Service Management Research Articles

Policy options to address the effectiveness of health service management graduates in solving Iranian health system challenges: a mixed scoping review and policy Delphi approach

Iran's healthcare system is grappling with multifaceted challenges, including financial constraints, staffing shortages, infrastructural deficiencies, legal hurdles, and cross-sectoral coordination issues. The integration of health service management graduates into the healthcare workforce is vital to tackle these obstacles effectively. However, the lack of skilled managers can exacerbate problems, leading to inflated costs, and wasted resources. This study aims to propose policy options to improve the effectiveness of healthcare management graduates in exposure to the challenges of Iran's health system. The study used a mixed-methods design that combined a scoping review and interviews with academics specializing in healthcare management and hospital management, as well as key informants of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME), the vice chancellor and deans of faculties of management and paramedicine (December 1, 2022 to February 30, 2023), and a policy Delphi technique (April 1, 2023 to Jun 30, 2023). In the scoping review, we searched PubMed, Web of Science Platform, MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Scholar/Academia, and ERIC for articles published from the inception of each database until August 10, 2022, with an update on October 6, 2022. The search terms included "health services," "healthcare organizations," "healthcare management," "health management education," "Iran," "challenges," "issues," "policy," "interventions," "policy options," "solutions," "policy-making," "effectiveness," "efficacy," and similar terms. We incorporated scholarly articles that presented instances or resolutions demonstrating the impact of health service management graduates in addressing the issues encountered by Iran's healthcare system. Non-English research papers, except Persian, were excluded due to translation resource limitations. Articles from peer-reviewed journals were included based on their publication type, while conference abstracts, book reviews, commentaries, and editorial pieces were considered for review. In the present study, the first step of the modified Delphi methodology involved conducting interviews and qualitative content analysis. Then, through two rounds of online surveys, the policy Delphi technique engaged experts and stakeholders in reviewing and prioritising policy options. In the scoping review, our initial search of the main databases retrieved 553 articles, with an additional 14 articles from gray literature and 5 studies from local databases, totaling 572 references. 426 studies remained after removing duplicates and reviewing them. We excluded 339 studies that did not align with our study's objectives, leaving us with 87 articles. We had access to the full text of 63 of these studies and ultimately selected 31 for review and thematic analysis. The study involved 21 participants, with a 100% response rate in the interview phase. In the Delphi phase, 64 experts were invited, with 41 participating in Round 1 (64% response rate) and 32 in Round 2 (78% response rate). The scoping review identified eleven policy options, followed by designing an interview guide and presenting nine more options based on expert insights from the interviews. We evaluated twenty policy options using a 5-point Likert scale and modified Delphi methodology to assess their effectiveness, feasibility, relevance, and acceptance cost. The study produced four policy options that were culturally and ethically appropriate, as well as compatible with the context and target population. These options were: 1) training and capacity building based on Iran's health system model; 2) development of the framework of Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) for healthcare management graduates; 3) determining the career pathways of healthcare management graduates and reviewing the job categories approved by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME); and 4) providing effective collaboration between healthcare management graduates and professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders for integrated health system improvement. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for improving the education, training, and professional deployment of healthcare management graduates in Iran. This work was supported by the National Agency for Strategic Research in Medical Education (NASR) (Grant Number 4020159).

Corporate marketing in modern hospitals and satisfaction level of corporate clients in Bangladesh

The study's abstract emphasizes the Marketing Department's dual responsibility in creating external awareness and disseminating internal information in modern hospitals. To improve service quality and management decision-making, the department keeps an eye on patient happiness and oversees communication, advertising, corporate agreements and feedback methods. Key research findings show that while corporate patients generally value the department's cutting-edge technology and the expertise of its staff, they do have reservations about the department's responsiveness and punctuality, particularly with regard to inpatient care. Patients in the Outpatient Department (OPD) expressed greater levels of satisfaction than those in the Inpatient Department (IPD), where patients expressed greater dissatisfaction with personalized care and error correction. To increase general patient happiness, recommendations include enhancing service speed, providing personnel training, and attending to particular patient requirements.

