In the constantly changing digital transformation landscape, Onyeka Nchege is a pioneer, leading successful digital transformations to drive enterprise growth. With over 25 years of experience in information technology, digital products, and services, Onyeka has made a significant impact on digital strategies worldwide.
The Remarkable Journey
Onyeka’s journey is a testament to his innovative spirit and strategic prowess. As the executive vice president and chief digital and information officer at Novant Health, he has been a driving force behind leading-edge consumer capabilities, innovative technologies, and advanced clinical solutions that enhance patient care. Onyeka is highly focused on driving successful digital transformations and enabling growth.
He adeptly formulated and executed digital strategies during his tenure as the CIO at renowned organizations, including Toyota Industries Commercial Finance, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Interstate Batteries, and The Cooper Institute. These strategies facilitated the advancement of information technology and digital business transformations, which were aligned with corporate purpose and strategy, ultimately leading to sustainable value.
The Driving Factor: Onyeka’s Passion for Technology
The visionary man was drawn to Novant Health because of his passion for technology and healthcare. His father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and he wanted an opportunity to be involved in an industry where he could positively impact lives. He also aligned with Novant Health’s cause and focused on keeping the patient at the center of every decision.
He recognizes that technology has the potential to significantly enhance patient care, streamline processes, and enhance the overall healthcare experience. It has been incredibly fulfilling for him to leverage technology to improve healthcare outcomes and implement cutting-edge solutions to address the complex challenges faced by the industry.
The Crucial Leadership Qualities, Driving Change
Onyeka and his team form a large integrated network spread across the Carolinas. They are united by a common goal: to create a healthier future and bring remarkable experiences. With this clear focus, the teams are constantly finding ways to enhance patient experience and cultivate a thriving workplace culture. At every level, the leaders and teams exemplify equity, empathy, safety, and quality to help each other and their communities grow and succeed.
The Significant Trends in Healthcare Digitalization
In all industries, organizations are working to meet consumers where they are. In healthcare, this often means the access points are evolving. From hospital-at-home programs to remote patient monitoring and telehealth, the teams at Novant Health are working to ensure all the patients have access to the care they need while maintaining exceptional safety and quality.
Novant Health evaluates and carefully implements AI to help physicians and patients where appropriate. They also regularly seek and embrace partnerships that enable them to work with others to offer the latest and best care to all patients.
In some cases, the digital world has increased the responsibilities of clinicians. To tackle this, Novant Health is using technology like virtual scribes to help clinicians focus on spending time with their patients face-to-face while reducing administrative tasks to improve their quality of life. This enables clinicians to observe mannerisms that often can detect any additional concerns that should be addressed, resulting in better care and a more personal patient experience, which is the goal for everyone.
The Highest Standards of Data Security and Privacy
Novant Health implements strong access controls, encrypts data at rest and in transit, and complies with applicable regulations such as HIPAA. It also performs regular security audits and employs safeguards including the policies and standards, data access controls and encryption, and management of privileged credentials and third-party risks. Additionally, they focus on employee training and maintain a robust incident response plan to address any threats. Their multi-layered approach helps safeguard patient information while enabling innovation to advance care, experience, and outcomes for the people they serve.
Leveraging Digital Technology for Better Patient Care
The company has invested in a centralized text messaging platform that has led to a nearly 30% increase in online scheduling and a more than 30% increase in eCheck-In rates. It has also reduced the number of no-shows to appointments. This platform has helped improve the patient experience by creating more flexibility for the patients and by helping to translate their needs to the appropriate level of care.
In 2023, Novant Health launched a three-tiered strategy to address maternal and infant health disparities. The team was able to help implement a Best Practice Alert for infants who screened positive for food insecurity, ensuring they were also screened for other social determinants of health.
The Significance of AI and Machine Learning in Healthcare
Novant Health began investing in AI and machine learning in 2019 by establishing a data science team and launching its Institute of Innovation and AI. This made the company an early adopter in healthcare. It has also developed leading clinical predictive models to improve patient outcomes and reduce clinician workloads. In 2023, these capabilities expanded to include generative AI. Novant Health is committed to employing responsible AI, using the guiding principles of safety and efficacy, actionability and relevance, protections against algorithmic discrimination, and human involvement in the process.
Within these boundaries, the possibilities are endless. For instance, their business decision intelligence function could use predictive and prescriptive capabilities over time, while also facilitating easy communication between users and visualizations across the enterprise. Another example could involve using AI for revenue cycle operations to optimize processes and reduce claim denials. There is also an opportunity to reduce administrative burdens by automating documentation whenever feasible.
The Pivotal Moments Behind Onyeka’s Noteworthy Growth
Throughout Onyekas’s profession, mentorship has played a crucial role in his development. He has been fortunate to receive exceptional leaders from the early days of his career. These mentors not only offered advice but also provided the space for him to learn from his own experiences. During challenging times, these mentors instilled confidence and helped him navigate complex organizational dynamics.
As he progressed in his career, each new role brought increased responsibility, pushing him to expand his skill set and leadership capabilities. Transitioning from operational roles to more strategic positions allowed him to develop a more holistic understanding of business functions and sharpened his ability to lead diverse teams.
Rotational assignments provided critical opportunities for Onyeka to gain cross-functional exposure and a deeper understanding of various aspects of the business.
The relationships he has cultivated have been pivotal, especially the advocacy he received from trusted colleagues and mentors.
Ultimately, delivering results in high-stakes environments solidified his reputation as a leader who can execute effectively. Each success, whether through the implementation of major initiatives or navigating complex transformations, reinforced his commitment to excellence and growth.
The Upcoming Technologies and Innovations: A Glance
Onyeka believes in significantly expanding the company’s approach to healthcare delivery through continued tech advances and the increased appetite for digital engagement in communities.
Over the next decade, he expects to experience significant advancements in technology within the healthcare industry. This evolution will likely involve various technologies integration, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, telemedicine, genomics, and wearable devices. The impact of these advancements on patient care is expected to be transformative.
The Future Outlook
Novant Health’s plans revolve around its commitment to providing exceptional healthcare. This commitment includes taking a proactive approach in the communities they serve and helping people to be healthier every day. They are not only present when the patients are sick; they are with them every step of their journey toward health and wellness. It involves reaching out, starting conversations, and staying engaged. Above all, it involves inspiring and empowering communities to prioritize their health.