Justin Brueck, System Vice President of Innovation and Research at Endeavor Health, discusses blending cutting-edge technologies and precision medicine with compassionate and personalised care
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EDITORIAL
Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outpb.com
Deputy Head of Editorial: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outpb.com
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COMMUNITY ENDEAVOURS
Welcome to our seventh edition of Healthcare Outlook.
The face of this latest issue is Justin Brueck, System Vice President of Innovation and Research at Endeavor Health (Endeavor), an integrated, community-based health system serving more than 1.3 Illinois residents.
With an extensive regional network, Endeavor’s mission is to deliver pioneering, world-class care and a seamless, personal experience to patients in its communities.
Endeavour has the unique opportunity to redefine the role and expectation of health systems by reimagining the way it engages with patients and viewing them as ‘consumers of health’.
“This means understanding how they now choose to receive services across other industries and considering how those innovations can be tailored to create a seamless, world-class experience within healthcare,” Brueck excites.
We also say hello to AlohaCare, the non-profit safety health plan committed to improving health in the communities of Hawai’i.
Founded in 1994, AlohaCare has focused on a holistic approach, considering behavioural and social factors that impact the overall well-being of members.
“Witnessing our impact on our members and communities is a remarkable anniversary gift,” prides CEO, Francoise Culley-Trotman.
“Even though we have grown and evolved, we have remained true to our roots and mission to continue to promote health equity across Hawai’i.”
International SOS is likewise deeply involved in community-focused projects aimed at improving overall health outcomes.
The leading international health and security risk management organisation’s commitment to enhancing community health is indisputable, as is its support for government initiatives.
“For instance, we have been working closely with governments in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines to provide critical health services and support during public health emergencies,” explains Regional Managing Director, Juliana Gim.
This issue also includes business insights from Cosmetique and Canon Medical Systems UK, who recently opened the UK’s first carbon-neutral built community facility.
“The Canon Medical Arena was designed to equip Sheffield with an affordable and accessible location for local people to participate in sports, engage in events, and improve the overall accessibility of health within the community,” informs Managing Director, Mark Hitchman.
We hope that you enjoy your read.
Jack Salter
Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing
Around the healthcare sector in seven stories…
LILLY DRUG REDUCES GENETIC FORMS OF CHOLESTEROL
AN EXPERIMENTAL DRUG, created by pharmaceutical company, Lilly, is found to greatly reduce a genetic form of cholesterol by up to 86 percent in mid-stage trials.
The pill, muvalaplin, was found to reduce levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), which significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, peripheral artery disease, and much more.
The results were found using a traditional blood test, which revealed to reduce levels of Lp(a) by 70 percent, as well a more specific blood test provided by Lilly, found to reduce levels by 86 percent.
These results mark a significant turning point in cholesterol therapies, as the pill is currently the only non-injectable treatment available to patients.
SERIOUS CONCERN FOR FEMALE SUDANESE REFUGEES
THERE IS A GROWING concern surrounding the spread of female genital mutilation (FGM) amongst Sudanese refugees in camps throughout Chad.
This follows an increase in camp arrivals since April 2023, when civil
war broke out in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
There is no medical basis for practising FGM, which is a cultural practice often carried out secretively due to it being made illegal in Chad and Sudan in 2003 and 2020, respectively.
Aid workers across Chadian refugee camps fear that health complications associated with the outlawed practice,
CHIKUNGUNYA IN PAKISTAN SURGES
OF LATE, SEVERE cases of the mosquito-borne disease, Chikungunya, have been reported in Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi.
The viral disease can lead to severe joint pain, fever, nausea, and fatigue, and is currently particularly prevalent amongst the elderly and those with diabetes.
The high cost of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are used to accurately identify the virus, is contributing to many people going undiagnosed and therefore spreading the disease.
Additionally, the limited capacity of Karachi’s hospitals is accelerating the spread of the disease, with Chikungunya patients being treated in general wards without mosquito nets.
such as excessive bleeding and infection, could put women and girls at serious risk.
RWANDA CONTROLS MARBURG OUTBREAK
FOLLOWING A RECENT outbreak in Rwanda, cases of the Marburg virus are falling. The country recently reached a case fatality rate of just 22.7 percent – amongst the lowest rates ever recorded.
The virus, which has a notoriously high fatality rate, is thought to be caused by prolonged exposure to caves inhabited by Rousettus fruit bat colonies.
Basic hygiene practices, attending to patients quickly, embracing experimental vaccines and medications, and robust infectioncontrol protocols have helped Rwanda to effectively combat the disease.
Going forwards, a vaccine roll-out targeting at-risk groups, such as mine workers, is hoped to further control the outbreak.
DEVELOPING AUSTRALIAN GENOMICS
GENOMICS AUSTRALIA, A national body aimed at advancing genomic research and technologies in Australia, has recently been backed by the federal government with an initial funding commitment of AUD$30 million for its first four years.
Helping to fight cancers and rare diseases, the new organisation hopes to transform patient diagnosis and treatment by propelling the integration of genomics into mainstream healthcare.
Building on the ongoing
collaboration between government, the healthcare sector, and patients, Genomics Australia’s initial priority will be improving access to personalised cancer care and will operate within the state’s Department of Health and Aged Care.
TIKTOK TO DISSEMINATE HEALTH INFORMATION
THE WORLD HEALTH Organisation (WHO) and social media platform, TikTok, have announced a new collaboration that seeks to address the spread of healthcare misinformation and fake news amongst those who use the platform.
A renewed focus on evidencebased content is hoped to encourage positive health dialogues, break stigmas, share impactful stories, and provide resources to support those in need.
As more and more young people actively source their news through social media platforms such as TikTok, WHO seeks to shape a healthier future for all by disseminating credible and trustworthy health information across such channels.
BIRD FLU CATCHES UP WITH CANADA
THE PUBLIC HEALTH Agency of Canada (PHAC) recently confirmed a human case of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in British Columbia (BC).
Healthcare officials in BC have taken stringent measures in light of the news, including contact tracing, testing, and administering antiviral medication for infection prevention.
Whilst the teenage patient continues to receive treatment, there have been no further confirmed cases of the virus so far. PHAC continues to work closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and other industry stakeholders on its response.
ASIA PACIFIC
Revolutionising NHS Appointment Systems
Missed appointments, known as ‘did not attends’, remain a deep-rooted problem for the NHS, with thousands of appointments wasted each year. Richard Evans, CTO at Cinos, discusses how technology can address patient engagement and deliver better healthcare
Writer: Richard Evans, CTO, Cinos
With over 103 million outpatient appointments booked in 2021/22, approximately 7.6 percent ended in ‘did not attends’ (DNAs), equating to an average of 650,000 missed opportunities per month.
At a cost of approximately £120 each to the NHS, this equates to almost £1 billion. The financial strain from these missed appointments is profound, costing the service dearly in terms of lost revenue and increased pressure on an already stretched system.
REASONS WHY DNAS OCCUR
There are many driving factors leading to DNAs. A patient may have simply forgotten about their appointment, they may feel better and no longer need a consultation, life may get in the way on the day, a patient might be unaware of an appointment in the first place, or the person can’t get time off work to attend.
In most circumstances, a simple reminder or an easy facility to cancel or reschedule could alleviate a potential DNA. Current reminders
include letters, SMS, and phone calls that have shown to reduce DNAs by up to 80 percent.
These results can only be improved by making communication with patients a two-way process, giving them the ability to acknowledge or confirm an appointment and make contact easily with the NHS should they then need to cancel or reschedule.
ADDRESSING DNAS WITH TECHNOLOGY
Communications Platforms as a Service (CPaaS), such Cisco’s Webex Connect, are at the forefront of tackling DNAs by enhancing patient engagement and improving two-way communication efficiency.
CPaaS technology allows NHS trusts to send patients personalised appointment reminders, confirmations, and follow-up messages through multiple channels such as WhatsApp, SMS, email, and social media. This proactive engagement helps ensure that individuals are well-informed and less
likely to miss their appointments. By reminding patients and providing easy options for rescheduling or cancelling, CPaaS solutions help minimise the occurrence of DNAs. With fewer missed appointments, clinics can reallocate resources to reduce waiting times and address backlogs, enhancing service delivery and patient care. Furthermore, engaging with individuals through their preferred communication channels demonstrates a commitment to patient-centric care, fostering trust and satisfaction.
EMPOWERING THE PATIENT
One of the key features of CPaaS is its ability to facilitate twoway communication channels, empowering patients to confirm, acknowledge, or reschedule their appointments with ease. This interaction not only improves engagement but also streamlines the cancellation process, allowing for better management of clinic schedules.
This approach also plays a crucial role in addressing health inequalities by offering digital engagement options for those who might feel uncomfortable making phone calls or have difficulty visiting clinics in person. By tailoring communications to meet the unique needs of different demographic groups, healthcare providers can ensure more equitable access to services.
DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHTS FOR BETTER HEALTHCARE DELIVERY
Two-way communication with patients also plays a crucial role in reducing health inequalities by providing valuable insights into the unique challenges faced
by specific demographic groups. Firstly, it allows healthcare trusts to proactively offer services to the public, such as digital engagement for non-English speakers who might not feel comfortable making a phone call, or allowing someone struggling to get time off work to simply reschedule from their phone.
