Haaglanden Medisch Centrum delivers on its digital strategy
As part of its strategic programme Ready for the Future, Haaglanden Medisch Centrum (HMC) began developing a digital strategy in 2020. Since then, major steps have been taken, including the implementation of a new electronic patient record (EPR) and a central medical imaging archive. The strategy is now embedded in HMC’s 2030 ambition: providing appropriate care, with compassion and courage.
The digital strategy is built on threepillars: making care more patient-centred, strengtheningcollaborationacrossthe care network, andoptimising operations. The foundation forthis lies in reliableIT platforms, withthe EPR and Central Medical Imaging Archive (CMIA) at thecore.
Digital first
Both the CMIA and the new EPR have been rolled out across all specialties and locations at HMC. This involved configuring and testing 21 medical specialties and numerous system integrations, enabling the entire care chain to collaborate digitally.
The guiding principle was digital first: processes were designed and streamlined to be as digital as possible. The implementation of HiX standard content played a key role—not as an end in itself, but as a catalyst for improving workflows and increasing organisational agility.
“Patient flow has improved and administrative burdens have decreased”
Change management and technological expertise
Technological expertise
Connectingdepartments more effectivelyrequires insight into care processes and change management, supported by technological expertise. HMC thereforepartnered with two organisations: Conclusion (D&A Conclusion and Furore Conclusion carried out the project), for itsexpertise in EPR implementations and HiXspecialists, and Allegro Medical, for itsbroadprocess experience.
The new EPR
During the EPR implementation, the focus was on designing new workflows, forming scrum teams and configuringnumerous modules—including new applications for functionaldiagnostics, dialysis and radiotherapy. Integrations with medical equipment werealsoestablished.
“Process improvement and system configuration went hand in hand”
Working with
Agile principles
Each workflow was led by a product manager and a business owner from HMC, ensuring strong ownership within the organisation. Consultants from Conclusion and Allegro Medical supported the teams with methodology, best practices and guidance. Agile principles were applied throughout: short feedback loops, rapid decision-making and continuous optimisation.
This approach enabled immediate testing and adjustment of processes, ensuring that system configuration and process improvement progressed in tandem. Collaboration with ChipSoft, the HiX supplier, aligned seamlessly with this method.
Train-the-trainer
To train staff, HMC adopted a train-the-trainer model. Key users fromeachspecialtyweretrainedandpassed on theirknowledge, allowingthousands of colleaguestoquicklybecomefamiliarwiththe new system.
“The EPR is now fully utilised across all specialties”
Results and impact
The implementation of HiX standard content has delivered tangible improvements. The EPR is now fully utilised: everything that can be done within HiX is actually done within HiX.
Greater clarity HiX provides a complete picture of the patient’s status, enabling faster and better-informed decision-making by specialists.
Improved collaboration Departments work more closely together, and patient flow has improved.
Efficient processes Administrative burdens have decreased, and paper-based processes are gradually being phased out.
Consistent working methods By integrating processes, systems and training across locations, a uniform approach to using the EPR and CMIA is ensured.
Optimal support After go-live, Conclusion provided post-implementation support and optimisation, helping the system stabilise quickly and reach full potential.
This implementation marks a major milestone. HMC can now build on the experience and insights gained to realise its Ready for the Future ambitions. It aligns well with the strategic direction for 2025–2030, which centres on collaboration, flexibility and digital innovation.
Care Partner Haaglanden MC
Haaglanden Medisch Centrum (HMC) is a top clinical teaching hospital in the Haaglanden region, operating across three sites: Antoniushove, Bronovo and Westeinde. With nearly 4,500 staff, around 500 volunteers and approximately 540 beds, HMC provides both general and specialised care. It also delivers supraregional services through its Trauma Centre, Neurology Centre and Cancer Centre.
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