Title: Value and main opportunities in hospital operations management

Authors: Thiago A. Souza; Erik T. Lopes; Rui M. Lima

Addresses: Algoritmi Research Centre/LASI, Department of Production and Systems, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal ' Algoritmi Research Centre/LASI, Department of Production and Systems, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal ' Algoritmi Research Centre/LASI, Department of Production and Systems, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal

Abstract: This paper explores the definition of value in healthcare and discusses the main challenges and opportunities in hospital operations management through semi-structured interviews. The participants included seven professionals working in hospitals and two experts with research experience on the theme. On average, they had ten years of experience in a variety of roles. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analysed by the researchers. Three main categories were identified for the perception of value in health: quality and safety; positive experience; and appropriate cost. For each of the dimensions analysed, a list of types of problems and opportunities was discussed, to obtain a qualitative diagnosis of the challenges in hospital operations management that can guide the actions of professionals in other regions and contexts. The qualitative diagnosis obtained is a toolbox that can guide other professionals dealing with health services' main challenges.

Keywords: lean healthcare; hospital operations management; value in healthcare; healthcare management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLC.2025.143558

International Journal of Learning and Change, 2025 Vol.17 No.1, pp.95 - 120

Received: 08 May 2023
Accepted: 15 Jul 2024
Published online: 30 Dec 2024 *

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