Influence of Organizational Environment On Implementation Of Strategic Plans in Healthcare Organisations: A Case of Embu Level Five Hospital

Abstract

Effective management of a business requires the ability to adapt to changes in the internal and external environment. Strategic planning is crucial for organizational success as it involves actively identifying and adapting to changes. However, in Kenya, the public sector, particularly county governments, has struggled to fully implement their strategies, leading to unfulfilled promises to citizens. In the healthcare sector, the operational environment of county governments may not align with that of healthcare organizations, necessitating a specific study to understand the impact of the organizational environment on implementation of strategic plans in healthcare organizations. This study aimed to determine how the organizational environment affected the implementation of strategic plans process in healthcare organizations, with a specific focus on Embu Level Five Hospital. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the influence of technology, organizational structure, and social factors on the implementation of strategic plans in Embu Level Five Hospital. The study was anchored on Resource-Based View Theory, Contingency Theory, and Open Systems Theory. These theories provided a theoretical framework for understanding the relationship between the organizational environment and strategic plan implementation. The study used a descriptive survey research design, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods. The target population included the staff in the various departments at Embu level five hospital. These departments included; the clinical services department, the management and the support staff. Data was collected by use of a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using the statistical package SPSS, version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were generated in form of standard deviations, means, parentages, and frequency. Inferential statistics were done using logistic regression. The findings of the study underscored the importance of optimizing technology adoption to enhance service quality and organizational efficiency. Regarding the impact of organizational structure on strategic plan implementation, the study revealed a general dissatisfaction with the current structure's alignment with strategic goals. Feedback on communication, collaboration, and organizational hierarchy highlighted areas for improvement to enhance strategic plan execution effectiveness. Social factors such as teamwork, employee engagement, and social relationships were found to significantly influence the implementation of strategic plans at Embu Level Five Hospital. Strong interpersonal relationships and positive social dynamics among staff members were identified as crucial elements in achieving strategic objectives effectively. The logistic regression model further supported the significance of technology, organizational structure, and social factors in successful strategic plan implementation. The study recommended that healthcare organizations implement comprehensive training programs to enhance staff skills in using advanced medical equipment and electronic health records (EHRs), regularly update

technological infrastructure, establish effective communication channels, and organize team- building activities to foster a