Sosiaali- ja terveydenhuollon johtajien näkemykset tiedonhallinnan osaamisesta ja kehittämistarpeista hyvinvointialueiden toiminnan käynnistyessä

Authors

• Pirjo Hilama University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8234-4592
• Mikko Huovila University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio
• Virpi Jylhä University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio; The wellbeing services county of North Savo, Kuopio
• Ulla-Mari Kinnunen University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio; The wellbeing services county of North Savo, Kuopio

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23996/fjhw.179035

Keywords:

information management, health service areas, knowledge-based management, leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine social and health care managers’ views on information management competence, as well as their current and future information needs at the start of the Finnish wellbeing services counties’ operations. In addition, the study explored which factors support managers’ information management competence. The data (N = 226) were collected through an electronic survey in four wellbeing services counties in the summer of 2023, and the open-ended responses were analyzed using theory-driven content analysis based on Chun Wei Choo’s information management process model. The results were organized into main categories based on the process model, describing information needs, information acquisition, information utilization, information distribution, information organization and storage, information products and services, and the adaptation of operations.

The results showed that the most significant development needs in information management were related to system interoperability, data fragmentation, data timeliness and varying documentation practices. Challenges concerning data accessibility and reliability, as well as shortcomings in the structures for data-driven management, were particularly evident. Managers identified comparative, quality and resource data as key information needs, particularly regarding their availability, and described requiring training, clear guidelines, technical support and sufficient time to process and utilize information. Factors supporting competence included easy-to-use and harmonized systems, functional guidelines, clear processes, and readily available support.

Based on the findings, improving information management requires both technical and organizational solutions alongside the strengthening of managerial competence. The obligations of the Finnish Information Management Act regarding the clear definition of responsibilities, guidance and training appear essential for practical work. The novelty value of the study relates to its timing in the early phase of establishing the wellbeing services counties, when information management structures and practices were not yet fully established. The results provide up-to-date knowledge to support the development of information management competence, leadership practices and educational planning.