By analysing communication patterns and engagement levels across different patient populations, healthcare providers can identify disparities in access to care and tailor interventions to address these gaps. This targeted approach ensures that healthcare services are more equitable and accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location.
By using data analytics and insights provided by CPaaS solutions, trusts can predict demand more accurately. In partnership with companies like Deep Medical, which uses artificial intelligence to predict DNAs with high accuracy, CPaaS platforms can enhance operational efficiencies and improve overall healthcare outcomes. This foresight enables healthcare providers to optimise appointment scheduling, allocate resources efficiently, and reduce the likelihood of overruns.
As a result, clinics operate more smoothly with fewer delays and disruptions, ultimately enhancing the patient experience and staff
operational goals but also contributes to a more sustainable healthcare system.
NHS trusts can significantly reduce the risk of DNAs occurring in the first place by reminding patients of upcoming appointments and offering convenient options for rescheduling or cancelling. Two-way communication enables patients to confirm their attendance or notify the clinic of any changes, leading to higher appointment attendance rates and fewer wasted slots.
The financial impact of DNAs on healthcare organisations cannot be overstated. Each missed appointment represents lost revenue and strains on already stretched resources. By implementing CPaaS solutions, NHS trusts can protect against DNAs happening in the first place, helping to minimise the financial and staff burden, leading to significant cost savings and operational efficiency gains.
In turn, valuable capacity within clinics is freed up. With fewer missed appointments, healthcare providers can reallocate resources to clear backlogs and reduce waiting times for patients. This ensures that those in need of care receive timely access to services, improving overall patient satisfaction and outcomes.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
As the NHS continues to tackle the elective care backlog, the integration of and enhancing experience, software not only supports the NHS’s
Richard Evans is an experienced technology strategist focused on voice and video collaboration. He joined Cinos in 2017, and as CTO, is responsible for developing and executing an integrated, long-term cloud portfolio strategy for the organisation in service of its wide-ranging enterprise and public sector customer base.
COSMETIC Calibre
DDr Vivek Eranki, Founder and CEO of Cosmetique, fills us in on the Australian cosmetic clinic’s milestone accreditation, which sets a benchmark for the country’s cosmetic services industry
Writer: Imogen Waters
r Vivek Eranki has achieved a significant breakthrough in Australia’s healthcare industry as the Founder and CEO of Cosmetique.
Established in 2017, Cosmetique is the country’s first cosmetic clinic to receive accreditation against the National Safety and Quality Primary Community Healthcare (NSQPCH) Standards.
“This accreditation serves as an exemplar for others to strive for excellence,” introduces Eranki, who brings extensive expertise in governance and compliance.
Indeed, Eranki is a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in founding and scaling ventures in general practice, allied health, and day hospitals.
As an Associate of the Governance Institute of Australia and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, he ensures that Cosmetique remains an industry leader in safety and regulatory standards.
NSQPCH accreditation marks the start of a new era of innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence at Cosmetique, as it strives to enable access to exceptional aesthetic treatments at affordable prices.
“WE UPHOLD SUPERIOR STANDARDS OF QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE, ENSURING THAT EACH PATIENT RECEIVES INDUSTRYLEADING CARE”
–
DR VIVEK ERANKI, FOUNDER AND CEO, COSMETIQUE
“Our aim is to have clinics conveniently located across the country that are within minutes reach for over 90 percent of Australians,” he delivers.
Eranki holds qualifications in finance, business, governance, and medicine, accompanied by an
extensive track record in health, wellness, and the personal services industry.
Armed with his wealth of experience, Eranki has successfully founded and scaled Cosmetique, turning it into one of Australia’s leading cosmetic clinics.
ACHIEVING AN ACCREDITATION
Cosmetique is recognised across Australia for its recent developments, in particular, meeting the NSQPCH Standards, which reflect its continual drive to ensure patients receive the very best in quality, care, and safety.
“Our recent accreditation means we have undergone a rigorous external assessment process to demonstrate our compliance with these national standards,” Eranki reinforces.
The exceptional care and results required to align with the NSQPCH Standards proactively mitigate potential associated risks, ensuring that Cosmetique’s patient services
are unparalleled.
“We uphold superior standards of quality and performance, ensuring that each patient receives industryleading care,” he promises.
Serving as a public acknowledgement, the accreditation sets the bar high for the entire cosmetic landscape in Australia, as the standards are designed to promote high quality and are only achieved by meeting patient safety, clinical effectiveness, and overall service quality standards.
COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
At Cosmetique, training and safety
COSMETIQUE LOCATIONS
Cosmetique’s network was established in Perth, Western Australia, in 2017. Over the last seven years, it has become established in multiple locations across five Australian states, with a target of reaching 50 clinics.
Its current locations are:
• NEW SOUTH WALES – Bondi Junction and Penrith
• QUEENSLAND – Bowen Hills, Maroochydore, and Robina
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA – Glenelg and North Adelaide
• VICTORIA – Clyde North, Frankston, Geelong, Prahran, and Richmond
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA – Cockburn, Joondalup, Mandurah, Midland, and Subiaco
are at the forefront of the company’s priorities. It exclusively employs Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registered nurses as cosmetic injectors to sustain top calibre.
In addition, every nurse, regardless of previous experience, undergoes rigorous training to ensure they meet the company’s refined standards.
All of Cosmetique’s cosmetic nurses complete intensive practice and
“THIS ACCREDITATION SERVES AS AN EXEMPLAR FOR OTHERS TO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE”
– DR VIVEK ERANKI, FOUNDER AND CEO, COSMETIQUE
certification from an internationally recognised training provider.
“Following completion of training, all staff undergo ongoing education in the latest injecting techniques,” Eranki emphasises.
Due to Cosmetique’s commitment to excellence and its maintained training strategy, it has been recognised by multiple customer service awards highlighting the brand’s ongoing success.
“We are proud to be the only cosmetic clinic in the country that has been a finalist in the Customer Service Institute of Australia’s Excellence
PERFECT PROTOCOL
Additionally, Cosmetique’s training allows its nurses to apply the latest techniques and utilise top-quality cosmetic injectables to achieve the desired look for every patient.
A consultation is required for any injection or treatment, solidifying the company’s exceptional care surrounding industry agreements and NSQPCH accreditation.
“This framework provides peace of mind for patients, knowing that we adhere to the highest safety protocols
Awards,” Eranki prides.
Facial treatment
Source: Cosmetique
in the industry. These standards ensure that we not only meet but exceed patient expectations,” Eranki comments.
The environment of Cosmetique’s clinics across all locations is safe and sanitised. Over 30 professional, experienced injectors can administer patients’ preferred procedures at any of its unrivalled clinics across Australia, serving a client base of approximately 100,000 patients.
“Our expertise lies in cosmetic
COSMETICS IN AUSTRALIA – AT A GLANCE
The cosmetic industry is experiencing robust growth worldwide, driven by increasing consumer interest in non-invasive aesthetic treatments and the growing accessibility of these services.
The global cosmetic injectables market is expanding, fuelled by high demand for treatments like dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers, as consumers seek minimally invasive options for maintaining a youthful appearance.
Likewise, the market for laser treatments, particularly laser hair removal, continues to grow steadily as advancements in technology make these procedures more efficient and accessible.
These trends are further supported by the influence of social media, which has popularised beauty enhancement treatments across diverse age groups, establishing a broader and younger consumer base.
In Australia, the cosmetic sector is poised for significant expansion, with an annual growth rate surpassing 10 percent across both injectables and laser hair removal services.
Clinics are strategically targeting hightraffic suburban locations to cater to young, trend-conscious consumers who prioritise convenience and accessibility.
Companies like Cosmetique are leveraging digital booking systems and a streamlined service model to drive volume and scalability, ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery. As regulatory standards continue to evolve, established, compliant brands stand to gain a competitive edge by reassuring clients of safety and adherence to industry best practices, further reinforcing customer trust and loyalty.
injectables and laser hair removal, in which we regularly audit the outcomes of treatments to ensure patients’ aesthetic goals are being met,” he concludes.
Cosmetique is currently preparing to take the company public with an Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the Australian Securities Exchanges (ASX), a transition that allows companies to expand further and raise their capital within the nation’s booming beauty services industry.
COSMETIQUE
Tel: 1300 320 272
reception@cosmetique.au www.cosmetique.au
A BLUEPRINT FOR PROACTIVE HEALTHCARE
The recently-opened Canon Medical Arena addresses regional health inequalities by acting as a unique catalyst for well-being and society. Mark Hitchman, Managing Director of Canon Medical Systems UK, highlights proactive healthcare as one of the principal motivators for the arena
Writer: Jack Salter
Technology has come on leaps and bounds since Mark Hitchman, Managing Director of Canon Medical Systems UK (Canon Medical), started working in healthcare.
Innovation in diagnostics in particular has had a huge impact on the delivery of health services, whilst today, artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning algorithms within computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners are providing more detailed images than ever before by reducing
noise and offering high definition.
AI is also being utilised to improve workflow efficiencies in diagnostics by supporting processes for accurate triage, worklist prioritisation, and treatment decisions.
