Explore every episode of the podcast Digital Health in Canada
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| AI Scribes from Evaluation to Adoption | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:36:05 | |
AI scribes have been piloted in multiple provinces and territories – but what's the verdict so far? We explore the data, the potential impacts…and the balance between hype and hope. Guests:
Learn More: Canada Health Infoway AI Scribe Program Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:16 Introduction to AI Scribes 00:28 Meet the Experts: Dr. Onil Bhattacharyya and Simon Hagens 04:08 AI Scribes: Initial Studies and Findings 06:23 Scaling AI Scribes: Challenges and Successes 14:03 Long-Term Evaluation and Data Quality 16:31 Patient Experience and AI Scribes 19:43 Future of AI in Healthcare 25:08 Patient-Driven AI 30:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. ·
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| Transforming Health Data, Transforming Canada | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:39:03 | |
What is possible if we unlock the full potential of health data in Canada? Across the digital health sector, organizations are striving to move us from silos to seamless systems. In today's conversation, two leaders share what excites them about this transformation, what's at stake, and what it means for our health – and our health systems. Guests:
Learn More: Summary of CIHI's Transformation Plan Artificial intelligence at Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada Episode Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 Dr. Anderson Chuck's Leadership Journey 03:23 Dr. Fahad Razak's Leadership Journey 07:26 The Culture Problem in Digital Health 10:28 CIHI's Transformation Agenda 15:19 Canada's Unique Strengths in Health Data 25:06 The Urgency of Innovation 27:35 Collaborations and Success Stories 37:22 Leadership and Vision for the Future Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Bold Futures with Health Policy | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:47:04 | |
Canada's health policy landscape is dynamic, nuanced, and continuously evolving. What do health care leaders need to know about this space, and what key topics are lighting up dashboards – or slipping under the radar? Guests:
Learn More:
Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Episode Summary: 00:00 Welcome to Digital Health in Canada 00:50 Introducing Our Guests: Helen and Rosalie 01:19 Rosalie's Journey: From Economist to Health Policy Leader 03:37 Helen's Path: From Urban Planning to Healthcare Leadership 05:07 The Role of Policy in Digital Health 06:53 Lessons from the Pandemic: Rapid Digital Health Transformation 08:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Policy Implementation 22:55 Leadership in Healthcare: Skills and Inspiration 26:16 Accountability and Incentives in Healthcare 29:33 Breaking Down Silos: A System-Wide Approach 38:20 Final Thoughts and Advice for Healthcare Leaders
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| How do we turn knowledge into action? | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:45:07 | |
Data drives our health system – and digital health research is a formidable engine for innovation! In today's episode, we explore how research turns into impact, knowledge spurs action, and what leaders need to know to support the next generation of digital health professionals. Guests:
Learn more:
Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 01:43 Guest Journeys: From Journalism to Nursing and Beyond 03:55 Mentorship and Inspiration in Academia 07:45 Learning from Students: Fail Space and Connectivity 14:02 Impact of Research on Policy and Practice 16:30 Knowledge Mobilization and Applied Health Research 27:52 Equity and Access in Digital Health 35:30 Key Messages for Health Research Enthusiasts 38:42 Conclusion and Reflections | |||
| Transforming Care with Physician Leaders | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:43:58 | |
When it comes to health system transformation, the frontlines are at the forefront. Explore how clinical expertise and leadership drive innovation as two physician leaders share their journeys – and what past lessons we need to carry into our future health systems Guests:
Learn more: Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Summary: 00:00 Meet the Hosts and Guests 02:08 Challenges and Mentorship in Medicine 06:01 Digital Health Technologies in Practice 07:22 Adoption and Evolution of EMRs 11:45 The Role of Change Management 23:59 Leadership and Public Health During COVID-19 28:07 Lessons from the Pandemic 35:51 Final Thoughts and Future Directions | |||
| Co-Designing Futures in e-Mental Health | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:37:22 | |
