Improving the uptake of TAVR in Ontario
Using TAVR as a case study, this report explores barriers to implementing medical innovations in Ontario hospitals and recommends strategies to improve adoption through timely, user-informed approaches.
Background
In this report, we highlight the importance of appropriate, timely and user-defined implementation techniques as a critical component of the successful uptake of medical innovations. We use the uptake of transcatheter valve replacement therapy (TAVR) as an example. An uptake of TAVR in the Ontario hospitals was researched through a survey of the decision-makers across the University of Toronto-affiliated teaching hospitals. The survey aimed to identify the barriers to successful implementation of TAVR – an alternative lifesaving intervention for patients at risk for surgical complications. The insights gained from this study can be used to inform implementation of other medical innovations in the Ontario hospitals and beyond. We have found that funding and physician preference are the main barriers to TAVR use. In addition, clinical guidelines and patient co-morbidities are key factors influencing physicians' decision making with respect to TAVR. Based on these findings and previous literature, we have recommended strategies to address some of the barriers to TAVR use. This case example highlights the potential flaws to implementation of medical innovations and the possible preemptive measures that can be addressed early to increase the uptake of life-saving medical innovations.
Project team
- Abimbola Saka
TRP supervisors
Project advisory committee
- Michael Farkouh
- Laura Hartman
- Harindra C. Wijeysundera
- Maral Ouzounian
- Neil Fam
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