“Given the strain the NHS is currently facing and the growing demand for patient diagnosis, these innovative solutions are needed now more than ever,” Hitchman emphasises.
A full range of medical imaging solutions, including CTs and MRIs, as well as diagnostic and interventional
X-rays, ultrasounds, and mobile imaging, are offered by Canon Medical, who also provides a wide array of services and full suite of healthcare IT solutions to the industry.
In line with its ‘Made for Life’ philosophy, patients are at the heart of everything Canon Medical does.
“Our mission is to enrich every life we touch with solutions that support medical professionals across the NHS and private healthcare organisations, contributing to the health and wellbeing of patients worldwide,” outlines Hitchman.
HEALTHCARE OUTLOOK: WHAT LONG-TERM BENEFITS WILL THE CANON MEDICAL ARENA BRING TO SHEFFIELD?
Mark Hitchman, Managing Director: “Sadly, there are still areas of inequality in the UK where wellness is determined by socioeconomic group or postcode.
This is something that we are working to address in Sheffield by bringing healthcare and well-being closer to the community.
“Together as a society, we must work together to support the migration towards a proactive approach to healthcare, underpinned by access to affordable sports education and well-being facilities, and the NHS’ preventative aims to screen, detect, and diagnose earlier.”
CANON MEDICAL ARENA
Complementing its head office in Crawley and branches in Northern Ireland and Scotland, the company recently opened the Canon Medical Arena, the UK’s first carbon-neutral built community facility.
It is located in Sheffield, the fifthlargest city by population in England, which is tackling considerable challenges including poor life expectancy, educational attainment, unemployment, and housing.
“The Canon Medical Arena was designed to equip Sheffield with an affordable and accessible location for local people to participate in sports, engage in events, and improve the overall accessibility of health within the community,” Hitchman informs us.
“Since opening, the arena has already helped to bring better healthcare to the local community
with closer-to-home medical appointments, as well as improving access to health screenings and disease prevention to those who need it most.”
The arena’s Medical Diagnostic Centre, operated by The LivingCare Group, features advanced Canon Medical imaging systems including AI-assisted CT and MRI scanners, ultrasound and digital X-ray machines, and fluoroscopy equipment, along with consulting rooms and a minor surgery operating theatre.
It is also the permanent home of professional basketball teams, the Sheffield Sharks and Sheffield Hatters, and netball club, Sheffield Steel Netball, with three multipurpose basketball courts and seating for up to 2,500 spectators.
Additionally, the arena houses the RESPECT programmes, which Canon Medical has sponsored since 2017 and continue to enrich the lives of young people through basketball-led initiatives, including workshops and sports sessions aimed at helping them
“THE CANON MEDICAL ARENA WAS DESIGNED TO EQUIP SHEFFIELD WITH AN AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE LOCATION FOR LOCAL PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE IN SPORTS, ENGAGE IN EVENTS, AND IMPROVE THE OVERALL ACCESSIBILITY OF HEALTH WITHIN THE COMMUNITY”
– MARK HITCHMAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS UK
break free from cycles of negative behaviour.
“Whether it’s building a multipurpose arena, facilitating the learning and development for disadvantaged children through our RESPECT programmes, or sponsoring Support Dogs for people with autism and epilepsy, we do these things not because we have to, but because we want to for the greater health and well-being of our population,” Hitchman prides.
PROACTIVE HEALTHCARE
The move towards proactive healthcare was one of the principal
motivators for building the Canon Medical Arena.
In Sheffield, it is estimated that 20 percent of deaths per annum could be prevented by removing the direct cause factors of obesity, physical inactivity, and environmental pollution.
“We believe that the unique combination of the Medical Diagnostic Centre within a community sporting and events arena will help encourage people to lead a healthier lifestyle and increase physical activity, further supporting a proactive approach to healthcare,” Hitchman insights.
AQUILION ONE / INSIGHT EDITION
This year, Canon Media is proud to have installed the Aquilion ONE / INSIGHT Edition CT system at two top European healthcare facilities – Royal Bournemouth Hospital in England and the University of Strasbourg in France.
These hospitals were the first in Europe to receive the new system, which represents a major innovation in medical imaging with a focus on improving healthcare outcomes and operational excellence.
Equipped with the all-new INSTINX workflow solution, customers are seeing a real impact, with workflow steps reduced by 40 percent. As a result, significantly more patients are being seen each day without the need for additional staff per system, thereby boosting productivity.
The INSTINX workflow solution has been developed to ease workload pressure on healthcare professionals by combining AI-enabled patient setup and protocol selection technologies with a faster, more efficient workflow experience.
“At Canon Medical, we are always striving to provide medical professionals with solutions that support their efforts in improving the health and well-being of patients, and this new CT scanner simplifies complicated scans for clinicians by streamlining the system design and workflow experience to enable fast, safe, and efficient CT exams, all while keeping the needs of the patients top of mind,” says Hitchman.
“This approach, alongside access to timely diagnostics, will also aid faster rehabilitation and improve life opportunities for individuals in the region.”
The healthcare industry needs to start being proactive rather than reactive as, ultimately, the early detection of disease leads to lower treatment costs, whilst also providing better care pathways and outcomes for patients.
For example, identifying some conditions or diseases early can enable the prescription of lifestyle shifts, such as diet and exercise, before invasive, complicated, and costly hospital interventions are required.
“We need to be able to get to a point where we can start examining people who are asymptomatic but have notable risk factors, such as those over the age of 50, smokers, and/or people with a family history of diseases,” affirms Hitchman.
“Being able to examine people ahead of any potential health issues means that medical professionals
can be proactive in their treatment plans. I really do believe that early intervention can radically improve treatment outcomes and save lives.”
The Canon Medical Arena therefore serves as a potential blueprint for the way healthcare could be delivered in future.
As people live longer and the population continues to grow, the demands placed on healthcare are rising rapidly. However, hospitals can only treat so many patients a day, and with the number of diseases growing and becoming more complex, the treatment plans medical professionals provide need to be efficient.
“The arena is an example of how we can shift some of the growing demand for medical diagnostics away from hospitals to the local community, encourage a more proactive approach to healthcare, and add facilities to a community that foster health and well-being,” Hitchman states.
PERSONALISED PRECISION MEDICINE
In addition to its focus on proactive
“OUR MISSION IS TO ENRICH EVERY LIFE WE TOUCH WITH SOLUTIONS THAT SUPPORT MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS ACROSS THE NHS AND PRIVATE HEALTHCARE ORGANISATIONS, CONTRIBUTING TO THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF PATIENTS WORLDWIDE”
– MARK HITCHMAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS UK
healthcare, Canon Medical is passionate and excited about the future of personalised precision medicine.
This utilises an individual’s health profile, including their genetic makeup, alongside environmental and lifestyle factors to guide the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disease.
With a record 3.7 million workers in England projected to be living with major illness by 2040, driven by factors such as age, obesity, and addiction, this concept will act as a crucial component in the migration towards a smarter and more effective approach to healthcare.
“Today, the industry has more
data about people, their habits, and their overall health than ever before.
To maximise the true value of the information available, we need to bring together genomic, clinical, and diagnostic medicines, and lifestyle data,” notes Hitchman.
“It is the integration and analysis of this information that forms the powerhouse for personalised precision medicine and, in turn, better patient outcomes, with the added benefit of this coming in at a lower unit cost per patient.”
Innovation is evidently something that Canon Medical is known for, but being a caring organisation is equally as important and runs through the
company’s DNA in line with its ‘Made for Life’ philosophy.
“As an ex-frontline healthcare professional myself, improving and often saving people’s lives is engrained in healthcare workers,” Hitchman shares.
“I always wanted to lead a company that would be the ideal partner for the people I was leaving behind in the NHS, and the healthcare industry in general, but also make a positive impact on society as a whole.”
Canon Medical is committed to attracting and retaining the very brightest people with creative minds and strong work ethics.
“How we are seen by our customers and employees is extremely important. I believe if you get that right, then it naturally leads to growth,” concludes Hitchman.
01293 653700 eu.medical.canon
A BATTLE AGAINST THE BIOLOGICAL CLOCK
As the number of people undergoing cosmetic procedures continues to rapidly increase across the globe, we explore the often-overlooked effects of unregulated and overperformed instances of the three most popular cosmetic enhancements – Botox® dermal fillers, and BBLs
Writer: Lauren Kania
Beauty has always been a matter of uncontrollable chance –either you are born having won the genetic lottery or not.
Regardless, to a certain degree, every individual utilises appearanceenhancing tools to wrestle with the inevitable signs of ageing and societal preference. Whether it be through tanning, teeth whitening, eyelash extensions, or wearing spandex, the
global effort to adhere to trending beauty standards is inescapable.
However, despite its evident rise in popularity and acceptability, many would not place these temporary tricks in the same categorisation as cosmetic surgery, which, up until recently, has been viewed as a drastic way to achieve the look of your dreams – and of social media’s daily output.
Within the past decade, cosmetic enhancement procedures have seen a monstrous increase in interest from the general public, with options like Botox®, dermal fillers, Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs), and the all-inclusive ‘mommy makeover’ dominating Google searches worldwide.
