Transforming European hospitals with AI and new management models

BearingPoint study highlights innovations for better patient outcomes and healthcare workforce well-being. The study reveals that outdated management practices and a shortage of healthcare professionals are straining Europe's healthcare systems, but innovative models show promise in improving staff retention and patient care.

Amsterdam, October 07, 2024 - European hospitals are at a crossroads - if not a breaking point. According to the World Health Organization, there is a shortage of some 1.8 million healthcare professionals in Europe. This strain has stretched workforces thin and raised concerns over patient care. However, a new study by management and technology consultancy BearingPoint reveals that solutions lie in transforming hospital management models and embracing technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).

The study conducted across six European countries, surveyed 300 healthcare professionals and institution directors. It revealed that outdated management structures are driving away healthcare professionals, leaving hospitals ill-equipped to meet patient needs. Younger healthcare workers, in particular, are increasingly unwilling to commit to long-term careers in healthcare due to these archaic practices. However, the study highlights a path forward, showcasing innovative hospitals implementing flexible and collaborative management models to enhance staff satisfaction and patient outcomes.

Balancing flexibility and collaboration

In France, Hospital Center De Valenciennes has adopted a decentralized governance model, involving medical departments and services in 90% of management decisions. This shift has empowered healthcare teams and created a more collaborative and motivating environment, improving care outcomes by aligning staff autonomy with patient needs.

Similarly, the Geneva University Hospitals launched its 3P Program (Patients, Professionals, and the General Public), prioritizing patient engagement in organizational and technological transformation projects. This model has redefined the role of patients, making them active participants in their care and renewing the commitment of healthcare professionals to their mission.

Supporting healthcare workers' well-being

The study also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance for retaining healthcare staff. For instance, Oslo University Hospital in Norway introduced flexible working hours for nursing staff, significantly reducing turnover and improving well-being. Happier, less stressed staff are better equipped to deliver higher-quality care, proving that employee well-being directly correlates with better patient outcomes.

Leveraging AI

Advanced technologies such as AI are another crucial lever for hospital transformation. By automating administrative and logistical tasks, AI allows caregivers to dedicate more time to direct patient care. Additionally, AI-driven tools can predict care needs and personalize treatments, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness.

Toward a new model of care

Hospitals must also invest in continuous skills development to maximize these benefits and offer motivating career path prospects like cooperation protocols allowing the delegation of tasks from doctors to nursing staff or investment in continuing education. In short, while the BearingPoint study clearly shows that healthcare professionals remain dedicated to their roles, their sense of vocation is not enough to sustain a system under severe pressure. European hospitals must embrace innovative management models that empower staff, engage patients, and integrate new technologies.

About BearingPoint

BearingPoint is an independent management and technology consultancy with European roots and a global reach. The company operates in three business units: Consulting, Products, and Capital. Consulting covers the advisory business with a clear focus on selected business areas. Products provides IP-driven digital assets and managed services for business-critical processes. Capital delivers M&A and transaction services.

BearingPoint's clients include many of the world's leading companies and organizations. The firm has a global consulting network with more than 10,000 people and supports clients in over 70 countries, engaging with them to achieve measurable and sustainable success.

For more information, please visit:

• www.bearingpoint.com
• www.linkedin.com/company/bearingpoint

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