In 2018, Houston Methodist launched its center for innovation, which has since achieved monumental growth and proved itself to be a critical part of the hospital. The innovation efforts were essential in helping Houston through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the system quickly establish telemedicine options and a virtual ICU. The innovation center also has a 3,500-square-foot technology hub. During the pandemic, the hub shifted to serve as a training site for clinicians to get up-to-speed on telemedicine. Just over a year ago, the system also launched a virtual nursing program to address staffing challenges and burnout. The system has one of the largest virtual nursing programs in the country, servicing over 1,150 beds, 45 inpatient units and seven acute care hospitals. Houston Methodist is also on the forefront of leveraging artificial intelligence, partnering with technology partner HDAI to create a risk profile for every patient that is current and timely. The system is also building its ninth hospital in the area, which is scheduled to open in 2025 and pilot new technologies from day one.
