Designing a Tool for Evaluation of the Outsourcing Process in Laboratories of Non-educational Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Outsourcing, as one of the most recently used tools in the field of healthcare management, has an important role in improving the efficiency and quality of health services. The objective of the present study was to design a tool for evaluation of the process of outsourcing in laboratories of non-educational hospitals. Methods: This applied study was conducted as mixed methods and in two qualitative and quantitative steps. In the first step, through reviewing the existing literature and documents published abroad and in Iran relating to the research subject, a check list for evaluation of the process of laboratories’ outsourcing was prepared. In the second step, using a close questionnaire, 46 selected experts were asked to give their opinions about the content and face validity of the proposed check list. Finally, Lawshe's Content Validity Ratio and Excel software were used to analyze data. Results: The final check list about evaluating the process of out sourcing laboratories at non-educational hospitals included the following 5 dimensions: proving the necessity of laboratories outsourcing (9 questions), selecting the undertakers (13 questions), negotiating and finalizing the contract (10 questions), implementing the contract (5 questions) and evaluating the undertakers’ performance (8 questions). Conclusion: Given the importance of outsourcing laboratories, providing education related to the implementation and evaluation of this process form its beginning until end, in periodic training courses for university’s managers and staff is highly recommended. Keywords: Outsourcing, Evaluation tool, Laboratory, Non-educational hospital, Content Validity