New technology, physical facilities and the environment

Technology assessment is already a powerful tool for dealing with issues of appropriateness and effectiveness of clinical technology; it can be significantly enhanced as a valuable process if it is extended to deal with issues of how best to integrate the considered technology with the physical environment and facilities in which it will be used. These issues include: staff and patient safety and comfort; code compliance; effective accommodation of work flow; staff training; and ongoing operational costs. The methodology of technology assessment can effectively assist health facility administrators in evaluating the appropriateness and effectiveness of energy conservation projects and in addressing environmental concerns. The constraints in funding available to the health care system will continue to challenge the creative energies of our managers to encourage them to develop innovative ways, using technology assessment, to make the physical facilities and environment safe, economical and comfortable for patients and staff.