The democratisation of cosmetic surgery is changing the way people view their own biology. No longer
is the gradual decay of youth an obligatory part of life, but rather, the body is now a project that can be constantly improved through cheapening, bloody, and sometimes unregulated procedures.
The most popular non-surgical cosmetic enhancement continues to be Botox®, which had over nine million treatments administered globally in 2022 alone and is predicted to have a
total market value of USD$15.2 billion by 2030. Botox® consists of botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum that temporarily paralyses the muscle. However, it is important to note that in addition to cosmetic procedures, Botox® has an indispensable role in modern healthcare and is used to address various neurological disorders. Its ability to selectively
paralyse muscles relieves debilitating symptoms for patients experiencing chronic migraines, cervical dystonia, spasticity, and more.
Nonetheless, the growing number of people seeking Botox® treatments for aesthetic improvement raises a plethora of ethical concerns, as profound social implications begin to emerge in people’s pursuit of physical perfection.
The ubiquity of social media and celebrity culture amplifies the demand for quick and easy solutions such as Botox®, as directly observed through the continued increase in non-invasive plastic surgery in young people between the ages of 18 and 34 who received approximately 2.2 million Botox® treatments in 2022. This surging normalisation and ready accessibility not only magnify the tendency to equate self-worth with one’s external appearance but also results in the reinforcement of ageism and socioeconomic privileges, as continuous cosmetic treatments are not inexpensive.
INJECTABLE BEAUTY
Alongside procedures involving Botox®, the injection of dermal fillers has skyrocketed in popularity, primarily due to its increasing affordability, accessibility, and normalisation on TV shows, social media, and Hollywood.
Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to add volume to under-eye circles, lift the appearance of cheekbones, plump lips, smooth nasolabial folds, and rejuvenate hands, in addition to other benefits.
Traditionally, dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid – a naturally occurring substance found in the skin that plays a major role in the hydration and volumisation of facial features.
However, too much hyaluronic acid has been found to block the body’s lymphatic channels, a key part of the immune system. Even more distressing is the risk of an accidental injection into a blood vessel. When filler enters the bloodstream, it can cause skin necrosis, strokes, embolisms, and even blindness.
Despite these very evident risks, the irresistible marketing from social media, the glamourisation of fully plump features, the trivialisation of the various side effects, and the incentivisation of the end result are like a siren song to those desperate to achieve such an idolised outward appearance.
It is important to highlight that on many occasions, these procedures are conducted safely when carried out by medically trained and licensed clinicians. However, both the price point and limitations on the amount of filler professionals are willing to inject have driven some consumers to turn towards do-it-yourself kits and even the black market.
These options can result in deadly complications, as there have been reported instances of fillers purchased online containing nonsterile substances, such as hair gel. Equally, these self-injecting kits and
unlicensed professionals can also lead to swelling, lumpiness, and facial pain.
As such, the overuse of fillers has become a serious problem that professionals are seeing the effects of in repeat clients.
One study from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) found that approximately 80 percent of surgeons noticed an increase in intraoperative and preoperative anatomical distortion due to the overuse of fillers. Additionally, former BAAPS President, Dr Marc Pacifico, commented that many surgeons have detailed how anatomical structures are more tethered and scarred when fillers have been previously used.
As dermal fillers have only been around for about 30 years, there are no long-term studies on their safety and impact. Recently, however, issues of filler migration have become documented via X-ray and MRI scans. Filler migration is the unintended movement of injectable dermal fillers from their initial placement to other parts of the face. When an area is treated with hyaluronic acid, tension in the tissue can result in the filler moving to a place of less pressure. This can ultimately lead to, among more serious issues, less desirable aesthetic features, such as overinflated lips, lumpy eyelids, and exaggerated cheeks.
The problems with migration are compounded by the recent discovery that dermal fillers last inside the body
much longer than previously thought. Traditionally, it was said that filler lasts between six to 12 months on average, however, after further testing, it was found that dermal fillers were still present in patients after eight years, having migrated throughout the face.
A BODY WORTH DYING FOR
Buttock enlargement surgery, more commonly referred to as a BBL, is the fastest-growing cosmetic surgery procedure in the world.
According to a survey conducted by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of BBLs performed globally has grown by 77.6 percent since 2015.
However, despite its soaring popularity, the procedure carries the highest fatality risk of all cosmetic surgeries – with more than one death per 4,000 procedures.
During the operation, the danger occurs at a very specific moment: the insertion of the cannula deep into
unsafe amounts of fat being injected into a person’s body, but how it is inserted and whether or not it is actually fat being inserted at all, as a number of recent deaths occurred since the patients were being injected with silicone.
Despite these very real and fatal dangers, BAAPS has cited that the procedure is being performed with a 20 percent increase year-on-year.
Many attribute this growing trend to the allure of celebrity culture and seductive advertising for cosmetic surgery clinics abroad.
One country that continues to be incredibly popular for medical tourism is Turkey, where the surgery prices are significantly lower and regulations not as strict.
In the UK, a BBL can cost between £6,000 and £12,000, whereas in Turkey, pricing typically ranges between £3,500 and £5,000. Similarly, advertisements plastered all over social media platforms like Instagram showcase glamorous portrayals of women lounging on a pool deck promoting the surgery and offering special discounts for patients willing to undergo multiple cosmetic procedures at once.
Whilst these images of a relaxing escape combined with a seemingly effortless surgery (or even surgeries) come across as irresistibly alluring, it is an illusion. These procedures are considered a major surgery with a multitude of potential complications attached that are conveniently not shown on the same social media accounts.
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A UNITED ENDEAVOR
Deeply linked to its communities, Endeavor Health is committed to setting a new standard for healthcare, one that redefines the expectations of community-connected care. We speak to Justin Brueck, System Vice President of Innovation and Research, about blending cutting-edge technologies and precision medicine with compassionate and personalized care to establish a new standard and expectation for 21st century medicine
Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Ben Weaver
Endeavor Health (Endeavor) is an integrated, community-based health system serving more than 1.3 million Illinois residents across a service area of 4.2 million people. Operating across nine regional hospitals, more than 300 care locations, and supported by over 27,000 team members, its network is extensive.
Today, its mission is to help everyone in its communities be their best by delivering pioneering, worldclass care and a seamless, personal patient experience.
“I believe that the only way for us to care for patients better is to know them better,” opens Justin Brueck, System Vice President of Innovation and Research at Endeavor.
Having joined the organization in 2010 as an administrative fellow, Brueck has held leadership roles across radiology, laboratory medicine, and hospital operations. Today, he oversees the Mark R. Neaman
Center for Personalized Medicine (one of the largest genomics-based programs in the country), the newly established Davis Family Center for Preventive Genomics, the Grainger Center for Simulation and Innovation, as well as the Endeavor Health Research Institute. Passionate about transforming health through new technologies and approaches to care delivery, Brueck seeks to evolve the
current practice of medicine from one that manages reactive, ‘sick care’ to a new paradigm that embraces proactive and personalized ‘health care’.
“This is going to require the industry to radically shift the way we think about care delivery,” he remarks.
“Given that the majority of care still happens locally, it also means we have to start with redefining the role and expectation of health systems. Endeavor has a unique opportunity to do just that by reimagining the way we engage with patients and viewing them in a way that new entrants see them – as ‘consumers of health’.
“This means understanding how they now choose to receive services across other industries –whether banking, flying, or ordering takeout – and considering how those innovations can be tailored to create
“GIVEN THAT THE MAJORITY OF CARE STILL HAPPENS LOCALLY, IT ALSO MEANS WE
HAVE TO START WITH REDEFINING THE ROLE AND EXPECTATION OF HEALTH SYSTEMS. ENDEAVOR HAS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT BY REIMAGINING THE WAY WE ENGAGE WITH PATIENTS AND VIEWING THEM IN A WAY THAT NEW ENTRANTS SEE THEM – AS
‘CONSUMERS OF HEALTH’”
– JUSTIN BRUECK, SYSTEM VICE PRESIDENT OF INNOVATION AND RESEARCH, ENDEAVOR HEALTH
a seamless, world-class experience within healthcare.”
KEY INNOVATION FOCUS AREAS
The growing influx of entrants and technologies is providing Brueck with many options to consider as he and his teams work to design a more consumer-centric approach to care at Endeavor.
For example, digital health is now about careon-demand – how, where, and when patients want to receive care on their terms.
This means changing the current practice of ‘the doctor will see you now’ to a repositioned experience expectation where ‘the
patient will see you now’.
The wearable technology movement is further enabling a digital-first approach to care by allowing clinicians to remotely monitor and diagnose illnesses that might not be as readily identified through current, often timelimited, care interactions. Additionally, through new omnichannel technologies that allow for the collection of patient-reported outcomes in real time, clinicians can now gain direct insight into patients’ own perspectives on their health status, treatment experience, and overall quality of life.
Endeavor has recently co-developed Motiv, a healthcare technology company that brings virtual
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1 The Value of Medical Device Interoperability: (2013). West Health Institute. Accessed Sept. 2022. https://westhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/ The-Value-of-Medical-Device-Interoperability.pdf
PATIENTIQ ELEVATES PATIENT CARE
PatientIQ partners with health systems to elevate patient care through the collection of patient-reported outcomes (PROs). PROs are patient surveys that capture the patient’s perspective on their health status, treatment experience, and overall quality of life.
