Healthtech leadership dinner: exclusive event co-hosted with Goodwin
Silverpeak co-hosted an exclusive healthtech leadership dinner in London with Goodwin, the global law firm. The dinner brought together CEOs, chairs and leading healthtech investors for candid discussion on the current opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
Key themes from the healthtech leadership dinner
Seven themes emerged consistently across the evening’s discussion.
1. AI’s role in healthcare
A consensus emerged that AI is transforming many aspects of healthcare. However, views differed on the relative value of software versus data. Some guests felt that data is as valuable — if not more so — than software. Others argued that creating proprietary models is essential for differentiation. In particular, where AI’s true value resides remains a defining question for the sector. The answer will shape competitive positioning across healthcare for years to come.
2. Patient preferences
Surveys show that patients typically prefer a doctor consultation over AI. However, the same surveys show that patients prefer immediate AI access over a long wait for a doctor’s appointment. This nuance matters for companies designing clinical workflows and go-to-market strategies.
3. The ChatGPT effect
Media coverage of the benefits of generative AI is changing the conversation inside healthcare organisations. It is helping doctors and other healthcare professionals become more open to AI and machine learning solutions. Guests noted that this growing awareness is accelerating recognition that healthtech can deliver significant patient benefits.
4. The NHS as a global proof point
Guests viewed a strong NHS track record as a significant competitive advantage. Success with the NHS can open doors in other markets — it signals credibility and resilience as a client that demands high standards. Attendees encouraged companies to build an investment case that extends beyond the UK. Drawing on NHS success as a foundation strengthens that case internationally.
5. Cost reduction through technology
Discussion focused on how technology can help reduce costs across the healthcare system. Empowering the right stakeholders — doctors, payers and patients — with the right tools is key to identifying and achieving meaningful savings. As a result, the companies best positioned are those that can demonstrate measurable cost outcomes rather than theoretical efficiency gains.
6. Navigating the US market
Guests considered the US market crucial for many healthtech companies, yet notoriously difficult to penetrate. The group noted that the US is not a single market but a collection of distinct markets, each with its own dynamics. This complexity makes US expansion more time-consuming and costly for UK companies than it often appears from the outside.
7. Healthtech value chain complexity
The healthcare value chain involves numerous stakeholders. These include patients, physicians, pharmacies, payers, governments and pharmaceutical companies — each with different incentives. Entrepreneurs face the challenge of building business models that align with these diverse interests. Additionally, a model that works in one country does not necessarily translate to another. International scale remains a genuinely complex undertaking.