Smart Practice Forum explores the future of digital health, AI and cybersecurity

More than 100 primary care professionals gathered in Sydney on Saturday for Smart Practice: Connecting the Future – Digital Health, AI & Cybersecurity, a full-day forum hosted by Central and Eastern Sydney PHN (CESPHN) exploring how technology is transforming healthcare delivery across Australia.

The event brought together GPs, allied health professionals, practice managers, nurses and digital health leaders to examine the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence, connected care, digital innovation and cybersecurity.

The day commenced with a Welcome to Country delivered by Craig Madden, followed by opening remarks from CESPHN Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Hansen and General Manager Brendan Goodger, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of supporting primary care providers through a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Attendees then heard from keynote speaker Dr Amandeep Hansra, who challenged delegates to consider one of the most significant questions facing healthcare today: whether artificial intelligence will make GPs redundant, or ultimately make them even more indispensable. His presentation sparked discussion about the evolving role of clinicians in an increasingly technology-enabled health system and the need to balance innovation with human-centred care.

The keynote was followed by an expert panel discussion examining the future of digital health in Australia. Panel members explored the opportunities, challenges and promise of digital transformation, discussing how technology can support better patient outcomes while addressing issues relating to safety, equity, workforce capability and system integration.

Throughout the day, delegates participated in a range of practical breakout sessions designed to help healthcare professionals navigate the digital changes affecting primary care. Topics included patient recalls and reminders, My Health Record, workforce innovation in allied health, digital asthma action plans, multilingual AI in primary care and the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence in clinical settings. These sessions reflected the forum’s focus on providing real-world insights and practical tools that clinicians and practice teams could immediately apply within their organisations.

A key theme across the forum was the importance of connected systems and interoperability in delivering more seamless, patient-centred care. Attendees heard from Wendy Hoey, who shared the vision for NSW Health’s Single Digital Patient Record and outlined how greater integration across healthcare settings can improve information sharing and the patient experience.

The afternoon program also focused on organisational resilience and cybersecurity. Henry McLaughlin provided practical guidance to help healthcare organisations strengthen their cybersecurity posture, improve business continuity planning and prepare for future disruptions. With healthcare increasingly targeted by cyber threats, the session highlighted the critical role of proactive risk management in protecting both organisations and patient information. The forum’s dedicated cybersecurity focus aligned with its broader aim of equipping primary care providers with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently navigate an increasingly digital health environment.

The event also showcased innovations from across the health sector, including developments in digital health, patient communication technologies, digital prescribing and care coordination. Delegates had the opportunity to network with peers, industry experts and technology partners, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across the primary care community.

CESPHN extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, panellists and attendees whose contributions helped make the event such a success. Special thanks also go to event sponsors Avant, Green Umbrella Technology, HealthLink, Inception Strategies and SR Specialists and Referrals, whose support helped bring the forum to life.

Smart Practice highlighted the significant potential of digital innovation to enhance care delivery, improve patient engagement and strengthen health outcomes. Most importantly, it reinforced that while technology will continue to reshape healthcare, high-quality, person-centred care remains at the heart of the primary care sector.

As the healthcare system continues to evolve, events like Smart Practice play an important role in helping clinicians and healthcare organisations embrace innovation, build capability and prepare for a smarter, safer and more connected future.