The adaptiveness of the healthcare system to the fourth industrial revolution: A preliminary analysis

Marek Ćwiklicki*, Jacek Klich, Junsong Chen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We are witnessing the rapid development of new technologies, sophisticated devices and related applications fuelled by the fourth industrial revolution in healthcare systems. The aim of this paper is to identify the key determinants of the healthcare system's adaptive capacity to respond to the outcomes of the fourth industrial revolution. Through a narrative literature review, the main healthcare system's adaptive capacity determinants are identified and then examined through explorative and qualitative research based on data gathered from interviews with experts from the Polish healthcare system. We conclude that research on the adaptability of the healthcare system remains in its early stages, and the most significant healthcare determinants of adaptive capacity for the fourth industrial revolution are human capital, financial resources, and legal regulations. We also note a lack of long-term vision for the healthcare system in Poland, which can hinder the implementation of advanced health technologies. The article ends with recommendations for future research directions.

Original languageEnglish
Article number102602
JournalFutures
Volume122
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Adaptive capacity
  • Change in healthcare system
  • Fourth industrial revolution
  • Health 4.0
  • Healthcare system

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