The Evolution of IT's Role in Healthcare Construction: From the 1990s to Today
The landscape of healthcare construction has undergone a profound transformation over the past few decades. Alongside this evolution, the role of IT departments within hospitals has also changed dramatically, driven by rapid technological advancements and the increasing complexity of healthcare environments. As we reflect on these changes, it becomes clear that the approach to technology implementation and integration in hospital construction must evolve to align with the needs of modern healthcare delivery.
Rewinding to the 1990s: Simpler Requirements, Simpler Technology
In the 1990s, hospital technology was relatively straightforward. PCs and printers were found at unit secretary workstations, business offices, and administrative spaces. Phones were the primary mode of communication, and wireless networks were scarce. Nurse call systems were basic, relying on legacy dry connect systems that triggered a light outside patient rooms and an alarm at central nurse stations. Given this simpler technological landscape, the partnership between construction technical designers and IT departments was also uncomplicated. IT’s role was more of a background player, focused on maintaining basic network functionality and supporting the limited technological infrastructure and low-voltage systems available at the time.
However, a pivotal shift occurred with the widespread adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs). By 2015, 96% of U.S. hospitals had certified EHRs. This development marked the beginning of a new era in healthcare, where technology became integral to nearly every aspect of hospital operations. IT departments suddenly found themselves at the forefront of healthcare innovation and patient care.
The Present: An Era of Unprecedented Technological Integration
Fast forward to today, and the role of IT in healthcare construction has transformed. Hospitals now rely heavily on a complex web of interconnected technologies, including EHRs, mobile technology, and Internet of Things (IoT) tools. Hospital processes—from medication administration to meal delivery—are orchestrated by technologies and applications that IT implements, integrates, and supports.
Integrated Operating Room Systems exemplify this shift. Today’s operating rooms are equipped with systems that connect surgical lights, cameras, imaging devices, and EHRs on a single platform. Surgeons can access real-time patient data, imaging, and historical records directly in the OR, significantly improving decision-making during surgeries. These systems also allow for remote consultations, enabling specialists to guide surgeries without being physically present. The seamless integration of these technologies relies heavily on IT departments to manage the networks, ensure data security, and maintain system uptime. This not only enhances surgical precision but also boosts overall hospital efficiency, making it a clear example of how IT supports critical hospital functions. But the integration doesn’t stop there. Advanced nurse call systems, remote monitoring systems, high-end building access and management systems, and Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) all depend on IT networks. Even patient experiences are enhanced through technology, with systems enabling control of lights, blinds, and temperatures in patient rooms now becoming standard in new hospital builds. Today, there isn't a single department within a hospital that doesn’t rely on IT for some form of support, application, or functionality.
Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digitization, and patient engagement systems are already becoming part of the IT department's expanding portfolio, supporting seamless patient care coordination and enhancing operational efficiency. The role of IT has expanded from being a technical support function to a strategic partner in healthcare delivery.
The Challenge: Bridging the Gap to a Modern Approach
Despite this technological evolution, many still approach healthcare IT in construction with a mindset rooted in the past. To bridge the gap between outdated practices and a modern, more effective approach, we need to focus on collaborative expertise and early engagement. Engaging experienced Health Information Technology (HIT) resources early in the preconstruction process is crucial. These dedicated HIT experts, often seen as translators between construction and IT, understand the complexities within IT departments and provide essential support to ensure cohesive integration of technology from the beginning.
HIT experts can offer insights that go beyond technical requirements as part of the construction team. They help align technology budgets, network designs, applications, and integrations with the project's overarching goals, ensuring a smoother implementation and better outcomes. This collaborative approach leads to greater confidence in the IT department’s performance because they have access to the necessary data, processes, workflows, and expertise of hospital construction. Clearly defined roles and responsibilities further reduce confusion and ensure seamless project execution.
The Future: A Collaborative Path Forward
Looking to the future, it is essential to embrace a modern approach to technology integration in healthcare construction. By involving IT departments and expert HIT resources as strategic partners from the start, hospitals can achieve a more seamless integration of advanced technologies that drive operational efficiency, enhance patient care, and scale for future needs.
At Equinox HIT, we believe the future of healthcare construction lies in these collaborative partnerships. With the right expertise, early engagement, and a forward-thinking approach, we can create healthcare environments that are not only technologically advanced but also adaptive, efficient, and prepared for the needs of tomorrow's patients. The evolution of healthcare technology demands an evolution in our approach. It’s time to embrace the future and rethink how we build and integrate technology into our healthcare spaces.
Equinox HIT is your HIT construction partner. For more information on how Equinox HIT can guide your organization to manage the IT components of healthcare construction projects successfully, please contact us today.
References:
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Kim, S.-H., & Song, H. (2022). How Digital Transformation Can Improve Hospitals’ Operational Decisions. Harvard Business Review. Link.
Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC). (2016). Adoption of Electronic Health Record Systems among U.S. Non-Federal Acute Care Hospitals: 2008-2015. Link.
STERIS Healthcare. (2021). Integrated Operating Rooms: Benefits, Design & Integration Systems. LInk.
Wager, K. A., Lee, F. W., & Glaser, J. P. (2009). Health Care Information Systems: A Practical Approach for Health Care Management. Jossey-Bass. Link.