Meta-organizational Consensus : A case study of decision-making in a meta-organization in Swedish healthcare

Abstract: Purpose – In the context of digitalization in healthcare and Swedish demographical development, the importance of meta-organizational decision-making can be discussed. This paper studies the decision-making processes in a national meta-organization which members face the current challenges of Swedish public healthcare. Therefore, this paper aims to contribute to meta-organizational decision-making. Design/methodology/approach – This paper has a qualitative approach and is based in abductive reasoning towards theory and research. Data has been collected from interviews, podcasts and documents that describe the decision-making process in the meta-organization. Findings – Our empirical findings show that the decision-making process of the metaorganization is complex, time-consuming and aims to provide consensus before its members' decisions. To reach consensus, the meta-organization uses various coordination and collaboration activities and groupings such as networks, workshops, expert panels, and conferences. Practical implications – Both informal and formal activities and groupings are considered important in reaching consensus. Furthermore, both formal and informal groupings help to overcome interest-conflicts such as differing priorities. It is also important the metaorganization provide an arena where all members feel that the can contribute and influence the decision-making process, regardless of size or resources. Originality/value – Because of dichotomic views on the importance of consensus in decision-making in meta-organization, and from calls for future research, this study can be argued to be of interest. Furthermore, digitalization and demographical development suggest that the healthcare sector is in current and significant change. Keywords – decision-making, meta-organizations, digitalization, demographics, healthcare, coordination, interest-conflict, consensus Paper type – Research paper, master's thesis