Perceived outcomes of medical teaching institute reforms: insights from management, faculty, and administration in Pakistani tertiary health care

TL;DR

This study examines how reforms in Pakistani medical teaching institutions affect hospital operations and staff perceptions, highlighting both improvements and ongoing challenges.

Contribution

The paper provides insights into the perceived outcomes of MTI reforms in Pakistan, emphasizing mixed impacts and areas needing improvement.

Findings

Staff had varying levels of understanding about MTI reforms and their effects.

Positive outcomes included improved infrastructure and staff training opportunities.

Challenges included administrative complexity, political interference, and inconsistent resource allocation.

Abstract

The study aims to explore the perceived outcomes of Medical Teaching Institution (MTI) reforms on autonomy and overall performance within tertiary healthcare institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, Pakistan.

A cross-sectional study was carried out from September 2023 to March 2024, involving interviews with frontline staff, administrative personnel, and senior management within MTI-affiliated institutions. The methodology employed, using both qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques.

The study showed that institutional staff members’ knowledge and understanding of the MTI changes differed. Some observed very minor adjustments, while others saw advances in hospital operations and service delivery. Administrative complexity, political meddling, and resource allocation problems were noted as challenges. Positive results were also observed, though, and they included improved infrastructure, possibilities for staff training, and decision-making procedures.

Despite significant improved, there are still challenges, such as inconsistent staff comprehension, mixed impacts on service delivery, resource allocation issues, and political meddling. Addressing these issues necessitates improved communication, continuous evaluation, and coordinated efforts to improve administrative systems and obtain consistent funding.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-024-11416-y.