ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the potential role for an intermediate tier in diffusing innovations and finishes with a discussion of themes and ideas. It focuses on the phrase 'the diffusion of innovations' is used inclusively to incorporate the diffusion of newly developed and tested products and technologies; newly trialled drugs, materials and techniques in health care and also new practices, services or care pathways. The chapter argues for a redirection of attention and resources towards facilitating the diffusion of the numerous innovations which are produced from within the broader health care system. It explores innovation diffusion and application and concluded with a proposed focus on resource-based view (RBV) of the firm, as potentially useful in health care. The RBV focuses on effective management of knowledge to promote innovation and competitive advantage and increase a firm's ability to respond to threats in the external environment.
