Identifying dimensions and components affecting the financial knowledge and skills required by hospital managers by using the phenomenological approach

At the global level, the provision of health services even in the smallest units is complicated, and organizations providing health services are facing various challenges, including the increase in care costs and the reduction of health and treatment fund. The purpose of this research is to identify effective dimensions and components in the formation of financial knowledge and skills needed by hospital managers.

Based on the exploratory approach, this research was conducted qualitatively through phenomenological method. In terms of the result, it is among developmental studies. Necessary analyses were done using the 7-step Colaizzi technique and with the help of Max Kyuda software. Purposive sampling method was used, and data was collected through interviews with 10 financial experts of Iranian hospitals in 1400. Then, data were analyzed, and finally, dimensions and components were extracted.

The main components in determining the financial knowledge of hospital managers included basic information related to financial flow, hospital financing system, financial management and funding, basic accounting and financial information, auditing, management accounting and evaluation, legal and regulatory frameworks in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the payment system, and financial incentives and contracts. In a nutshell, 145 key concepts were extracted.

According to the results of the research, it is necessary to compile appropriate topics and develop educational resources to improve the financial knowledge and skills of hospital managers. It is necessary to prepare and formulate a suitable tool to measure knowledge and financial skills of hospital managers and determine their strengths and weaknesses for the purpose of targeted training and also as one of the requirements for the selection of hospital managers. It is recommended to periodically train the managers of the organization by holding in-service training courses.