Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Leading Digital Transformation Change in Healthcare
Course Code
VVDG_044
Branch of Science
Economics and Business; Other Sub-Branches of Economics and Business
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Health Management
LQF
Level 7
Study Type And Form
Full-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Ieva Kalve
Structure Unit Manager
Daiga Behmane
Structural Unit
Health Management Teaching Group
Contacts
Dzirciema street 16, Rīga
About Study Course
Objective
The course aims to develop students’ capabilities to lead digital transformation change in healthcare by applying strategic thinking, change management principles, and an understanding of technological opportunities and risks. Participants will gain skills to assess digital maturity, identify the need for change, set a transformation vision, select appropriate technologies, and develop an implementation plan considering human-centered, cultural, and collaborative aspects.
Preliminary Knowledge
Digital literacy – foundational understanding of digital tools and platforms. Basic understanding of healthcare systems – structure and challenges of health systems.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Will know the basic concepts of digital transformation and be able to apply them to healthcare.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Landscape Analysis • Digital Transformation Strategy Project
2.Will be familiar with strategic planning and vision building for digital change in health organisations.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Strategy Project • Technology Selection Case Study
3.Will know the principles of change management and governance in transforming healthcare.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Landscape Analysis • Essay on Leadership and Change Issues in the Digital Transformation of Health • Digital Transformation Strategy Project
Skills
1.Analyze healthcare challenges and define digital transformation goals.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Strategy Project • Digital Transformation Landscape Analysis
2.Apply change management models in planning and implementation.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Strategy Project • Essay on Leadership and Change Issues in the Digital Transformation of Health
3.Assess and select methods, approaches and technologies appropriate to healthcare needs.
Individual work and tests
Technology Selection Case Study • Digital Transformation Strategy Project
Competences
1.Lead digital transformation projects in complex healthcare environments.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Landscape Analysis • Digital Transformation Strategy Project
2.Foster collaboration across stakeholders and promote an innovation culture.
Individual work and tests
Digital Transformation Strategy Project • Essay on Leadership and Change Issues in the Digital Transformation of Health
3.Integrate strategic, operational and human centred aspects into the implementation of digital transformation-related changes in the healthcare sector or in a specific organisation.
Individual work and tests
Technology Selection Case Study • Digital Transformation Strategy Project
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Digital Transformation Landscape Analysis |
20.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
(1000–1200 words) Individually research and describe one example of a successful digital transformation in healthcare (national or institutional level). Address the strategic drivers, technologies used, leadership approaches, and impact. Purpose: Strengthen understanding of digital transformation concepts. Develop skills in analyzing real-world transformation initiatives. Practice identifying success factors and potential risks. |
||
|
2.
Technology Selection Case Study |
20.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
10-minute presentation. Using a real or fictional healthcare organization with a defined problem (e.g., high readmission rates), recommend a digital technology solution. Justify your choice based on strategic alignment, stakeholder needs, and readiness for change. Purpose: Develop evaluation and decision-making skills. Apply knowledge of enabling technologies and strategic alignment. |
||
|
3.
Essay on Leadership and Change Issues in the Digital Transformation of Health |
20.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
(800–1000 words) Reflect on your personal change leadership potential in the context of digital health transformation. How would you manage resistance, foster innovation, and promote collaboration in a multi-stakeholder setting? Purpose: Connect theoretical frameworks to personal experience. Promote leadership self-awareness and mindset growth. |
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Digital Transformation Strategy Project |
40.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Description
This topic explores what digital transformation means in the healthcare context, including global trends, challenges, and opportunities. It builds foundational understanding and sets the stage for informed and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving sector. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Description
This topic explores what digital transformation means in the healthcare context, including global trends, challenges, and opportunities. It builds foundational understanding and sets the stage for informed and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving sector. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Setting the Vision and Goals for Transformation
Description
Students learn how to define meaningful goals for transformation and align them with the needs of the healthcare organization and patients. Clear goals and vision are critical to successful change – without direction, digital initiatives can fail or lose focus. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Setting the Vision and Goals for Transformation
Description
Students learn how to define meaningful goals for transformation and align them with the needs of the healthcare organization and patients. Clear goals and vision are critical to successful change – without direction, digital initiatives can fail or lose focus. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Governance and Decision-Making Structures
Description
