Network effectiveness in healthcare and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: connecting the dots

Purpose: Further investigation is needed of network effectiveness in healthcare and how it is influenced by unpredictable events like COVID-19. Based on Provan and Milward’s (2001) framework, this study investigates the effectiveness criteria of healthcare networks and their potential contribution to network effectiveness during the pandemic’s challenges. Design/methodology/approach: This research employs an explanatory case study in a local area of Italy’s Lombardy Region and analyzes network effectiveness at the network level based on network member perceptions. Findings: Network effectiveness refers to the network’s ability to address patient needs, guaranteeing services through network members' coordinated efforts and a central coordinator that facilitates their interaction. Members’ capacity to strengthen their roles played a crucial part in sustaining network effectiveness when COVID-19 revised other members’ priorities and threatened achievement of network goals. Practical implications: This study’s findings equip healthcare managers and policymakers with knowledge about network effectiveness criteria at the network level, offering suggestions for managerial practices and network design to address exogenous shocks. Originality/value: This study identifies factors that influence network effectiveness criteria and provides insight into how network members can contribute to sustaining effectiveness during crises.