Risk management is the identification of risks prior to their occurrence. In simple words, the advance planning for unexpected risks that can harm the organization’s assets is risk management.
A risk management system ensures that the unexpected risk is dealt with completely without any loss to the organization.
In short, risk management is important for all types of organizations. Considering the various potential risks and implementing the required measures can save the organization’s future.
The Importance of Risk Management in Healthcare Sectors
However, the importance of risk management in the healthcare sector is rather high as it involves human lives. Not preparing for health risks can result in long-term effects. The concept of risk management in hospitals had its beginning in the 1970s in the US.
The main focus of healthcare risk management is patient safety and the reduction of medical errors. Other risks are also as important in keeping the healthcare industry safe.
When all possible risks are considered and analyzed then all the strategies can be put into action and the organization can minimize the loss.
Meanwhile, if a healthcare sector fails in identifying potential risks, the organization is prone to have various threats. Clinical hazards, medical errors, operational and financial risks, technological errors, etc.
Role of Healthcare Risk Manager
The role of risk managers plays a vital role in how an organization will respond to unexpected risks. They are trained to identify, analyze, and evaluate different types of threats that may result in potential loss.
Risk managers of the healthcare sector are responsible for financial management, operational management, communications, and hospital supplies. They are also accountable for maintaining a good atmosphere for the staff, patients, and visitors.
Current Pandemic: a Shock to the Healthcare Sector
As we are going through a pandemic, we are able to identify and judge the flaws of the healthcare sector. Being prepared for a pandemic is as important as being prepared for any other medical emergency.
When it comes to preventing the spread of infectious disease, the line narrows down to the healthcare sector only as they’re on the front line defense. Healthcare providers are treating a huge amount of patients with an inadequate number of supplies while risking their own lives.
Emerging Risks in the Healthcare Sector
When our healthcare industries grow and develop with advanced technologies, the ratio for risks also increases. These emerging risks can be more harmful if there are no strategies to overcome them.
For instance, if a healthcare sector lacks managing emerging risks, it is likely to have the following threats at its doorstep.
1. Poor Employment Practice in Hospitals
Many hospitals provide poor customer service. They lack Professionally trained staff who is unable to conduct medical procedures correctly.
Many healthcare organizations lack the funds to provide better service. Lack of funding can itself become a problem as the hospital will be unable to provide better facilities and treatments.
2. Environmental Hazards
The environment within the hospital is very important in providing high-quality healthcare. There are many environmental hazards in a hospital but if they manage properly, they can ensure a good environment for the patients.
- Reduction of patient exposure to noise. The WHO recommends that noise level should not exceed 35 dB in rooms where patients are treated or observed and 30 dB inwards rooms. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also suggested that the peak noise level in a hospital should not exceed 45 dB during the day and 35 dB at night.
- Exposure to radiation results in a number of diseases. Hospitals must appoint professionals that can carry out procedures involving radiation.
- The waste produced within the hospital that is in the form of human waste, chemical waste, radiative material, etc must be disposed of as it is recommended.
3. Financial Risks
Many public hospitals and healthcare sectors do not get proper funds to run the hospital and carry out various procedures. As a result, patients have to face huge medical bills.
Furthermore, these organizations fail to provide standard medical care to patients as they lack trained staff and advanced supplies.
4. Technological Failures
Advanced diseases require advanced technologies so as to prevent any human error. Moreover, modern medical technologies have proven to be more accurate and precise.
However, some healthcare sectors are unable to adopt these technologies, which is often due to a lack of funds.
5. Cyber Crime
Hospitals and healthcare sectors are vulnerable to cyber attacks such as malware etc. The hospital finances are also at stake due to it. Alongside that, these cyber crimes have had access to patient data as well. A layered defense Software system and trained staff must be hired with no compromise on Cybersecurity protocols.
Lastly, hospitals that lack resources are more vulnerable to these threats. The management must not compromise on any of these risks.
Ameena is a chemistry student. She is a keen learner and a passionate writer. She loves writing on different niche and sharing her prowess as a writer.
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