HTM 24x7

The Challenges Facing Radiology and Imaging

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:59:08 -0100

In the latest episode of the HTM 24-7 podcast, host Keri Stephens sits down with Tracy Byers, CEO of Enterprise Imaging at Optum Insight, to delve into the pressing challenges and groundbreaking solutions in the radiology industry. As the radiology community gears up for the upcoming RSNA 2024 conference, this timely discussion offers invaluable insights into how technology is reshaping the landscape of medical imaging.

Attracting New Talent to the HTM Field

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 19:23:01 -0100

In this HTM 24x7 episode, Maggie Berkey, CBET, biomedical equipment specialist for Bio-Electronics, discusses the BMET apprenticeship program, the need for increased awareness of HTM, and strategies for proactive service management. Berkey highlights the importance of communicating HTM’s value to executives and addressing workforce shortages through outreach and education.

Conversation With AAMI President and CEO Pamela Arora

24x7 Magazine — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 19:50:24 +0000

In this episode of the 24x7 podcast, we spoke with AAMI president and CEO Pamela Arora about the work AAMI does within HTM and its role as a neutral organization in the healthcare technology industry.

Getting to Know the 2024 AAMI BMET of the Year

24x7 Magazine — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 21:24:43 +0000

In this episode, we speak with Chace Torres, AAMI and GE's BMET of the Year about his award and outreach for the industry through his Bearded Biomed podcast and children's book.

How Pulse Oximeters Can Impact Racial Equity in Healthcare

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 23:04:28 +0000

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.

Next-Gen Leadership: Addressing HTM's Talent Gap

24x7 Magazine — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 18:17:38 -0100

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.

Exploring Critical IoT Vulnerabilities with Noam Moshe

24x7 Magazine — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:46:29 -0100

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.

Optimizing HTM Strategy to Drive Clinical, Operational, and Financial Outcomes

24x7 Magazine — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 13:54:23 +0000

In this episode of the HTM 24x7 podcast, PartsSource President and CEO Phil Settimi, MD, joins host Keri Stephens delve into the key challenges within healthcare technology management (HTM), particularly parts and service contracts. Dr. Settimi’s background as a physician and his experience in medical device businesses laid the foundation for his involvement with PartsSource, a company dedicated to enhancing clinical uptime and streamlining the healthcare supply chain.

PartsSource began by analyzing data on supplier performance and realized the potential to transform the healthcare supply chain by applying evidence-based decision-making and technology. Their initial focus was on parts and accessories procurement, and they introduced PartsSource Pro, a technology-enabled solution that streamlined procurement processes, reduced costs, and improved productivity for hospitals.

The podcast also delves into PartsSource’s study of service contracts within healthcare systems. They found that health systems manage a significant number of contracts, with varying costs and a lack of transparency. Many hospitals are challenged by the complexity of managing these contracts, leading to inefficiencies and potential overpayments. Furthermore, the absence of vendor performance monitoring and a lack of standardized data make it difficult for health systems to evaluate and optimize their service contracts effectively.

In the podcast, Dr. Settimi suggests several strategies for overcoming these challenges, including consolidation and rationalization of contracts, risk-based analysis for vendor selection, and the use of national benchmarks to determine fair pricing. The implementation of technology plays a crucial role in streamlining workflows, monitoring vendor performance, and achieving cost savings.

Finally, the podcast emphasizes the need for evidence-based, tech-enabled solutions in HTM to improve clinical uptime and support healthcare professionals in delivering safe and effective care.

Medical Device Cybersecurity - How It’s Impacting Health Systems and the BMETs Serving Them

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 11:54:54 +0000

Join 24x7 chief editor Keri Forsythe-Stephens as she sits down with cybersecurity expert Scott Trevino to delve into the pressing issue of medical device cybersecurity. As senior vice president for cybersecurity at comprehensive clinical asset management service provider TRIMEDX, Trevino shares how he stays at the forefront of cybersecurity trends, with a keen focus on medical devices. Moreover, he reveals his pivotal role in developing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions for TRIMEDX's clients, aiming to fortify their defense against evolving cyber threats.

The podcast provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of healthcare cybersecurity. Trevino points out that the healthcare industry, particularly medical devices, has lagged significantly behind other critical infrastructure sectors in terms of cybersecurity maturity. He cites alarming statistics, showcasing a staggering 200% increase in ransomware attacks in the past five years.

