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Method for evaluating the impact of information systems in operating rooms

20 November 2006

Information systems used in operating rooms (ORs) have major effects on the performance and efficiency of hospitals, as operating rooms provide services to virtually every medical department. However, policy makers and administrators often find it difficult to assess the implications of implementing OR systems on the performance of operating rooms. For example, information systems can improve planning procedures and therefore improve the amount of surgeries at any given time, the flexibility of ORs in case of emergencies and the capacity of beds (or patients treated) in the ORs.

Dr. Elad Harison and master student Martijn Huitema of the Faculty of Management & Organization developed a model that measures the the productivity and quality of ORs and can assist in choosing software to manage ORs and in evaluating the impact of existing information systems on their productivity and quality.

Dr. Elad Harison
Dr. Elad Harison

Harison and Huitema investigated the use of OR information systems in 45 Dutch hospitals. In many cases, the OR managers indicated that they want an improved software system. The researchers discovered a variety of possibilities and attributes of the systems are important for improving the efficiency of OR systems and generating value for the hospital. A major product from their research is a checklist of indicators that can be practically used by policy makers to select and assess OR information systems.

The model developed by Harison and Huitema can also be used as a “manual” for IT companies that produce OR software packages. The manual indicates in which parts of new or developed software firms should invest to produce large value for their customers (the hospitals). For example, software modules that focus on the costs of operating instruments, registration or satisfaction of patients are the most cost-effective for operating rooms.

Note for the press
For more information: dr. Elad Harison, telephone (050)363 32 53, e-mail: e.harison@rug.nl

Last modified:31 January 2018 11.50 a.m.
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