In today’s turbulent times, when we witness so many mishaps and malfunctions, hospitals in India are no exception. Managing a hospital is no easy task; it’s one of the most unpredictable workplaces, with challenges that can arise by the hour. Hospitals require stringent protocols for everything from hygiene to machine safety and security access.
With the added pressure from the pandemic, aging infrastructure, and the constant need for up-to-date medical equipment, effective facilities management has become a key factor in ensuring smooth and efficient hospital operations. According to TFTS, India’s top facilities management company for the healthcare sector explains, there are several emerging trends in healthcare facility management that are shaping the industry today.
What is Facilities Management and Why is it important for the Healthcare Sector?
Mr. Atul Mahajan, Director of Trendsetters Facilities and Technical Services facility management is the behind-the-scenes work that keeps hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities running smoothly. It involves maintaining buildings, equipment, and essential systems to ensure they function efficiently, creating a safe and comfortable environment for patients and staff.
In the healthcare sector, facility management is vital because it ensures that the physical spaces and infrastructure are always ready to support the delivery of care, from keeping equipment in top condition to making sure that spaces are designed to meet the needs of everyone in the facility. By focusing on these details, facility management helps healthcare providers focus on what matters most—caring for patients.
What are the Current Trends?
Some of the current trends are:
Energy Management System
The rapid evolution of healthcare in India highlights the need for efficient energy management. Energy management systems (EMS) provide a suite of digital tools that help facilities manage their energy use more effectively. In hospitals and laboratories, these systems are essential for reducing energy consumption, cutting costs, and ensuring the smooth operation of critical systems.
They also help maintain the performance of sophisticated imaging machines, ensure the reliability of clinical and research laboratories, and guarantee the continuous operation of data centers that store and protect patient information. By optimizing energy use, these systems not only support compliance with energy regulations but also contribute to better overall efficiency and reliability in healthcare settings.
The Power of Technology
In today’s tech-driven world, managing healthcare facilities has become more efficient thanks to advancements like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). IoT connects various devices, such as sensors, to the internet, allowing them to collect and share data.
This connectivity enables remote patient monitoring, where devices track vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, helping to ensure patients’ safety and reduce the need for frequent visits. By analyzing this data, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes, streamline workflows, and provide more personalized care, all while cutting costs.
Meanwhile, AI enhances hospital management by using predictive analytics and continuous learning to optimize staff workloads and resource use, ultimately improving overall efficiency and care quality.
Effective Communication Strategies
Effective communication between facility managers and industry partners is key to fostering trust and improving the healthcare experience. Engaging with local communities through health camps, awareness campaigns, and outreach programs helps address healthcare needs proactively and builds stronger connections.
The integration of advanced software enhances efficiency and streamlines communication, enabling better collaboration and project workflows. The healthcare sector has transformed with digital communication technology, revolutionizing interactions among professionals, patients, and information sharing. This shift has improved service delivery and led to innovations such as personalized medicine and advanced health data management. Today, the “patient journey” covers every aspect of the experience—from discovering a provider and planning visits to receiving care and following up—ensuring a comprehensive and connected healthcare experience.
Enhanced Security Measures
With workplace violence on the rise, ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and patients has become increasingly critical. Research shows that healthcare workers are four times more likely to experience violence compared to those in other industries. This violence can range from verbal abuse to physical assault, involving patients, visitors, or staff.
To address these challenges, healthcare facilities are implementing advanced security measures, such as biometric access controls, surveillance cameras, and visitor management systems. Cybersecurity is also a priority, with IT teams working to protect patient data from cyber threats.
Key measures include advanced surveillance systems for monitoring and incident documentation, controlled access to sensitive areas, emergency response protocols, and traffic management around facilities. Security staff are trained in both physical defense and de-escalation techniques to handle aggressive behavior effectively. Collaborating closely with healthcare staff, security personnel ensure a safe environment that enhances worker morale and patient care.
Embrace Sustainability
The healthcare sector, a major contributor to environmental degradation, has a duty to lessen its impact by adopting sustainable practices. Facilities can cut their carbon footprint by using energy-efficient designs, renewable energy like solar or wind, and efficient water management systems.
Proper waste management—segregating, recycling, and safely disposing of hazardous waste—further reduces environmental harm. Embracing eco-friendly products and sustainable procurement practices enhances operational efficiency and boosts reputation while protecting public health.
Today, healthcare facility management is evolving with trends that drive efficiency and safety. Embracing advanced energy management systems, leveraging technology like IoT and AI, enhancing communication, strengthening security, and adopting sustainability practices are pivotal. These strategies not only improve operational efficiency but also support patient care and environmental responsibility, ensuring healthcare facilities meet modern demands effectively.