Public works, urban development, common goods

The role taken by public works requires us to use them to address the need to govern the complexity of the contemporary city, focusing its development and physical transformations on shared goals. The combination of urban regeneration and public works finds an outlet in intervention strategies for the quality of public space, public buildings, and architecture of civic value. In order to make public works an opportunity for shared regeneration, planning actions should aim at framing individual works within a broader strategic vision, dealing with the management of services (cultural, educational, social) to involve communities and stakeholders in organising urban enhancement methods. The construction of the ‘public city’ oriented to the common good should constitute a continuous path that allows neither pauses nor retreats. It should activate decision-making and governance processes that enhance citizens’ participation and develop synergies with private subjects, focusing on the social dynamics of the world of work, dwelling and culture.

Frailty and related factors among community-dwelling older adults in Türkiye

Abstract Background Frailty in elderly can lead to complex challenges in the follow-up and management of health services. Ensuring comprehensive primary care services and social support can avert, reverse, or mitigate frailty in old age. We aimed to evaluate frailty and its associated factors in individuals aged ≥65 years. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in patients applying to primary care centres in 2024, in a city where 10% of the population is elderly. The centres were divided into clusters based on the socioeconomic status of the regions they serve, and nine were randomly selected by weight. A total of 1154 elderly who consecutively presented were included. A questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, Edmonton Frailty Scale, Loneliness Scale for the Elderly (LSE), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), International Falls Effectiveness Scale (FES-I) was applied to the elderly. Results The mean age was 71.3±5.3 years, and 50.8% were male. In the study, 20.1% were frail, and 19.6% were apparently vulnerable. It was found that those aged 70-79 and ≥80 years, women, deceased/separated from their spouses, those with low education, those whose occupation was housewife, those earning below minimum wage, those who lived alone, non-exercisers, those taking >8 medications/day, and those who had ≥2 falls/last year were more frail. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, illiteracy (Odds ratio-OR:15.2, 95%CI:1.7-135.5), taking >8 medications/day (OR:4.1, 1.7-9.9), falling ≥2 times/last year (OR:3.4, 1.8-6.4) and ≥4 points on the CCI (OR:1.9, 1.0-3.4) were found to be predictors of frailty. Each score on the FES-I and LSE increased the risk of frailty by 1.08 (1.05-1.11) and 1.13 (1.08-1.17) times, respectively. Conclusions One in five people was found to be frail. Low education level, >8 medications/day, ≥2 falls in the last year, severity of comorbidity, fear of falling, and high levels of loneliness were found to be predictive factors for frailty. Key messages • Encouraging a healthy lifestyle to prevent comorbid diseases and early interventions to avoid falls can reduce frailty. • Providing social activities in primary care and promoting the elderly to participate in these activities can help prevent loneliness, which is a risk factor of frailty.

Mobile Stroke Unit Management in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke Eligible for Intravenous Thrombolysis.

