In the latest episode of Beantalks, Greet Verhaest is joined by Brigitte Nolet, the general manager of Roche Belgium and Luxemburg. Throughout their conversation, Nolet shares her insights on the evolving world of healthcare and how organizations can adapt to continue thriving in the post-COVID environment.
At the helm of a company that has stood the test of time for 125 years globally and over 95 years in Belgium, Nolet highlights the key to their success as their ability to adapt and innovate. The shifting healthcare landscape has been felt most strongly in the post-COVID world, where the healthcare sector’s sustainability and digitization have become critical factors.
“Health is wealth,” Nolet asserts, emphasizing the integral role of healthcare investment in maintaining the economic health of society. She further elaborates on the concept of healthcare sustainability, which extends beyond just budget considerations and delves into how society can support healthcare practitioners who have been on the frontlines during the pandemic.
Nolet also touches on the topic of health data and digitalization in healthcare. She believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has made us reconsider our attitudes towards health data. She said, “Sharing health data in order to be able to safely aggregate that information to make the right population health decision.” Nolet predicts that digital health will have a significant impact on the future of healthcare.
When discussing Roche’s approach to dealing with these rapid changes in the healthcare sector, Nolet gives an insight into their shifting operational model. They are transitioning from a product-centric approach to a disease-centric approach, promoting more comprehensive partnerships with stakeholders. They are implementing changes around agile methodologies, providing flexibility, speed, and stability for their teams.
The discussion then turns to how Roche has navigated the transition. The key, according to Nolet, lies in understanding the ‘why’. “When the purpose is clear, the breast starts to rally around it,” she explains. Then it’s all about committing every day to your work, adapting and shaping the working culture, and looking at the company’s purpose.
Answering the question about her personal approach to work, Nolet explains that she thrives on the human connection. Being an extrovert, she enjoys discussions and gets her energy from spending time with others. She also carves out time every week to spend time with her colleagues.
Toward the end of the podcast, Nolet makes an open offer for dialogue with other companies that are curious about their transformation journey. She believes that learning and sharing with others can further the progress in the healthcare industry.
In a nutshell, the podcast is filled with Nolet’s passion for the healthcare industry and Roche’s mission. As they navigate their agile transformation journey, their aim is not just to adapt and thrive, but also to make meaningful contributions to society and the future of healthcare.
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