Technology has long been used to provide access to mental health care: from telephone and texting lines, to emerging solutions integrating AI. But as more people in Canada need mental health support—and encounter barriers to access—how are digital health solutions evolving to meet these challenges? Two leaders share their organizations' missions and their career journeys through the e-mental health space. Guests:
Learn More: The State of Mental Health in Canada 2024 - Canadian Mental Health Association report Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 00:55 Introducing the Guests: Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie and Maggie Inrig 04:13 The Evolution of Digital Health Solutions 08:44 Leveraging AI and Technology for Mental Health 11:33 Capacity Building and Team Development 14:53 Balancing Flexibility and Evidence-Based Practices 18:42 The Importance of Co-Design 22:07 Optimism and Challenges in Mental Health 31:18 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook | |||
| Innovation and Disruption in Digital Health Startups | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:34:55 | |
When entrepreneurship and patient care meet, startups are driving innovation, spreading new models of care, and offering creative solutions to shared challenges. Join us to hone your entrepreneurial skills, learn from two leading innovaors - and spark your next great idea. Guests:
Learn More: Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Summary: 00:52 Meet the Innovators: Chenny Xia and Rick Menassa 01:32 Journey to Entrepreneurship in Healthcare 03:01 Innovative Approaches in Home Care 08:00 Defining and Evolving Startups 14:36 Building Trust and Relationships 25:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 29:42 Reflections and Takeaways | |||
| Digital Health Cybersecurity - a Global Partnership | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:43:42 | |
When data saves lives, cybersecurity doesn't only protect systems. It protects patients. In this episode, we explore a remarkable international collaboration to advance cybersecurity in digital health, and learn how health professionals can empower themselves to stay cyber-safe. Digital Health in Canada goes international as we speak to two co-chairs of the Global Digital Health Partnership's cybersecurity work stream! Guests: Mikki Smith, Chief Information Security Officer, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Fuller Yu, Chief of IT Operations and Cybersecurity, Hong Kong Hospital Authority Learn More: Global Digital Health Partnership - Cyber Security Work Stream Proposed Global Digital Health Model Security Notice Guidance for Medical Device Cybersecurity Cyber Security Awareness Month 2024 Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Episode Summmary: 00:00 Introduction to AI and Cybersecurity Concerns 01:38 Mikki Smith's Journey in Cybersecurity 06:41 Fuller Yu's Experience and Insights 09:20 Health Care as a Prime Target for Cyber Attacks 15:51 Global Collaborations in Cybersecurity 26:08 Human Factors in Cybersecurity 32:03 Future Trends and Preparedness 37:39 Empowering Professionals and Final Thoughts | |||
| Health Care for the Whole Person | 29 Sep 2024 | 00:46:15 | |
There are many ways to think about health; it's multi-faceted, multi-sectoral, and influenced by the social determinants of health. So, what does it look like to care for the whole person, and what are different ways to be well? Today, we speak with two leaders to explore how these factors shape health and wellness – as individuals and communities. Guests: Dr. Andrew Boozary, Executive Director, Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine, University Health Network Pam Nolan, Executive Director, First Nations Digital Health Ontario Learn More: Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine - UHN Social Medicine Housing Program First Nations Digital Health Ontario (FNDHO) Indigenous Digital Health Ecosystem Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Episode Summmary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 00:54 Introducing the Guests: Pam Nolan and Dr. Andrew Boozary 01:37 Pam Nolan's Journey in Digital Health 04:55 Dr. Andrew Boozary's Path and Social Medicine 07:35 Housing Initiatives and Health Outcomes 14:47 Understanding Community Needs and Digital Integration 19:15 Social Medicine and Policy Decisions 21:38 The Role of Hospitals in Social Medicine 32:31 The Power of Data and Partnerships 41:10 Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways | |||
| Leadership in Challenging Times | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:44:01 | |
