Impact of Strategic Agility on Performance of Medical Employees in County Referral Hospitals in Central Region Economic Bloc, Kenya

Abstract

The demand for high-quality health care from patients and other stakeholders has grown over time while hospitals have failed in delivery of quality healthcare services. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of strategic agility on medical employees’ performance in county referral hospitals in the central region economic bloc, Kenya. Explanatory research design was used to collect data from a target population of 10 referral hospitals in Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Nyeri, Meru, Kiambu, Murang’a, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Laikipia, and Kirinyaga. The respondents were 1,804 medical employees including medical officers, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, specialists, and therapists. A sample size of 327 medical staff was selected using a simple random method, who were issued with closed. Piloting was conducted at Machakos County referral hospital whereby 33 medical officers took part in answering the questionnaires. In relation to reliability, Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was used to determine the suitability of the research instruments. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential statistic like Pearson Correlation was determined and the results presented using tables and explanations. The study established that the management fostered a culture of innovation by rewarding employees and investing in promising opportunities, demonstrating sensitivity to change, and easily adapting current plans. Therefore, the conclusion was that there was a need for hospital leadership to prioritize strategic agility and support a culture of innovation. The study recommends that hospitals could prioritize strategic agility by fostering flexibility in decision-making and sharing goals with employees.