Effective change management and how it can help you digitally transform your ABA practice
We all know why growth and change are so important, especially for those in the health care sector. However, implementing change comes with an array of challenges, and it is critical to know precisely how we can go about these changes to reap the rewards.
Change management is a structured approach that ensures that new processes and business needs are implemented thoroughly and smoothly in your ABA practice and bring in desired results. No change ever happens in isolation. In one way or another, change impacts the whole organization and all of the people in it. But with effective change management, you can encourage everyone to adapt and embrace your new system of working. We will discuss the steps you need to take to implement successful change management into your ABA practice.
Acknowledging the need for change
The first step in any change is acknowledging and understanding the need to migrate. Involve all your clinicians and practice management team in developing a shared understanding of the situation. Hearing out the “people on the ground” and their frustrations can open the door to more conversations around why change is necessary.
Whether the current system is unreliable or out dated, there has to be sufficient dissatisfaction with the current system in order for change to work. But people also need to feel confident that the new approach will be better – and that there’s a clear route to get there. Once you have taken the time to hear your team, you can then be sure that the development of your business case for digital transformation addresses the complexity of the problem.
Plan for change
Effective change doesn’t just happen by chance, and any plan you make has to be suitable for your practice. The first aspect of developing a change plan is to detail where you want to be in the future. What is the ultimate goal for your practice, and where do you want to see yourself in the future as outlined in your organization-wide business case for digital transformation.
Consider who is best positioned to help you design and implement the change. Once you have assembled your team, consider how much buy-in is required, and whether it’s from your RBTs or billing department. Gaining buy-in is most effective when you have support from people across your entire practice.
Finally, think about what success should look like. Is it an increase in outcome-based results, clean authorizations, improved scheduling or better staff retainment? All factors should form part of your business case and decision making for successful digital transformation.
Implement change plans
This is the part that can feel like trying to change the wheels of the bus while it’s still in motion. However, by providing a clear path of communication with specific timelines, everyone will know what has to happen, when it will happen and what their role is. It can also be beneficial to appoint a BCBA or PM as a “change agent,” who’ll help put the new practices into place and act as role models for this new system. Through positive engagement, you may even find your team stepping up to tackle tasks and championing your practice through to team glory!
While change plans are being implemented, ensure you provide support to your clinicians. A BCBA has to manage several aspects of day-to-day stress, all while learning a new system that can add extra stress into their daily lives. Therefore ensure you provide your team with the correct tools and training in order to implement the change. With the right tech partner, you’ll have a shoulder to lean on and support you in your new digital ecosystem.
Evaluate progress and feedback
As soon as you can, evaluate how impactful the change has been. By scheduling time in for feedback, you can ensure your change plan is on the right path. Shared experiences across the team also allows for more meaningful connections. For a great uptake of your new software solution for your digital journey, change management can only be successful when you include your entire team in the process – so empower your team, find your champions and start your digital transformation today!