Transforming Healthcare Work Systems Through Human-Centred Ergonomic Innovation
Abstract
Healthcare work systems are becoming increasingly complex due to growing physical demands, cognitive workload, technological development, workforce pressures, and changing organisational requirements. Human centred ergonomic innovation provides an important approach for improving the interaction between healthcare professionals and the systems in which they perform their responsibilities. This article examines the role of human centred ergonomic innovation in transforming healthcare work systems by integrating physical ergonomics, cognitive work design, technology usability, workforce sustainability, and participatory organisational improvement. The analysis identifies several continuing challenges, including fragmented implementation of ergonomic practices, persistent physical and cognitive demands, misalignment between digital technologies and professional workflows, workforce burnout, and limited employee participation in workplace innovation. The discussion demonstrates that effective ergonomic transformation requires a systems perspective that considers the relationships among people, tasks, technologies, physical environments, workload, and organisational structures. Strategic recommendations emphasise integrating ergonomics into organisational planning, improving physical and cognitive work design, strengthening sustainable workload and psychosocial conditions, and establishing participatory approaches to continuous workplace improvement. Overall, human centred ergonomic innovation provides a comprehensive foundation for developing healthcare work systems that support professional wellbeing, operational effectiveness, technological adaptability, and sustainable organisational performance.
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