the Ottawa Hospital

Kevin Peters is an accomplished Executive Director of Clinical Operations with a 30-year history in the hospital and healthcare industry, spanning roles in both clinical and support services. He exhibits exceptional skills in leadership development, strategy implementation, and clinical quality. His ability to seamlessly combineclinical experience with business acumen consistently delivers significant value to both patients and organizations. Peters’extensive expertise forms the bedrock of his successful career, enabling him to effectively lead, innovate, and drive transformative changes in healthcare operations.

In an exclusive interview with MedTech Outlook Canada, Peters shares his valuable insights on the challenges, trends and best practices in the MedTech space.

What are key roles and responsibilities as the executive director of clinical operations at The Ottawa Hospital?

I am a registered nurse with fourteen years of experience in the healthcare field in the US, andhave been working with the Ottawa Hospital in Canada since 2003. Currently, I hold multiple positions with a strong focus on digital solutions. I played a key role in preparing users for the implementation of a system-wide EMR at our institution. Following its establishment four years ago, I undertookleadership roles within a nine-hospital alliance, overseeing technical advances and digital strategy. I maintain strong connections within the Information Technology (IT) sector, as well as with key figures such as the Chief Nursing Executive (CNE), Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Information Officer (CIO).My passion for technology is firmly grounded in its capacity to enhance healthcare efficacy and streamline operations.

What are some of the challenges that you have encountered in this role asthe Executive Director of Clinical Operations?

In the evolving healthcare landscape, shaped by the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we confront a range of pressing challenges. These include staff retirements, a reduced readiness for change, and declining resilience within the healthcare sector. Adding to the complexity, healthcare professionals place a high value on evidence-based practices while treasuring the artistry of medicine. This dual perspective often leads to difficulties in reaching consensus among these dedicated and scientifically inclined individuals, hindering the effective implementation of healthcare optimization.

What strategies do you employ for effectively leading and managing a diverse team of healthcare professionals, and how do you ensure employee retention to enhance the quality of patient care?

Our strategy is all-encompassing, recognizing the evolving demographics within the workforce, with particular attention to 40 percentmillennials who harbor distinctive expectations. Effectively leveraging their inclination toward technological change is imperative, considering potential resistance from some Gen X and baby boomer leaders.

The cornerstone of engaging and retaining our employees is an unwavering commitment to make the healthcare system technologically adept and tailored to their needs, allowing them to dedicate more time to patient care. This commitment receivesresolute support from the entire senior leadership team and empowering employees is a primary organizational objective. Although prefabricated solutions may seem convenient, the present human resources climate demands dedicationto engaging stakeholders and collaboratively prioritizing objectives with input from frontlinepersonnel.

Could you provide an insight about some of your recent projects, elaborating on the specific processes and technology components you used to ensure their successful execution?

We launched our "You-First Strategy" a year ago, enabling frontline staff to propose improvements in work-life balance and the working environment. This initiative, spanning from operations to wellness and finance teams, has created around forty-five unique staff opportunities, featuring flexible scheduling and personalized reward programs. Wellness centers have been established at our sites, offering various resources and relaxation options.

We arealso committed to talent acquisition and retention, emphasizing career advancement, skill development, and preparation through seminars. These efforts have evolved from "You-First" and broader strategic initiatives, facilitating career progression within our organization.

What will be your piece of advice to your fellow peers and colleagues in the MedTechindustry?

In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we all adapted to more transactional and top-down leadership styles. However, as we move forward, it's crucial that we refocus on becoming people leaders. This entails prioritizing compassion, connecting with our teams, and gaining a deep understanding of their frontline experiences. Such a shift is vital for making informed and effective strategic decisions.