Business model of social enterprises in healthcare service delivery in Malaysia / Chin Tzuenn Yeu

Chin , Tzuenn Yeu (2024) Business model of social enterprises in healthcare service delivery in Malaysia / Chin Tzuenn Yeu. PhD thesis, Universiti Malaya.

	PDF (The Candidate's Agreement) Restricted to Repository staff only Download (305Kb)
	PDF (Thesis PhD) Restricted to Repository staff only until 31 December 2026. Download (1142Kb)

Abstract

Social enterprises (SEs), a unique type of enterprise with a hybrid structure, aim to achieve both social and commercial goals. SEs implement the concept of social innovation and novelty function, generating positive impacts within communities and societies, such as complementing the national welfare system. Given the long-standing burdens faced by the Malaysian health system, SEs could potentially serve as agents of change in facilitating system reform. However, there is limited understanding of how SEs operate within Malaysia’s healthcare services. This research aims to explore the business model of SEs in this context, focusing on their potential dynamics and social capital development. Specifically, this study seeks to define and determine the main building blocks and identify the operating mechanisms of SEs delivering healthcare services in Malaysia. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study uses an exploratory and inductive method with in-depth case studies. Thematic analysis is utilised to generate a conceptual model based on insights from SEs that meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings contribute a theoretical framework highlighting key components of the business model and operating mechanisms of SEs for welfare and well-being development. These components are organised into dimensions such as mission, collaboration, network, resources, and value creation. Additionally, innovative business designs, including cross-subsidisation, community employment and engagement, revenue reinvestment, price differentiation systems, strategic networks, and cooperation with players across diverse sectors, are identified. The study offers theoretical, managerial, and policy implications, providing a clearer understanding of SE dynamics. The identified SE business model has the potential for real-life application in depicting social ventures in healthcare service delivery. The in-depth insights into the structure of these hybrid organisations contribute valuable information for business entrepreneurs and the government in sustaining and enhancing system reform. The study also suggests the importance of an enabling environment for the advancement of SEs in healthcare service delivery. Discussions on national health system policies and SE development underscore the justified relationship between healthcare SEs and value-based health service delivery in Malaysia.

Actions (For repository staff only : Login required)