The managerial perception of work-life balance implementation in Lebanese hospitals : case of private vs public hospitals

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims at exploring and comparing the perception of Lebanese hospitals first- line and middle managers regarding the implementation of WLB practices, the impact of the organizational culture and leadership support on WLB and the effect of WLB practices on the hospitals HR performance: employee satisfaction, turnover and retention in both Lebanese private and public hospitals. Design/methodology/approach: Multiple case study research design was used in this study. Data were collected using HR archives and in-depth semi-structure interviews with first line and middle managers in two different hospitals: one public and the other private. Both hospitals are located in North Lebanon region. Data was analysed using thematic analysis, followed by both within-case analysis and cross-case analysis. Findings: In both the public and private Lebanese hospitals, the WLB formal provisions as flexibility and leaves were applied, however, the only difference is in the documentation and monitoring of these provisions as they were present in the private hospital and absent in the public hospital. Also, the managers in both hospitals acknowledged the effect of the organizational culture and leadership support on the implementation of WLB but the main difference between the two hospitals was the absence of top management commitment in public hospitals; while in the private hospital, the WLB commitment was clear at all managerial levels. Managers at both hospitals perceived the important impact of WLB on employees satisfaction, turnover and retention. Practical implications: This study can be a reference for several stakeholders who are interested to study more WLB practices and its impact on HR organizational performance. The HR managers and line managers in hospitals or any other sector, as well as professional syndicates may use the study to improve their organization workforce management. Theoretical implications: This research added to the body of knowledge of academia. Other researchers can refer to it using the study literature review, data and findings. Also, this study may attract international researchers to further study the Lebanese context and /or the hospital sector.