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Using metaphor as a qualitative analytic approach to understand complexity in primary care research
Virginia Aita1, Helen McIlvain, Jeffrey Susman
1University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA.
Qualitative Health Research
|December 9, 2003
Summary
Metaphors reveal hidden organizational knowledge and behaviors in healthcare. Analyzing 18 cancer prevention practices showed how metaphors clarify unwritten assumptions and values influencing healthcare delivery.
Area of Science:
- Qualitative Health Research
- Organizational Behavior
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Tacit knowledge and behaviors are embedded within complex organizations.
- These elements significantly shape healthcare practices and delivery.
- Understanding these nuances is crucial for improving healthcare systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the theoretical rationale for using metaphors in qualitative health research.
- To examine the advantages of metaphor as an analytic strategy.
- To illustrate how metaphors can uncover tacit knowledge in healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- A comparative case study analyzing 18 office practices.
- Focus on strategies for delivering cancer prevention services.
- Researchers analyzed their own descriptive language for metaphors during analysis.
Main Results:
- Metaphors identified unwritten assumptions, values, and motivators.
- These factors explained variations in practice behavior.
- Metaphorical analysis provided deeper insights into organizational dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Metaphor is a valuable analytic strategy in qualitative health research.
- It effectively illuminates tacit knowledge and influences on practice.
- This approach enhances understanding of complex healthcare organizations.