Innovation in the healthcare sector : does a triage tool for scheduling emergency surgical cases improve decision-making challenges?

Research suggests that the scheduling of unplanned surgery is not always efficient. The aim of this study is to identify innovative decision-making practices in the scheduling of unplanned surgery. Following a review of relevent theory, this was achieved through an empirical study, which examined decision-making practices among Australian doctors and nurses who manage unplanned surgery. Thirty-eight participants were interviewed on the enablers and barriers of effective scheduling. They were also asked to comment on an innovative decision-making model to guide the scheduling of unplanned surgical cases. The model was developed in a previous study, in which medical personnel identified clinical considerations, logistical factors and ideal timeframes when scheduling unplanned surgery. The research presented here centres on current decision-making determinants, the acceptability of using the proposed model, measuring the impact of the model, as well as enablers and barriers to implementing a model. Findings confirmed that clinical priority and time of patient arrival are concrete determinants for scheduling unplanned surgery. Yet, given the importance of staff communication in the decision-making process, inter- and intra-professional dynamics were also influential. Participants indicated that the proposed model encourages dialogue that improves decision-making practices and operating room utilisation. The paper concludes by examining the way such a decision-making model might reshape professional decision-making jurisdictions and professional identities.