The Impact of Integrated Health Management in Hospital Administration: A Systematic Literature Review Applying the ProKnow-C Methodology

Abstract

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

Integrated health management represents a pivotal strategy for enhancing both operational efficiency and the quality of care in hospital environments. This study undertakes a systematic literature review to examine the influence of integrated health management on hospital administration. The principal aim is to synthesise a structured body of knowledge capable of informing strategic clinical decision-making and shaping future research trajectories.

Methods

This investigation employed the Constructivist Knowledge Development Process (ProKnow-C), a methodological framework implemented in four sequential stages: (i) the selection of pertinent peer-reviewed literature to construct a representative portfolio; (ii) bibliometric analysis to evaluate the impact and consistency of sources; (iii) systemic analysis to categorise thematic dimensions; and (iv) the identification of research gaps and prospective avenues for investigation. A total of 20 scholarly articles were scrutinised using both quantitative and qualitative criteria.

Results

Three principal approaches to integrated hospital management were identified: (1) the utilisation of management tools—such as the Balanced Scorecard and performance indicators—to improve service delivery efficiency; (2) strategies for performance enhancement, underpinned by strategic planning, detailed operational analysis, and robust internal controls; and (3) financial management approaches, grounded in hospital information systems and evidence-based decision-making. Bibliometric findings confirmed the internal coherence of the selected portfolio, while the systemic analysis demonstrated the presence of shared conceptual frameworks throughout the literature.

Conclusions

This systematic review contributed to the consolidation of a structured knowledge base concerning integrated hospital management and highlighted critical areas for future research. Further enquiry is warranted into models for clinical risk mitigation, the optimisation of resource allocation, and the development of financially viable management practices. The ProKnow-C methodology proved robust and suitable for guiding research within the domains of clinical evaluation and healthcare management.