Time to Reflect and Plan Ahead
It has been almost two weeks since the 2025 Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference, hosted by ASHE in Columbus, Ohio, and we are eager to share some reflections. The 2,500+ attendees were highly engaged, and the exhibit hall was teeming with activity. Expert speakers imparted wisdom on how to eliminate distractions, focus on what matters, and build processes to achieve excellence. It was a marvelous conference all around.
Exploring Actionable AI in FM Operations
Facility professionals are eager to understand how to implement AI and apply it daily at work. Various solutions were presented, including both hardware and software products, that aim at increasing operational efficiency and providing a productivity boost at this very challenging time when infrastructure is aging and talent is limited. Software-only platforms that readily integrate with existing systems and enhance daily support to FM teams, while preserving existing workflows, received the most reception.
Supporting Short-Staffed and Non-Expert Technicians
Questions about how to support short-staffed FM teams and uplevel inexperienced technicians are a key concern. Some recommend more planners and schedulers, while other professionals worry about hiring new technicians with no hospital experience. As hospitals and vendors wrestle with these questions, there is an opportunity for novel approaches and technologies, including AI, to help during this journey.
Adapting to the New Joint Commission Standards
Joint Commission released Accreditation 360 (the new accreditation process) on July 1, 2025. Over 700 standards were removed and combined with existing standards to streamline the overall process. Many compliance managers are working to understand the changes and few are at the stage of developing a plan for how to comply with them considering the looming deadline in January 2026. This presents yet another opportunity for AI to assist, making this an exciting space to watch over the next couple of months.
Embracing the Digital Twin Maturity Model in Healthcare
Digital twin technologies have been adopted for many years now in regulated industries such as defense, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, etc. They serve as a bridge between operations and construction, providing a seamless connection that enhances efficiency and collaboration. Digital twins offer unique value propositions in healthcare, which are still being defined, and help in optimizing operations by providing accurate and accessible data.
The Digital Twin Maturity Model provides a structured approach for healthcare organizations to start developing and implementing digital twins. Starting at the initial stage is perfectly acceptable today, as it sets the groundwork for progressing to the advanced stages of adopting what we now refer to as a ‘Prescriptive Digital Twin.’ By starting on this journey, organizations position themselves to achieve the ultimate goal of a fully integrated asset data foundation and predictive and/or prescriptive maintenance.
Looking Ahead
Thank you to ASHE for hosting a wonderful week of learning and idea exchange. We look forward to seeing everyone in Minneapolis next August. Embrace the future with AI and digital twins to drive significant improvements in efficiency, collaboration, and innovation. Let’s build a smarter, more connected world together!
Ready to embrace the future trends in healthcare FM?
Contact us today to discuss more your organizational needs and goals.