Sustain positive results: function as a transformational leader and change agent
Healthcare systems are constantly evolving and changing. Change is a necessity for organizations to grow and obtain performance excellence. These fast-paced and complex environments need leaders who strive for excellence even if roadblocks are present. Leaders have quality and safety in mind as a long-term goal, question current practices, are willing to take risks and are forward thinking.
Change is a necessity for organizations to grow and obtain performance excellence.
As a change agent and leader, one must be prepared to overcome hurdles and work continuously to improve. Below are key steps that leaders can take to aide in change management.
1. Make the change a priority
During this step, the leader should survey current practices, highlight why a change is needed, and create a sense of urgency within the organization. Our Uplift Discovery Assessment evaluates current practices from the macro-system level and makes recommendations based on best practice guidelines.
2. Build a team
The next step is to build a team to aide in the roll out of the change. During this phase, it’s critical for the leader to identify unit-based champions to aide in monitoring and tracking compliance, to have clear communication and to celebrate wins. The Uplift implementation guide contains pre-built tools and resources for unit-based champions to help aide in the roll out of new interventions.
3. Remove barriers
It is important to remove any retraining forces that would hinder the roll out of the new intervention or change. The unit-based champions can help during this stage of the process by reinforcing the driving forces or new behavior.
4. Assess and audit
Data tells a compelling story. Celebrate wins and continuously assess the effects of the change. Effective teams are transparent in communication and adjust interventions as needed.
5. Institute change
The last stage of the process is when the change becomes part of the norm or protocol. Without this stage, staff may revert to old habits—which is why unit-based champions and leaders are so instrumental.
How can you make change happen?
Explore Dr. Kotter’s 8-Step Process for Leading Change.
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