Exploring the role of knowledge brokering in developing specialized hospitals: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Employing a knowledge broker (KB) is one way to transform ideas into action, especially in relation to the development of a specialized hospital. This study aimed to explore the concept of knowledge brokering intervention in the development of a specialize hospital in Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive qualitative method was applied in this study to collect detailed, rich data from a small number of participants. A snowball sampling approach was chosen to recruit 17 participants from various backgrounds who have worked with KB of a specialized hospital. The data analysis was performed using a content analysis method to identify the themes and categories. Results: Five themes and 14 categories were constructed for developing the knowledge brokering intervention in the development of a specialized hospital in Indonesia. The themes included characteristics of KB, the role of KB, demand brokering, various perceptions of specialized hospitals, and challenges in developing the specialized hospital. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the framework of the knowledge brokering intervention consisted of individual and interpersonal capabilities. Characteristics of KBs should be introduced that are trained in all development settings to boost the achievement of the goals in the health sector. The researchers suggest that the concept of KB should be considered for realizing national projects, as this will escalate the health development of the country. This study contributes to the identification and connection of indicators on health knowledge brokering in translating science into practice at specialized hospital in Indonesia.