Assessing the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Project Management: A Shift in Standards?

Abstract

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic was a shock event for many sectors, with the healthcare sector undoubtedly being the one most affected. Aim The study sought to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on project management within the healthcare industry, as this is the sector with the potential to implement innovations that mitigate such shocks in the foreseeable future. Methods The study was conducted between March and July 2023 by surveying professionally active individuals employed in hospitals who had experience in project implementation within the last five years. To discern the potential impact of the pandemic on project management practices in healthcare systems, we designed a specific survey questionnaire. Using a five-point Likert scale, participants assessed the importance of each criterion for their specific project. Of the total 389 respondents, there were 144 men and 245 women. The participants reported their involvement in 808 projects in total. Results Results show that after the pandemic, the importance of project efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction as factors for project success has increased. Moreover, the study revealed a stronger emphasis on the projects’ impact on the future. Conclusion The pandemic has reshaped healthcare project management priorities, with project managers and sponsors collectively striving for recovery and improvement.