By leveraging PROs in clinical workflows, healthcare providers gain direct insights into patient outcomes, enabling more personalized and effective care throughout a patient’s surgical journey. PatientIQ’s seamless integration with Epic systems not only improves data accuracy but also reduces the administrative burden on both patients and providers.
Collecting PROs is essential for tracking patient perspective over time, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring that care is aligned with patient needs and expectations.
PatientIQ is a testament to innovation and excellence in patient care.
cardiac recovery to patients’ homes rather than being exclusively offered at hospitals or outpatient centers.
“When you think about patients who don’t have the ability to take time off work or travel to our sites – single parents, or those caring for others, for example – Motiv allows them to recover when it’s convenient for them,” Brueck affirms.
TECHNOLOGY: A NEW ENABLER TO CARE
“Having recently ranked amongst the top 25 providers in the nation for artificial intelligence (AI) readiness, Endeavor’s innovation approach is also heavily focused on leveraging this game-changing technology.”
Brueck shares that AI is already helping Endeavor clinicians know and care for their patients better. Through AI, significant amounts of healthcare data are able to be instantaneously analyzed to create personalized insights. These insights lead to a
better understanding of how patients may respond to a given therapy or treatment regimen. It also provides a window into underlying variables that may be impacting outcomes.
As a practical example, Brueck notes that, typically, when a patient presents to the emergency department (ED), clinicians assess what’s in front of them.
“They’re not able to perform a robust chart review, so they might not immediately understand how underlying social determinants of health, such as homelessness or abuse, may be contributing to the visit,” he comments.
However, Endeavor’s innovative new AI capabilities can identify risk factors that may be buried in the electronic medical record (EMR) in real-time, assigning the patient a ‘score’ that social workers can then use to identify those who require prioritization for further intervention.
Given the success of these early
use cases, the health system plans to leverage its existing data assets to further expand and train AI
Meanwhile, with the demands on healthcare growing and the available pool of workers shrinking, innovating for the workforce is more critical than ever. For Endeavor, workforce empowerment means supporting team members in practicing at the top of their licenses, implementing technologies that allow them to focus more directly on patient care, and exploring new ways to engage with the next generation of healthcare
For example, Endeavor is exploring a new approach which enables a team of dedicated and experienced nurses to work closely with patients’ bedside nurses from a remote location, leveraging computer vision and a multi-sensor network. With this model, they will help monitor vital signs and provide reminders, education, and support around the clock. Not only does this new approach benefit bedside nurses, but it is also designed to provide patients
with extra support, helping enhance the overall care experience.
Further, to help enable staff to spend more quality time with patients and focus on their clinical work, Endeavor has recently rolled out Moxi, an autonomous robot with the ability to navigate wards, push elevator buttons, and deliver supplies. All of these technologies are grounded in a philosophy that Brueck believes helps bring joy back to the bedside.
While AI, wearables, and robots are bringing transformational change to how care is delivered at Endeavor, Brueck believes one of the most innovative technologies that is finally ready for primetime is a unique capability Endeavor has been incubating for the past two decades: genomics.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF MEDICINE
Today, Endeavor boasts one of the largest primary care-based genomics
programs in the country, where over 250,000 patients have completed a Genetic and Wellness Assessment that informed genetic testing for over 50,000 patients. While Brueck notes that this is an impressive milestone, he believes that the system is just scratching the surface when it comes to unlocking the potential of genomics in personalizing care.
As such, it recently announced the Davis Family Center for Preventive Genomics, which will utilize advanced genome testing to inform early diagnosis, prevention strategies, and personalized treatment options for patients.
“The idea behind preventive genomics is to move away from ‘trial and error’ medicine toward a world in which we create tailored screening and treatment plans. Through knowing you better – at the level of your DNA – we can deliver an elevated approach that ensures we provide you with the right care, at the right time –the first time,” Brueck explains.
Other innovative interventions are being evaluated at the center
such as multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, through which a liquid biopsy can be used to identify cancer potentially before standard radiology screening would be able to. These types of innovations have the ability to meet patients where they are and provide new ways to identify diseases that could previously go undetected.
In the near future, Brueck believes every patient should have access to their genomic information. But having this is just the beginning as clinicians will need new tools to understand how to convert genomic information into actionable insights.
To begin bridging that gap, Endeavor recently launched a new partnership with GenomicMD. Through this collaboration, Endeavor’s Research Institute developed and validated a
next-generation test called a polygenic risk score (PRS) which provides a personalized lifetime risk assessment for clinicians treating complex genetic conditions.
“We’re one of only a handful of health systems in the US, and even internationally, that is incorporating PRS as part of care today,” Brueck enthuses.
UNLOCKING ADVANCED, LOCAL HEALTHCARE
Passionate about providing accessible healthcare to local communities, Brueck cites
“THE IDEA BEHIND PREVENTIVE GENOMICS IS TO MOVE AWAY FROM ‘TRIAL AND ERROR’ MEDICINE TOWARD A WORLD IN WHICH WE CREATE TAILORED SCREENING AND TREATMENT PLANS”
– JUSTIN BRUECK, SYSTEM VICE PRESIDENT OF INNOVATION AND RESEARCH, ENDEAVOR HEALTH
the importance of innovation and research while noting how both are often intrinsically linked to the immediate population.
“When medical research is carried out locally and embedded in communities, it thrives. At Endeavor, we have access to a broad patient cohort across diverse social groups and demographics in our community, allowing us a comprehensive and representative perspective,” he excites.
For example, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore was running a convalescent plasma trial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of its trusted connection to the community, Endeavor subsequently became the
second-highest enrolling site in the landmark trial, providing hope and options for patients when there were no other approved treatments.
The importance of local health data for research purposes has also been recently highlighted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is looking to integrate more diversity into its clinical trials.
As part of a new commitment to research and innovation, Endeavor has established a Scientific Advisory Group which uses health equity criteria to evaluate how its research leads to more inclusive participation. Through this work, the system has recently expanded many of its trials to Swedish Hospital – its safety net site in Chicago.
“In my view, we have an obligation and an opportunity at Endeavor
HEALTHCARE OUTLOOK:
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER COMMUNITYBASED HEALTH SYSTEMS LOOKING TO INTEGRATE INNOVATIVE APPROACHES INTO THEIR CARE DELIVERY?
JUSTIN BRUECK, SYSTEM VICE PRESIDENT OF INNOVATION AND RESEARCH:
“It’s all about finding out what your unique capabilities are and deciding whether that provides you with a market advantage that hasn’t already been tapped into.
‘‘You can then leverage that strategic advantage to enable a multiplier effect. For us, this was personalized medicine.
‘‘I would also caution health systems not to start with solutions in search of problems. If you do this, you’ll ultimately spend time trying to convince people to adopt new technologies for something that’s already perfectly functional. In short, my advice is to always start with the opportunity or problem statement, and not allow a product or solution to dictate your strategy.”
to make the latest in medical breakthroughs and treatments accessible in patients’ own backyards. You shouldn’t have to drive past any of our hospitals to access those services.”
EVOLUTION ON THE HORIZON
Going forward, Brueck is focused on leveraging new technologies and innovations to tailor care and personalize it in a way that is differentiated – whether that be through genomics, data insights, or even self-reported patient outcomes.
“Personalization and hyperpersonalization are going to be critical to our success as we seek to leverage the right digital tools, tailored outreach, and technologies to achieve our goal to be a model for what vibrant, community-connected health systems can be,” Brueck comments.
“Meeting the needs of our future workforce is equally of critical importance. As it stands, there are not enough people available to meet the anticipated demands of our patients and communities in the future,” he shares.
Endeavor seeks to become smarter, more efficient, and leverage automation to help streamline its processes and support its team members.
Further on the horizon, Brueck is excited to see how the next generation of genomics and AI enables the concept of ‘digital twins’ in which clinicians will be able to leverage simulated digital versions of patients to understand and explain how they are likely to respond to a given treatment.
“It’s a very exciting space when
you consider the possibilities of truly tailoring care based on your genetic makeup, phenotypes, and behaviors,” he suggests.
Currently, digital twinning is used to test medications and treatments for side effects and reactions, but the possibilities are endless.
“The digital age is here and now. We need to be preparing and educating ourselves – clinicians, patients, and communities – for the future of reimagined care delivery. Thankfully, in healthcare, it’s not just about the latest technology. There is a life at
the end of every interaction that we have the ability to improve. It’s a really rewarding and exciting time to be in the space,” he concludes.
Committed to improving health in the communities of Hawai‘i, AlohaCare embraces a journey of well-being. CEO, Francoise Culley-Trotman, provides valuable insights into industry challenges and proactive programs to overcome them
Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Ben Weaver
Hawai‘i, a beautiful and remote island chain in the US, exudes a unique and desirable sense of community due to its isolation.
The beautiful jewel-toned waters, lush green mountains, and captivating misty waterfalls create an enchanting natural landscape.
It is notable that life in Hawai‘i is further enriched by residents enjoying the longest life expectancy in the country, which can be partially attributed to the high standard of medical services available.