Is now the most challenging time for health care leaders? Across our health systems, leaders are navigating increased complexity, demands, and opportunities. In this episode, we learn from two leaders about their leadership philosophies, their journeys, and how they and their organizations are rising to the challenge. Guests: Tracey MacArthur, President and CEO, Hamilton Health Sciences Dr. Victoria Lee, President and CEO, Fraser Health Learn More: Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. Episode Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 00:09 Meet the Hosts and Guests 01:03 Leadership Journeys and Philosophies 04:11 Attributes of Effective Leadership 06:28 Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic 17:08 Changing Expectations of Leaders 23:26 The Transformational Potential of Digital Health 36:11 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 39:50 Hosts' Debrief | |||
| Patient Partnership and Leadership | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:41:32 | |
Patient partnership and patient leadership are core to health system transformation. We explore strategies and models for meaningful collaborations with patients, the impacts of patient leadership, and the journeys of two remarkable leaders in this space. Guests: Adrienne Zarem, patient partner, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Accreditation Canada, Healthcare Excellence Canada Alies Maybee, patient partner, co-founder, Patient Advisors Network (PAN) Learn More: Patient Advisors Network (PAN) EMPaCT at Women's College Hospital Essential Together - Healthcare Excellence Canada Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 01:03 Meet Alies Maybee: A Lifelong Journey in Healthcare 03:39 Meet Adrienne Zarem: From Chiropractor to Caregiver Partner 05:40 Exploring Different Models of Patient Partnership 07:10 Capacity Building and Relationship Building in Healthcare 08:11 Canada as a Global Leader in Patient Engagement 11:59 Advocacy vs. Partnership: Different Approaches to System Change 13:19 Examples of Successful Patient Partnership Initiatives 25:55 Advice for Aspiring Patient Partners 33:31 Towards the Future of Patient Engagement 37:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| How Leaders Create Innovation Cultures | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:39:05 | |
Innovation is more than technology - it's a culture, a commitment, and a leadership style. Learn how to foster safe environments for big ideas, how to leverage creative partnerships, and what innovative initiatives are underway at two Canadian health care organizations. Guests: Jennifer Urosevic, President and CEO, Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada Dr. Gillian Strudwick, Chief Clinical Informatics Officer and Senior Scientist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Learn more: CAMH's new Temerty Discovery Centre Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada Eye Health Screening Initiative HLTH Foundation Techquity for Health Coalition Case Study Competition Digital Health Canada members can continue the conversation on the Community Hub! 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 01:07 Introducing Our Guests: Dr. Gillian Strudwick and Jennifer Urosevic 01:28 Gillian Strudwick's Journey and Work 03:00 Jennifer Urosevic's Journey and Work 04:08 Personal Stories and Career Pivots 09:27 Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada's Techquity Award 14:09 CAMH's New Discovery Centre 17:09 Mentorship and Fostering Innovation 27:09 Community and Co-Design in Healthcare 33:29 Advice for Early Career Professionals 35:43 Closing Thoughts 38:18 Host Reflections Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Beyond Innovation: Digital Health Startups and Purpose | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:37:14 | |
What does it really take to build a digital health start-up—and not just survive, but truly thrive? Two leaders at the forefront of digital health innovation unpack the lessons behind the buzz, what it takes to grow a business with purpose—and evolve as a leader along the way. Guests:
Learn More: Episode Summary 00:52 Introducing the Guests: Mark McAllister and John Sinclair 01:29 John Sinclair's Career Journey 02:32 Mark McAllister's Career Journey 04:42 Challenges in the Early Days 07:46 Scaling and Building Trust 13:51 Key Milestones and Success Stories 17:15 Company Culture and Employee Retention 27:47 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 32:46 Closing Thoughts and Resources Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Practical Implementations of AI for Health Care | 27 May 2024 | 00:37:28 | |
The impact of AI has accelerated across sectors, and health care is no exception. In our debut episode, explore leadership in the age of AI, implications for health systems and users, and the potential that AI may bring to transforming health. Guests: Tim Murphy, Vice President, Health, Alberta Innovates Dr. Mohamed Alarakhia, CEO, eHealth Centre of Excellence Learn more: Alberta Innovates: Enabling Better Health through Artificial Intelligence Digital Health Canada members can continue the conversation on the Community Hub! Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons.
