Enhancing the Sharing of Digital Information in Social Welfare and Healthcare: recommendations for dissemination of digital work instruction material in an interorganizational level

Abstract

One of the biggest changes in social welfare and healthcare in Finland's history entered into force at the beginning of 2023, when the wellbeing services counties started their operations. These wellbeing services counties faced many new and unprecedented challenges. One of these challenges was dissemination of information and instructions to people that has no access to a wellbeing county’s intranet. Such information includes work instructions, operating instructions, training materials, and other publications. Persons who do not have access to a wellbeing services county's intranet are private service providers who provide services for the county but operate based on the county's instructions, guidance, and agreements.

The purpose of this thesis was research how social welfare and healthcare organizations could improve dissemination and distribution of work instructions regarding information systems in an interorganizational level. The aim of the thesis was to formulate recommendations for the organizations, to improve dissemination of information. Improving these practices might have an impact on the distribution of work instructions of social welfare and healthcare information systems to external providers. The goal was to study the impact of digital solutions on organizational models, collaboration, and engagement, as well as the adoption of enabling technologies and e-learning platforms.

This study employed an integrative literature review methodology to analyze existing research and identify key insights and recommendations. There seemed to be little previous research on the sharing of work instructions in an interorganizational level. Database searches for the literature review were conducted in March 2024 using database services from PubMed, CINAHL Ultimate, Sage Premiere and Science Direct. Thirteen studies were selected for the study and analyzed with inductive analysis.

The findings revealed that digital technologies play a crucial role in reshaping organizational structures and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Organizational development initiatives, such as the redefinition of traditional roles and the establishment of new digital business ecosystems, were highlighted as essential for adapting to the changing healthcare landscape. Additionally, the thesis emphasized the importance of trust, respect, and effective communication in fostering successful partnerships and collaborations within healthcare organizations. The integration of enabling technologies, such as data exchange and storage solutions, knowledge portals, and e-learning platforms, was identified as instrumental in facilitating information sharing and accessibility within healthcare education. However, the thesis acknowledged the challenges posed by the rapid evolution of technology, including the need for continuous updates and the risk of information overload.