Indeed, US News and World Report has recognized the state as number one in terms of healthcare access – aiding its world-class wellness is AlohaCare, unique to Hawai‘i and
headquartered in the capital city of Honolulu.
“We are the only communityfounded, non-profit safety net health plan that exclusively serves Medicaid and dual-eligible Medicare members,” introduces Francoise Culley-Trotman, CEO of AlohaCare.
“Our origins go back to 1994, the same year that Hawai‘i’s Medicaid program, QUEST Integration, was established,” she continues.
With unwavering dedication, Community Health Centers (CHCs) across the islands came together to champion a bold local healthcare plan to care for the needs of often underserved communities.
“Today, our board is comprised
of representatives from those same CHCs and other organizations; moreover, through the years, we have been faithful to empowering individual and community health.”
AlohaCare has focused on a holistic approach, considering behavioral and social factors that impact members’ overall well-being, including housing, nutrition, education, culture, and community.
Blossoming into a full organization from an idea incepted 30 years ago, it employs almost 300 people and serves over 75,000 members throughout the Hawaiian islands.
“Witnessing our impact on our members and communities is a remarkable anniversary gift. Even
though we have grown and evolved, we have remained true to our roots and mission to continue to promote health equity across Hawai‘i,” declares Culley-Trotman.
COMBATING CHALLENGES IN CARE
In Hawai‘i, the healthcare industry faces challenges similar to the US as a whole, with limited access to care due to poverty and homelessness coupled with the highest cost of living in the US.
A sustainable healthcare system relies on reducing and controlling the total cost of care, putting pressure on government health plans like AlohaCare and state governments
that operate Medicaid and dualeligible Medicare programs.
“We are excited about innovative approaches to empower Medicaid and dual-eligible Medicare beneficiaries, expand the healthcare workforce, and address social determinants of health. Our state and local entities are collaborating to find solutions to improve the lives of the communities we serve,” affirms Culley-Trotman.
Despite one major improvement being the adoption of social identifiers of health and whole-person care, which is still a work in progress, there are additional barriers to overcome.
For example, access to healthcare
in Hawai‘i is challenging due to provider shortages in rural areas and neighboring islands.
“Accessing services and specialists often requires traveling to O‘ahu, where business and commerce are centered. Additionally, the state-wide provider shortage and long appointment wait times can worsen this challenge.
“If an individual misses their flight or it is canceled, they may experience extreme wait times to get the service they need. This puts at-risk individuals such as mothers with high-risk pregnancies at an extreme disadvantage, and some have had to move to O‘ahu for care,” CulleyTrotman explains.
Healthcare disparities and shortages exist in rural US areas. Fortunately, Hawai‘i defends women’s reproductive rights, which have been eroded in other states, but it still faces a high degree of homelessness, exacerbating issues related to poverty, health, and resources.
Despite these challenges, as a non-profit health plan, AlohaCare continuously advocates for accessible healthcare for all.
“IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO GET THIS WORK DONE, AND OUR STRONG COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ARE ONE OF OUR KEY STRENGTHS”
– FRANCOISE CULLEY-TROTMAN, CEO, ALOHACARE
A HOPE FOR HEALING
Cost-free, AlohaCare’s Value-Added Services programs are essential tools to improve members’ health.
Value-Added Services are member benefits that are non-reimbursable to AlohaCare. Culturally appropriate Native Hawaiian healing services are the first of their kind in Hawai‘i.
“Ke Aloha Mau is our Native Hawaiian healing program, providing traditional services like hula dancing,
ho‘oponopono for conflict resolution, lomilomi for physiotherapy and massages, and ai pono for nutrition and meals. These services are person-centered, addressing cultural disparities and bridging Western medicine and Native Hawaiian health,” Culley-Trotman highlights.
Education, language, literacy, and career training have been proven to better economic outcomes and increase overall well-being.
As a result, AlohaCare’s A Promise of Hope educational program partners with the Waipahu Community School for Adults and has expanded its covered benefits to provide a more flexible and attainable route with three educational options – English language, high school equivalency exam, and career transitional support.
“Built on community partnerships, non-profit CHCs are the cornerstone of Hawai‘i’s healthcare system, providing essential and quality care to historically underserved communities.
“It takes a village to get this work done, and our strong community partnerships are one of our key strengths. Additionally, our business partnerships with vendors, who bring best-in-class expertise, enable us to continually innovate and provide the best possible services to our members,” she prides.
As a result of the health disparities
HEALTHCARE OUTLOOK: DOES ALOHACARE HAVE ANY 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION PLANS?
Francoise Culley-Trotman, CEO: “It is important to celebrate the wins and accomplishments with our founders, members, partners, family, and friends who have all supported us. Therefore, we have multiple plans in the pipeline, and some events have already happened.
“We give employees a small token of appreciation each quarter and have our 30 Acts of Aloha program, in which they complete a bingo card with unique actions. Those who finish will be entered into a draw to win special prizes at our employee appreciation event.
“This year, we’ve been hosting events on each island for our Medicaid and dual-eligible Medicare members to say thank you. Members enjoy a meal and entertainment and have the chance to get information about their benefits. The final event will be held in O‘ahu in October, alongside Hawai‘i Children & Youth Day. Another celebration with our key stakeholders will occur in the same month.”
that were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, AlohaCare formed a strategic partnership with Papa Ola Lōkahi to work together to improve the physical, mental, and spiritual health of Native Hawaiians.
WITH GOOD GRACE
The company’s GRACE (Geriatric Resources for Assessing and Caring for Elders) program, developed by Indiana University and adopted by AlohaCare, exemplifies its investment in a team approach for high-need populations.
This collaborative effort with provider teams aims to enable seniors to receive care at home and reduce the risk and cost of repeated hospitalizations.
“We partnered with three provider groups as part of our GRACE program to address the needs of our complex members with geriatric conditions. A nurse and a social worker assess
the member’s condition, gather input and recommendations, and share them with the primary care provider and an interdisciplinary team which includes a behavioral health specialist and a pharmacist to develop a comprehensive health plan,” details Culley-Trotman.
The program has assisted in stabilizing the health of participating members and reducing the overall cost of care.
“In our policy advocacy work, we partner with government, for-profit, and non-profit organizations. Our collaborative efforts have led to victories such as reinstating adult dental coverage for Medicaid members, extending post-partum coverage, addressing language accessibility in Hawai‘i’s healthcare system, and providing meals for Hawai‘i’s children during the summer break through the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT)
Congratulations to AlohaCare for 30 years of service!
We are the proud coordinator of mobility services to AlohaCare, the 'Ohana Health Plan and many other providers and communities across the U.S.
transdevNA.com/healthsolutions
program, also known as SUN Bucks.
“Through our philanthropic efforts, we have seen the impact we make by funding programs that would not otherwise be sustainable. For instance, a CHC started one schoolbased clinic on Hawai‘i Island, which has many rural areas. It was launched successfully, leading to the opening of an additional eight locations,” CulleyTrotman enthuses.
With a special interest in creating pathways for community-based organizations to bill for their services, AlohaCare worked with one partner that began offering free housing
and clinical services to community members. Today, that partner can bill Medicaid for services and has created a sustainable means of funding its future work.
STRATEGIES FOR SOCIAL SOLUTIONS
AlohaCare is a safety net plan, which is evident in its name and perpetuated in its organizational priorities and culture.
“While Hawai‘i is often perceived as a dream vacation destination, living here can be tough for many residents – it’s one of the most expensive US
“THE DIVERSITY AND CULTURE THAT MAKES US UNIQUE ARE INTEGRAL TO OVERALL WELLNESS AND HOW RESIDENTS ACCESS CARE”
– FRANCOISE
CULLEY-TROTMAN, CEO, ALOHACARE
states and one of the most isolated populated landmasses in the world,” Culley-Trotman reveals.
The majority of Hawai‘i’s goods are also imported, land for agricultural use is minimal, and the state has the second-highest rate of homelessness in the nation.
“The diversity and culture that makes us unique are integral to overall wellness and how residents access care. We have significant health disparities, especially among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders,” she notes.
Programs such as Imua Loa – a giving initiative supporting vulnerable populations, housing, education, community and cultural strengthening, disaster recovery, and public health – aim to improve health outcomes by supporting AlohaCare’s members and mitigating or eliminating barriers alongside its A Promise of Hope, Ke Aloha Mau, and GRACE programs.
QUEST INTEGRATION FAST FACTS
• Hawai‘i’s Medicaid program, QUEST Integration, is housed within the Department of Human Services’ Med-QUEST division.
• QUEST stands for quality care, universal access, efficient utilization, stabilizing costs, and transforming how healthcare is provided to members.
• Since 2015, QUEST Integration has combined services for families and children with expanded access for aged, blind, and disabled residents.
• The program covers around one in three people, and approximately 40 percent of children in Hawai‘i have QUEST Integration coverage.
• QUEST Integration health plans are free to members and cover doctors, hospital visits, prescription drugs, tests, preventive care, family planning, telehealth, longterm service coordination, and support.
• Medicaid eligibility is primarily based on income according to Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds, household size, and disability status. Criteria vary for different groups, such as children, pregnant women, parent/caretaker relatives, and adults over 65.
