Desired Outcomes Under the Development of Regional Health Areas 1 - 12

Abstract

This mixed-methods survey research aimed to examine the desired outcomes of the development of Regional Health Areas 1 - 12, focusing on emergency and emerging disease management, chronic disease care, and elderly care; to compare desired outcomes before and after the implementation of Regional Health Areas; and to identify management factors influencing these desired outcomes. The study was conducted between June 2024 and March 2025 and consisted of two phases. The first phase employed qualitative research to identify variables for the quantitative phase. Data were collected through focus group discussions with heads of divisions and strategic and information personnel from Regional Health Areas 1 - 12, with four participants from each area, totaling 48 persons. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The second phase involved quantitative research to assess outcomes in accordance with the study objectives. The sample consisted of 256 executives from healthcare service units across Regional Health Areas 1 - 12, selected through multistage sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including paired sample t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis, with a statistical significance level set at 0.05. Qualitative findings indicated that management factors influencing quality service delivery (independent variables) and the desired outcomes of Regional Health Area development (dependent variables) comprised components and indicators consistent with the literature review. Quantitative results revealed that post-development desired outcomes were at a high level (74.7%), and post-development outcomes were significantly higher than pre-development outcomes at the 0.01 level, with improvements observed across all dimensions. Furthermore, management factors related to health information systems and health technology demonstrated a significant positive influence on desired outcomes at the 0.01 level, explaining 54.4% of the variance. Therefore, it is necessary to develop operational guidelines based on the desired outcomes of the three areas of Regional Health Area development, in order to achieve sustainable healthcare services for the public and to focus on strengthening management, with priority given to the development of information systems and health technology.