Performance measurement for the strategic management of health-care estates. Issue 2 (8th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rodríguez-Labajos, Laura; Thomson, Craig; O'Brien, Geraldine
• Is Part Of: Journal of facilities management. Volume 16:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 217
• Page End: 232
• Publication Date: 2018-05-08
• Subjects: Performance measurement -- Decision-making -- Healthcare -- Strategic management -- Estates and facilities management -- National Health Services; Facility management -- Periodicals; 658.2005
• DOI: 10.1108/JFM-10-2017-0052
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1472-5967

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the role of performance measurement in current practices for strategic management of health-care estates. Design/methodology/approach: The research adopts a constructivist grounded theory approach, combining different methodologies of a pan-European qualitative questionnaire, interviews with international health-care providers and a case study of National Health Services (NHS) Scotland. Here, documentation analysis, observations and in-depth interviews involving NHS stakeholders were undertaken. Findings: The analysis shows evidence that measuring estate performance has limited value for individual NHS boards regarding strategic decisions related to long-term planning and investment. This was due to design issues and the prioritisation of clinical delivery, which contribute to the neglect of the estate as a consideration in long-term strategic planning. This misalignment results in a tool which is valuable for accountability but which is less helpful to NHS boards in shaping future decisions around the estate. Practical implications: Responding to a gap in understanding of the application of performance measurement in the context of health-care estates, this research provides three recommendations to promote a more effective and relevant performance measurement system. These actively recognise the importance of the estate within strategic decision-making as helping to inform the long-term planning and management of the estate within the individual NHS boards. Originality/value: This paper shows the current role of performance measurement for the strategic management of health-care estates and identifies issues related to its applicability and value.