On the latest 24x7 podcast, host Keri Stephens was joined by Dr. Scott Lucas, Vice President of device safety at ECRI, to explore the impact of racial inequities on the accuracy of medical devices, specifically pulse oximeters.

The conversation delved into how these devices might perform differently based on skin tone, potentially affecting the medical care provided to people with darker skin.

Pulse oximeters have been shown to sometimes give less accurate readings for individuals with darker skin tones. This is because darker skin absorbs more light, which can interfere with the device's ability to accurately measure blood oxygen levels. Lucas explained the technical aspects of how pulse oximeters function and why this discrepancy can be clinically significant, especially when patients are on the borderline of needing medical intervention.

The discussion also covered recent public attention to this issue, heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic when home use of pulse oximeters increased significantly. Recent studies comparing device readings with actual blood draws have confirmed the variability in accuracy, prompting the FDA to focus on improving device testing and standards.

Dr. Lucas highlighted that current FDA guidance requires more representation of diverse skin tones in the testing phases of device development to improve accuracy across all patient populations. The proposed guidelines include methods like the Monk Skin Tone Scale, which provides a more detailed representation of various skin tones.

Addressing how these findings could impact healthcare more broadly, Dr. Lucas emphasized the importance of ensuring that medical devices are designed and tested to be effective for all racial groups. This is particularly critical as medical technology, including AI, continues to evolve.

In this episode of the HTM 24×7 podcast, host Keri Stephens is joined by one of the top luminaries in the healthcare technology management (HTM) field, Danielle McGeary, AAMI’s vice president of HTM.

During the podcast, McGeary shares insights into AAMI’s recently refreshed Leadership Development Guide: A Resource for Healthcare Technology Management Professionals, a comprehensive resource designed to empower individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the HTM field. Over the years, HTM has seen significant changes, with new certifications and evolving skill sets, making it essential to update resources like the leadership guide to reflect the current landscape accurately, McGeary explains.

The conversation delves into the demographic shifts within HTM, highlighting the impending mass exodus of seasoned professionals and the urgent need for new leadership to fill the void. With approximately 60% of HTM field managers over the age of 55, the guide becomes crucial in preparing the next generation of leaders.

Key topics discussed include the importance of soft skills alongside technical proficiency, strategies for interviewing for senior-level positions, and the top three soft skills essential for success in HTM: effective verbal and written communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail.

Listeners gain valuable insights into the nuances of leadership within the HTM field, including the distinction between being a manager and being a leader. Finally, the conversation emphasizes the significance of continuous self-assessment and development, encouraging individuals at all career stages to utilize resources like the Leadership Development Guide: A Resource for Healthcare Technology Management Professionals to chart their professional growth.

Welcome to the HTM 24/7 Podcast, where we delve into the latest in technology and cybersecurity. In this episode, our host, Keri Stephens, engages with Noam Moshe, a noted vulnerability researcher from Clarity's Team 82. They discuss groundbreaking findings in IoT security and their implications.