Change is never easy. Here are four key things to keep in mind:
Leaders are the catalysts for change. Before implementing transformation initiatives, leaders need to have a clear vision for the future. Establishing a sense of urgency and maintaining it throughout a change model requires relentless prioritization and evaluation. Leaders have to show employees what’s in it for them, how it will be better on the other side, and address the obstacles.
Mindset matters. Resistance to change is the hardest piece. Advocating for broad-based action is essential and encouraging people to behave differently brings change forward. Set expectations for every department, because even if just one resists the change, that misaligns the entire organization.
Organization is key. Ensure alignment among physicians, administrators, and departments toward a common cause. Having a formal structure for people to share information and measure process integration makes change possible. At the same time, too many formal structures or too many decision makers makes it almost impossible to make a decision.
Keep the patient top of mind. Think about workflow, process, and understand the impact on the patient. Digital transformation requires more than looking at technology and buying the latest equipment, because innovation costs affect the entire organization’s budget, including areas that impact patient care.