Strategic planning and organizational performance in public health sector: a scoping review

Abstract

Background: Strategic planning is a methodical approach to generate fundamental decisions and actions that influence and direct the nature, function, and rationale of the public health sector. However, the existing literature presents mixed findings. This study aims identify potential knowledge gaps and unexplored areas in strategic planning, organizational performance, and its relationship. Methods: The scoping review was applied following PRISMA guidelines. A descriptive analysis was conducted to summarize key findings from studies focusing on strategic planning, organizational performance, and their relationship within the public health sector. Literature searches were conducted in the Scopus, EBCSO, and PubMed. Then, all retrieved articles, published between January 2015 and May 2024, were systematically reviewed. Results: There were 16 studies that met the eligible criteria. Most articles focus on organizational performance in public health sectors followed by strategic planning and the relationship between strategic planning and organizational performance in the public health sector, accordingly. Most Studies showed that evaluation tools, supply chain management, transformative change, and strategic management are deemed for organizational development; and potential factors contributing to organizational performance were mainly human resource-related aspects. A confirmed relationship between strategic planning and organizational performance with mediators was presented. Conclusion: We conclude that strategic planning in public health involves carefully making important decisions and taking actions that define and direct the goals, activities, and purposes of the public health sector, while, it was an antecedence of public health sector performance.