INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT

This study examined strategic management and its influence on quality healthcare delivery in Maria Assumpta Catholic Hospital. The study was motivated by persistent concerns regarding healthcare quality, patient satisfaction, operational inefficiencies, and resource constraints in Nigerian healthcare institutions, particularly within private and faith-based hospitals. The main objective was to investigate how strategic management practices contribute to improved healthcare delivery and organizational performance in the hospital. Specifically, the study examined the extent of strategic planning implementation, the influence of resource management on healthcare quality, the impact of leadership and organizational structure on service efficiency, the relationship between strategic management practices and patient satisfaction, and the challenges affecting the effective implementation of strategic management.The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected from hospital administrators, healthcare professionals, and patients through structured questionnaires. The Resource-Based View (RBV) theory served as the theoretical framework, emphasizing the importance of internal organizational resources and capabilities in achieving sustainable performance and quality healthcare outcomes. Data obtained from respondents were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including frequency distribution, mean scores, and hypothesis testing. Findings revealed that strategic management practices significantly influence quality healthcare delivery in the hospital. The study showed that effective strategic planning enhances operational coordination, while efficient resource management improves service delivery, patient safety, and organizational effectiveness. Leadership and organizational structure were also found to positively affect staff performance and healthcare efficiency. Furthermore, strategic management practices contributed significantly to patient satisfaction through improved communication, reduced waiting time, and better service coordination. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, shortage of skilled personnel, limited technological infrastructure, and weak monitoring systems were identified as barriers to effective strategic management implementation.The study concluded that strategic management is essential for achieving sustainable quality healthcare delivery and recommended improved strategic planning, staff development, leadership strengthening, and enhanced resource allocation to improve healthcare outcomes.Keywords: Strategic Management, Quality Healthcare Delivery, Resource Management, Patient Satisfaction, Leadership, Healthcare Administration.