More information can be found at medquest.hawaii.gov
“Unite Hawai‘i, a branch of Unite Us, provides a closed-loop referral platform connecting members to social services. Our partners sign up through Unite Hawai‘i to receive member referrals and centralize utilization data,” adds Culley-Trotman.
Furthermore, AlohaCare has partnered with Tutu Bert’s medical respite home on the island of O‘ahu to reduce the number of days a homeless member is unavoidably waitlisted at an acute facility.
The home allows contracted providers to supply additional recovery services while accommodation is located.
“It provides a sober living environment linked to outpatient recovery services for individuals with substance use disorder. This has reduced hospital stays and lowered readmissions and emergency department visits,” Culley-Trotman elaborates.
Over the past year, AlohaCare has been dedicated to providing stability to its members by ensuring they don’t lose coverage for preventable reasons during the state’s Medicaid eligibility review process, which resumed after a multi-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are focused on supporting members impacted by Maui and Hawai‘i Island wildfires. Our clinical operations are refining care
programs for specific populations with the greatest needs,” assures Culley-Trotman.
Care teams prioritize pregnant mothers and infants, preventative care, and support for individuals with difficult-to-manage chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, as well as isolated senior members needing the highest level
context. It encourages users to take positive actions without disrupting provider workflow, resulting in savings, reduced care gaps, shorter lengths of stay, increased trial recruitment, and more.”
at CHCs,” concludes Culley-Trotman.
AlohaCare has evolved over three decades, embracing technology and transitioning to whole-person care with incentivized preventative services.
AlohaCare recognizes the important role that its large network
To achieve all of this, it is imperative that local workforce shortages are addressed. As part of a cohesive strategy that includes scholarships, workforce development grants, and expanded internships, AlohaCare provides $5,000 annual scholarships to members and their families for post-high school students pursuing a healthcare career.
“We host internship programs for high school and college students to create a pipeline of employees who understand the populations we serve. Additionally, we’ve partnered with the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) for a summer course that allows medical students to learn about population health while on-site
The organization is proud to be an innovator, expanding multicultural community knowledge through the Community Health Advisory Partnership (CHAP) and offering culturally appropriate Native Hawaiian healing services, setting the stage for the next intriguing chapter in its journey.
Tel: 808-973-0712
https://www.alohacare.org/
Juliana Gim, Regional Managing Director of leading international health and security risk management organisation, International SOS, discusses its dedication to improving healthcare outcomes across Asia, recent innovations, and future aspirations
GLOBAL REACH WITH A HUMAN TOUCH
Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Cameron Lawrence
WITH
“These disparities not only affect general public health but also increase health risks for employees working in these environments,” introduces Juliana Gim, Regional Managing Director of International SOS.
The world’s leading health and security services company, International SOS specialises in risk management and assistance services for organisations and their employees across the globe.
Founded in 1985, the company has grown significantly, now operating from over 1,200 locations in 90 countries, including a substantial presence in Asia.
“At International SOS, we emphasise the importance of understanding these regional disparities to effectively manage the health and security risks faced by our clients,” Gim assures.
As such, the healthcare industry in Asia is a landscape of contrasts – rapid technological advancements co-exist with deep-rooted challenges.
International SOS notes that navigating this complex environment requires a strategic approach that balances innovation with providing quality healthcare for all.
“As the region continues to develop, there is a clear need for collaboration
between public health authorities, private sector stakeholders, and international organisations to address these challenges and harness opportunities to improve healthcare outcomes in Asia,” she sets out.
MYRIAD CAPABILITIES
With services centred around ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of its clients’ global workforce, International SOS oversees everything from routine primary healthcare and employee wellbeing management to emergency assistance, including medical and security evacuations.
“We provide comprehensive risk
“WE ARE FOCUSED ON ADVANCING OUR TELEMEDICINE AND MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES TO ENSURE GREATER ACCESS TO CARE, PARTICULARLY IN UNDERSERVED REGIONS”
– JULIANA GIM, REGIONAL MANAGING DIRECTOR, INTERNATIONAL SOS
management solutions tailored to the specific needs of various industries, such as the energy, mining, agricultural, manufacturing, and construction sectors, where employees often work in remote or high-risk areas,” Gim outlines.
Comprising nearly 12,000 experts across various fields, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, security professionals, public health consultants, and digital specialists, the company’s workforce collectively speaks almost 100 languages – a diversity which enables it to offer
culturally sensitive and region-specific solutions.
Its support extends to clinical services planning, crisis management, and security consulting. Globally, International SOS is trusted and used by over 9,000 organisations, including government and non-government organisations (NGOs), the private sector, as well as educational institutions.
“Our extensive network of assistance centres is operational 24/7, ensuring help is always available whenever and wherever needed,” she adds.
Setting International SOS apart from the competition is its ability to integrate health and security services seamlessly.
“This integration allows us to offer holistic solutions that address the full spectrum of risks our clients might face, whether they are operating in remote, high-risk areas or urban environments.”
In addition, the company’s commitment to providing personalised services is at the heart of its operations. Taking time to understand the specific needs of each client, International SOS can tailor support accordingly.
This, combined with unparalleled expertise, helps the organisation ensure its clients receive the most effective care possible, defining International SOS as a trusted partner for governments and organisations worldwide.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
At International SOS, promoting equal employment opportunities and female empowerment is a key part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion. As such, the organisation believes a diverse workforce is essential to driving innovation and achieving its mission.
One of the core ways it prioritises gender equality is through its involvement with the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), and UNGC’s Target Gender Equality programme, all of which implement initiatives that focus on increasing female representation across all levels of the organisation.
In addition, International SOS has integrated gender diversity into its broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. Committed to creating an inclusive work environment that values both cultural and gender diversity, it has achieved 30 percent female representation amongst its global middle management employees.
Its internal Empower Mentoring Programme recognises and supports the career development of female leaders within the organisation. Additionally, more than half of its Executive Leadership Development Programme, launched in 2015, is made up of women.
International SOS also recognises the importance of working within the cultural contexts of the regions in which it operates, whilst its employees enjoy flexible work hours to balance responsibilities with their caregiving duties, regardless of gender.
A DUTY OF CARE
International SOS’ ‘Duty of Care’ approach is a fundamental tenet of how it operates, ensuring it can protect and save lives in both low-risk and complex, high-risk environments.
“Duty of Care at International SOS means proactively taking steps to mitigate risks before they materialise and providing comprehensive support when incidents occur,” Gim clarifies.
One of the core components of its Duty of Care approach is the organisation’s adherence to global standards such as ISO 31030, which provides a framework for travel risk management.
“By following such guidelines, we help organisations establish robust risk management policies that cover all aspects of employee health and safety, from pre-travel advisories to on-the-ground emergency assistance,” she adds.
Connectivity Meets Security
As a global company specialising in health and security risk management solutions for businesses, International SOS provides customised services to protect employees from various threats, including extreme weather, epidemics, and security incidents. Their solutions help organisations maintain continuity and productivity whilst complying with duty of care obligations. This mandate demands reliable and dedicated connectivity across the company’s sites worldwide to ensure the seamless delivery of critical health and security services. In an environment where realtime, actionable insights and immediate response capabilities can mean the difference between life and death, uninterrupted connection and data exchange are essential.
International SOS selected ViewQwest as a key partner to capably source and implement their connectivity requirements across global operations. ViewQwest has been instrumental in connecting International SOS clinics, 24/7 Assistance Centres, data centres, and offices in 18 countries spanning five continents. The most critical of these are the Assistance Centres --- where during life-threatening medical emergencies and urgent security incidents, it is imperative that callers can request assistance without the risk of dropped calls due to poor connectivity.
An award-winning telecommunications and managed security services provider headquartered in Singapore with operations in Asia, ViewQwest delivers connectivity solutions to meet the diverse needs of organisations like International SOS for their sites across the globe. With the help of ViewQwest’s expertise in building high-performing and robust network infrastructures, International SOS can ensure its high standards of service as well as continuity and resiliency of operations, regardless of location. This partnership enables International SOS to focus on its core mission of saving lives and protecting workforces, confident in the knowledge that its connectivity backbone is both robust and reliable, connecting their corporate sites and workforces wherever and whenever they are needed.
HEALTHCARE OUTLOOK: COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH ESKER?
Juliana Gim, Regional Managing Director: “Since 2020, we have partnered with Esker, initially implementing their Accounts Payable (AP) solution to process incoming trade provider invoices.
“Before discovering Esker, we evaluated several other optical character recognition (OCR) tools, but none could handle the complexities of our provider network, which involves documents arriving in various formats, languages, and from numerous global locations.
“Esker’s AP solution, leveraging a combination of OCR and AI technology, successfully met these challenges. Following the successful deployment of the AP solution, we implemented Esker’s Accounts Receivable (AR) solution to automate our invoice dispatch to clients.
“As part of our ongoing digital transformation and enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation, we have now incorporated Esker Collect and Esker Cash into our operations, which integrate seamlessly with our existing software. Every entity transitioning to our new ERP system is now configured with these tools, enabling us to automate processes, reduce manual tasks, and eliminate human error.
