Health management risks in developing countries: Case of a sterilization unit in a Moroccan public hospital

Background

The sterilization of instruments is a critical process to perform the activity in the operating rooms and ensure the safety of patients. The best approach to improve the performance of the sterilization is the risk management. Nevertheless, improving the performance in sterilization units in developing countries presents a real challenge.

Purpose

Designing an effective risk management project in health sector, specifically in sterilization units, adaptable to the context of developing countries (DC).

Methods

This study uses Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to manage risks in healthcare in DC. Modifications to the implementation of the recommended tool mode. A case study of the sterilization unit of a tertiary Moroccan national reference university hospital was conducted to verify the effectiveness of the model.

Findings

The present study demonstrated that the proposed model is adaptable to the DC context. This model was implemented with minimal resources and was highly efficient.

Conclusions

The increase of risks in healthcare is a challenge for managers in DC. This study highlights the first successful experience of risk management in Moroccan healthcare sector.