At HARTMANN, we take our responsibility for sustainability seriously.
Our sustainability strategy aims to closely link environmental and social considerations with economic performance and responsible corporate governance. To that end, we focus on how innovative business models not only enable economic success but create measurable value for the planet and society.
As part of a master’s thesis, HARTMANN is investigating the opportunities and challenges of social intrapreneurship in healthcare. The study investigates the potential of introducing a digital infection prevention solution for hospitals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with a focus on Africa.
The research project is being conducted by Roelof Berg from HARTMANN’s Digital Hygiene Solutions division under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Bernhard H. Vollmar from the Private University of Applied Sciences Göttingen. It focuses on HARTMANN Observe, a successful hand hygiene app and digital platform currently used in the EU, and its potential for African hospitals. Observe can be used to record and statistically evaluate the hygiene behavior of hospital staff in random samples. It helps to improve hand hygiene by identifying weak points and providing convincing visualization to hospital staff. It thereby contributes to the sustainable reduction of nosocomial infections and improved patient safety. According to the WHO, around 15% of hospitalized patients in LMICs acquire at least one nosocomial infection. Mortality varies depending on the syndrome. For example, around 24% of those affected die from sepsis acquired in hospital, with even higher fatality rates in intensive care units and infections with resistant pathogens.1
The methodological approach comprises three key components:
The master’s thesis basically summarizes different perspectives and analyzes various recommended actions. While it does not imply an obligation to implement any recommendation, it provides important insights for strategic planning and future digital innovations at HARTMANN.
In addition to its scientific significance, this project promotes active collaboration between academia, society and the business world, while sending a strong message for responsible innovation in healthcare.
With this initiative, HARTMANN demonstrates how social intrapreneurship can be used as a strategic tool for addressing social challenges while promoting sustainable growth – in line with responsible corporate governance.
HARTMANN. Advancing healthcare responsibly.