Clinical trials have suggested that prehospital management in a mobile stroke unit (MSU) improves functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke who are potentially eligible for intravenous thrombolysis, but there is a paucity of real-world evidence from routine clinical practice on this topic. To determine the association between prehospital management in an MSU vs standard emergency medical services (EMS) management and the level of global disability at hospital discharge. This was a retrospective, observational, cohort study that included consecutive patients with a final diagnosis of ischemic stroke who received either prehospital management in an MSU or standard EMS management between August 1, 2018, and January 31, 2023. Follow-up ended at hospital discharge. The primary analytic cohort included those who were potentially eligible for IV thrombolysis. A separate, overlapping cohort including all patients regardless of diagnosis was also analyzed. Patient data were obtained from the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines-Stroke (GWTG-Stroke) Program, a nationwide, multicenter quality assurance registry. This analysis was completed in May 2024. Prehospital management in an MSU (vs standard EMS management). The primary efficacy end point was the utility-weighted modified Rankin Scale (UW-mRS) score. The secondary efficacy end point was independent ambulation status. The coprimary safety end points were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and in-hospital mortality. Of 19 433 patients (median [IQR] age, 73 [62-83] years; 9867 female [50.8%]) treated at 106 hospitals, 1237 (6.4%) received prehospital management in an MSU. Prehospital management in an MSU was associated with a better score on the UW-mRS at discharge (adjusted mean difference, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.01-0.05) and a higher likelihood of independent ambulation at discharge (53.3% [468 of 878 patients] vs 48.3% [5868 of 12 148 patients]; adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.13). There was no statistically significant difference in sICH (5.2% [57 of 1094] vs 4.2% [545 of 13 014]; aRR, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.94-1.75]) or in-hospital mortality (5.7% [70 of 1237] vs 6.2% [1121 of 18 196]; aRR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.78-1.27) between the 2 groups. Among patients with acute ischemic stroke potentially eligible for intravenous thrombolysis, prehospital management in an MSU compared with standard EMS management was associated with a significantly lower level of global disability at hospital discharge. These findings support policy efforts to expand access to prehospital MSU management.

Scaling up joint efforts to tackle cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in Europe

Abstract JACARDI, a Joint Action on cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes (DM), aims to support EU countries in reducing the burden of CVD and DM and related risk factors, both at individual and societal levels, while ensuring health systems sustainability and equity. In particular, JACARDI aims to implement best practices and pilot testing of innovative practices throughout the entire patient journey. Commencing by improving health literacy and raising awareness among general and target populations, moving through primary prevention and screening of CVD and DM among high-risk populations, and then address people living with CVD and DM and their health service providers, through the improvement of service paths and (self) management, including through digital tools, and completing the path by supporting and encouraging the labour participation of people living with these diseases. With 21 European countries and 76 partners engaged, JACARDI undertakes 142 pilot projects, promising to advance CVD and DM care for millions across Europe. In particular, through an innovative Work Package on methodology, JACARDI will develop and implement a methodological framework to guide all the pilot projects in the design, preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and assessment processes. This framework will encompass transversal and intersectional aspects, ensuring a harmonized and efficient approach for all JA activities. Through rigorous and multidimensional evaluation, JACARDI aims to uncover new approaches to enhance healthcare systems, grounded in evidence-based practices and current needs, while adopting the lens of equity and sustainability throughout the entire methodological and implementation process.

Barriers and facilitators to healthcare services of people with mental ill-health in Europe

Abstract Background People with mental ill-health (PMIH) have higher cancer mortality rates than the general population. Barriers to healthcare service access may be a contributing factor. The EU-funded CO-CAPTAIN project aims to reduce health inequalities by improving overall health and reducing cancer burden by adapting and implementing the Patient Navigation (PN) Model targeted at PMIH. This qualitative study explored healthcare system experiences of PMIH in Austria, Greece, Poland, and Spain. Methods Eighty-one participants (22-76 years old), including 34 PMIH, 10 caregivers, 14 care team members, 12 mental health organization representatives, and 11 service manager representatives, were recruited. Semi-structured interviews focused on awareness of cancer risk factors, healthcare system experiences, and perspectives on PN as an intervention. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Three major themes emerged: (1) somatic health relevance and preventive services utilization and (2) barriers / (3) facilitators to preventive services access. Knowledge of cancer prevention services varied greatly. Participants were aware of associations between risky health behaviors and health. Burden of mental health problems and discrimination, insufficient access to information, and lack of service flexibility were noted as barriers. Considerations of individual circumstances, social support, and empowerment were named as facilitators. Conclusions Tailored interventions involving healthcare professionals and PMIH in development of supportive environments and health literacy have the potential of overcoming identified barriers to the use of healthcare services. Key messages • People experiencing mental ill-health are faced with significant structural barriers when accessing somatic health services. • Understanding people’s needs in terms of access and utilization of health care allows us to define guidelines for future personalized healthcare solutions.

