Providing a Predictive Model of Employee Health Management: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide a predictive model of employee health management through a qualitative research approach conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences and Health Services. In terms of philosophical assumptions, the study follows an interpretive paradigm and, in terms of audience orientation, it is applied research. The sample in the qualitative phase includes academic experts, namely faculty members and executive managers in the healthcare domain of Tabriz. A total of 15 experts were interviewed for qualitative data collection. The research approach is qualitative, and the employed strategy is thematic analysis using MAXQDA software. The findings revealed 158 sub-themes (indicators), 33 main themes (dimensions), and 13 overarching themes within a thematic network. These themes include organizational support, organizational policies, organizational strategies, organizational preventive management, individual health, workplace health, social health in the work environment, effective conflict management, creation of growth and learning opportunities, employee health equity, positive work climate, employee well-being, and work-life balance. This study identified the components of employee health management based on the natural socio-cultural conditions of Iranian society, with a specific focus on the healthcare sector. Moreover, the current research contributes to enriching the theoretical foundations of employee health management.