Mohamad Ali Hamandi*
Background: In Lebanon, most hospitalization services are provided by the private sector. Private hospitals are represented by a Syndicate. This Syndicate of Private Hospitals in Lebanon did never have a strategic direction. Previous research indicates that a well-executed strategic plan focuses on healthcare quality of care and productivity. The Syndicate aims at improving the 3C’s (communication-coordination-collaboration) of SEAM. The strategic plan is used a forward thinking process to strengthen the position of hospitals vis-à-vis internal and external stakeholders.
Methodology: A SEAM (Socio-Economic Approach to Management) diagnosis identifies dysfunctions in 3 C’s (communication-coordination-collaboration). The diagnosis revealed that strategic orientation is number one priority dysfunction in the private hospitalization sector. The Syndicate of Private Hospitals board members conducted several meetings to come out with a strategic plan. Primo-F was used to assess Internal Strengths and Weaknesses. Pestle was used to assess the external environment: Opportunities and threats. Then, a SWOT analysis was derived from the Primo-F and Pestle assessment. Vision, mission and values were reviewed. Strategic goals were developed. Key Performance Indicators were identified in order to monitor advancement and realization of goals.
Results: Six out of ten goals attained their set targets. Developing new legislations, strengthening bond between Syndicate and developing human potential were more than 97% achieved. Enhancing health tourism and setting public policies were difficult to reach due to the political situation in the country. Two indicators did not reach their due dates for measurement yet.
Conclusion: The strategic plan has changed the position of the Syndicate of Hospitals from a reactive to a proactive state. The strategic plan was set on a solid internal and external assessment. The results were enhanced cooperation between hospitals, advancement of the hospitalization sector and a major contribution to the health sector in Lebanon.
Published Date: 2022-09-01; Received Date: 2020-10-29
