Episode #130. The Doctor, the Hacker, and the Navy Chief Walk into a Hospital, with Shane Pilcher, CIO at Siskin Hospital

Assume good intentions as you partner with your clinicians for the best patient outcome.
In this episode, Shane Pilcher shares insights on adopting artificial intelligence for automation, machine learning, and improving provider experience. Shane also addresses cybersecurity initiatives, the importance of a strong security culture, and developing governance policies for AI. Drawing on his military experience, Shane emphasizes adaptability and a mission-first mentality in healthcare. Finally, he advises trusting your gut, making informed decisions, and prioritizing the meaningful impact of healthcare careers.
Tune in and learn to lead effectively while embracing technology and prioritizing patient care!
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About Shane Pilcher:
Shane Pilcher is a transformational healthcare leader, board-certified CIO, and nationally recognized cybersecurity and digital health strategist with over 30 years of experience spanning clinical care, military intelligence, and executive leadership.
Currently the Chief Information Officer and Administrative Director at Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation, Shane brings a rare combination of frontline care experience, enterprise technology leadership, and C-suite advisory expertise. He has successfully led major digital transformation initiatives, implemented enterprise-wide EHRs, developed data-driven strategies to boost patient outcomes, and built resilient cybersecurity programs grounded in NIST, HIPAA, and CMS frameworks.
A retired U.S. Navy Intelligence Specialist Chief and former respiratory therapist, Shane’s career has included service with a Joint Special Operations Task Force in Iraq and leading intelligence training across the southeastern U.S. Navy Reserve. His ability to operate under pressure and lead through complexity is a hallmark of his leadership, whether in the field or the boardroom.
Shane holds a Doctor of Science in Healthcare Leadership and an MBA and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives. He also holds the Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO) credential and is an active voice in national conversations around cybersecurity resilience, digital innovation, and leadership development in healthcare.
Known for bridging the gap between IT and mission, Shane helps organizations see around corners, protect their digital assets, and transform technology into a true strategic advantage.
Things You’ll Learn:
- Forming clinician relationships requires assuming good intentions. Prioritizing patient outcomes and constant communication before problems arise are crucial.
- Balancing technology usability with security is essential for clinicians. Minimizing clicks and involving providers in strategic planning can reduce burnout.
- AI adoption should be approached thoughtfully with governance. While exploring AI's potential benefits, consider scalability, security, and longevity.
- Military experience translates to healthcare leadership through adaptability and mission focus. Understanding the patient-centric mission helps prioritize decisions.
- Trusting your gut is a critical leadership skill. Listen to your intuition when making decisions, particularly in employee-related matters.