ORGANIZATIONAL PLANNING AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITALS IN KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study examined the influence of organizational planning on service delivery in County referral hospitals in Kenya.
Statement of the Problem: Despite ongoing health sector reforms and devolution in Kenya, many County referral hospitals continue to experience inefficiencies characterized by long waiting times, resource misallocation and inconsistent service quality. Prior studies indicate that weak planning structures undermine public sector performance. However, limited empirical evidence exists on how organizational planning specifically influences service delivery outcomes in Kenyan county referral hospitals.
Research Methodology: The study adopted a quantitative research design targeting healthcare workers and management staff in selected County referral hospitals. A sample of 171 respondents was drawn using stratified random sampling. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from hospital reports and Ministry of Health records. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 29, employing descriptive statistics and simple linear regression analysis.
Findings: The results reveal a statistically significant positive relationship between organizational planning and service delivery (β = 0.355, p < 0.001). The model explains a meaningful proportion of variation in service delivery outcomes, indicating that hospitals with stronger planning systems demonstrate improved efficiency, coordination, and patient satisfaction.
Conclusion: The study concludes that organizational planning is a critical determinant of service delivery in County referral hospitals. Effective planning enhances resource utilization, workflow coordination, and institutional performance.
Recommendations: The study recommends that county governments and hospital administrators should strengthen strategic planning frameworks, ensure alignment of operational activities with institutional goals, and adopt data-driven decision-making systems to improve service delivery
Keywords: Organizational Planning, Service Delivery, County Referral Hospitals, Strategic Management, Healthcare Performance, Kenya.
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