Skills are last, but definitely not the least, in the McKinsey 7S strategy for the survival of small Indian hospitals amid increasing corporatization. I consider this the number one strategy, so I will elaborate this article in 3 parts. In an increasingly large, corporatised healthcare environment, small hospitals face the challenge of standing out in a crowded market. One of the most effective strategies for these smaller institutions is to focus on building expertise in targeted areas of healthcare. Small hospitals can find a unique place for themselves by developing focused programs, advanced procedures, and center-of-excellence positioning. They can serve as a means of attracting people in need of speciality services and securing a role for themselves in their communities as a trusted source of care. This article will discuss how small hospitals can become centres of excellence in these key areas, supported by real-world examples.
The Importance of Specialization
Small hospitals have the opportunity to utilize their resources effectively in areas of specialization where they can be effective. Instead of offering a wide range of services, as is the case with more prominent hospitals, small hospitals can effectively develop the best skills in specific fields. This enhances the quality of care given and makes these small hospitals stand out in the competitive healthcare market.
Building Expertise by Developing Specialized Programs
A small hospital can build expertise, similarly to a large one, by developing specialized programs that fit the needs of its patient population. This could encompass special health conditions or care for particular areas, so they are not readily available elsewhere.
For example, Aravind Eye Care System in Tamil Nadu, India, has achieved global leadership in eye care treatment through specialization in treating eye diseases, particularly cataracts. By developing unique programs in cataract surgery and ophthalmic treatments, Aravind has created a name for itself regarding quality, attracting patients from all over India and beyond. Specialization of the hospital has allowed it to be more efficient, cut down on costs, and simultaneously offer world-class treatment to the enormous number of patients, many of whom belong to less privileged communities.
Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai is also known for its ophthalmology specialization. The hospital provides specialized programs for retinal diseases and corneal transplants. Focusing on these areas, Sankara Nethralaya has attracted top talent, developed cutting-edge treatments, and positioned itself as an eye care leader in India and internationally.
Small Hospitals should also Offer Advanced Surgical Procedures.
Another way for small hospitals to gain expertise is by providing some advanced surgical procedures that may need to be more efficiently provided at more prominent hospitals. These may involve minimal access, robotics, and other specialized types of surgeries, which require high levels of both skills and technology.
One hospital that focuses on this approach is Royal Pearl Hospital in Trichi, which offers specialized endoscopic skull base surgery procedures. By developing expertise in these areas, Royal Pearl Hospital has become the destination of choice for patients needing complex surgeries requiring high expertise and precision.
For instance, in Kozhikode, the MSIARC has led its Cochlear Implant Surgery program in Kerala. The hospital has placed a high degree of faith in the latest technology in Otology and has trained its surgeons to conduct complex procedures with minimal invasiveness. This has further improved patient outcomes and helped attract patients looking for an advanced surgical care setup in a smaller, more personalized environment.
Becoming a Center of Excellence
Small hospitals can further distinguish themselves by becoming centres of excellence in a particular medical speciality. Centres of excellence are marked through its world-class care facilities, treatment options, and constant commitment to improvement.
MAA ENT Hospital is an excellent example of a small hospital that has become a centre of excellence for Endoscopic Sinus and Skull base surgery, Cochlear Implant Surgery, and Head & Neck Oncosurgery. MAA ENT Hospital has been building expertise in these areas to provide world-class care, research, and training to the next generation of healthcare professionals. This reputation has further had more patients in need from all over India and foreign countries, which has built this hospital’s status as a leading healthcare institution.
Similarly, the MCV Hospital in Pollachi has built up its expertise in ENT to become a centre of excellence for cancer care. The hospital offers a whole range of services, from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment options, including Otology, Laryngology, and Rhinology. This focus on specific specialities means that MCV Hospital is the best health centre for cancer care; it has been geared toward attracting patients seeking specialized treatment and individual care.
By Engaging in Community Outreach and Education
Besides developing excellence in clinical care, small hospitals can also improve their reputation and influence by actively participating in community outreach and education. These activities serve the community and the hospital as reliable healthcare providers.
Aravind Eye Care System has been particularly effective in this regard. The hospital also regularly organizes outreach camps in rural areas, where free eye screening, education in eye health, and affordable treatment are provided to the masses. Through these means, Aravind is able to reach the hitherto untouched masses and increase awareness of eye care. Its commitment to community service has furthered its ties with the local population and boosted its reputation as a compassionate and accessible healthcare provider.
Besides medical education, St. John’s Medical College Hospital promotes health access through community outreach with health education programs, vaccination drives, and mobile health clinics. Therefore, St. John’s has been close to the community—responding to its health needs and preventing the illnesses encountered—thus building trust and becoming an essential resource for the local population. This focus on community engagements made the hospital endear clients who are very observant seeking services from the institution because of the sense of public health and social responsibility.
Strategic Focus on Expertise
Small hospitals can strategically develop expertise in niche areas to stand out within their market segments. They can promote their specialized services through advanced programs, the development of cutting-edge surgical procedures, designation as a centre of excellence, and active community outreach. By building expertise in critical areas, small hospitals attract more patients seeking specialized care, improve the quality of care, and establish a strong reputation. Additionally, specialization fosters staff development by offering opportunities for skill enhancement, leading to professional growth and increased job satisfaction.
Dr. Prahlada N. B
MBBS (JJMMC), MS (PGIMER, Chandigarh).
MBA (BITS, Pilani), MHA,
Executive Programme in Strategic Management (IIM, Lucknow)
Senior Management Programme in Healthcare Management (IIM, Kozhikode)
Postgraduate Certificate in Technology Leadership and Innovation (MIT, USA)
Advanced Certificate in AI for Digital Health and Imaging Program (IISc, Bengaluru).
Excellent work Prahlada Sir…
For highlighting the keys to success for small hospitals.This article of yours is a valuable resource for healthcare professionals – great job!
You've provided actionable tips for small hospitals to thrive – thank you!" I appreciate the examples you provided to illustrate each point – very helpful!
To summarise your nice writeup, on how small hospitals could possibly thrive & attain success, the focus as emphasised by you should be on following aspects…
1. _Specialized care_: Excel in a specific medical specialty.
2. _Personalized care_: Tailor services to individual patient needs.
3. _Cutting-edge tech_: Adopt innovative medical technologies.
4. _Community ties_: Engage with local communities and provide targeted services.
5. _Niche programs_: Develop specialized programs addressing specific patient needs.
6. _Collaborations_: Partner with larger institutions to enhance expertise.
7. _Patient experience_: Prioritize comfort, convenience, and satisfaction.
"World – wide" examples:
– Apollo Hospitals (India): Cardiac care
– Mayo Clinic (US): Personalized medicine
– Parkway East Hospital (Singapore): Robotic surgery
– Muhimbili National Hospital (Africa): Community outreach
– The Priory Group (UK): Mental health and addiction treatment
– St. Vincent's Hospital (Australia): Cancer treatment collaboration
– Cleveland Clinic (US): Patient experience focus
So by focusing on these key areas or niche segments, small hospitals can differentiate themselves, attract patients from all over the world and achieve sure success.
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