Christy O’Gaughan has served as Chief Data and Analytics Officer at GE HealthCare since August 2023. Her team is responsible for leading and overseeing the organization’s data strategy, analytics, and internal AI initiatives. They ensure the effective use of data to drive business decisions, improve operational efficiency, and foster innovation. They balance this with also leading enterprise data governance and mitigating risks associated with data management.
Christy has over 25 years of experience in health care working for prominent organizations such as McKesson, Roche, Genentech, IQVIA, and the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to GE HealthCare, she was the Vice President of Data and Digital Innovation at McKesson. In this role, her team was responsible for AI/analytics that delivered over $300M in annual profit.
Before McKesson, she worked for 15-years at Roche/Genentech leading to her role as Vice President/Head of Global Insights and Digital Engagements in Basel, Switzerland. There, she led multiple digital transformational programs to increase value to customers and employees, improve patient outcomes, and gain operational efficiencies. She was recognized as both a sought-after and trusted advisor to senior leaders, skilled at leading and collaborating across teams and realizing the full potential of technical expertise to drive business results.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with CIO Magazine, Christy shared insights into her passion for digital transformation in healthcare, emphasizing that it’s not just about technology, but about empowering people, particularly care teams, with timely insights to deliver better patient care. Christy highlighted the importance of data governance in AI adoption, noting that it’s a crucial part of GE HealthCare’s AI governance framework. As a leader, Christy emphasized the importance of empathy, curiosity, and digital literacy, advising aspiring leaders to prioritize self-care, lead with purpose, and build trust through transparency. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Christy. What drives your passion for digital transformation in healthcare, and how do you see it evolving in the future?
My passion stems from the belief that digital transformation isn’t just about technology, it’s about people. In healthcare, that means empowering care teams with the insights they need when they need them. Over the years, I’ve seen AI evolve from basic categorization to becoming a true clinical partner—surfacing insights, enabling faster decisions, and helping deliver more personalized care. The future lies in interoperability and data liquidity—ensuring information flows securely across systems to support a complete, longitudinal view of the patient. AI is a foundation technology, much like electricity or cloud, the real progress will come from how we leverage this powerful tool
What do you love the most about your current role?
I truly believe in our purpose, creating a world where healthcare has no limits. There is so much opportunity to improve lives across the globe with innovations in this space. Leading GE HealthCare’s internal AI initiatives means I get to work across functions, helping teams unlock value through responsible innovation. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our data strategy translate into real-world impact—whether that’s improving clinical workflows or enabling smarter operations
What role do you think data governance plays in ensuring the effective use of AI in healthcare?
Data governance is essential. It is a cornerstone of our broader AI Governance framework, which also includes responsible AI principles such as accountability, safety, transparency, and the commitment to earning and maintaining the trust of our people, patients, and customers. To reinforce this, we have established an Enterprise Data & AI Governance Council to ensure every AI initiative aligns with our strategic objectives and ethical standards.
How do you stay current with the latest advancements in AI and data analytics, and how do you apply that knowledge in your work?
Well the obvious answer to this is I use AI to help tell me what I need to know. But I also believe in learning from others. I love talking to other practitioners of AI —especially those driving amazing transformations at their organizations. I just got back from an Agentic AI think tank that has me energized. Staying current means being both a student and a connector. I engage with thought leaders, attend industry forums, and collaborate with our internal experts. But more importantly, I focus on translating that knowledge into action—whether it’s through enablement programs that build digital literacy or by embedding AI into our core operations, like using real-time forecasting models in Finance to improve agility.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I am most grateful that I’ve had the privilege to work in organizations that value insights in their decision-making. I’ve learned from so many peers, team members, and leaders. One person who has stood out in my career is Len Kanavy, when I was a Senior Director of Marketing Science in the pharmaceutical industry. He taught me the importance of sound, objective analysis coupled with domain expertise to deliver the best insights. He also created a culture where everyone felt valued and empowered and where curiosity and kindness were rewarded—that I strive to emulate.
What is your favorite quote?
I have always loved Margaret Mead’s quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.” To me, this perfectly captures the essence of digital and AI transformations. Meaningful change does not happen overnight, nor does it happen in isolation. If we are going to harness the power of AI to improve healthcare outcomes around the world, it will require exactly that —a group of thoughtful, committed individuals working together to turn bold ideas into reality.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about staying grounded and connected—to people, to purpose, and to the present moment. I meditate regularly, which helps me find clarity and focus. I also value time spent with my family, hiking a new trail, or reading something that challenges my perspective. For me, stepping away from the screen isn’t about doing less—it’s about being intentional with my energy so I can return with greater creativity and presence. That mindset shapes how I lead, too: with empathy, curiosity, and a deep respect for the human side of transformation.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
My biggest goal is to continue building a culture where data and AI are not just tools but trusted partners in delivering better care. In five years, I see myself helping lead an organization that has fully embraced digital fluency, where every team member, from finance to frontline clinicians, feels empowered to use data responsibly and confidently. I want to live in a world where global healthcare has improved for all people and where AI has helped democratize access to longer, healthier lives. For me, the future of healthcare is one where innovation is inclusive, governance is embedded, and technology is always in service of people. That is the kind of transformation that lasts and the kind I am committed to driving.
What advice would you give to aspiring leaders in healthcare technology looking to make a positive impact?
First and foremost, care for yourself. AI transformations are, at their core, cultural transformations. They demand time, patience, and dedication, and I have seen too many leaders burn out along the way. Protect your energy so you can protect the energy of your teams. Stay focused on the next three steps your organization needs to take, rather than being overwhelmed by the full journey. Lead with purpose and humility. Embrace change with intention. Build trust through transparency and never underestimate the power of digital literacy. The most impactful leaders are those who bring others along—making space for diverse voices, encouraging shared innovation, and ensuring that progress is collective, not individual.