As part of our series on female leadership in health tech, Karen Tuffy, the Client Services Manager at MEDITECH UK, takes us on her journey through the dynamic realm of digital health. This article spotlights her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, emphasising the significance of female leadership in the evolving landscape of health tech.

Breaking Barriers

As a female leader in a technology-driven industry, Karen brings a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating the world of Electronic Health Records (EHR).

Reflecting on her transition into health tech, Karen shares her journey, starting from a background in technology recruitment to managing Locum Dr contracts. She states, “My background started out in technology recruitment…I ended up working for the Managed services division of a Healthcare recruitment business and was responsible for managing the Locum Doctors and Allied Health Professionals Managed service into Lancashire Teaching Hospitals.” Her entrance into healthcare was marked by a pivotal role in a digital health recruitment business, where her interest in EPR solidified. This journey serves as a testament to the diversity of paths that can lead to leadership roles in health tech.

Championing Leadership Beyond Technical Skills

Discussing the role of technical leadership, Karen challenges stereotypes. She asserts that while technical knowledge can be beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for effective leadership. In her words, “No, I think it can be beneficial, but I wouldn’t say it’s a requirement.” Instead, she emphasises qualities such as inspiration, motivation, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. This perspective challenges traditional notions of leadership in the tech sector.

Overcoming Challenges

Karen’s journey is not without its share of challenges, with key setbacks including the financial loss of her own business in 2009 and personal challenges in her youth. In her own reflection, “I think there’s always going to be bumps in the road and it’s just life. The loss of the business in 2009 was one of the big bumps in the road…” Through resilience and determination, Karen was able to overcome these challenges to become the success she is today.

Imposter Syndrome and the Female Leader

Like many other female leaders, Karen has experienced imposter syndrome. In her own words, “I think a recent example of that is my graduation day. I’m having a moment where I thought this doesn’t feel like I can get up on that stage…” Imposter syndrome is common among female leaders, and Karen emphasised the need for self-reflection and acknowledging achievements to try to overcome it.

Mentorship and Female Empowerment

The importance of mentorship for female leaders is key. Karen has had positive experiences with female mentors, showing the empowering impact of such relationships. In her words, “I did have a mentor…I found it very empowering,” Karen encourages the cultivation of mentorship programmes to uplift aspiring female leaders in health tech.

Health Tech as an Empowering Space

Karen reflects on the impact of health tech on her career, emphasising the need for adaptability in the fast-paced industry. Health tech provides an empowering space for women to develop leadership skills, leveraging both technical and soft skills.

Karen shared her insights for aspiring female leaders in health tech. Key attributes include understanding healthcare operations, emotional intelligence, and maintaining transparency. In her words, “In terms of leadership, it’s important as a woman in this role to have the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, but also the emotions of others.” These qualities are positioned as essential for successful female leadership in a technology-driven healthcare landscape.

In celebrating Karen Tuffy’s journey, this article illuminates the transformative power of female leadership in health tech. Through her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, Karen serves as an inspiring figure for aspiring women leaders, showcasing the strength and resilience required to thrive in the dynamic world of digital health. Her story stands as a testament to the potential and impact of women in shaping the future of health tech leadership.