Agile Implementation (AI) is a proven evidence-based change methodology designed specifically to improve healthcare. A trained AI agent traditionally facilitates the eight-step Agile Implementation model. These agents can be internal, such as an administrator or clinician, or external, such as a consultant. Regardless of the AI agent being internal or external, they are a force of change that is important for the first step of the model. The first initial step to kickstart this process is the identification and confirmation of an opportunity. This step could make or break the attempt of implementation if demand is not considered when acting on an opportunity. Establishing demand prior to establishing change will create buy-in from leadership and clinical providers. It is crucial for the AI agent to work with leadership and clinical providers to understand the needs and goals of the organization. Once demand on the presence of an opportunity is established, the AI agent must also establish demand for the solution. The AI agent will know this is established when executive leadership and frontline clinical providers volunteer to invest time, personnel, and financial resources to pursue the opportunity at hand.

An example that exemplifies the importance of identifying opportunities can be illustrated by the Healthy Aging Brain Center (HABC). The founders, Dr. Malaz Boustani, Dr. Callahan, and others at the Indiana University Center for Aging Research, opened the clinic at Eskenazi Health in January 2008. The Healthy Aging Brain Center is a model of care that addresses the gaps of care in patients with Alzheimer’s. Prior to the formation of HABC, Eskenazi leadership performed a cost analysis to determine the financial viability of this solution to Alzheimer’s. Shortly after confirming buy-in and demand, HABC was granted the go-ahead by Eskenazi CEO, Lisa Harris. By proactively identifying and confirming opportunities and demand, HABC was set up for success to address gaps in care for those suffering with Alzheimer’s.

If you would like to learn more about the eight-step Agile Implementation model, you can reserve your free copy of the Agile Implementation book at http://www.hii.iu.edu/. This book describes a proven, evidence-based methodology to leverage real-world practices to achieve sustainable change within the healthcare industry.