Demand-driven evolution of IT systems in healthcare--a case study for improving interdisciplinary processes

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Informatics
• Clinical Process Optimization
• Systems Engineering

Background:

• Interdisciplinary clinical processes require continuous optimization.
• Existing healthcare IT systems need adaptable models for evolution.
• Integrating change management with system evolution is crucial for healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and optimize interdisciplinary clinical processes.
• To introduce an IT-supported model for demand-driven healthcare system evolution.
• To demonstrate the feasibility and evaluate an approach for clinical process improvement.

Main Methods:

• Embedded formal methods for process analysis and IT system evolution into a goal-oriented change management model.
• Utilized Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and computer simulation based on a process model.
• Employed rapid application development (RAD) for incremental IT system improvement.

Main Results:

• Formal methods successfully supported the reorganization of interdisciplinary clinical processes.
• Evaluation confirmed significant improvements in clinical processes and IT support.
• An integrated IT application was developed to enhance the optimized clinical workflow.

Conclusions:

• Process improvement is achievable and effective using formal, goal-oriented methods.
• Balancing costs, benefits, and method complexity is key for practical application.
• Integrating diverse tools on a single reference model can reduce efforts in process analysis and IT implementation.