Managing innovation activities in a public university hospital: staff perceptions

Abstract

Managing innovation activities effectively is essential for public hospitals to adapt and thrive. It involves planning, coordination and oversight while introducing and implementing new ideas, processes, products or methods. However, knowledge in this field is lacking. This qualitative case study (2018-2023) aims to contribute to the understanding of managing innovation activities in a public university hospital by examining staff perceptions at one Finnish public university hospital. The primary data comprised semi-structured interviews with staff representatives (n = 13) from various professional groups. Data were analysed using content analysis. The findings indicated three main categories for describing management of innovation activities: 1) unifies and transparently justifies innovation activities; 2) enables participation in innovation activities; 3) ensures expertise, development and maintenance of innovation activities. Various skills, with an emphasis on effective communication, considering the context's unique characteristics and being prepared to reform traditional structures are required to manage innovation activities.