Global healthcare business development: The case of non-patient collaborations abroad for U.S. hospitals

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to assess the size and scope of non-patient collaborations undertaken by U.S.-based hospitals and health systems and the impact of these collaborations on international inpatient volumes at the U.S.-based campus of these organizations. This study included in-depth, semi-structured telephone interviews with leaders from international programs in U.S. health systems. Interview questions included the presence of different modes of non-patient collaborations abroad, financial and other organizational motivations for engaging in non-patient collaborations abroad, and institutional commitment for global and international activities. Of the 40 organizations participating in this study, 83% provided international education programs, 50% provided consulting and advisory services, 20% provided management services, and 10% owned patient care or educational facilities abroad. U.S.-based hospitals and health systems with international patient programs frequently engage in non-patient collaborations abroad. Organizations may engage in non-patient collaborations abroad for revenue diversification, fulfillment of the organization’s education mission and cross-subsidization of other activities. U.S.-based hospitals and health systems can use these results for future business development purposes.