A complex challenge with unclear improvement: the need for involvement, contextualization and facilitation when...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Change
• Leadership Studies

Background:

• Healthcare management is complex, with span of control impacting manager demands.
• Change implementation in healthcare presents significant challenges for managers.
• Limited research exists on managers' perceptions of change implementation processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore second-line managers' perceptions of change implementation.
• To identify prerequisites for successful change implementation from a managerial perspective.
• To understand managers' experiences with implementing changes in their work conditions.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory qualitative design.
• Purposive sampling of nine second-line managers.
• Individual semi-structured interviews and grounded theory coding stages (initial, focus, axial).

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: engagement, facilitation, and achievement.
• Change implementation is perceived as a complex challenge with uncertain outcomes.
• Cohesive implementation requires involvement, contextual consideration, and facilitation.

Conclusions:

• Managerial involvement across all levels is crucial for successful change in complex organizations.
• Established prerequisites for facilitation and goal achievement are vital for planning, implementation, and follow-up.
• Effective change management necessitates a holistic approach involving all stakeholders throughout the process.