Evidence-based medicine might be the gold standard when it comes to introducing new technologies to your IDN. But what can be done when evidence about a new technology is limited? Lansdale, Pa.-based Hayes Inc., a technology research and consulting firm, recommends you ask yourself the following 10 questions. Hayes evaluates medical technologies to determine clinical effectiveness, comparative effectiveness, safety and impact.
- Does this technology solve a serious and urgent problem your hospital is facing?
- Is this your only option?
- Is this new technology reasonably safe? Can you adopt it without incurring major risk for patients, providers and/or the hospital?
- Does the proposed technology replace, complement, or compete with technology already in place in your healthcare organization?
- Is this a priority area for your hospital?
- Is there any evidence that shows this technology improves patient outcomes?
- Is the lack of evidence likely to continue?
- Can you reasonably extrapolate from the evidence already available?
- Are you willing to generate your own evidence?
- Does your healthcare organization have a “clinical equipment replacement plan,” and how does the proposed technology acquisition relate to this plan?
Source: Hayes Inc., www.hayesinc.com
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