Stakeholder-based management of ecosystem services in agricultural areas: Integrating the leader-follower game and a conflict resolution model

Given the substantial effects of agricultural practices on the environment, this paper introduces a novel stakeholder-based framework for assessing the ecosystem services (ESs) provided by agricultural areas. Ecosystem services include essential functions such as water supply, food production, carbon storage, soil erosion control, and habitat support. In addition to ESs, water footprint is also taken into account to evaluate the impacts of agricultural activities on water resources. Some of the mentioned ESs are assessed using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). Then, by extending and combining the Conflict Resolution Model with the Composition of Probabilistic Preferences (CRMCPP) method and the leader-follower game (LFG), while considering the hierarchical structure of decision-makers, the best scenario for enhancing the ESs is selected.The Zarrinehroud River Basin (ZRB) in Iran has been chosen as a case study to evaluate the performance of the proposed framework, as this basin is vital for supplying water to Lake Urmia, the largest hypersaline lake in the Middle East. In this paper, 16 Water and Environmental Resources Management (WERM) scenarios have been defined according to the Urmia Lake Restoration National Committee (ULRNC) projects. Then, the mentioned ESs have been evaluated under different WERM scenarios. Ultimately, by utilizing the CRMCPP-LFG method and taking into account the hierarchical structure of decision-makers, we can identify the optimal WERM scenario. The criteria for making this decision include various factors, such as ecosystem services and the costs involved in implementing the WERM scenarios. In the selected scenario, the average water inflow into Lake Urmia is projected to rise to 1329 million cubic meters per year, which is 6.3% more than the average inflow in the current condition. Key initiatives in this scenario include reducing cultivated areas, altering irrigation methods, changing crop patterns, and incorporating water-efficient plant species.

ANALYSIS OF PERIODIC SELF-ASSESSMENTS WITHIN THE SCOPE OF HEALTH QUALITY STANDARDS IN TERMS OF MATERIAL MANAGEMENT AS A PREVENTIVE ACTIVITY: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

This study aims to investigate the effects of periodic self-assessments on materials management within the framework of quality management in healthcare. The retrospective study, conducted in a university hospital, evaluates the effectiveness of quality improvement initiatives and compliance with health standards, while examining in detail the effects of these processes on materials management. It also investigates how self-assessment processes improve healthcare service delivery and contribute to materials management processes. Problems identified through Fishbone and Pareto analysis are examined, prioritised and solutions are developed. The findings obtained aim to improve material management processes and increase quality standards in health. The main purpose of the research is to examine the effects of periodic self-assessments on materials management in order to improve the quality of healthcare services. The findings emphasise the importance of maintaining quality standards in health services and systematic handling of periodic self-assessments. Problems identified by Fishbone and Pareto analysis are analysed by root cause analysis and solutions are developed. This approach aims to contribute to the development of materials management processes and to the improvement of quality standards in healthcare. The results of the research are an important guide for practitioners, managers and policy makers in the fields of quality management and materials management in health services.

The inefficiency of centralised control and political short-termism: the case of the Prison Service in England and Wales

A paradox of the New Public Management reform – an influential school of thought in the management of public services in some countries – is that, despite its rhetoric of discretion for public managers, governments frequently reassert direct input controls at the expense of managerial freedoms to deliver – and be held accountable for – agreed output/outcome objectives. The existing literature explains this by highlighting elite incentive structures and institutional norms, but often neglects the wider implications for public managers beyond the centre. Addressing this gap, we trace the effects of public spending control from allocation to delivery through a detailed case study of prisons in England and Wales. We show how ‘top-down’ public spending control, hyper-centralised governance arrangements and ministerial activism combine to subvert managerial freedom and undermine ongoing service improvement. The overriding importance of year-by-year fiscal performance results in short-term, poorly evaluated decision making and limited capacity for strategic policy implementation. This case points to wider lessons regarding performance budgeting regimes in the UK and elsewhere.

