Abstract

Large investment projects for the purchase of medical technology such as scanners, surgical robots, infusion pumps and patient monitors, can be improved. This is the finding of the RIVM evaluation of the purchase procedure for the above-mentioned medical technology in eighteen hospitals. More direction is needed to perform the necessary steps in the procedure, to ensure that a well considered purchase is made and that the medical technology is properly implemented. It was found that as the project progresses, procedural steps are omitted or taken less meticulously. A positive finding was that in all cases a list of criteria was drawn up. Focus points The study shows that less than half of the hospitals performed a risk analysis as part of the purchase procedure. Where a risk analysis was performed, it was not always used for the preparation of the list of criteria, the training of employees and the management of the equipment. A risk analysis identifies the potential risks that are associated with the use of the particular technology and the measures that can be taken to reduce these risks. The assignment of responsibility for the so-called 'release for use' should be improved. Release for use means that the performance of the device is evaluated at its location and that the users are properly trained. In addition to the initial training in the use of medical technology, attention should be paid to the maintenance of people's knowledge and skills. Furthermore, employees should also be sufficiently trained during a trial period. Finally, the purchase project should have a clear endpoint. In many cases, the project was not finalised with a concluding report.