Read and watch the lecture resources & materials below early in the week to help you respond to the discussion questions and to complete your assignment(s). Select one of the change management models you reviewed. How can you apply the model to your practice? Include an example using the model.
Introduction
Change management is an essential process in organizations that helps facilitate a smooth transition from the current state to a desired future state. To effectively manage change, organizations often employ various change management models. These models provide a systematic approach to understanding, planning, and implementing change. In this assignment, we will explore the application of a change management model to our practice, and provide an example illustrating the model’s usage.
Change Management Models
There are several change management models available for organizations to choose from. Some popular models include Lewin’s Change Management Model, Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model, and the ADKAR Model. Each model has its unique set of steps and strategies, but they all share the common goal of guiding organizations through successful change implementation.
Application of a Change Management Model
For the purpose of this assignment, we will select Lewin’s Change Management Model and explore its application to our practice. Lewin’s model consists of three stages: unfreezing, moving, and refreezing. These stages provide a structured approach to change that allows individuals and organizations to overcome resistance and realize the desired change.
In our practice, we can apply Lewin’s Change Management Model to introduce a new electronic health records (EHR) system. The implementation of an EHR system is a significant change that impacts various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, administrative staff, and patients. Applying Lewin’s model allows us to navigate this change effectively and ensure its successful adoption.
Unfreezing Stage
The first stage of Lewin’s model is the unfreezing stage. In this stage, we need to create awareness and prepare individuals for the upcoming change. To apply this stage to our practice, we would conduct training sessions and workshops to educate our staff about the benefits and functionalities of the new EHR system. We would also communicate the reasons for the change, emphasizing the improvements it will bring to patient care, efficiency, and data accuracy.
Example: To illustrate this stage, we can consider a hospital that is implementing a new EHR system. The hospital’s leadership team organizes a town hall meeting where they explain the need for the change and the advantages of the new system. They discuss how the EHR system will streamline workflows, centralize patient information, and enhance communication among healthcare providers. The leadership team also addresses concerns and questions from staff, ensuring open communication and transparency throughout the process.
Moving Stage
Once the unfreezing stage is complete, the next step is the moving stage. In this stage, organizations implement the actual change and manage any resistance that may arise. To apply this stage to our practice, we would establish a project team responsible for overseeing the implementation process and ensuring smooth adoption. The project team would work closely with various departments to address any challenges and provide ongoing support.
Example: Continuing with the example of the hospital implementing the EHR system, the project team is formed, consisting of IT professionals, clinical staff, and representatives from different departments. The team creates a detailed implementation plan, including milestones, timelines, and responsibilities. They conduct training sessions for the staff, providing hands-on experience with the new EHR system. The project team also monitors the progress, identifies any barriers, and takes necessary actions to resolve them promptly.
Refreezing Stage
The last stage of Lewin’s Change Management Model is the refreezing stage. In this stage, the change becomes the new norm, and individuals and organizations solidify their practices around it. To apply this stage to our practice, we would continuously evaluate the impact of the new EHR system and make adjustments as needed. We would also celebrate milestones and successes to reinforce the benefits of the change.
Example: In the hospital example, after the successful implementation of the EHR system, the project team conducts evaluations to assess its impact on patient care, efficiency, and staff satisfaction. They collect feedback from healthcare providers and staff members through surveys and focus groups. Based on the feedback, they make necessary improvements and provide ongoing training to ensure optimal utilization of the system. The hospital highlights success stories and recognizes the efforts of staff members who embraced the change, creating a positive culture around the new EHR system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying a change management model such as Lewin’s Change Management Model can greatly assist organizations in effectively implementing change. This model provides a structured approach consisting of three stages: unfreezing, moving, and refreezing. By following each stage, organizations can create awareness, manage resistance, and solidify the change as the new norm. The example of implementing a new EHR system in a hospital illustrates the practical application of Lewin’s model in a real-world scenario.