Managerialism and public attitudes towards UK NHS managers

Area of Science:

• Health Management
• Public Opinion Research
• Sociology of Healthcare

Background:

• Public perception of National Health Service (NHS) managers is a critical factor in healthcare system effectiveness.
• Previous studies suggest a disconnect between healthcare professionals and management.
• Understanding public attitudes towards NHS management is essential for policy and reform.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically examine public attitudes towards UK NHS managers.
• To identify potential explanations for observed public sentiments.
• To explore the role of managerial ideology (managerialism) in shaping these attitudes.

Main Methods:

• Empirical research involving surveys or qualitative interviews to gauge public opinion.
• Analysis of attitudes towards NHS managers and their perceived role.
• Exploration of the concept of managerialism within the NHS context.

Main Results:

• Findings indicate a strong lack of public sympathy for NHS managers.
• A significant divergence exists between the ideology of NHS managers and public beliefs regarding the NHS.
• Managerialism in the NHS appears to be at odds with public understanding of core NHS values.

Conclusions:

• The lack of public esteem for NHS managers may be attributed to the perceived violation of traditional NHS values by managerialism.
• Managerial ideology within the NHS may alienate the public by conflicting with deeply held beliefs about healthcare.
• Addressing the public's perception of violated core values is crucial for improving the standing of NHS managers.