HPER71-119: Leading Innovation in Healthcare

A key challenge for contemporary leaders in healthcare is to navigate change thoughtfully. Innovation in healthcare encompasses the introduction of new ideas, products, or services that add value to important problems in healthcare systems. This subject introduces a continuum of change from improvement through innovation towards transformation, which is driven by different levels of complexity and uncertainty within healthcare organisations. While both leading improvement and leading innovation are essential, they differ in terms of scope, approach, and outcomes. Effective leaders in healthcare need to balance both aspects, recognising the need for continuous improvement while also fostering a culture of innovation to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Strategies for managing incremental improvement will be highlighted from change management theories and current practice.  The role and potential benefit of innovation in complex healthcare systems will be explored. Strategies to lead, support, and implement innovation will be introduced. Learners will develop the capability to determine the most appropriate strategies to lead change across the continuum from improvement to innovation. Learners will also be guided to propose a plan to lead innovation in their chosen workplace.