advanced practice. She highlights the importance of networking at UKIO, her excitement about the new Philips CT scanner, and the significance of workforce and patient safety issues, including sexual safety in healthcare settings. Claire looks forward to various educational sessions and praises the CPD-accredited education available at the event.

Mike Burns, UK Ireland Director of Sales for Aidoc, an AI vendor in emergency radiology, talks about his career transition from sales in cleaning chemicals to infection control products, and eventually to radiology with Hologic. He underscores the importance of AI in addressing NHS challenges, particularly the shortage of radiologists and bed capacity. Mike values UKIO for networking and meaningful business conversations and expresses enthusiasm for AI's role in improving efficiency and reducing patient length of stay in hospitals.

Mark Hitchman from Canon Medical Systems shares his extensive background, from starting as a radiographer to becoming a managing director at Nucleotron and now his role at Canon Medical. He discusses his passion for CT technology and the significance of UKIO for networking and showcasing innovations. Mark emphasizes AI's role in addressing healthcare workforce shortages, making complex technology more accessible, and enhancing efficiency and accuracy. He also stresses the importance of governance in AI to ensure reliability and accuracy.

Roberto Anello and Dr. Nick Spencer from Agfa Healthcare discuss their backgrounds, roles in the company, and involvement with UKIO. Dr. Spencer shares his extensive history with UKIO, highlighting his experience as a delegate, committee member, and past president. Roberto, who oversees Agfa Healthcare’s Northern Europe region, emphasizes UKIO's value for networking, showcasing innovations, and understanding industry needs. They discuss the importance of AI, cloud technology, and workflow orchestration in healthcare, and appreciate Axrem's role in fostering industry collaboration and innovation. The informal and inclusive nature of Axrem’s community is highlighted as a unique and beneficial aspect.

Together, these interviews provide a comprehensive look at the impact of UKIO on networking, innovation, and addressing critical challenges in healthcare.

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In the premiere of Season 2 of AXREM Insights, co-hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington dive into the world of diagnostic imaging and oncology with a special guest, Dr. Emma Hyde. As the President of UKIO and an Associate Professor of Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Derby, Dr. Hyde shares her journey from a student radiographer to a leading figure in the field. Her passion for education and her significant contributions to clinical practice and academic training are highlighted in this engaging episode.

Dr. Hyde discusses her extensive background in clinical radiography, her transition into education, and her ongoing commitment to shaping the next generation of radiographers. She also provides an insider's look at the upcoming UKIO 2024 conference, detailing its exciting agenda, keynote speakers, and the innovations that attendees can expect to see. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies in the healthcare sector.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of diagnostic imaging and the pivotal role of events like UKIO in fostering professional development and networking. Dr. Hyde's reflections on her career and her perspectives on the future of radiography make this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in or interested in healthcare and medical imaging.

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this episode of AXREM Insights, Sarah Cowan and David Britton share their professional journeys and personal interests, illustrating the diverse paths within the medical technology industry. Sarah discusses her transition Marketing for a leisure centre to Siemens Medical a company she has been with for 17 years, highlighting her role with AXREM as the marketing convener. She emphasises the importance of understanding customer needs and being wary of AI but also seeing the advantages when it comes to sustainability Offering VR experiences rather than having massive decked out stands. David, with over 35 years of experience, reflects on the industry's evolution from paper to digital and the enduring value of face-to-face interactions, workshops, and print materials despite the digital age.

David shares insights from his recent visit to Chinese hospitals, where he observed advanced dashboards managing hospital equipment and patient data. He underscores the importance of filtering information for clinicians and the challenges of achieving consistency across numerous NHS trusts. David passionately discusses his role in establishing the Patient Monitoring Special Focus Group, which has amplified the industry's voice and addressed critical issues like connectivity and standardisation, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes.

The episode also delves into personal motivations and commitments, with David expressing his dedication to improving healthcare and his participation in the Great North Half Marathon for Alzheimer's Research UK. Lighter moments include a discussion on hobbies and a quirky question comparing their lives to songs or TV shows, revealing more about their personalities. The episode wraps up with Sally thanking Sarah and David for their invaluable contributions to AXREM and the healthcare technology industry.

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.

In this engaging episode of AXREM Insights, hosts Melanie Johnson and Sally Edgington sit down with Huw Shurmer, the strategic and government relationships manager for Fujifilm UK and current vice chair of AXREM. The conversation unfolds as Huw shares his fascinating career trajectory, starting from his academic background in theology to his pivotal roles in healthcare IT, primary care management, and radiology modernisation. Huw's journey exemplifies the diverse paths that individuals can take within the healthcare sector, showcasing how a blend of personal interests, professional experiences, and a passion for innovation can shape a fulfilling career.

As the dialogue progresses, Huw delves into the complexities of the healthcare landscape, shedding light on the challenges faced by the NHS, including workforce shortages, cost pressures, and the need for greater efficiency. He emphasises the role of technology and innovation in addressing these challenges, highlighting the potential of AI, cloud technologies, and enhanced diagnostics to revolutionize patient care delivery. Moreover, Huw underscores the importance of collaboration within the healthcare ecosystem, advocating for closer partnerships between industry stakeholders, NHS trusts, and policymakers to drive positive change.

Looking towards the future, the conversation explores potential scenarios for the healthcare industry, envisioning a landscape where technology facilitates seamless data sharing, personalized diagnostics, and improved patient outcomes. Huw's insights offer a glimpse into a future where healthcare delivery is more patient-centric, efficient, and integrated, fuelled by a spirit of innovation and collaboration.

Thanks for listening to this week's episode

To find out more about AXREM check out our website HERE
If you are interested in joining AXREM as a member CLICK HERE
To contact us CLICK HERE

And join us next time for more insights from industry.