Sustainability indicators in public healthcare: A factor analysis approach

Abstract

Motivated by the increasing demand for integrated, value-based healthcare, this study proposes a valid measurement scale for sustainability in the healthcare sector. The model focuses on implementation strategies to foster social, environmental and broader economic value-based sustainability in healthcare. This unique holistic approach aligns with the UN SDGs agenda, focussing on environmental considerations and societal health and wellbeing through a multidimensional mix of leading economic, social and environmental performance indicators. Exploratory factor analysis revealed seven dimensions of the measurement scale for sustainability measured by 39 items. Confirmatory factor analysis has been used to confirm the factor structure of the study and the results indicate that the proposed measurement is valid. This measurement scale serves as the basis of a comprehensive benchmark, developed to assess sustainability-related performance in the healthcare industry. The study also explains the theoretical and practical implications of the findings, followed by the limitations and agenda for future research.