Embracing variance: a paradigm shift for aged care providers

I was recently reading an article that proclaimed healthcare providers were risk-averse resulting in a lack of change occurring in the sector. I am not sure it is risk that halts the momentum of progress but variance. So today I though we could take a look at decision-making in the aged care sector: and the dance between being risk-averse and variance-averse. ????

Let's debunk a myth: aged care providers aren't necessarily risk-averse. In fact, many are quite comfortable taking risks to innovate and elevate care standards. The real game-changer? It's the aversion to variance, the fear of that temporary dip in performance that often accompanies any new initiative or worse failure.

Picture this: You're introducing a cutting-edge system to enhance patient care. Excitement is in the air, but so is a degree of anxiety. Why? Because aged care providers understand that to seamlessly transition to the new, you must sustain the old simultaneously. It's a juggling act. ??

Here's the catch—there's inevitably a drop in performance during the initial stages. The old and new systems coexist, and it's not all smooth sailing. This dip is not a sign of failure; it's a natural part of the process.

Enter the transition point, the sweet spot where magic happens. The new system gains traction, efficiency soars, and it outshines the old. Suddenly, what was initially perceived as a risk becomes a triumph, a testament to the provider's courage to embrace change. ??

So, why do we often confuse being risk-averse with being variance-averse? Because navigating that dip in performance feels uncomfortable. But let's reframe it—view it as a necessary pitstop on the road to progress.

Aged care providers aren't shying away from risks; they're just meticulous about managing variance. It's about understanding that the path to innovation isn't a straight line but a dynamic journey with peaks and valleys.

Let's celebrate the courage of those in the aged care sector, who, despite the fear of variance, are steering the ship towards a future of enhanced patient care. ??

Cx

When grappling with weather or not to introduce a new initiative are you discussing risk only or are you talking about where variance in performance may occur? Variance doesn't only relate to throughput but to expectations and experience. Discuss variation like you would discuss risk and you may just find your initiative get over the line and you can make the change you know you need to make.

Learn how to map, discuss and mitigate risk and variance at b.school4homecare. Your one-stop on-line resource for community aged care providers with content, community and coaching.

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