Building Value Through Real-World AI and Smart Technology Adoption

In this episode, J.D. Whitlock, Chief Information Officer at Dayton Children’s Hospital, discusses how a smaller pediatric health system is embracing digital transformation and generative AI while navigating resource constraints.

Mr. Whitlock shares how platforms like Epic, Workday, and Microsoft are enabling innovation from within, especially through features like ambient documentation and coding assistance. With a fast-follower mindset, Dayton Children’s focuses on adopting proven tools from peer organizations rather than being the first to experiment. Mr. Whitlock emphasizes the importance of balancing hard ROI with softer benefits such as improving physician satisfaction and reducing burnout.

He also discusses the challenges of innovation in pediatric care, where many AI tools are still designed with adult medicine in mind. From building data infrastructure to enabling smarter imaging through a vendor-neutral archive, Mr. Whitlock highlights the importance of governance, strategic procurement, and cross-functional collaboration in delivering sustainable innovation. Take a listen.