2022 Predictions: Forward-Thinking Innovation Programs

HIMSS subject matter experts are looking ahead to the new year, drawing from their vast experience, networks and areas of expertise to provide predictions for the next 12 months and beyond in the healthcare ecosystem.

Read more 2022 Predictions:

• Assessing Value of Public Health, Telehealth and Data
• How Will Healthcare Evolve?

" Building a culture of innovation not only helps employees think differently about how to creatively solve problems, but it also makes them more reception to adopting new innovations."
– Julie Campbell, Vice President, Healthbox
 

Healthcare digital transformation through the pandemic has accelerated, and with that, traditional health system based innovation programs have changed.

Those resources were directed to quickly activating innovative solutions in COVID testing, chat-based AI, telehealth, supply chain management and more. Resources that were once predominantly forward-looking have enabled real-time, actionable transformation. This was a critical and timely adjustment. However, we need to make sure that innovation programs continue to be forward-thinking by strategizing, finding, developing and validating the next transformation opportunities.

Some health systems are considering, or should consider, strategic venture funds as a way to advance innovation and be at the forefront of what’s next. Ascension Ventures launched a $285M fund in March 2021, a fund that has 13 participating health systems. Advocate Aurora Enterprise also launched this year and has been making some big bets. Even the HHS launched its first venture capital partnership. These strategic venture funds are a way to stay abreast of innovative solutions and market trends, while increasing the organization’s stake in implementing those transformational technologies.

Healthcare workers are struggling from burnout after the COVID-19 pandemic. Investing in them is critical. Internal innovation programs can drive an innovative culture by investing in the high value, qualified ideas and inventions that healthcare employees. Building a culture of innovation not only helps employees think differently about how to creatively solve problems, but it also makes them more reception to adopting new innovations.