Effect of Contract Management Processes Within Public-Private Partnerships on the Performance of Healthcare Projects in Public Hospitals in Selected Counties in Kenya

Health projects are crucial to improving access and quality of services. They often face challenges such as delays, cost overruns and subpar standards. This study examined the effect of contract management processes within Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) on the performance of healthcare projects in public hospitals in selected counties in Kenya. This study used descriptive and exploratory research designs and was guided by a pragmatic research philosophy. Eight counties in Kenya were purposively selected, targeting a sample of 250 participants including hospital managers, procurement officers, hospital committee/board members, and county health department heads. Data from 155 participants were collected through stratified random sampling using semi-structured surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Data analysis included both qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicated that contract management (β = -2.043, p = 0.032), was significant. This study highlights that successful PPP implementation in healthcare requires flexible contract management. These results contribute to the understanding of PPP management in the social sector and highlight the importance of these factors in improving project outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings.