Alpha testing-or internal testing-of the self-assessment tool is expected to begin this month. Then beta testing would begin in mid-October, with a goal of having the tool go "live" for broader use by AAMI members and others by the end of the year.

For years, self-assessment has posed a challenge in the clinical engineering field, in part because responsibilities and data vary significantly from one facility to the next. As a result, it has been difficult to develop benchmarks to measure the value of technology management or departmental and employee performance. Nonetheless, hospitals and the clinical engineering community have constantly sought information to assist them in assessing a variety of internal practices.


"We have long recognized the need for comparative data that would allow departments to measure themselves against other departments and to identify and share best practices," says Laxton. "The fact is, there are often various successful ways to address the issues we all face. Having an objective set of data available will allow users of the program the ability to identify the approach to those issues that is best for their own organizations."

Founded in 1967, AAMI is the world's leading organization dedicated to advancing the safe and effective development and use of medical technology. AAMI's annual conference attracts healthcare professionals from hospitals, universities, consulting firms, independent service organizations, and manufacturing companies around the world.

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