The work environment of many healthcare organizations is characterized by a rapid pace of change, complex systems and processes, variable and unpredictable process inputs, tight operating budgets, staff shortages, and increasing pressures to reduce costs while improving the quality of care, patient safety and access to services. Quality of care will likely deteriorate or stagnate unless healthcare organizations embrace change and innovation, introduce new technologies, redesign critical processes, fully engage staff, utilize interprofessional quality improvement teams, execute multiple projects simultaneously, and promptly respond to the evolving patient needs. As a result, there is an increasing need for utilization of adaptable Project Management methodology, standardized framework for better multi-project coordination, and clear understanding of roles and responsibilities. Project Management is becoming vital in both organizational and individual efforts to address current challenges and meet or exceed patient expectations. Through the systematic application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques, Project Management provides the robust structure, focus, and control needed to facilitate change and achieve desired results on time and within budget.
To deliver and sustain the most value, Project Management needs to be seamlessly integrated with organizational strategy, carefully adapted to specific organizational culture, visibly supported by senior leaders, and appropriately implemented in the context of internal and external business environment. In general, projects are initiated to achieve strategic goals, realize strategic opportunities and respond to critical organizational issues related to changing demand for services, advances in technology, innovation, new regulatory requirements, patient safety, employee engagement, organizational needs, and many other factors. Increasing numbers of healthcare organizations recognize Project Management, not only as a skill set of individual healthcare professionals, but as organizational necessity to provide superior services and sustainable quality of care.
