Approaching hospital administration about adopting cooling technologies

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Health Services Management
• Technology Assessment

Background:

• Intensivists require guidance on securing administrative support for new technologies.
• Hospital budgets are often controlled by non-clinical staff, presenting a barrier to technology adoption.
• Effective implementation of cooling technology is crucial for improving patient outcomes in intensive care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To equip intensivists with strategies for selecting, funding, and implementing cooling technology.
• To provide a framework for assessing the costs and barriers associated with new technology adoption.
• To guide intensivists in presenting proposals effectively to hospital administrators.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of medical and business literature was performed.
• Key search terms included 'technology assessment,' 'organizational innovation,' and 'hospital administration.'
• Case studies of technology implementation in 16 hospitals and a specific induced hypothermia protocol were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Intensivists often lack training in navigating hospital administration for funding.
• Successful technology adoption requires proposals aligned with administrative strategic goals.
• Understanding the hospital acquisition process and participating in key committees are vital.

Conclusions:

• Intensivists must develop strategic approaches to gain administrative buy-in for cooling technology.
• Utilizing design thinking and leadership skills can facilitate successful implementation.
• Effective communication and alignment with hospital objectives are paramount for securing resources.