Elaborating on modular interfaces in multi-provider contexts. Issue 9 (5th September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peters, Vincent; Vähätalo, Mervi; Meijboom, Bert; Barendregt, Alice; Bok, Levinus; de Vries, Esther
• Is Part Of: International journal of operations & production management. Volume 40:Issue 9(2020)
• Page Start: 1397
• Page End: 1419
• Publication Date: 2020-09-05
• Subjects: Interfaces -- Service modularity -- Integrated patient care -- Health services; Production management -- Periodicals; Business logistics -- Periodicals; 658.5
• DOI: 10.1108/IJOPM-12-2019-0822
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-3577

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This study examines how modular interfaces manifest in multi-provider contexts and how they can improve coordination and customization of services. The aim of the study is to describe interfaces in multi-provider contexts and elaborate on how they support the delivery of integrated patient care. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative, multiple case study was conducted in two multi-provider contexts in healthcare services: one representing paediatric Down syndrome care in the Netherlands and one representing home care for the elderly in Finland. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews in both contexts. Findings: This study provides insight into several types of interfaces and their role in multi-provider contexts. Several inter- and intra-organizational situations were identified in which the delivery of integrated patient care was jeopardized. This study describes how interfaces can help to alleviate these situations. Originality/value: This study deepens the understanding of interfaces in service modularity by describing interfaces in multi-provider contexts. The multi-provider contexts studied inspired to incorporate the inter-organizational aspect into the literature on interfaces in service modularity. This study further develops the typology for interfaces in modular services by adding a third dimension to the typology, that is, the orientation of interfaces.