Human Factors in the Wild: Bringing Value to Frontline Care Providers via Low-Tech Methods and Solutions (Discussion Panel). (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xiao, Yan; Shanqing, Yin; Probst, C. Adam; Abts, Natalie; Morita, Plinio P.; Fairbanks, Rollin J. (Terry)
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society ... Annual Meeting. Volume 59:Part 1(2015)
• Page Start: 522
• Page End: 526
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: Human engineering -- Congresses; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1177/1541931215591112
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1541-9312

Abstract

The role of human factors expertise has been recognized in development or deployment of new, sophisticated, high-tech systems in healthcare organizations. By contrast, the panelists will use examples to contrast their experience in brining value of human factors expertise to healthcare through "low-tech" solutions or methods. Frontline providers face problems that demand solutions with severe constraints in resources and in scope of changes acceptable to organizations. To bring value to healthcare organizations, human factors specialists are challenged to find creative solutions, which often are low-tech. The panel will also share how problems in the healthcare environment can be approached given the financial and operational pressures that are common in such industries. The discussant will challenge the panelists to devise practical strategies beyond isolated problem-solving activities. These strategies are needed to understand and tackle complex systems problems.