Focuses on the leadership, accountability, data ethics, and governance models needed to steer digital transformation effectively. Good governance ensures transparency, strategic alignment, and trust in digital innovation. |
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
E-Studies platform
|
14
|
Topics
|
Governance and Decision-Making Structures
Description
Focuses on the leadership, accountability, data ethics, and governance models needed to steer digital transformation effectively. Good governance ensures transparency, strategic alignment, and trust in digital innovation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Management of changes related to digital transformation
Description
Presents structured methods for managing organisational changes related to digital transformation in the healthcare sector, preventing resistance and involving stakeholders. Technology alone does not drive change - it is what people do; it is essential to manage the human side of transformation. |
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
E-Studies platform
|
14
|
Topics
|
Management of changes related to digital transformation
Description
Presents structured methods for managing organisational changes related to digital transformation in the healthcare sector, preventing resistance and involving stakeholders. Technology alone does not drive change - it is what people do; it is essential to manage the human side of transformation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Digital Culture and Mindset Shift
Description
Explores how organizational culture must evolve toward agility, learning, and innovation to support digital change. Without a supportive culture, even well-planned digital initiatives may be resisted or underused. |
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
E-Studies platform
|
14
|
Topics
|
Digital Culture and Mindset Shift
Description
Explores how organizational culture must evolve toward agility, learning, and innovation to support digital change. Without a supportive culture, even well-planned digital initiatives may be resisted or underused. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Risk Assessment and Management
Description
Teaches how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks related to digital health solutions, including data privacy and system reliability. Healthcare is a high-risk domain - leaders must be proactive in managing digital risks to protect patients and systems. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Risk Assessment and Management
Description
Teaches how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks related to digital health solutions, including data privacy and system reliability. Healthcare is a high-risk domain - leaders must be proactive in managing digital risks to protect patients and systems. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strategic management of digital transformation projects and ecosystems
Description
Information on the digital transformation of project-based healthcare organisations and the role of management in coordinating between stakeholders and systems using the project canvas method and integrating traditional and agile project management into a hybrid form. Digital transformation rarely takes place in isolation - leaders need to understand how to align different actors and modern project management techniques in a complex ecosystem. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strategic management of digital transformation projects and ecosystems
Description
Information on the digital transformation of project-based healthcare organisations and the role of management in coordinating between stakeholders and systems using the project canvas method and integrating traditional and agile project management into a hybrid form. Digital transformation rarely takes place in isolation - leaders need to understand how to align different actors and modern project management techniques in a complex ecosystem. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Building Partnerships and Ecosystems
Description
Focus on the joint development of digital transformation projects or their elements and cooperation between healthcare providers, technology companies, academia, and patients. Effective partnerships contribute to the innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact of digital health initiatives. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Building Partnerships and Ecosystems
Description
Focus on the joint development of digital transformation projects or their elements and cooperation between healthcare providers, technology companies, academia, and patients. Effective partnerships contribute to the innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact of digital health initiatives. |
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
E-Studies platform
|
14
|
Topics
|
Introduction to Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Description
This topic explores what digital transformation means in the healthcare context, including global trends, challenges, and opportunities. It builds foundational understanding and sets the stage for informed and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving sector. |
|
Setting the Vision and Goals for Transformation
Description
Students learn how to define meaningful goals for transformation and align them with the needs of the healthcare organization and patients. Clear goals and vision are critical to successful change – without direction, digital initiatives can fail or lose focus. |
|
Governance and Decision-Making Structures
Description
Focuses on the leadership, accountability, data ethics, and governance models needed to steer digital transformation effectively. Good governance ensures transparency, strategic alignment, and trust in digital innovation. |
|
Management of changes related to digital transformation
Description
Presents structured methods for managing organisational changes related to digital transformation in the healthcare sector, preventing resistance and involving stakeholders. Technology alone does not drive change - it is what people do; it is essential to manage the human side of transformation. |
|
Digital Culture and Mindset Shift
Description
Explores how organizational culture must evolve toward agility, learning, and innovation to support digital change. Without a supportive culture, even well-planned digital initiatives may be resisted or underused. |
|
Risk Assessment and Management
Description
