Healthcare ecosystem integrated project management oriented to the patient journey: a systematic literature review

Purpose This article aims to identify in academic literature the relationship between the healthcare ecosystem and project management. Design/methodology/approach The systematic literature review was composed of 2,575 articles obtained through the Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed databases, with 249 articles selected to understand the theoretical assumptions and research gaps in project management in the health sector. The analyses and coding process were supported by Rayyan, Word and Excel software. Findings The synthesis of results points to three major dimensions that influence the quality of services provided to patients, namely (1) healthcare ecosystem, (2) patient journey and (3) project management principles and practices. A preliminary model linking these constructs was built to inspire future research on the synergy of the healthcare ecosystem with project management practices to improve services provided to patients and the population. Practical implications This study can inspire project management models aimed at integrated and complete healthcare services oriented to the patient journey, improving quality, cost-effective outcomes and equity of access for patients and the population. Social implications This article generates social implications by contributing to the implementation of solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals recommended by the United Nations related to the promotion of well-being and health services for the population. Originality/value The synchronization of different project management practices under an integrated project governance oriented to patient journey can support leaders and project teams in the healthcare ecosystem to deliver services to patients and population.