“The AI capabilities of both tools have proven particularly beneficial. In conclusion, Esker has been a valuable partner in our digital transformation journey, consistently providing effective solutions and exceptional support that have significantly enhanced our operational efficiency.”
Offering services that are tailored to the specific needs of their workforce, including timely medical advice and assistance, security support, and logistical help through its global network of assistance centres, International SOS can support organisations in meeting Duty of Care obligations.
Its integrated risk management solutions also include preventive care management, real-time tracking of employees, crisis management, building capacity in training, and evacuation services, ensuring that clients’ workforces are safeguarded.
“Our Duty of Care approach extends beyond just physical health. We equally address mental wellbeing as a crucial aspect of overall employee safety, providing Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and mental health support,” Gim furthers.
By prioritising these aspects, International SOS helps organisations fulfil their legal and ethical obligations while enhancing the resilience and well-being of global workforces.
“Our comprehensive, end-to-end services ensure that employees are not only protected but feel supported, which is essential for maintaining morale and productivity in today’s demanding work environments.”
SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE
International SOS boasts a holistic sustainability agenda that integrates its ESG principles into every aspect of business.
“We are dedicated to embedding sustainability across our operations – reducing environmental impact, upholding ethical standards, and ensuring the well-being of all,” Gim affirms.
As such, the organisation has been recognised for its responsible business practices, including securing a high score from recognised business sustainability ratings provider, EcoVadis.
International SOS places strong
Eliminating
Manual Processing To Run A More Efficient Finance Department
Eliminating Manual Processing To Run A More Efficient Finance Department
International SOS, a leader in health and security risk management, enhanced its finance operations with Esker’s AI-driven solutions. With over 80,000 providers across 90 countries, they struggled with having efficient Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) processes.
International SOS, a leader in health and security risk management, enhanced its finance operations with Esker’s AI-driven solutions. With over 80,000 providers across 90 countries, they struggled with having efficient Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) processes.
The Challenge
The Challenge
Managing supplier invoices was cumbersome, with 50% in paper format. Manual processes slowed collections and cash applications, causing bottlenecks and errors. Streamlined collaboration between AP and AR teams was essential for improving visibility and planning.
The
The Solution
Managing supplier invoices was cumbersome, with 50% in paper format. Manual processes slowed collections and cash applications, causing bottlenecks and errors. Streamlined collaboration between AP and AR teams was essential for improving visibility and planning.
Impact
The Impact
Esker’s AI technology has transformed the way International SOS operates, shifting from inefficiencies to a streamlined finance team. This efficiency accelerates payment processing and improves accuracy and fosters better collaboration with customers and suppliers.
The Solution
International SOS chose Esker to automate Source-to-Pay and Orderto-Cash cycles, integrating them with Oracle and SUN6 systems. By implementing Esker’s solutions—Accounts Payable, Invoice Delivery, Collections Management, and Cash Application—they achieved an efficient finance process, eliminated their manual processing, centralized the information, automated their workflows and enhanced its visibility.
International SOS chose Esker to automate Source-to-Pay and Orderto-Cash cycles, integrating them with Oracle and SUN6 systems. By implementing Esker’s solutions—Accounts Payable, Invoice Delivery, Collections Management, and Cash Application—they achieved an efficient finance process, eliminated their manual processing, centralized the information, automated their workflows and enhanced its visibility.
Join the Transformation
Esker’s AI technology has transformed the way International SOS operates, shifting from inefficiencies to a streamlined finance team. This efficiency accelerates payment processing and improves accuracy and fosters better collaboration with customers and suppliers.
emphasis on social responsibility, including initiatives such as health education systems designed to break the academic poverty cycle by providing skills development and job training specifically for medical education.
“By empowering individuals and communities through education in this field, we help create sustainable livelihoods and improve overall well-being.”
Join the Transformation
Experience the benefits of streamlined operations and enhanced productivity. Speak to Esker to transform the way you manage your financial processes today!
Experience the benefits of streamlined operations and enhanced productivity. Speak to Esker to transform the way you manage your financial processes today!
Read the full case study here
Read the full case study here
In Singapore, International SOS is honoured to have been awarded the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) Champion of Good Award 2024, a testament to its unwavering commitment to ESG.
However, the organisation’s efforts are not limited to its internal operations – International SOS actively engages suppliers and partners through its supplier code of conduct, which outlines strict ethical
“DUTY OF CARE AT INTERNATIONAL SOS MEANS PROACTIVELY TAKING STEPS TO MITIGATE RISKS BEFORE THEY MATERIALISE AND PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT WHEN INCIDENTS DO OCCUR”
– JULIANA GIM, REGIONAL MANAGING DIRECTOR, INTERNATIONAL SOS
standards.
Covering areas such as data protection, environmental responsibility, and labour rights, this code ensures that a commitment to sustainability is reflected throughout its supply chain.
Moreover, International SOS’ strong emphasis on collaboration and engagement with partners and stakeholders in terms of ESG is deeply rooted in a multiplier effect created to amplify its impact across various domains.
“The strategic integration of sustainability into our business model is guided by continuous improvement and regular evaluation of our ESG initiatives to ensure they remain relevant and impactful.”
In this way, the organisation uses feedback to refine its approach – a strategy which has proven crucial for sustaining its efforts and maximising its long-term positive impact.
ASIA-WIDE INFLUENCE
Actively engaged in several impactful projects across Asia addressing diverse health challenges faced by local populations, International SOS’ commitment to enhancing community health and supporting government initiatives is indisputable.
One key initiative is the company’s ongoing collaboration with governments to strengthen public health systems and improve emergency preparedness in each region.
“For instance, we have been working closely with governments in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines to provide critical health services and support during public health emergencies,” Gim explains.
In the Philippines, International SOS has partnered with the Quezon City government to conduct a rapid health risk assessment to strengthen the city’s pandemic response plan,
including a comprehensive evaluation of the city’s COVID-19 vaccine and testing programmes.
Additionally, in Laos, it has designed and implemented the Nam Theun (NT2) Hydroelectric Project community health programme, covering 8,000 resettled people across 16 villages in the Nakai district.
“Our health expert piloted the health programme in Laos for eight years, successfully establishing infrastructure for primary health care alongside training local medical staff,” she elaborates.
In addition to government partnerships, the company is deeply involved in community-focused projects aimed at improving overall health outcomes, which emphasise underserved communities.
As such, in Thailand and Vietnam, it has launched campaigns that include vaccination drives, maternal and child health programmes, and chronic disease management
support designed to address specific challenges such as high rates of noncommunicable diseases and limited access to primary healthcare services.
“Looking forward, we are also expanding our efforts to enhance workplace health and safety through our Workforce Resilience (WFR) programme, including a comprehensive set of services aimed at improving employee well-being,” Gim reveals.
Set to be rolled out across various industries in Asia, the programme covers mental health support, stress management training, and wellness education, all of which are tailored to meet the specific needs of the local workforce.
“By focusing on both the physical and mental health of employees, we are helping organisations create healthier, more resilient environments that can adapt to the evolving demands of the modern workplace,” she adds.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Set to celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, as International SOS anticipates the future, its key priorities revolve around expanding its digital health capabilities, enhancing its global reach, and deepening its commitment to sustainability.
“We are focused on advancing our telemedicine and mobile health services to ensure greater access to care, particularly in underserved regions,” Gim divulges.
Strengthening partnerships with governments, NGOs, and private sector organisations will allow it to deliver tailored health and security solutions across diverse markets.
The organisation is also dedicated to fostering resilience within the workforce and offering programmes that support mental and physical welfare in the workplace.
“Holistic well-being remains an important pillar of our agenda. We recognise that mental health is
SUPPORTED BY STUDIES
Delivered through its comprehensive health and security risk prevention strategy, International SOS believes prevention is paramount. A recent joint study with international personal accident insurance company, Chubb, found:
• Jointly, 86 percent of calls from Chubb and International SOS clients were resolved with no additional cost.
• A 51 percent reduction in the number of evacuation cases when a comprehensive prevention strategy is in place.
As such, the study confirms how a thorough risk mitigation programme results in fewer major medical and travel security incidents, reduced business disruptions, and fewer evacuations.
In addition, International SOS’ recent study on mental well-being has provided critical industry insights. It revealed that 42 percent of employees globally have experienced a decline in their mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to significant impacts on productivity and overall well-being, highlighting the urgent need for effective mental health support systems in the workplace.
By leveraging the findings from its studies, International SOS offers insight into the tools required to build resilient, supportive work environments.
an increasingly important aspect of overall employee well-being, especially as the global workforce continues to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.”
As such, International SOS’ mental health and resilience support services are designed to help organisations proactively address mental health across their teams. This approach not only helps reduce absenteeism and improve productivity but also fosters a more supportive and engaged workplace culture.
In parallel, sustainability remains a cornerstone of the organisation’s strategy, with goals to reduce its environmental impact and support local communities.
Additionally, innovating for crisis management and risk mitigation remains crucial to International SOS as global challenges grow in complexity.
Internally, the organisation is committed to nurturing talent and
leadership, promoting diversity, and empowering its teams to drive its mission forward.
“These efforts are aimed at ensuring International SOS continues to adapt and lead in a changing world while staying true to our core values of protecting and saving lives,” Gim concludes.
