Identifying and modeling barriers to design thinking implementation in healthcare sector: an ISM-MICMAC approach

Purpose This study aims to identify critical barriers to design thinking (DT) implementation in healthcare and to determine hierarchical relationships among the barriers. Design/methodology/approach Through an extensive literature review and healthcare experts' opinions, 13 barriers to DT implementation in healthcare were identified. Data were collected using survey questionnaires, and an interpretive structural modeling (ISM) -MICMAC analysis was employed to produce a hierarchical model of identified barriers. Findings Results reveal the absence of standalone barriers, highlighting “Lack of Organizational autonomy” and “Lack of innovation mindset” as crucial barriers at the bottom of the hierarchy. Overcoming these barriers requires a shift in organizational mindset, dedicated resources, interdisciplinary collaborations, and aligning DT with healthcare regulations. Practical implications The findings aid policymakers in recognizing interconnected barriers, enabling DT implementation through strategic mitigation. Healthcare leaders and stakeholders can use this insight to formulate effective strategies for addressing these barriers. Originality/value This research presents a distinct investigation of identifying the barriers to DT implementation in the healthcare sector in India. DT’s seamless implementation in hospitals encounters diverse barriers, hindering its full potential. This research contributes to the extant literature by providing the interrelationship between the barriers and a hierarchical model for a clear understanding of the levels of barriers.