Exploring the Impact of Airport Services on Passenger Satisfaction in Tanzania: A Case Study of Julius Nyerere International Airport

Satisfying passengers at the airport has been the cornerstone for airlines and airports in air transport service. This study aimed to understand the effects of airline-related quality service dimensions on overall passenger satisfaction at airports. The study intended to analyse the effect of pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight services on passenger satisfaction at the airport. Passengers begin to interact with air transport services when booking a ticket, and airline-related service dimensions are considered part of the broader concept of airport services, which should be integrated as they overlap in satisfying passengers at the airport. Previous research focused extensively on airport-related factors but overlooked the specific impacts of airline services on overall passenger satisfaction. The study was guided by Total airport experience framework considering holistic view of passenger satisfaction. The study used a descriptive research design which targeted all international passengers travelled through Julius Nyerere International Airport at the time of conducting this study. In this regard, the study included departing and arriving passengers from Terminal III at the final lounge and baggage claim area. The Webb et al (1996) guidelines were used to determine the sample size which suggests that for population above 2,000, a sample of 1% is appropriate; The population consisted of 18,000 passengers arriving and departing at Julius Nyerere international Airport during the time of conducting survey; thus 180 passenger were selected randomly ensuring that every passenger had an equal chance of being selected. Collection of data invloved questionnaires with close-ended and open-ended questions. Descriptive analysis of collected data was conducted to summarize the main variables through utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) for data analysis to obtain percentages and frequencies. The findings indicated that several dimensions of airline-related service influence passenger satisfaction: pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight dimensions. The findings revealed that these three dimensions positively affect passenger satisfaction. For instance, in pre-flight services, respondents reported satisfaction, highlighting the crucial role of effective management of pre-flight services in determining positive initial travel experiences. High satisfaction rates were also observed for in-flight services, emphasizing the importance of onboard amenities and crew responsiveness. However, post-flight services showed areas for improvement to enhance the overall passenger experience. Additionally, the results highlighted the strategic necessity for airlines and airports to prioritize service excellence across all touchpoints of the passenger journey. Enhancing service quality and responsiveness, particularly in mishap resolution and service delivery which are crucial for maintaining a competitive advantage and fostering customer loyalty. The study concluded that passenger satisfaction is highly influenced by three primary dimensions of airline related service: pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight dimensions. The study recommends the Airline and airport operators to focus on improving service quality delivery across all touch points of passengers journey by implementing an integrated approach such as coordinated decision making.

Developing theoretical models for effective debt service management in high-volatility industries: a focus on risk mitigation and financial stability in the oil and gas sector

Effective debt service management is crucial for maintaining financial stability and mitigating risks in high-volatility industries, particularly in the oil and gas sector. This abstract explores the development of theoretical models aimed at enhancing debt service management practices in such industries. The oil and gas sector is inherently exposed to price volatility, geopolitical uncertainties, and regulatory challenges, necessitating robust strategies for managing debt obligations. This review emphasizes the importance of integrating risk mitigation techniques into debt service management frameworks to safeguard against financial distress and optimize capital structure efficiency. Key theoretical models examined include proactive debt restructuring, dynamic financial modeling, and scenario analysis tailored to the cyclical nature of the industry. These models emphasize adaptive strategies that enable companies to adjust debt repayment schedules based on market conditions and cash flow projections. Additionally, financial stability metrics such as debt-to-equity ratios, liquidity ratios, and debt coverage ratios are utilized to gauge the sector's resilience to external shocks. Incorporating risk management principles into debt service management frameworks enhances decision-making processes, facilitates early detection of financial vulnerabilities, and ensures alignment with long-term strategic goals. Case studies and empirical data illustrate the practical application of theoretical models in optimizing capital allocation and maintaining investor confidence amid industry fluctuations. The theoretical insights presented contribute to a comprehensive understanding of effective debt service management in high-volatility industries, highlighting the role of financial prudence and strategic foresight in sustaining operational resilience. Recommendations are provided for industry practitioners and policymakers to enhance regulatory frameworks, promote transparency, and foster sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.. Keywords: Debt Service Management, Risk Mitigation, Financial Stability, Oil and Gas Sector, High-Volatility Industries, Theoretical Models, Debt Restructuring, Financial Modeling, Scenario Analysis, Capital Structure

