ASGE Endoscopy Course at ACG: Everyday Endoscopy: Expertise Meets Evidence | October 2024-11_Ross_Integrating New Technology into your Practice

11_Ross_Integrating New Technology into your Practice

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Integrating new technology into clinical practice is a multifaceted process that requires careful consideration of several elements. Dr. Andrew S. Ross outlines the steps necessary for effectively incorporating new technologies in a medical setting, specifically within endoscopy.<br /><br />First, technical readiness is essential, which involves understanding how the new technology works and acquiring the necessary skills. Organizational readiness must also be assessed to determine if capital equipment is needed and to address IT considerations, disposables, billing, and scheduling adjustments. For operational readiness, it is crucial to evaluate how the technology will function within the endoscopy unit, address safety concerns, involve necessary nursing and anesthesia services, and prepare the clinic for changes in patient preparation and follow-up.<br /><br />Training for new skills should emphasize formal training periods with supervision and ongoing learning through mentorship and hands-on practice. Given the evolving landscape in healthcare, with most physicians now employed and a consolidation within the industry, collaborations with value analysis teams and hospital administrators are key. Hospitals often prioritize cost-saving measures, reduced procedure times, and innovations that differentiate them from competitors.<br /><br />Writing a simple business plan can enhance communication with administrators, detailing the current state, proposed future state, and potential barriers. Clinics should also assess how new technologies impact scheduling, pre-procedure preparation, and post-procedure follow-up, including understanding coding and authorization processes.<br /><br />To successfully integrate technology, it is vital to prepare the team by ensuring the appropriate supplies, anesthesia, training, credentialing, and multidisciplinary care are in place. A structured approach, as demonstrated by a model for integrating POEM (Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy), includes training, mentoring, developing a business plan, working with billing and coding experts, and preparing nutrition and radiology services.<br /><br />Ultimately, new technologies are an integral part of endoscopy, requiring training, mentorship, preparation, and collaboration with administrators, clinic staff, and supportive services for their successful implementation.

Keywords

technology integration

clinical practice

endoscopy

technical readiness

organizational readiness

operational readiness

training and mentorship

healthcare collaboration

business planning

multidisciplinary care