Digital Health Week NZ 2023 Unveils Future of AI in Healthcare, Transforming New Zealand’s Health System
The future of AI in healthcare and the transformation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s health system will be explored at the country’s largest health conference, Digital Health Week NZ 2023. Health Informatics NZ (HiNZ) is hosting its 21st conference as part of Digital Health Week from November 27-30, expecting 1,400 delegates at Claudelands in Hamilton. The attendees range from clinicians, IT professionals, health sector managers, government and industry representatives, to academics.
According to HiNZ CEO Tim Corbett, digital health is no longer an isolated aspect but rather integrated into how we deliver our health and disability system for consumers. He emphasizes that data and digital tools are being employed to address real issues in the health system, such as access and workforce challenges. Corbett proudly asserts that HiNZ is bringing together leaders, thinkers, and doers in the field to share, learn, and collaborate. Ultimately, Digital Health Week aims to enable the health system of the future to provide equity and access to consumers and their families.
At the conference, keynote speakers will include Dr. Raj Jena, an oncologist at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Angela Lim, the founder of Clearhead, who will discuss the current and future uses of assistive AI in healthcare. The conference will be opened on November 28 by Director General of Health Diana Sarfati, Te Whatu Ora Chief Data and Digital Leigh Donoghue, and influential speaker Ngahihi o te ra Bidois.
Programme Director Becky George highlights that the conference will showcase transformative work taking place both in New Zealand (te motu) and globally, with a specific focus on integrating care, promoting equity, leveraging data, and addressing workforce challenges. George emphasizes the importance of in-person connections, as they spark ideas and collaborations that will drive transformation in the health sector.
One anticipated highlight of the event is a lived experience panel, where consumers and carers will share their encounters with the health system and explore how these interactions could be enhanced through the use of digital tools. George stresses the significance of including the consumer voice, as it is crucial to achieving better outcomes for consumers and their families.
Digital Health Week NZ 2023 promises to provide valuable insights into the role of AI in healthcare and its potential to revolutionize New Zealand’s health system. With a diverse range of topics and a focus on fostering connections and collaboration, this conference aims to drive positive change and deliver better healthcare outcomes for all.