Sustainable human resource planning for hospitals in tier 2/3 cities: evidence from India

Abstract

Purpose To evolve sustainable practices for human resource planning (HRP) for hospitals being set up in Tier 2/3 cities in India. The purpose of this study is to determine the strategic challenges are faced by hospitals in Tier 2/3 cities. To align HRP/workforce planning to departmental strategic/business planning of the hospital in the defined context. To address the dilemmas of the prospective health-care workforce in Tier 2/3 cities. Design/methodology/approach The integrated methodology adopted uses the grounded approach for building theory from practice. Due to the lack of research in the identified context, the study relies on a review of literature related to health-care practices, HRP and general management inputs to evolve the exact interview questionnaire. The subsequent empirical analysis is based on interviews of niche human resource experts in private hospitals. Findings The traditional and successful model of private hospitals in the metro cities cannot be transplanted to the Tier 2/3 cities. The thumb rule on a ratio between the doctors, paramedic staff, nurses and other support staff requires to be modified as necessary. Uncertainty in the new context requires the outlook to be basic, uncomplicated, flexible and agile. Attracting and recruitment strategies require adopting an innovative and multipronged approach. Sourcing high-end specialists need not follow the retainership model of employment. Practical implications The need to penetrate health-care services to the Tier 2/3 cities within India cannot be disputed. With the increase in disposable income and standard of living in these cities, access to quality and affordable health care is also imperative. The study is a pioneering effort to suggest a practicable and uncomplicated model for hospital setup in the identified context, with a focus on HRP. Originality/value This paper offers novel perspectives to the HRP of health-care personnel for a hospital setup in Tier 2/3 cities in India. For the success of private hospitals and their financial viability, this planning is of utmost importance. There is an attempt to fill the knowledge gap in the context which has been rarely explored or ventured. In addition, the policy initiatives suggested are expected to encourage the growth of private hospitals within the Tier 2/3 cities in India.