Key determinants of building maintenance in hospitals: the perspective of maintenance personnel

Abstract

Purpose The maintenance of hospital buildings is often acknowledged as challenging tasks yet inevitable to ensure effective delivery of health-care functions. This study aims to investigate the rationale behind the execution of maintenance which provides essential input for better prioritization of maintenance tasks. Design/methodology/approach This study evaluated the determinants of building maintenance of public hospitals in Malaysia from the perspectives of key personnel appointed to monitor, supervise and inspect the activities of the privatised support services in public hospitals. A total of 66 questionnaire survey responses were analysed. Findings Findings revealed that the maintenance practices in public hospitals are user-centric with high emphasis on user’s expectations and complaints. Comparatively, vandalism and improper use of facilities were less of concerns. Originality/value This paper reveals the key determinants that influence decision-making in building maintenance of the Malaysian public hospitals from the perspective of maintenance personnel. It adds value to the under-researched topic of privatised hospital support services, which is currently outsourced to five concession companies nationwide.