In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch and Rebecca McBeth from HiNZ speak with Hon. Tracey Martin, Darren Douglass, Debbie Hughes, and Alex Kemp about digital health innovation and challenges in New Zealand.

This episode explores the latest developments in digital health and aged care in New Zealand, recorded during Digital Health Week in Christchurch, hosted by Health Informatics New Zealand (HiNZ).

The discussion covers the digital transformation roadmap for Health New Zealand, highlighting how technology, clinical leadership, and inclusive design are shaping the future of care.

The episode examines the challenges and opportunities in residential aged care, including workforce pressures, funding reforms, and the practical use of AI and digital tools to support frontline staff.

The evolving role of HiNZ within the health sector is explored, including efforts to foster cross-sector collaboration, drive innovation, and provide long-term governance.

The conversation captures insights from industry leaders and practitioners, offering a comprehensive view of New Zealand’s approach to digital health transformation, grounded in practical, human-centred strategies.

Key Takeaways

✨ The future of aged residential care in NZ faces both political and practical challenges, with technology positioned to streamline processes and enable more human-centred care.

🧠 Co-design and direct involvement of disabled people in digital health solutions is crucial; early engagement helps address accessibility and diversity in technological development.

💼 Health New Zealand’s ten-year digital investment plan focuses on stabilising infrastructure, modernising platforms with AI and automation, and ultimately transforming clinical care and patient access.

🤝 Building trust and breaking down silos in healthcare are priority strategies for HiNZ, fostering connection and collaboration across the health sector.

👥 Leadership, change management, and digital upskilling initiatives are central to delivering sustainable transformation for NZ’s health workforce and systems.

Timestamps

00:00: Introduction

00:43: Hon. Tracey Martin - Aged Care Association, NZ

07:27: Darren Douglass - Acting Chief Information Technology Officer, Health NZ

17:42: Debbie Hughes - Chief Executive, NZ Disability Support Network

22:05: Alex Kemp - Director of Engagement/CEO, HiNZ

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