‘I would work with a client, but I have to fill out papers’: understanding professional roles and role conflicts experienced by Lithuanian probation officers

This article aims to explore the roles that Lithuanian probation officers associate with their profession, the differences between their ideal and actual roles, and the conflicts they encounter in their daily work with probation clients. The research was conducted using both quantitative and qualitative methods, including a survey of 129 individuals and interviews with 20 probation officers. Results from the survey showed that Lithuanian probation officers tend to associate their profession with control and balancing roles. Interviews revealed that probation officers associate their ideal roles with control or resocialisation functions but accept these contrasting roles as a professional necessity. The study also found that probation officers face a high workload related to paperwork, which suggests an actual role as a bureaucrat. Nevertheless, this role is not desired by the officers and is rejected. Additionally, the study revealed that probation officers experience internal conflicts related to the different expectations of their clients and the management of the probation service. This article argues that the organisation's attitude and requirements influence the gap between the ideal and actual roles of probation officers and orient their actual roles towards bureaucratic and control functions.

E-Health Technologies: Implications for Quality in Public Health Services

Objective: The research sought to investigate the implications of e-Health technologies on the quality of public health services in Brazil, in order to identify opportunities and challenges. Methodology: Using a bibliographic research methodology, materials already published were analyzed, with emphasis on telemedicine studies and electronic health records. The bibliographic survey was carried out on platforms such as SciELO, Scopus and Google Academic, besides national repositories, such as the Capes Thesis Bank and other Brazilian open access repositories. Data Results and Analysis: The results show that these technologies can increase the efficiency, accessibility, and continuity of care, especially in remote areas, by enabling better management of information and services. However, significant challenges arise, such as digital inclusion, the empowerment of health professionals and the protection of patient data. Conclusion: As a conclusion, it is highlighted that although e-Health technologies have the potential to transform the health system, their implementation must be accompanied by policies that guarantee inclusion and safety, ensuring that all citizens benefit from these innovations.

La Vivienda y lo urbano en Texcoco, Estado de México. El caso del fraccionamiento “Hacienda San Javier”

Housing and the urban are two dimensions of contemporary life that are linked to the type of development desired at the municipal level. The problem with settlements in the State of Mexico is that their approval is the result of local and state decisions. In this work these issues are analyzed in the context of metropolitan areas. The objective of the work is to understand in a better way the authorization of the urban complex “Hacienda San Javier”, located in Texcoco de Mora, in the State of Mexico, where the dimensions of housing and the urban impact the municipal territory and the region; Well, although they offer alternatives for the middle class in planned housing - with permits and authorizations prior to their construction; works that generate employment, greater investment locally and improve consumption, and that help the productive chains of the economy—; They also modify ecosystems, change land use and generate a new urban-environmental-territorial ordering. The methodology used expresses deductive knowledge supported by official documents and case studies that analyze a locality; and at the same time they resort to quantitative methods to generate research that relates information and facts. The study is also complemented by conducting interviews in the “Alameda Municipal”, which enriches the qualitative research. The results indicate which agencies authorize these projects; and with data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), we know the condition of housing in Texcoco and the effect of this type of development (which contrasts with unplanned or irregular housing); Furthermore, the importance of the management of public services and their social, economic and environmental relationship that high-impact subdivisions entail in the municipal order is highlighted.

Work ability data management in multisectoral services for people with disabilities: a cross-sectional study

Successful collaboration between professionals working in multisectoral services for people with disabilities requires access to data on the client’s work ability. This study examines work ability data needs, availability, and acquisition in social and health care services and employment services and explores possible differences between these service sectors. A cross-sectional survey was carried out using a self-developed questionnaire based on Choo’s information management process model, the Work Ability House model and previous research on work ability data. The questionnaire was targeted at physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, and experts who support the work ability of people with disabilities and who work in primary health care, specialised health care, social services or employment services. The findings indicate that data on clients’ self-perceived health status is more frequently available than data on self-perceived work ability. This variability in data availability exists across professional sectors, highlighting the need for enhanced data management practices related to work ability assessment and support among professionals in social and health care services and employment services. The study underscores the importance of increasing professionals’ willingness to discuss work ability issues with working-age clients, particularly in primary health care and social services. These findings are pertinent in terms of enhancing multisectoral collaboration among professionals who need to comprehensively assess and support the work ability and employment of people with disabilities. Also, the study provides a diverse list of individual pieces of data related to work ability.

