Revolutionizing Healthcare Tech: AI, Cybersecurity & Leadership with Bashir Agboola, CTO & Associate CIO at Hospital for Special Surgery

In this episode, host David McClelland sits down with Bashir Agboola, Chief Technology Officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), to explore the rapidly evolving role of technology in healthcare. As hospitals increasingly rely on AI, automation, and data-driven insights, the healthcare sector faces new challenges—from cybersecurity threats to the ethical implications of AI in patient care. Bashir shares how HSS is leveraging technology to enhance patient outcomes, streamline operations, and stay ahead of emerging risks. They discuss the delicate balance between innovation and security, the role of AI in optimizing clinical workflows, and why leadership buy-in is essential for digital transformation. Bashir also highlights the biggest cybersecurity threats facing healthcare organizations today and offers practical strategies to safeguard sensitive medical data. Beyond the tech, Bashir reflects on his career journey, leadership philosophy, and the lessons he's learned navigating complex digital transformations in a high-stakes industry. With technology reshaping healthcare at an unprecedented pace, how can CIOs and CTOs drive innovation while ensuring security and compliance? And what happens when healthcare falls behind?

Bashir Agboola

CTO, VP & Associate CIO

Hospital for Special Surgery

I am a passionate Technology and Digital Healthcare Executive with over two decades of experience dedicated to developing human and organizational potential. My mission is to help people and organizations realize their full capacity to grow, thrive, and achieve excellence.

Throughout my career, I have focused on leveraging technology to transform business, including enhancing patient care, driving operational efficiency, and ensuring reliable, compassionate services. As the Vice President, CTO, and Associate CIO at the renowned Hospital for Special Surgery (the global leader in musculoskeletal care), I lead groundbreaking technology transformations and strategic IT initiatives across a national footprint.

I pride myself on turning visionary ideas into actionable, high-impact technology solutions that align with business objectives. Whether spearheading platforms that ensured continuity of care during the COVID-19 pandemic or developing enterprise cloud strategies to fuel major digital initiatives, my approach blends innovation with practical execution.

Building collaborative relationships has always been central to my success. I understand the value of fostering strong internal and external partnerships to drive results. My strong cybersecurity and infrastructure management foundation has also been instrumental in safeguarding patient data and minimizing risks.

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