Quality improvement: understanding the adoption and diffusion of digital technologies related to surgical performance
Journal article, 2022

Purpose Quantifying the performance level of surgeons with digital virtual reality (VR) simulators can help ensure that quality requirements in healthcare are met. In order to better understand integration amongst quality principles, practices and technologies in the adoption and diffusion of VR simulators, the authors applied a technological innovation system (TIS) framework. The purpose of this study is to understand how the adoption and diffusion of VR surgical simulators in a Swedish healthcare context is influenced by various system factors. Design/methodology/approach In this study, single-case holistic design based on innovation system theory was used to analyse the adoption of digital quality technologies related to surgical performance in Swedish hospitals. The case employs a mixed methods approach triangulating data longitudinally from published documents and expert interviews. Findings Adoption of digital technologies regarding surgical performance is restricted by system factors relating to inconsistent normative and regulatory requirements for quantified performance criteria to judge surgical expertise. Addressing these systems' weaknesses with evidence-based training programmes can have a significant impact on the further development of the innovation system and can ultimately affect healthcare reliability and quality. Originality/value This paper explores quality management (QM) challenges in the context of digital transformation in healthcare. The paper attempts to fill the gap for TIS studies in a healthcare context and highlight the role of innovation function strength along the value chain and in relation to technology cycles to increase the understanding of adoption of digital technologies relating to surgical performance.

Technological innovation system (TIS)

Simulation-based training

Digital quality improvement

Virtual reality (VR)

Author

Petra Apell

Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Service Management and Logistics

Patrik Hidefjall

Karolinska Institutet

International Journal of Quality and Reliability Management

0265-671X (ISSN)

Vol. 39 6 1506-1529

Subject Categories

Other Engineering and Technologies not elsewhere specified

Information Science

Information Systemes, Social aspects

DOI

10.1108/IJQRM-07-2021-0234

More information

Latest update

3/7/2024 9