Ethical challenges in healthcare innovation: A leadership perspective

Innovation is essential for advancing and sustaining healthcare systems, particularly in hospitals. While innovation offers solutions to challenges such as chronic disease management, access to care, and patient safety, it also introduces significant ethical dilemmas for health leaders. This column explores the broad ethical issues associated with healthcare innovation, focusing on resource allocation, support for diverse healthcare professions, equitable access to care, and the emphasis on technology-based innovations. It highlights the complexities of funding innovation through government, private sector, universities, donors, and the unpaid work of healthcare providers. The column also addresses the disparities in innovation support across different professions and the potential for innovation to exacerbate healthcare inequities. Potential solutions are proposed, including the establishment of interdisciplinary councils, dedicated innovation funds, and public-private partnerships. By prioritizing ethical leadership and balanced innovation strategies, health leaders can ensure that advancements benefit all stakeholders, fostering a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system in Canada.