Organizational Culture In Health Care

As a health care manager in any organization, organizational culture and organizational structure are intermingled. Understanding the relationship will help you navigate the workplace.

Discuss the following with the class:

What impact does organizational culture have on organizational structure in health care? Provide an example.
Describe an ideal organizational culture for a health care organization.

Full Answer Section

     
  • The way that work is divided up. For example, in a organization with a strong hierarchical culture, work may be divided up according to job titles and levels of authority. In a organization with a more collaborative culture, work may be divided up more fluidly, with employees working across different teams and departments.
  • The way that decisions are made. In a organization with a strong hierarchical culture, decisions may be made by managers at the top of the organization. In a organization with a more collaborative culture, decisions may be made more democratically, with input from all employees.
  • The way that conflict is resolved. In a organization with a strong hierarchical culture, conflict may be resolved by managers. In a organization with a more collaborative culture, conflict may be resolved more informally, with employees working together to find solutions.

Here is an example of how organizational culture can impact organizational structure:

A hospital with a strong hierarchical culture may have a more traditional organizational structure, with clear lines of authority and decision-making power concentrated at the top of the organization. This type of structure can be effective in ensuring that decisions are made quickly and efficiently. However, it can also be less responsive to the needs of patients and staff.

A hospital with a more collaborative culture may have a more flatter organizational structure, with less emphasis on hierarchy and more emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. This type of structure can be more effective in creating a patient-centered environment and in promoting innovation.

Ideal organizational culture for a healthcare organization

The ideal organizational culture for a healthcare organization is one that is patient-centered, collaborative, and innovative. This type of culture would be characterized by the following:

  • A focus on the needs of patients and their families.
  • A commitment to teamwork and collaboration among all members of the healthcare team.
  • A willingness to embrace change and innovation.
  • A supportive and respectful work environment.

Such a culture would be conducive to providing high-quality care and would help to create a positive work environment for all employees.

Here are some specific ways to create an ideal organizational culture in healthcare:

  • Encourage communication and collaboration. Create opportunities for employees to communicate with each other and to collaborate on projects. This will help to build trust and understanding and to foster a sense of teamwork.
  • Celebrate successes. When employees achieve something, take the time to celebrate their success. This will help to motivate employees and to create a positive and supportive work environment.
  • Provide opportunities for learning and development. Encourage employees to learn new skills and to develop their careers. This will help to keep employees engaged and motivated.
  • Empower employees. Give employees the authority and responsibility to make decisions. This will help to create a sense of ownership and to encourage innovation.
  • Create a positive work environment. Ensure that the workplace is physically and emotionally safe and supportive. This will help to attract and retain top talent.

By creating an ideal organizational culture, healthcare organizations can improve the quality of care they provide and create a positive work environment for their employees.

Sample Answer

   

Organizational culture is the set of shared beliefs, values, and norms that guide the behavior of employees in an organization. It is the "personality" of the organization.

Organizational structure is the way that an organization is organized and how work is divided up. It includes the formal reporting relationships, lines of authority, and decision-making processes.

The organizational culture and organizational structure are closely interrelated. The organizational culture can influence the organizational structure in a number of ways, including: