Human Factors and Ergonomics in Health Care Systems: Identifying Roles and Strategies for Success

Abstract

Healthcare systems have begun to recognize the value of Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) and have started to create dedicated roles within their organizational structure for HFE practitioners and researchers to work with safety and quality groups to enhance safety, productivity, and overall system efficiencies. This panel brings together HFE personnel from different organizations, who will share their experiences working with clinical partners, in healthcare systems. Specifically, the panelists will lead an interactive discussion with audience members on strategies for changing the safety culture required to achieve the status of a high reliability organization (HRO). The panel will also share methods for demonstrating return on investment for HFE and techniques for successful implementation to continue the long-term integration of HFE into safety and quality improvement projects within healthcare organizations.