From Plate to Planet: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Strategies to Reduce Plate Food Waste at Food Services

Annually, over 931 million tons of plate food waste is generated in food services, affecting various aspects of sustainability. Therefore, this review aims to evaluate the most effective strategies or actions to reduce plate food waste. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following a PROSPERO-registered protocol [#CRD42024501971], searching multiple databases and gray literature until August 2024. Studies evaluating strategies and actions against waste in various food services [restaurants, institutional services in hospitals, childcare centers, schools, universities, or businesses] were included, with no language, location, or date restrictions. The risk of bias was assessed using JBI tools. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed in R (version 4.2.1), with subgroup analyses based on intervention type, food service type, meal type, management, and distribution systems. Of the 6070 studies, 18 were included in the narrative synthesis and 6 in the meta-analysis. The most effective strategies or actions targeted clients (vs. employees), meals on plates (vs. trays), school canteens (vs. other services), self-managed establishments (vs. outsourced), and à la carte services (vs. self-service). In this sense, strategies focusing on clients, plate-served meals, school canteens, self-management, and à la carte services are more effective in reducing food waste. Further actions are needed in other areas like customers, trays, different kitchen types, outsourced services, and self-service menus.

A Tribute to and in Memory - Dr David Briggs AM (1948-2024)

Dr. David Briggs served as the Editor-in-Chief for the APJHM for 15 years and was responsible for the formation, development and steering the professional growth and impact of this publication. David was appointed by the Australasian College of Health Service Management (ACHSM) in the second year of the journal’s establishment which was introduced as the College’s own applied, peer reviewed journal aimed at communicating the development and practice of the field of health management within the Asia Pacific region......

Strategies for Confronting the COVID-19 Pandemic in the State of Piauí-Brazil: Contributions to Nursing.

To analyze the influence of the strategies to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, implemented by the Public Health Network of the State of Piauí, Brazil, as contributions to nursing, on the outcome of cases and deaths. This is a descriptive and documentary study with a qualitative approach, carried out in the state of Piauí-Brazil, whose data were processed at IRAMUTEC and analyzed by the Descending Hierarchical Classification (DHC). Ninety-two normative acts were instituted as coping strategies, distributed in three classes: technical-operational protocols for preventing and combating COVID-19 in Piauí; Piauí strategic bases for social distancing against COVID-19; and management of services and economic activities in Piauí in the fight against COVID-19. The actions determined by and implemented in the normative acts were conducted according to the behavior of the epidemiological curve regarding the number of cases and deaths. The normative acts, which defined the technical-operational protocols for the prevention and control of COVID-19, were directly related to social distancing strategies and the use of protective equipment in the quality of life of the population.

Providing organizations with a validated instrument for an Enterprise Service Management capability

In light of new digital opportunities, enterprises require modernization also with regard to intra-organizational business and IT management. Enterprise Service Management (ESM) is an organizational capability aimed at a more efficient and effective IT and business service management in organizations. Although ESM has been recognized as an approach to improve customer and employee satisfaction and to create digital competitive advantage, there is a methodological and analytical void for organizations in how to measure their ESM capability. Motivated by this lack of measurability and tangibility, we aim to empirically validate the ESM capability model. Our contribution to this paper is empirical, as we provide a measurable instrument for further ESM studies. We aim to initiate a broader debate on ESM and thereby add to the scholarly establishment of the concept in the Information Systems and IT Management literature. Practically, we contribute by offering companies a validated and actionable set of ESM characteristics.