A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THE CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF ORGANIZATIONAL DOWNSIZING IN HOSPITALS

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the research is to systematically examine the reasons of application of organizational downsizing in hospitals, in which areas it is applied and the effects of downsizing on hospitals and employees. Method: In the research using systematic compilation method, the data were collected according to the PRISMA directive. Data collection process “Downsizing, Hospital Downsizing, Staff Downsizing, Staff Downsizing, Hospital, Organizational Downsizing” using keywords, the researches published between 1999-2018 were taken into consideration. As a result of the compilation in the related databases, a total of 509 studies were reached and 29 studies that were suitable for the research were analyzed by removing the studies that did not meet the specified criteria. Findings: The findings obtained from the studies examined were evaluated in terms of the reasons for the application of organizational downsizing studies, their application dimensions, and their effects on employees and hospitals and were classified under certain headings. While the downsizing activities were mostly made in the form of layoffs on human resources policies, it was observed that nurses were the group most affected by these practices and negativities such as creating job insecurity on employees. Results: No matter which method is adopted, the lack of mechanisms to support manpower throughout the organization can lead to major problems both before, during and after downsizing. The results show that the hospitals that implement organizational downsizing practices should turn towards more effective interventions. Because the results have more negative effects. It is more important that institutions provide training on cost-reducing and waste-reducing ways, rather than employing staff in the downsizing process. This study reveals the results of organizational downsizing practices in hospitals and terms to the absence of any compilation on the subject in Turkey is of great importance.