In the evolving landscape of healthcare, adopting new software can meet with resistance from traditional systems. We’ve gathered insights from CEOs and a nurse practitioner, founder to share their strategies. From highlighting technological advancements to implementing support and mentorship programs, discover the top four strategies these professionals recommend for overcoming resistance in healthcare settings.
- Highlight Tech Advancements in Healthcare
- Engage Stakeholders and Educate
- Involve End-Users in Software Design
- Implement Support and Mentorship Programs
Highlight Tech Advancements in Healthcare
When implementing new software in traditional healthcare settings, you must make sure to emphasize how technological advancements can improve productivity, efficiency, and cost savings. Implementing technology allows healthcare organizations to avoid doing the things that they always do just because they have been done before. It opens up a world of opportunities.
To bring the decision-makers on board, one must review effective strategies that involve engaging stakeholders, communicating the software’s advantages to the workforce and patient care, and aligning with regulatory compliance. Engaging interdisciplinary clinical, administrative, product, and engineering teams from the outset fosters ownership and facilitates the transition. Communicating how the software enhances patient care, streamlines processes, and ensures alignment with mechanisms that promote improving patient outcomes.
Highlighting compliance with healthcare regulations and standards reinforces a commitment to industry standards and legal obligations. This strategic approach not only reduces resistance but also promotes the seamless integration of new technologies in healthcare settings.
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, CEO, Erkeda DeRouen, MD LLC
Engage Stakeholders and Educate
As a software development agency with experience in the HealthTech industry, one effective strategy we’ve implemented to overcome resistance to the adoption of new software in traditional healthcare settings is to focus on stakeholder engagement and education.
By involving key stakeholders, including doctors, nurses, and administrative staff, early in the development process and providing thorough training and support, we ensure the software is tailored to their needs and addresses their concerns. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership among the users but also alleviates fears and misconceptions about the new system, making the transition smoother and more successful.
David Stellini, CEO, All Front
Involve End-Users in Software Design
As a healthcare professional, I have faced some challenges in overcoming resistance to the adoption of new software in traditional healthcare settings. One strategy that I have found effective is to involve the end-users, such as physicians, nurses, and other staff, in the design, selection, and implementation of the software.
By engaging the end-users, I can understand their needs, preferences, and concerns, and address them accordingly. I can also demonstrate the benefits and value of the software, such as improving efficiency, quality, and safety of care, and reducing errors and costs. I can provide adequate training and support for the end-users, and solicit their feedback and suggestions for improvement.
By involving the end-users, I can increase their awareness, acceptance, and satisfaction with the software, and foster a culture of innovation and change in the healthcare setting.
Trent Carter, Nurse Practitioner, Founder, Curednation
Implement Support and Mentorship Programs
One effective strategy I’ve found in overcoming resistance to the adoption of new software in traditional healthcare settings is the implementation of a comprehensive support and mentorship program. Resistance often stems from a fear of the unknown, discomfort with change, or a lack of understanding of the new system’s benefits. Addressing these issues head-on with robust support and mentorship can significantly ease the transition.
For instance, when introducing an Electronic Health Records (EHR) system in a traditional hospital setting, we paired tech-savvy staff with less digitally confident colleagues in a mentor-mentee system. These mentors received extensive training on the new software and were then tasked with guiding their colleagues through its usage. This peer-to-peer learning approach was less intimidating than traditional training sessions, as it allowed for a more personalized and empathetic learning experience.
The mentors were chosen not only for their technical skills but also for their communication abilities and their standing among their peers. This strategy helped build trust and acceptance, as healthcare professionals often find it easier to relate to and learn from their colleagues who face similar day-to-day challenges.
Additionally, we established a dedicated support hotline and regular check-in meetings to address ongoing concerns and gather feedback. This continuous support system ensured that staff members felt heard and assisted in real-time, reducing frustration and enhancing their confidence in using the new software.
Bruno Gavino, Founder, CEO, CodeDesign
