Change management for radiation therapists – transitioning to the new Royal Adelaide Hospital

Abstract

Abstract One of the largest change operations to take place in South Australia was the moving of the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) to its new site in 2017. Change can influence workplace effectiveness and staff satisfaction and morale. Understanding the stages of change, staff experience and carefully managing the process is important. This paper aims to describe the successful move of the radiation therapy department at the RAH to its new site, focusing on the staff experience and management strategies to ensure the success of the move. A four‐stage model of change was used to guide understand, manage and reflect upon the transition of the RAH radiation therapy department to a new site. Key change events and management strategies are described and aligned with the four stages of change. The move to the new site was a great success with a transition period working across two sites enabling a slower ramp up of activity at the new site supporting staff and patients in adjusting to the new environment. The four‐stage model of change assisted in the smooth implementation of a transition plan for radiation oncology. At the RAH, innovation and development are encouraged, along with management having a comprehensive understanding of organisational change enabling the radiation oncology department to successfully navigate rapid change.