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Managerial objectives in the NHS.
1Cardiff Business School, Wales.
Journal of Management in Medicine
|December 9, 1994
Summary
National Health Service (NHS) managers prioritize patient service over financial targets. A survey revealed that patient care remains the primary objective, with financial considerations ranked last by managers.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Health Services Research
- Public Administration
Background:
- The National Health Service (NHS) faces increasing pressure to integrate financial considerations into managerial objectives.
- There is ongoing debate regarding whether managerial focus should be on financial targets or patient service delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the perceived priorities of NHS managers concerning patient service versus financial objectives.
- To understand how financial criteria are influencing managerial decision-making within the NHS.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was administered to all managers in provider units across two District Health Authorities.
- Managers were asked to rank five statements reflecting different managerial objectives based on their agreement.
Main Results:
- The study found a strong consensus among managers that patient service is the top priority.
- Financial aspects were consistently ranked last by respondents, irrespective of NHS Trust status or staff category.
Conclusions:
- Despite the growing influence of financial criteria, NHS managers overwhelmingly prioritize patient service.
- Managerial mission in the NHS remains centered on patient care, not solely on financial targets.