Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Business Administration

Advisor

Kenneth D. Gossett

Abstract

In comparison to the European healthcare system, the U.S. healthcare system has lower quality care, higher costs, and covers a smaller percentage of the population. Despite the high costs, the U.S. healthcare system remains dysfunctional. The purpose of this exploratory single case study was to identify the strategies that some healthcare managers in a hospital setting in the midwestern region of the United States use to improve efficiency while decreasing healthcare costs. Complex adaptive systems theory was used to frame this study that included face-to-face interviews with 6 highly experienced healthcare managers. Data were collected from audio recorded interviews and publicly available documents, and the audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed using deductive and open coding techniques to identify themes regarding strategies used by managers to find effective ways for improvement. Three strategies emerged as themes, including improving the accuracy of information and reports, implementing precise and accurate information, and improving quality. The findings of this study may directly benefit healthcare managers and compel positive social change by facilitating successful strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The successful strategies identified in the study might provide a new direction to healthcare managers attempting to adopt new methods. The findings may also contribute to social change by providing solutions that may improve overall organizational performance in a hospital setting.

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