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| Digital Health in Canada - Trailer | 28 Apr 2024 | 00:00:48 | |
Welcome to Digital Health in Canada—the Digital Health Canada Podcast, where care meets connection, innovation meets inspiration, and impact meets empowerment. New episodes every month, visit digitalhealthcanada.com for more. | |||
| AI in Action - Transforming Clinical Care | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:37:28 | |
Under the hype, what's really happening with AI adoption in Canadian health care? The AI in Action: Transforming Clinical Care Across Canada Working Group recently completed a first-of-its-kind environmental scan of AI-driven clinical initiatives in Canadian health care delivery. Two leaders share what they found, why it matters, and what it means for you – today and tomorrow. Guests:
Learn More:
Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health Canada Podcast 00:58 Introducing Dr. Tania Tajirian and Dr. Angel Arnaout 07:27 AI in Action Working Group 10:24 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Implementation 12:30 Insights from the AI Environmental Scan 18:40 Global Perspectives on AI in Healthcare 26:55 Advice for Emerging Professionals 31:24 Future Directions Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Unleashing Collective Impact for Health Data Transformation | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:34:51 | |
Scroll LinkedIn, watch a webinar, or attend a conference – and you'll hear many ideas for how we can improve Canada's health data landscape. But how do we move from conversation to change? Two health leaders share a collaborative model to bridge idea, strategy, and action. Guests:
Learn More: Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:13 Claire Snyman's Journey 03:17 Ewan Affleck's Journey 06:12 The Creation of Networked Health 07:49 The Collective Impact Model 09:31 Patient Stories and Data Access 16:00 The Role of Storytelling in Healthcare 23:03 What Does Success Look Like? 28:49 Reflections on the Conversation 34:05 Closing Remarks and Next Steps Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons.
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| Untangling the Information Ecosystem - Health, Media, and the Public | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:40:52 | |
Digital health journalism plays a crucial role in shaping how the public understands and engages with health innovation. In this episode, we sit down with two journalists to explore the stories behind the stories – and untangle the complex relationship between health, media, and the public. Guests: Chris Hannay, Health Business Reporter, Globe and Mail Nick Tsergas, Editor, Canada Healthwatch Learn More: "Your data is unwell," Chris Hannay, The Globe and Mail, April 4, 2025 "Doctors turn to social media to help patients where they're at," Samantha Edwards, The Globe and Mail, April 4, 2025 Canadian Medical Association: Healthcare For Real Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health Canada Podcast 01:00 Meet the Journalists: Chris Hannay's Journey 03:27 Nick Tsergas: From Nursing to Health Journalism 08:44 The Intersection of Health and Business 14:23 Challenges in Health System Literacy 19:06 Trust and Misinformation in Health Media 24:53 Under-Reported Stories and Their Impact 33:14 Public Awareness and Media Influence 36:11 Reflections and Future of Digital Health Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Setting the Winning Conditions for AI-Powered Healthcare | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:42:44 | |
Digital Health Canada's Setting the Winning Conditions for AI-powered Healthcare report summarizes actionable insights from interviews with eight leading healthcare organizations implementing AI. In this episode, we dive into those conditions and their implications—learning what sets winning AI implementations apart. Guests:
Learn More: Setting the Winning Conditions for AI-Powered Healthcare (report) Episode Summary 01:16 Meet the Experts: Career Journeys 03:00 Challenges in Health Care: From Theory to Practice 08:55 Data Challenges and Privacy Concerns 13:08 Building Trust and Equity in Healthcare 20:11 Defining Value in Healthcare 24:37 Evaluating and Scaling AI Solutions 27:42 Future of AI in Canadian Health Care 29:40 Advice for AI Adoption in Healthcare 35:14 Final Thoughts and Reflections Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Special Edition: Live from the e-Health Conference | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:32:04 | |
