A Review of Performance Management Research for Functional Departments in Chinese Public Hospitals

Xiuqin Wang; Daijiong Guo

doi:10.6981/FEM.202511_6(11).0014

Authors

Xiuqin Wang
Daijiong Guo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6981/FEM.202511_6(11).0014

Keywords:

Hospital Functional Departments; Performance Management; Indicator System; Performance-Based Allocation; Management Effectiveness.

Abstract

Objective: To summarize and review the research progress on performance management of functional departments in Chinese public hospitals. Focusing on the goals of enhancing management effectiveness and promoting high-quality development, it synthesizes the application of performance management tools, the construction of indicator systems, allocation mechanisms, and pathways for efficacy improvement. Methods: Through literature analysis, the study reveals that current research has comprehensively utilized various performance management tools such as the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), Delphi method, OKR, contractual management, points-based systems, and RBRVS. It has constructed multi-dimensional and differentiated performance indicator systems and explored value-oriented performance allocation mechanisms and closed-loop management models. Results: Existing research has formed a relatively mature toolkit and a full-chain management framework. The integration of digital technology has further propelled performance management towards precision and dynamism. Conclusions: Current challenges include insufficient adaptability of tools, difficulties in quantifying indicators, cognitive differences, and weak practical implementation in primary care hospitals. Future efforts should strengthen the optimization of tools and indicators, deepen the enabling role of digital technology, promote integrated management models, and enhance research focused on primary hospitals to achieve the transition of performance management from "appraisal and evaluation" to "value creation."

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