By Erik Eaker, COO, Glytec
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, new technologies are transforming patient care, enhancing operational efficiency, and shaping the future of health systems. From electronic health records (EHR) to AI-driven diagnostics and telemedicine solutions, the promise of these innovations is immense. However, the successful implementation of new healthcare technologies requires more than just a technical upgrade—it requires effective change management.
For healthcare executives, leading the integration of new technology can be a daunting task. The challenge is not simply installing new software or hardware, but ensuring that staff, providers, and patients embrace these changes, adapt to new workflows, and maintain continuity in patient care. This is where change management becomes essential.
Understanding change management in healthcare technology
Change management in the context of healthcare technology involves a strategic approach to managing the people side of change. This process ensures that individuals in the organization—from frontline healthcare workers to top-level administrators—are prepared, equipped, and supported as they navigate the transition to new systems.
The goal is to reduce resistance, accelerate adoption, and ensure that the benefits of the new technology are realized as quickly and efficiently as possible. The key is recognizing that technology implementation is as much about people and culture as it is about systems and tools.
Key elements of effective change management in healthcare
- Clear vision and communication
A successful technology rollout begins with a clear and compelling vision. Leaders must communicate the why behind the change: why the new technology is necessary, what benefits it will bring, and how it aligns with the health system’s strategic goals. Clear communication ensures that everyone understands the purpose and long-term impact of the technology, which can reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
- Stakeholder engagement
Stakeholder engagement is a critical component of change management. This includes everyone from clinicians and administrative staff to IT professionals, patients, and even the broader community. Their involvement in the planning process—whether through focus groups, training sessions, or feedback loops—ensures that the technology is designed and implemented with their needs in mind. Engagement also fosters a sense of ownership, which can lead to greater buy-in and a smoother transition.
- Comprehensive training and support
The adoption of new healthcare technology often requires a shift in daily routines and workflows. This can be met with resistance if employees feel unprepared or undertrained. A robust training program is essential to equip staff with the skills and knowledge they need to use the technology confidently. Training should be ongoing, with accessible support available through peer mentoring and self-service resources.
- Leadership and change champions
Strong leadership is essential in guiding the health system through periods of change. Executive leadership should champion the adoption of the new technology, providing a visible and unwavering commitment to its success. Additionally, identifying and empowering “change champions” within the organization—staff members who are enthusiastic about the technology—can create peer advocates who support and motivate their colleagues.
- Feedback and iteration
The implementation of new technology is rarely perfect from the start. Regular feedback from users is invaluable for understanding pain points and addressing them proactively. A culture of continuous improvement, where feedback is welcomed and acted upon, can lead to more refined processes and enhanced user satisfaction. Regular check-ins and adaptation to user needs ensure that the technology delivers on its promises and integrates seamlessly into existing workflows.
It’s also essential to start small—whether that means introducing a component of the product feature set or implementing the technology in a few departments or facilities first. This approach allows for testing the system in a controlled environment, identifying issues early, and making necessary adjustments before rolling it out more broadly across the enterprise. This incremental approach minimizes risk, provides opportunities to gather valuable insights, and ensures smoother adoption when scaling across larger areas of the organization. By taking these smaller steps, organizations can refine the technology, demonstrate its value, and build confidence with users before the broader implementation.
- Managing resistance to change
Change can be uncomfortable, especially in healthcare environments where established practices have been in place for years. Resistance is inevitable, but how it’s managed will determine the success of the technology integration. Addressing concerns, demonstrating quick wins, and involving staff early on can help alleviate anxiety. Acknowledge that resistance is a natural response, but with the right strategies, it can be minimized.
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation
Change doesn’t end once the technology is deployed. To truly measure the success of the implementation, health systems should continuously monitor outcomes, such as improved patient care, enhanced productivity, and system performance. Regular evaluations will identify areas for further improvement and ensure that the technology continues to meet the evolving needs of the organization.
The bottom line: Leading change with purpose and precision
Incorporating new healthcare technology into a health system is not just a technical initiative—it’s a cultural transformation. Change management is the foundation for ensuring the successful adoption of that transformation. When done effectively, it fosters collaboration, drives innovation, and ensures that new technologies deliver measurable improvements in care delivery, operational efficiency, and patient satisfaction.
Healthcare leaders must approach change management with a strategic, holistic mindset—one that recognizes the human element of technology adoption. By focusing on clear communication, robust training, stakeholder engagement, and continuous feedback, health systems can unlock the full potential of new technologies, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients and healthcare providers alike.