Innovation is a critical driver of progress in healthcare, leading to enhanced patient care, operational efficiency, and overall system improvement. However, workforce-driven innovation often faces significant barriers, limiting its adoption and effectiveness. This study explores key obstacles that healthcare professionals encounter when attempting to implement innovative solutions, drawing insights from real-world experiences and existing literature. Identified barriers include institutional resistance to change, regulatory and policy constraints, resource limitations, hierarchical decision-making structures, and insufficient training in innovation methodologies. Additionally, cultural factors such as fear of failure and a lack of incentives further impede innovation at the workforce level. Through an analysis of healthcare institutions and workforce engagement, this study highlights the necessity of fostering a culture that supports innovation. Strategies to overcome these challenges include leadership-driven initiatives, interdisciplinary collaboration, structured innovation training, and policy reforms that encourage experimentation. Addressing these barriers can empower healthcare professionals to contribute actively to the transformation of healthcare delivery, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and system efficiency.

Alaa Ibrahim Al-Saleem is a distinguished nursing leader and researcher with over 14 years of experience in advanced clinical practice, healthcare innovation, and workforce development. As a Senior Registered Nurse at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC), Alaa has played a pivotal role in optimizing patient care, particularly in organ transplantation, and evidence-based practice. Holding a Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Education from King Saud University. Beyond clinical excellence, Alaa is a sought-after speaker and educator, delivering lectures on patient safety, healthcare innovation, and evidence-based practice. Her contributions extend to policy development, strategic planning, and workforce training, ensuring a sustainable model for innovation adoption within healthcare institutions. With a vision to bridge the gap between frontline healthcare professionals and systemic innovation, Alaa continues to drive transformative change in the industry.