It's a special edition of Digital Health in Canada! Join us for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the 25th e-Health Conference and Tradeshow. Get all the conference buzz, insights, and highlights, and find out why this is the place to be if you're a digital health professional. Thank you to everyone who participated in this episode's interviews! Learn More: e-Health Conference and Tradeshow Episode Summary: 00:44 Behind the Scenes at eHealth 2025 01:10 On the Spot Interviews: First Impressions 05:27 Memories and Milestones: Past Presidents Speak 12:51 Patient Partners and Their Impact 13:29 Conversations at the Ask a Patient Partner Booth 17:11 Innovators Share Their Insights 27:59 Looking Forward to eHealth 2026 in Halifax 29:35 50th Anniversary Wishes and Closing Remarks Music: RetroFuture Clean, Breakdown, How it Begins, Dreamer, and Equatorial Complex, all by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| Create Today, Celebrate Tomorrow - Digital Health Canada is 50! | 26 May 2025 | 00:38:47 | |
Digital Health Canada turns 50 this year! This season on the podcast, we are exploring how far we've come and re-imagining where we can go next – as an association and a sector. To kick off the party, we welcome two Digital Health Canada presidents, from the association's early and current days. Guests:
Learn More: Health Information Science at the University of Victoria Digital Health Canada's 50th Anniversary celebrations Episode Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:22 Celebrating 50 Years of Digital Health Canada 00:47 Meet the Presidents: Denis Protti and Chris Carvalho 07:44 Founding the Health Information Science Program 15:47 The Early Days of Digital Health Canada (COACH) 22:59 The Evolution of Digital Health Canada 28:03 Reflections on Leadership and Progress 36:29 Digital Health Canada's 50th Anniversary Celebrations 38:14 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||
| International Digital Health – Learnings for Canada | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:44:14 | |
Interoperable? Try international. Join this continent-crossing conversation as we explore international digital health strategies and what learning about other countries' health systems can teach us about our own. Guests:
Learn More:
Episode Summary: 00:00 Introduction to Digital Health in Canada 00:44 Guest Introductions: Derek Ritz and Liz Keen 01:45 Career Journeys in Digital Health 06:43 Global Perspectives on Healthcare Systems 11:09 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Health 18:10 Lessons from International Healthcare Systems 22:33 The Future of Digital Health 34:37 Advice for Aspiring Digital Health Professionals 38:59 Co-Host Reflections Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons.
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| Health Data Sovereignty: Systems, Safeguards, Strategy | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:36:03 | |
What does it take to protect a key strategic asset— our health data — in an era of accelerating AI? In this episode, we explore why data sovereignty is a strategic imperative for Canada, and the digital health future we stand to build — or lose. Guests:
Learn More: Ensuring the sovereignty and security of Canadian health data The catch-22 of Canadian digital sovereignty e-Health Conference and Tradeshow Summary: 00:00 Why Canada's health data matters in the age of AI 01:41 Kumanan's journey: from public health to building an immunization app 03:38 Michael Geist's path: law, tech policy, privacy & data 05:22 Defining data sovereignty 09:40 When laws collide 15:27 Health benefit vs economic benefit 20:43 Practical safeguards and strategies 26:23 Learning from global examples 30:15 Closing reflections Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons.
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| Inflection Point: GenAI and Accelerating Care | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:34:06 | |
Why is Generative AI (GenAI)—AI that can create content in response to a user's prompt or request—so different from other technologies in health? Listen to this episode for thoughts on what you need to know to prepare yourself and your team for a GenAI world. Guests
Learn More: Summary 00:14 Welcome to the Podcast 03:56 Why AI Feels Different 04:16 GenAI vs Predictive vs Agentic 06:00 AI Empowered Patients 09:14 New Interoperability Reality 10:17 From Digital to AI Systems 19:51 Leadership Skills for AI Era 25:17 Mindset Shifts 28:38 One Word Takeaways Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons.
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| High-Quality Care in a High-Tech World | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:38:13 | |
When it comes to high-quality care, technology accelerates possibility—and people determine impact. In this episode, our guests explore the skills that leaders need to bring out the best of a tech-enabled world, and help make sure that the future of care in Canada is both high-tech and high-quality. Guests:
Learn More: Summary: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 04:31 Defining Quality Care 08:13 Safety Sets the Pace 10:23 Analogies for Guardrails 14:52 Co Design With Patients 15:48 Fixing Human Problems 16:41 High Performing Systems 21:59 Leader Playbook for Change 27:06 Developing Trust Based Leaders 32:00 Digital Health in One Word Music: RetroFuture Clean and Breakdown, by Kevin MacLeod. Used under Creative Commons. | |||