HEALTH MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE AMONGST PRIVATE HOSPITALS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study examined how health management practices influence competitive advantage among Level 4 and above private hospitals in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Statement of the Problem: Private hospitals in Uasin Gishu County face significant challenges in establishing and maintaining competitive advantage in an increasingly dynamic healthcare environment. Each year, approximately 12,000 Kenyans seek medical treatment abroad due to perceived inadequacies in local healthcare quality and service delivery.
Research Methodology: The study employed a quantitative correlational survey design targeting 785 healthcare management stakeholders from twelve Level 4 and above private hospitals. Using stratified random sampling and Yamane's formula, 265 respondents were selected across organizational hierarchies. Data was collected through structured questionnaires with five-point Likert scales and analysed using SPSS through multiple linear regression models and descriptive statistics.
Findings: Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between competitive advantage and corporate governance practices (r = 0.654), technology innovation practices (r = 0.598), quality management practices (r = 0.584), and human resource management practices (r = 0.513). Multiple regression analysis showed these factors collectively account for 60.1% of competitive advantage variance (F = 85.929, p < 0.001), with corporate governance practices having the strongest individual impact (β = 0.413), followed by technology innovation (β = 0.267), quality management (β = 0.209), and human resource management (β = 0.121).
Conclusion: The study concluded that effective implementation of integrated health management practices is essential for sustainable competitive advantage in private hospitals, with corporate governance serving as the most critical foundation for competitive positioning.
Recommendations: The study recommended that private hospitals should prioritize strengthening corporate governance structures and enhancing board composition to improve accountability and strategic direction. It further recommended that investing in technological innovation, infrastructure, and continuous staff training to enhance service quality and competitiveness.
Keywords: Health Management Practices, Competitive Advantage, Private Hospitals, Corporate Governance, Technology Innovation, Uasin Gishu County
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