Field testing methodology in healthcare

In the healthcare sector, the adoption of new technologies and innovations can be challenging due to the critical nature of patient care and the need for rigorous validation of any new processes or tools. Field testing, therefore, plays a crucial role in mitigating risks by providing a structured and safe environment where technologies can be evaluated under real-world conditions. Field testing is essential not only for ensuring the efficacy and safety of innovations but also for generating documented insights that inform future decision-making. Field testing empowers healthcare providers and innovators to collaborate closely, ensuring that both supply and demand sides benefit from the process, ultimately leading to more tailored and impactful solutions.

EDIH Health Data Sweden identified several challenges that the healthcare sector faces in relation to field testing:

• A need for comprehensive and structured field testing in a safe and secure setting.

• The necessity of thorough documentation of results and data collection for future reference.

• SMEs often struggle to engage with testing processes, while personnel may be uncertain about how to implement such a process effectively.

• The need to foster interaction and generate new insights between SMEs and PSOs, from both the supply and demand sides.

The Field test methodology consists of a structured 3-step process, templets for planning and documentation as well as a checklist for support.

Step 1 Preparation: Plan and set the framework for the tests to be performed. What should be tested, how should it be tested and who should test? Success factors for the test to contribute to the desired result with wide distribution are that clear plans, such as test, communication plan and risk analysis are drawn up, as well as broad participation and support among those concerned.

Step 2 Implementation: During implementation, the planned test is performed. The test plan helps you keep track of purpose and goals, time, activities and resources, as well as what needs to be verified. The test leader uses a status report to communicate the test's progress. Key events, both positive and negative, are documented. Together they contribute to the story and to describe the progress of the test and the result at the end. Key events should be timed to make clear when in time they occurred, e.g. early, or at the end.

Step 3 Finish: The last phase marks the end of the test and the summation of the test results. The final report compiles the results of the test in their entirety. The final report must be descriptive and in itself give the reader an understanding of the purpose and implementation of the test, regardless of whether he participated in the test or not. The final report constitutes a public document and must be able to be used for the purpose of dissemination and scaling.

The investment needed is dependent on the purpose, size and length of the test. The methodology of Field test can be integrated in to any process such as benchmarking, needs analysis or procurement. Therefore, the rational for investment isn't decided by the test itself, but by the purpose of it. The PSO can fund the test as a whole, but costs can also be handled by each party. However, limitation in scope and time frame is key. A test is a test.

The documented results of the field test serve as a crucial foundation for informed decision-making. These results can guide key decisions, such as selecting the appropriate technology for a specific area, initiating a procurement process, or exploring alternative approaches. By providing concrete evidence of performance and outcomes, the documentation empowers decision-makers to choose solutions that best meet their needs.

• Furthermore, these results can be leveraged for broader dissemination to other stakeholders, extending the impact beyond the immediate testing environment. Sharing insights and findings helps to inform and inspire others, encouraging the adoption of successful practices and technologies across similar organisations or sectors.

• The dissemination of proven or newly developed digital solutions and technologies within the testing organisation itself is another significant benefit. This process not only accelerates the adoption of these innovations but also promotes a culture of continuous improvement and technological advancement.

• The documented results play a vital role in enhancing staff knowledge and confidence in utilising data and digital tools, particularly within the health sector. By engaging with the test outcomes, staff members gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of how to effectively apply these tools in their daily work, ultimately leading to better service delivery and outcomes.

• The field test has the potential to broaden perspectives on the use of technology for both PSOs and SMEs. By exploring the technology's capabilities in a real-world context, both parties can gain new insights into its application, uncovering innovative ways to leverage the technology for greater impact and efficiency. This collaborative learning process fosters a deeper appreciation of the technology's potential and encourages more strategic and creative use of digital solutions.