Medtronic, J&J MedTech and Edwards Lifesciences senior leaders reflect on 2023 and voice outlook for the year ahead

MedTech & Diagnostics News: As we approach the end of 2023, senior leaders in the medtech sector, including Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson MedTech and Edwards Lifesciences, pause to reflect on the year’s narrative, interwoven with moments of triumph, resilience and the inspirations that have shaped their journey of transformative change.

Liz Carnabuci, Vice President and Managing Director of Medtronic ANZ, recounted the organisation’s five-decade journey in Australia.

“Reflecting on our introduction of 40,000+ technologies in Australia and New Zealand, ranging from miniaturised pacemakers to brain stimulation technologies and surgical robots, has been inspiring. Our progress continues in our AI initiatives, driving automation and reshaping our processes in healthcare for the future,” she explained with enthusiasm.

She highlighted Medtronic’s recognition as a Great Place to Work, attributing this accolade to their unwavering focus on diversity and inclusion.

“Our people are at the centre of our organisation, and it is rewarding to continue to drive a culture that fosters belonging for everyone,” she said.

Sue Martin, Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson MedTech ANZ, underscored the organisation’s steadfast commitment to addressing health inequity, embodying this through resolute support for initiatives such as The Voice referendum and direct engagement with First Nations and Māori communities.

“I’m also very proud of the way our people have stepped up to respond to natural disasters in both Australia and New Zealand, supporting communities impacted by floods and fires,” she expressed.

Pat Williams, Vice President Edwards Lifesciences ANZ and Korea, recalled the immersive Patient Day held in July, saying “We listened to the patient journey from diagnosis to treatment to post care to understand the patient pathway and identify areas we can make improvements and constantly evolve to benefits future patients.”

When reflecting on sources of inspiration amid the challenging times of the year, Mr Williams shared the mantra ‘It’s Good’, “meaning that no matter the scale of the challenge, you keep focused and say ‘Good, I’m going to get up, dust off and re-assess’ and then go back in with these learnings to make it better.”

Ms Carnabuci found inspiration in an Oscar Wilde quote ‘Be yourself, because everyone else is taken’, a reminder that “everyone has something to offer and diverse thinking is essential as we consider solutions for important and complex healthcare challenges.”

Ms Martin’s recipe for navigating life’s ebbs and flows rings with wisdom. She resonated with songwriter Reba McEntire’s quote ‘To succeed at life (or at work), you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone, and a funny bone’ which embodies the trifecta of resilience, fortitude, and humour essential to navigate life’s journey.

As we approach the new year, Ms Martin underscored collaborative efforts across the industry, particularly in addressing health inequity.

“We have witnessed collaboration and open-mindedness this year across industry and with stakeholders, including the focused efforts from the entirety of the healthcare sector on addressing health inequity. I’m excited for new advances in technology and approaches to patient care that will support patients and our customers,” she remarked.

Despite the significant challenges facing the healthcare ecosystem, Ms Carnabuci envisioned a landscape where AI and innovative technologies amplify patient care.

“I am confident and optimistic about the ability for healthcare stakeholders to come together to find new pathways to accelerate innovation access, and the role of AI and other tools in streamlining procedures and optimising processes to enhance patient care and healthcare delivery. This will be a year of positive solutions and momentum in healthcare recovery,” she explained.

Mr Williams passionately advocated for aligning existing systems with the evolving demands of society, ensuring universal accessibility.

“What fills me with the greatest sense of optimism is knowing the dynamic innovations that our industry is going to bring to the patients in Australia. Whilst I have these optimisms with the innovations on the horizon, we also need to make sure the current reimbursement and health technology systems are keeping up with the demands of the society so that it is accessible to everyone. When we are on top of that with all stakeholders – government, payers, hospitals and companies – I will be the most optimistic person within the industry without a doubt.”

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