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In his role as the CIO of UC San Diego Health, Josh Glandorf is a linchpin between technology and patient care delivery. He dives deep into the evolution of his career and the core focuses that drive his work with technology and people. In this episode, he discusses the evolving role of the CIO in healthcare, the challenges and opportunities in digital transformation, the importance of interoperability, and strategies for leading IT in a complex healthcare environment.
“Part of the value, I think, in adopting technology is getting better over time [with technology that’s] better deployed, better implemented, better consumed.”
– Josh Glandorf
As technology continues to evolve, the role of the CIO will only become more complex. Glandorf advises fellow IT leaders to stay adaptable, foster innovation, and continuously evaluate new solutions that can improve healthcare delivery. He said:
CIOs in healthcare are no longer just responsible for managing IT infrastructure—they are strategic leaders who drive digital innovation and align technology with patient care. Glandorf explained how his background influenced his leadership style.
“I am an industrial engineer by degree, and that took me into software, which was somewhat unconventional as most of my colleagues were going into manufacturing or traditional engineering spaces,” he said.
He explained that modern healthcare CIOs must focus on integrating technology into all aspects of patient care and hospital operations. With the rapid expansion of digital health tools, CIOs are no longer just responsible for IT infrastructure but must also lead strategic initiatives that enhance clinical workflows, improve patient outcomes, and drive organizational efficiency.
Glandorf also discussed how his early career experiences shaped his leadership style. He highlighted how each role prepared him to think critically about the intersection of technology and patient care.
Healthcare systems generate massive amounts of data, but ensuring seamless information exchange between providers remains a significant challenge. Glandorf highlighted the critical need for interoperability to break down data silos and improve patient care.
“We generate so much data in healthcare, but if we can’t exchange it efficiently, we’re not realizing its full potential,” he said.
He explained how UC San Diego Health has worked to enhance data-sharing capabilities by adopting national interoperability frameworks and leveraging emerging technologies. The ability to securely transfer patient records across institutions ensures that providers have access to the most up-to-date medical histories, which is crucial for improving care coordination and reducing redundant tests and procedures.
Beyond data exchange, Glandorf also touched on the role of patient access to health information, emphasizing the need for digital tools that empower individuals to take control of their healthcare journey.
Technology plays a critical role in improving hospital workflows and patient outcomes. Glandorf discussed how UC San Diego Health is leveraging AI and analytics to drive efficiencies and improve decision-making in clinical settings. From predictive analytics that help identify high-risk patients to automation that streamlines administrative tasks, digital transformation is having a profound impact on healthcare delivery. However, Glandorf emphasized that simply adopting new technology is not enough—it must be thoughtfully implemented with a focus on enhancing patient experiences.
“It’s not just about having the latest technology. It’s about making sure that every digital tool we implement leads to better care, better access, and a better overall experience for patients,” he said.
He also acknowledged the challenges of digital transformation, including budget constraints, cybersecurity concerns, and the need for staff training. Successfully navigating these hurdles requires a strong leadership vision and close collaboration across departments.
Glandorf underscores the importance of industry partnerships, working with technology vendors, and aligning with government regulations to accelerate digital innovation. He stresses that CIOs cannot operate in silos—collaboration across institutions and sectors is essential for driving meaningful change.
“No one organization has all the answers. By working together, we can accelerate innovation and solve some of the biggest challenges in healthcare IT,” he said.
He also discusses how regulations and policies impact healthcare IT strategy, explaining that compliance should not be seen as a burden but rather as an opportunity to create more standardized and effective systems.
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