Healthcare professionals' perspective on managing the healthcare system in Croatia: a cross-sectional study

Aim To determine Croatian healthcare (HC) professionals' perspectives on HC management and leadership challenges. Methods This cross-sectional study, conducted between May and June 2021, enrolled 1179 respondents from both the public and private sector, including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, economists, and other HC professionals. Their perspective on various facets of HC management, namely governance, ownership, accountability, financing, and potential for improvement, were investigated using an anonymous online survey. Results Most respondents agreed that the system may be allocating resources ineffectively and that political mandates unduly influenced management decisions, impeding accountability. Competencies in organizational and financial experience, along with communication and leadership skills, were deemed fundamental for health care managers. Participants overwhelmingly supported data- driven decision-making, improved education, and the development of leadership skills as key avenues for system enhancement. Conclusions The study underscores the need for better financial management and overall governance, in the Croatian HC, offering insights that can inform evidence-based policy decisions and reforms toward a more efficient and accountable HC system.