Barriers to the implementation and adoption of new healthcare technologies: A case study of precision oncology technology in the New Zealand healthcare sector

Abstract

Emerging technologies challenge the way we view traditional industries and improve our lives. The healthcare sector worldwide is set to gain massively from emerging technologies with New Zealand well positioned to evolve and prosper from them. However, ambiguity and uncertainty deterring the early adoption of these technologies by stakeholders, despite the potential advantages for early adopters. One prominent field with numerous emerging technologies set to disrupt the healthcare sector is precision oncology. The potential impact of precision oncology on patient outcomes is promising, but currently, these technologies have not been widely adopted. This research aimed to uncover barriers perceived by key stakeholder groups in New Zealand healthcare to the adoption of precision oncology using an organisational behavioural perspective. Additionally, it sets out to create a framework to aid in stakeholder engagement around emerging technology implementation. This research is underpinned by two key theories, (1) diffusion of innovation and (2) organisational behavioural theory. A case-study approach was undertaken using semi-structured interviews. The perceptions of participants (n=8) from three key stakeholder groups (clinical staff, technological enablers and policy makers) were captured during this study. From these perceptions, five key barriers to the implementation of precision oncology technology in the New Zealand healthcare sector were identified: (1) Funding and policy, (2) lack of networks, (3) capabilities and capacity, (4) ‘one size does not fit all’ and (5) tension between stakeholder groups. The data suggested to the aim to create a framework for stakeholder engagement was premature. Instead, four key recommendations for strategic development were highlighted: (1) Creation of new models of benefit assessment, (2) knowledge sharing and creation through networks, (3) developing engagement strategies across stakeholders and (4) building capabilities and capacity. These recommendations are made to act as a platform for further discussion about how the New Zealand healthcare sector might best capture the opportunities presented by emerging precision oncology technologies.