Healthcare is changing fast, especially with the rise of virtual care. Many patients now schedule appointments and message their doctors online. But even with all these digital tools, building strong relationships is still the key to success.
Onyeka Nchege, the Chief Digital and Information Officer at Novant Health in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, understands this importance. Drawing from his past in manufacturing, IT, and nonprofits, he knows how healthcare can set itself apart.
“Patients expect us to get it right the first time,” Nchege states. “Building trust with our team, stakeholders, and board is essential for collaborating effectively and finding the best solutions for everyone.”
HEALTHTECH: What are your main healthcare IT goals for 2025?
NCHEGE: Our main focus is to deliver exceptional care in every interaction. We plan to prioritize three areas: First, we’ll keep improving our IT resources for optimal use. Second, we’ll enhance our cybersecurity practices. Third, we’ll create a supportive culture to encourage team development and engagement, addressing burnout and ensuring everyone thrives.
HEALTHTECH: What successes and challenges have you seen in Novant Health’s digital transformation?
NCHEGE: We’ve made significant strides by implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that improves our nonclinical processes—from HR to finance. We focus on managing our time better by utilizing tools that support our teams effectively, aiming to provide the right technologies to the right people.
This new ERP system, while still in early stages, promises to streamline daily workflows and improve efficiency. It will enhance processes like requesting time off and ordering supplies, paving the way for future successes.
Additionally, our patient-centric tools like the MyNovant app enable easy access to medical records, appointment scheduling, and prescription refills. We aim to offer technologies that align with users’ everyday experiences.
Although we’ve made progress in cybersecurity and system resiliency, there’s always room for improvement. We’re also looking into using AI to simplify repetitive tasks in both clinical and nonclinical areas, which we see as valuable opportunities for growth.
HEALTHTECH: How has collaboration among departments improved in technology adoption?
NCHEGE: We’ve made great strides in collaboration across departments. Continuous education is vital when introducing new technologies. We work hard to explain the reasons behind changes and ensure everyone receives ample training both before and after implementation. This approach fosters teamwork and understanding across the board.
HEALTHTECH: What cybersecurity lessons have you learned in 2024 for future planning?
NCHEGE: The biggest lesson is that people are crucial. Having strong leadership and dedicated resources for cybersecurity is essential. In 2024, we welcomed a new Chief Information Security Officer who has been pivotal in strengthening our strategies. Our talented cybersecurity team is also invested in training and development to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed.
HEALTHTECH: How is Novant Health approaching AI and machine learning?
NCHEGE: We started investing in AI and machine learning back in 2019 by creating our data science team and the Institute of Innovation and AI. This initiative helps us implement projects thoughtfully and ensures robust governance. We focus on education across the organization so everyone understands AI’s potential, which is key for successful program implementation.