Teaches how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks related to digital health solutions, including data privacy and system reliability. Healthcare is a high-risk domain - leaders must be proactive in managing digital risks to protect patients and systems. |
|
Strategic management of digital transformation projects and ecosystems
Description
Information on the digital transformation of project-based healthcare organisations and the role of management in coordinating between stakeholders and systems using the project canvas method and integrating traditional and agile project management into a hybrid form. Digital transformation rarely takes place in isolation - leaders need to understand how to align different actors and modern project management techniques in a complex ecosystem. |
|
Building Partnerships and Ecosystems
Description
Focus on the joint development of digital transformation projects or their elements and cooperation between healthcare providers, technology companies, academia, and patients. Effective partnerships contribute to the innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact of digital health initiatives. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strategic management of digital transformation projects and ecosystems
Description
Information on the digital transformation of project-based healthcare organisations and the role of management in coordinating between stakeholders and systems using the project canvas method and integrating traditional and agile project management into a hybrid form. Digital transformation rarely takes place in isolation - leaders need to understand how to align different actors and modern project management techniques in a complex ecosystem. |
-
Test
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Description
This topic explores what digital transformation means in the healthcare context, including global trends, challenges, and opportunities. It builds foundational understanding and sets the stage for informed and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving sector. |
|
Setting the Vision and Goals for Transformation
Description
Students learn how to define meaningful goals for transformation and align them with the needs of the healthcare organization and patients. Clear goals and vision are critical to successful change – without direction, digital initiatives can fail or lose focus. |
|
Governance and Decision-Making Structures
Description
Focuses on the leadership, accountability, data ethics, and governance models needed to steer digital transformation effectively. Good governance ensures transparency, strategic alignment, and trust in digital innovation. |
|
Management of changes related to digital transformation
Description
Presents structured methods for managing organisational changes related to digital transformation in the healthcare sector, preventing resistance and involving stakeholders. Technology alone does not drive change - it is what people do; it is essential to manage the human side of transformation. |
|
Digital Culture and Mindset Shift
Description
Explores how organizational culture must evolve toward agility, learning, and innovation to support digital change. Without a supportive culture, even well-planned digital initiatives may be resisted or underused. |
|
Risk Assessment and Management
Description
Teaches how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks related to digital health solutions, including data privacy and system reliability. Healthcare is a high-risk domain - leaders must be proactive in managing digital risks to protect patients and systems. |
|
Strategic management of digital transformation projects and ecosystems
Description
Information on the digital transformation of project-based healthcare organisations and the role of management in coordinating between stakeholders and systems using the project canvas method and integrating traditional and agile project management into a hybrid form. Digital transformation rarely takes place in isolation - leaders need to understand how to align different actors and modern project management techniques in a complex ecosystem. |
|
Building Partnerships and Ecosystems
Description
Focus on the joint development of digital transformation projects or their elements and cooperation between healthcare providers, technology companies, academia, and patients. Effective partnerships contribute to the innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact of digital health initiatives. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
28 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Constantinides, P. (2023). Digital Transformation in Healthcare: An Ecosystem Approach. RoutledgeSuitable for English stream
2.
Chowthi-Williams, A., & Davis, G. (2021). Successful Change Management in Health Care: Being Emotionally and Cognitively Ready. RoutledgeSuitable for English stream
3.
Nieto-Rodriguez, A. (2019). The Project Revolution: How to Succeed in a Project Driven World. LID PublishingSuitable for English stream
4.
Nieto-Rodriguez, A. (2021). The Project Canvas: The Simplest Tool for Managing Change. Thinkers50Suitable for English stream
Additional Reading
1.
World Health Organization. (2021). Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025. Geneva: WHOSuitable for English stream
2.
European Commission. (2023). European Health Data Space. BrusselsSuitable for English stream
3.
Marx, E. W., & Padmanabhan, P. (2020). Healthcare Digital Transformation: How Consumerism, Technology and Pandemic are Accelerating the Future. RoutledgeSuitable for English stream
4.
McKinsey. A vision for medical affairs 2030: Five priorities for patient impact. October 11 (2023) | ArticleSuitable for English stream
5.
McKinsey Quarterly. Why digital strategies fail. January 25 (2018) | ArticleSuitable for English stream
6.
McKinsey. Digital transformation: Health systems’ investment priorities. June 7 (2024) | ArticleSuitable for English stream
Other Information Sources
1.
McKinsey. Scaling national e-health: Best practices from around the world. June 3 (2024) | ArticleSuitable for English stream
2.
McKinsey & Company. (2024). What is Digital Transformation?Suitable for English stream
3.
Ross, J. W. (n.d.). Organizational Design for Digital Transformation [Video lecture]. MIT Sloan School of ManagementSuitable for English stream
4.
CloudNow Technologies. (2023). Digital Transformation: A Cultural ShiftSuitable for English stream
5.
AIMultiple. (2023). Digital Transformation and Culture: Statistics and InsightsSuitable for English stream