The role of health services management in building sustainable healthcare systems: A systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review examines the role of health services management in fostering sustainable healthcare systems, addressing the growing need for efficient, resource-conscious, and patient-centered care practices. Sustainability in healthcare is increasingly vital due to rising costs, resource limitations, and demands for high-quality services. Health services management plays a pivotal role in navigating these challenges by implementing practices that promote resource efficiency, quality improvement, workforce stability, and patient-centered care. This review synthesizes findings from recent studies to identify effective management practices that support sustainability, such as strategic resource allocation, quality management initiatives, workforce planning, and technology integration. Additionally, it highlights the barriers to sustainable healthcare management, including funding constraints and regulatory challenges. The review offers practical recommendations for healthcare managers and policymakers, emphasizing integrated management approaches, continuous training, and cross departmental collaboration to enhance sustainability. Findings indicate that effective health services management not only improves system resilience but also enhances patient outcomes, employee satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. This review underscores the need for sustained management efforts to create healthcare systems that are adaptable, efficient, and capable of meeting future healthcare demands.