AI Leadership Starts with a Simplified, Integrated Tech Stack

The Big Unlock · Michael Hasselberg, PhD, RN, Chief Transformation and Digital Officer, Nebraska Medicine

In this episode, Dr. Michael Hasselberg, Chief Transformation and Digital Officer at Nebraska Medicine, makes a compelling case that sustainable digital transformation in healthcare requires more than technology, it demands the right organizational structure. By unifying IT, innovation, and strategy under a single transformation office, health systems can move from isolated pilots to enterprise-wide impact.

Drawing from his journey across telehealth, mobile apps, VR, and AI, Dr. Hasselberg emphasizes that true transformation is about redesigning systems to deliver the right care at the right time. Nebraska Medicine deploys nearly one new generative AI tool per month, automating capacity management, discharge workflows, and revenue cycle operations. He also highlights the value of real-world innovation units where new technologies are tested with live patients before system-wide deployment.

Dr. Hasselberg’s most provocative insight: the next frontier of AI readiness isn’t a new technology, it’s application rationalization. He argues that to lead in AI and innovation, health systems must simplify their tech stack. Take a listen.