The implementation of data interoperability in healthcare relies heavily on policy frameworks. However, many hospitals across South Africa are struggling to integrate data interoperability between systems, due to insufficient policy frameworks. There is a notable awareness that existing policies do not provide clear actionable direction for interoperability implementation in hospitals. This study aims to develop a policy framework for integrating data interoperability in public hospitals in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The study employed a conceptual framework grounded in institutional theory, which provided a lens to understand policies for interoperability. This study employed a convergence mixed method research design. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The study comprised 144 clinical and administrative personnel and 16 managers. Data were analyzed through descriptive and thematic analysis. The results show evidence of coercive isomorphism that public hospitals lack cohesive policies that facilitate data interoperability. Key barriers to establishing policy framework include inadequate funding, ambiguous guidelines, weak governance, and conflicting interests among stakeholders. The study developed a policy to facilitate the integration of data interoperability in hospitals. This study underscores the critical need for the South African government, legislators, practitioners, and policymakers to consult and involve external stakeholders in the policy-making processes.

Hospital performance possesses strategic significance in achieving an essential completive advantage for the public hospitals. This study aimed to examine the relationship between patient safety culture (PSC) and the performance of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) public hospitals in Sichuan, China. To address the research purpose, this study analyses the hospital performance and Patient safety culture in traditional Chinese medicine public hospital in China. We examine the propose model by analyzing cross-sectional survey data from 194 clinical directors at 194 public traditional Chinese medicine hospitals using the Partial least squares structural equation model in Smart PLS 4.0. This study provides predictive evidence that PSC in unit management and management support can lead to better patient safety outcomes. The results revealed patient safety outcomes significantly and positively effects of patient safety related to unit management and management support on overall hospital performance (p-value: 0.000–0.003).

Management and efficiency have a fundamental impact on the performance of public hospitals, as well as on their philanthropic mission. Various studies have shown that the financial weaknesses of these entities affect the planning, setting of goals and objectives, monitoring, evaluation and feedback necessary to improve health systems and guarantee accessibility as an inalienable right. This study aims to analyze the management and efficiency of third-level and/or high-complexity hospitals in Colombia, through a statistical model that uses financial analysis and key performance indicators (KPIs) such as ROA, ROE and EBITDA. A non-experimental cross-sectional design is used, with an analytical-synthetic, documentary, exploratory and descriptive approach. The results show financial deficiencies in the hospitals evaluated; hence it is recommended to make adjustments in the operating cycle to increase efficiency rates. In addition, the use of the KPIs ROA and ROE under adjusted models is suggested for a more precise analysis of the financial ratios, since these adequately explain the variability of each indicator and are appropriate to evaluate hospital management and efficiency, but not in EBITDA ratio, hence the latter is not recommended to evaluate hospital efficiency reliably. This study provides relevant information for public health policy makers, hospital managers and researchers, in order to promote the efficiency and improvement of health services.

Diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) are gaining prominence in healthcare systems worldwide to standardize potential payments to hospitals. This study, conducted across public hospitals, investigates the impact of DRG implementation on human resource allocation and management practices. The research findings reveal significant changes in job roles and skill requirements based on a mixed-methods approach involving 70 healthcare professionals across various roles. 50% of respondents reported changes in daily responsibilities, and 42% noted the creation of new roles in their organizations. Significant challenges include inadequate training (46%), and coding complexity (38%). Factor analysis revealed a complex relationship between DRG familiarity, job satisfaction, and staff morale. The study also found a moderate negative correlation between the impact on morale and years of service in the current hospital, suggesting that longer-tenured staff may require additional support in adapting to DRG systems. This study addresses a knowledge gap in the human resource aspects of DRG implementation. It provides healthcare administrators and policymakers with evidence to inform strategies for effective DRG adoption and workforce management in public hospitals.