Visionary Voices

Episode 11: Visionary Voices with Carol Davis-Smith, Matt Baretich

In this episode of Visionary Voices [https://optimumhit.com/insights/visionary-voices/], we explore the evolution of healthcare technology management (HTM) with industry experts Carol Davis-Smith [https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-davis-smith-cce-facce-aamif-8014a61/] and Matt Baretich [https://www.linkedin.com/in/baretich/]. From how HTM teams were traditionally measured to how they are delivering value today, this conversation examines the shifting role of technology management across modern healthcare environments. The discussion covers the growing importance of data in decision-making, the challenges organizations face in turning data into actionable insights, and how HTM teams are moving beyond compliance toward more strategic contributions. Looking ahead, the episode offers perspectives on what will matter most over the next decade, including standardization, expanding care settings, and the continued alignment between technology and patient outcomes. This episode provides healthcare leaders with practical insight into how HTM is evolving and what steps organizations can take to stay ahead.

Visionary Voices with Charity Darnell - Episode 10

In this episode of Visionary Voices, we sit down with Charity Darnell, Vice President and Assistant Chief Information Officer at Methodist Health System, to explore what it takes to lead meaningful digital transformation in today’s healthcare environment. Drawing from her clinical background in nursing, Charity shares how frontline experience shapes smarter technology decisions and more effective leadership. The conversation dives into one of healthcare’s most complex challenges, application rationalization, and why creating space for innovation requires both strategic discipline and organizational alignment. We also explore the human side of transformation, including how leaders can foster the cultural shifts needed to embrace emerging technologies like AI while maintaining a strong focus on patient care. Charity offers practical insights on communication, change management, and the mindset required to move organizations forward. This episode is a must-listen for healthcare leaders navigating transformation and looking to balance innovation with real-world impact.

Visionary Voices with Matt Kull - Episode 9

In this episode of Season 2 of Visionary Voices [https://optimumhit.com/insights/visionary-voices/], we welcome Matt Kull [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtkull/], EVP and Chief Information & Digital Officer at Inova Health [http://inkedin.com/company/inovahealth], for a deep dive into IT governance, organizational efficiency, and how CIOs can drive meaningful innovation at scale. Matt shares how strong governance models enable smarter decision-making, faster execution, and alignment between clinical, operational, and digital priorities. The conversation explores how leaders can shift culture in environments without formal governance structures, how to evaluate the true value of innovation, and which principles consistently lead to better health system outcomes. We also discuss Inova’s national leadership in responsible data use, their broader digital strategy, and lessons other CIOs can apply as they balance transformation with trust, compliance, and performance. Topics include: * IT governance and enterprise decision-making * Driving organizational efficiency * Measuring value in innovation * Responsible use of health data * CIO leadership strategies Tune in to hear how Inova is shaping the future of digital health and what today’s healthcare leaders can learn from their approach.

Visionary Voices with Trinity Health - Episode 8

In this first episode of Season 2 of Visionary Voices [/insights/visionary-voices/], we sit down with Mike Prokic [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-prokic-fache/], VP and Chief IT Strategy Officer, and Nick O'Connor [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickoc/], VP and Chief Technology Officer, from Trinity Health to explore how one of the nation’s largest health systems is modernizing imaging and accelerating innovation through the cloud. From the pivotal moment that sparked Trinity Health’s transformation to the real-world impact of a cloud-based PACS environment, this candid conversation dives into what it takes to modernize at scale. Our guests share measurable benefits for clinicians and IT teams, and how emerging technologies like AI are shaping their roadmap forward. Expect thoughtful insights, honest reflections, and a conversation designed for healthcare technology leaders who want to stay ahead of what's next. Topics include: * Cloud-based imaging and PACS modernization * AI and automation in healthcare IT * Managed services strategies * Building an innovation-ready future Tune in to hear how Trinity Health is turning vision into action, and what other health systems can learn from their journey.

The IT Vision of the Future - Episode 7

In this episode of Visionary Voices, we sit down with Dr. Chris Longhurst, Chief Clinical and Innovation Officer at UC San Diego Health and Executive Director of the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center for Health Innovation. From his go-to burrito order to breaking new ground with spatial computing in the operating room, Dr. Longhurst shares why IT innovation isn’t just about tech—it’s about timing, trust, and transformation. We explore what it takes to implement cutting-edge technologies without disrupting daily operations and how UC San Diego Health’s use of the Apple Vision Pro redefines patient care in real time. Tune in to learn: * Whether healthcare is still lagging—or leading—in tech adoption * How to prepare your IT infrastructure for innovation * Why the operating room might be the next frontier for spatial computing Whether you're a CIO, clinician, or just tech-curious, this episode delivers thought-provoking insights and a few laughs along the way.