Data and technology in balance

Human-centered innovation at AZ Groeninge

AZ Groeninge in Kortrijk integrates data analysis and technology to enhance patient care and reduce the workload for healthcare professionals. The hospital transforms data into action, demonstrating that innovation in healthcare processes and personalized care go hand in hand. Particularly in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), this approach results in fewer stimuli, greater focus, and improved care quality. How does AZ Groeninge leverage data to achieve these advancements? What makes their approach so effective? And what can other hospitals learn from their experience?

Louis Van Slambrouck, Care Manager and Charlotte Van den Storme, Head of Intensive Care, provide insight into their methodology.

Silent Rooms: calm for better care

For years, the ICU was filled with continuous alarms. The constant noise stimuli disrupted caregivers’ focus and hindered patients’ recovery. AZ Groeninge changed this with Silent Rooms, an innovative approach driven by data. Where alarms once dominated, there is now peace and quiet.

“Hearing alarm sounds continuously is extremely stressful for patients,” says Charlotte Van den Storme, Head of Intensive Care. “It affects their sleep, which in turn impacts their healing process. For staff, the risk of overload due to environmental noise was also significant.”

Thanks to the Medical Device Data Gateway (MDDG), the team analyzed all recorded alarm data from connected medical devices over a year. Using the itemedical alarm coach, they evaluated each alarm based on frequency, duration, and necessity. These insights led to key improvements, such as implementing delays for non-critical alerts. Now, only critical alarms reach the right caregiver directly, improving patient safety. The result? A reduction from two alarms per minute to just two per hour per patient.

Smarter staffing through data analysis

AZ Groeninge leverages data to optimize nurse staffing by analyzing the patient-nurse ratio. This ratio represents the number of patients per nurse. While the average ratio in Flemish hospital wards is often 9.4, AZ Groeninge has been working with an average of 8 patients per nurse over a 24-hour period since 2022. To keep workload and care intensity manageable, they combine this data with direct team dialogue. This approach allows them to respond flexibly and realistically to the department’s needs. “Thanks to data analysis, we can better prepare our team for peak moments,” says Louis Van Slambrouck, Care Manager. “This not only increases efficiency but also improves care quality.”

Additionally, AZ Groeninge uses Mediscore ICU to analyze intensive care unit (ICU) data and identify trends.

MetaVision: the digital nerve center

At AZ Groeninge, MetaVision, the Patient Data Management System (PDMS), plays a key role in data-driven healthcare. This advanced system integrates real-time vital patient data, laboratory results, and medication information into one clear overview. MetaVision helps healthcare professionals make quick, well-informed decisions, enhancing overall efficiency. Charlotte Van den Storme: “MetaVision provides a complete overview of patient parameters, supporting fast and well-considered decisions. Deviations are automatically flagged, allowing us to intervene more quickly.” By making patient information clear and instantly accessible, MetaVision strengthens patient safety and supports care teams in their daily work. Additionally, it contributes to scientific research and process optimization.

Multidisciplinary collaboration: the key to success

Data-driven healthcare requires collaboration between healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and external partners. AZ Groeninge involves all disciplines in the implementation of technological solutions, such as alarm management and MetaVision. This approach ensures broad support and facilitates a smooth transition to new workflows. Regular updates and clear communication are essential for optimal system performance. Louis Van Slambrouck: “It is crucial to involve everyone from the start. When implementing the alarm management system, nurses had to adjust to a quieter environment and learn to rely on visual signals rather than auditory ones.”

Data-driven healthcare with impact

By integrating advanced technologies with a human-centered approach, AZ Groeninge is setting a new standard in data-driven healthcare, where efficiency and personal attention go hand in hand. Louis Van Slambrouck adds: “Technology supports our care, but the patient remains at the centre—that is what sets us apart.”