He also highlights the severe impact of cyberattacks on patient care, clinicians, and HTM professionals. Trevino emphasizes that delays in treatment due to cyber incidents result in a 30%-plus increase in direct patient harm or complications, profoundly affecting patient outcomes.

The conversation turns to the legislation and regulations surrounding medical device cybersecurity. And Trevino discusses the recent legislative actions empowering the U.S. FDA to enforce cybersecurity requirements on medical device manufacturers. However, he warns against relying solely on legislation and encourages healthcare providers to proactively assess and improve their cybersecurity practices.

Finally, Trevino shares how TRIMEDX has launched a revolutionary cybersecurity solution called Vigilor. This product provides comprehensive cybersecurity services to hospitals, even those without TRIMEDX's clinical engineering program. Scott discusses how Vigilor works collaboratively with existing biomed teams and IT departments to assess risks and drive improvement.

To learn more about Vigilor from TRIMEDX or to request a Cyber Current State Assessment, visit trimedx.com/cybersecurity.

How ‘Ollie the Biomed’ Is Reaching HTM’s Next Generation

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 11 May 2023 22:18:50 +0000

In this episode of the 24x7 podcast on the MEDQOR Podcast Network, 24x7 chief editor Keri Forsythe-Stephens welcomes good friend of the podcast Chace Torres (aka: “The Bearded Biomed”) to discuss the launch of his new book, “Ollie the Biomed.” Torres shares that the book was inspired by the impending arrival of his firstborn son and his desire to create awareness and interest in the biomed field at an early age. He believes that building awareness among children is crucial and compares it to how kids learn about other professions through cartoons and books.

Torres describes the process of writing and publishing the book, starting with multiple drafts and revisions of the script. He reveals how he collaborated with an artist via an online app to create the illustrations, ensuring they reflected his vision.

The industry’s response to the book has been overwhelmingly positive, with biomeds and their children enjoying the story and illustrations. Torres’ goal is to extend the book’s reach beyond biomeds and into schools and libraries, and he has already donated copies to Children’s Health Hospital. He plans to explore various avenues, including school programs and awards, to further promote the book’s outreach.

Overall, the podcast highlights Torres’ journey in writing and publishing “Ollie the Biomed” and emphasizes the importance of introducing children to the biomed field at an early age. Interested parties can buy the book here.

Secrets from 24x7’s Salary Survey

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:42:36 -0100

In this podcast, 24x7’s chief editor Keri Stephens sits down with Chace Torres, aka “The Bearded Biomed,” to discuss the results of 24x7’s 2022 compensation and job satisfaction survey. Notably, the survey saw an increase in engagement, with female respondents doubling from the previous year.

Stephens and Torres discuss the factors that may have contributed to this increase, including outreach from educational parties and social media engagement from industry professionals. The pair also highlight the value of continuing education, which 35% of survey respondents said they were pursuing, and how it is vital for healthcare technology management professionals to grow in their career field.

Another key theme from 24x7’s 2022 compensation and job satisfaction survey was the number of respondents who said they would promote the HTM profession to others, with 36% very likely to do so and 29% likely, despite a prevalent theme of feeling overworked. Stephens and Torres also delve into the problem of an aging workforce and the need to replace those retiring from the HTM industry. Overall, the survey results indicate positive trends in the HTM industry, with an increase in engagement, diversity, and education.

Finally, Stephens and Torres get into the weeds of the salary survey and discuss some of the most surprising findings from it.

Inside the Riskiest Medical Devices

Medqor — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 21:25:08 -0100

Join 24x7 Chief Editor Keri Stephens as she talks to Daniel dos Santos—head of security research at cybersecurity provider Forescout—about the riskiest medical devices in enterprise networks. The podcast, which follows Forescout’s Vedere Labs’ “2022 Riskiest Devices in Enterprise Networks Report,” reveals into what healthcare providers need to know about the security of the devices they house. Hint: Patient monitors are especially problematic from a cybersecurity perspective. Dos Santos also discloses how medical devices can be a key entry point for a hospital-wide cyberattack and why cybercriminals target legacy equipment, in particular. Finally, he shares why everyone—from device manufacturers to those configuring the equipment—has a role to pay in medical device cybersecurity.

Evaluating and Selecting Medical Equipment

24x7 Magazine — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 19:52:35 +0000

Join 24x7 Magazine Chief Editor Keri Stephens she talks to Scott Skinner, MBA, FACHE, director of capital equipment planning at Sodexo Healthcare and PhD candidate, who is conducting a survey about evaluating and selecting medical equipment. In the podcast, Skinner defines the health technology assessment (HTA) process and reveals how a hospital-based HTA differs from a “big-picture” HTA. He also divulges why HTA can get a “bad rap” and whether it’s justified.

