International Journal of Social and Behavioural Sciences Vol. 1 (8), pp. 162-167 August 2013 ISSN 2327-719X ©2013 Academe Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

The governance structure and regulation in Tunisian public hospitals

 Sami Chaabouni* and Chokri Abednnadher

Laboratory CODECI, Faculty of Economics and Management of Sfax, University of Sfax, Street of Airport, Km 4.5, LP 1088, Sfax 3018, Tunisia.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: ch.sami6@gmail.com .

 Accepted 16 August, 2013

Abstract 

The objective of this paper is to understand the implementation of new modes and mechanisms of governance under Tunisia health reforms. Data were collected from a survey among a national sample of board members (N = 30). The analysis integrates findings from both the qualitative and quantitative data related to modes and mechanisms of governance. The results indicate a transition of the functions given to the hospital board from a model with professional and autonomous boards towards two different functions. They are a mixture between the tasks of a formal decision body and the behaviour of a body to secure the interests of different stakeholders. The findings suggest also that the board of directors in hospitals must act in a context of uncertainty and ambiguity. Political (contractual incentives and control systems) and cultural requirements and trusting relationships are beneficial to improve the current practices.

Key words: Governance, governance modes, hospital governance, Tunisia.