How to Retain Top Talent in the HTM Industry

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 16:19:02 +0000

“The Bearded Biomed” (aka: Chace Torres) sits down with 24×7’s chief editor Keri Stephens, along with associate editor Andy Lundin, to discuss ways HTM leaders can retain top talent in the industry and current recruitment trends professionals are witnessing.

They also discussed issues currently being felt in the industry, such as those related to salary, staffing, the rise in retirements in tandem with the lack of new recruits, and the overall impact COVID has had on HTM.

Delving Into the Right to Repair

24x7 Magazine — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 15:06:43 +0000

Few, if any, conversations in the healthcare technology management field are as polarizing as the Right to Repair. In this podcast, 24x7 chief editor Keri Forsythe-Stephens speaks with someone who has a unique perspective on the Right to Repair, G. Wayne Moore, BSc, MBA, FASE, FAIUM, CEO of Acertara Acoustic Laboratories and the 2022 chair of the ultrasound section at the Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA), as well as the 2022 chair of MITA’s service committee

Here, Moore reveals where he stands on the Right to Repair and why he believes there’s a lot of “misinformation” and “misunderstanding” surrounding the issue. He also shares his thoughts about the FDA’s “Collaborative Community” initiative and how it could’ve been more successful. Finally, Moore addresses the criticism that OEM repair restrictions are simply about money—not safety.

It's a lively discussion and one you won’t want to miss.

Inside the 2022 AAMI eXchange

24x7 Magazine — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 19:56:15 +0000

The Bearded Biomed” (aka: Chace Torres) sits down with 24×7’s chief editor Keri Stephens to discuss the highlights from the recent 2022 AAMI eXchange, which took place in June in San Antonio, and why this conference was one for the books.

Stephens also reveals key findings from a collaborative brainstorming session she took part in, titled “Fuel to Thrive in HTM,” and Torres shares some takeaways from the AAMI Gator Take event. He even discloses his personal contribution to the event.

HTM's Supply Chain and Labor Shortages

24x7 Magazine — Mon, 09 May 2022 15:35:27 +0000

In today's episode, Keri Stephens and the @BeardedBiomed dive into the supply chain challenges in medical device maintenance and procurement and how they're affecting the HTM industry. Hear real stories on how hospitals are managing, the tough decisions they are facing, and how this problem can be combatted to an extent.

For more great 24x7 content, subscribe below:
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Certification in the HTM Industry

24x7 Magazine — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 20:36:36 +0000

“The Bearded Biomed” (aka: Chace Torres) sits down with 24x7’s chief editor Keri Stephens to discuss why he’s planning to take the certified biomedical equipment technician, or CHTM, exam and why he endorses certification in the HTM field.

Combating HTM’s Staffing Challenges

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 13:57:43 -0100

In this episode, Keri Stephens, chief editor of 24x7, goes in-depth with Danielle McGeary, AAMI’s first vice president of HTM, to learn how she got into the largely male-dominated field and how she’s working alongside of AAMI to address the industry’s staffing challenges.

For more information on AAMI, visit:
https://www.aami.org/HTM

To subscribe to 24x7 content, visit:
https://info.medqor.com/24x7subform

Inside 24x7's 2021 HTM Salary Survey

24x7 Magazine — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 21:05:20 -0100

Keri Stephens of 24x7 and The Bearded Biomed team up to break down the results of 24x7's HTM Salary Survey ( results here: https://buff.ly/3rRzOe0 ). Hear about geographic and demographic variations year over year and get the insights you need to be well equipped to discuss your options as you advance your own HTM career.

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Introducing 24x7 + The Bearded Biomed: Sounding Off on Biomed's Biggest Headlines

24x7 Magazine — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 21:22:34 -0100

Keri Stephens, Chief Editor of 24x7 Magazine and The Bearded Biomed (Chace Torres) team up in the latest episode to kick off a recurring partnership discussing the latest news in the Healthcare Technology Management (HTM) and Biomed industry.

Today’s episode touches on the need to increase awareness and training in the Biomed field, cybersecurity concerns, and the recent developments of Right to Repair.

For more great content from these two thought leaders, follow the links below:
24x7 Newsletter: https://info.medqor.com/24x7subform
Bearded BioMed Buzzsprout feed: https://beardedbiomed.buzzsprout.com/