Social and health management research

Social and Health Management team comprises more than 20 researchers who examine the key themes of the PPG research group from the perspective of social and healthcare systems and rescue services. Our work is strongly connected to current societal challenges and multidisciplinary development.

Key research themes

Effective governance and evidence-informed policymaking: we study value-based healthcare, performance management and the use of knowledge in public policies, strategies, and management models. Our research focuses on the mechanisms and processes through which wellbeing services counties and other multi-actor organisations can promote effective, evidence-informed action and societal impact.
Systemic transformation: we analyze societal change, its governance and inherent tensions within. Our work addresses themes such as public sector reforms, sustainability and democracy transitions, resilience, comprehensive security and preparedness.
Public value creation and collaborative governance: we explore the dynamics of public service ecosystems and value co-creation, with a particular focus on citizen and client engagement in the design and delivery of services. Key interests include the interfaces among wellbeing services counties and municipalities, as well as relation between citizen participation and democracy.
Managing wicked problems: we approach complex societal challenges through the lenses of complexity theory, systems thinking, and network governance. Our research examines the dynamics among administrative domains, policy sectors and governance levels within anticipatory governance.

Methodological expertise

Our team applies a diverse and multi-methodological approaches, with a strong emphasis on qualitative research. We employ, for example, frame analysis, network analysis, argumentation and discourse analysis to interpret complex phenomena. Our work includes conceptual, applied, and comparative research. We also utilize participatory research methods such as observation, eDelphi, participatory systems mapping, and workshops that support co-creation and rich knowledge production.

PPG sote team sitting around the table — Social and health management research team

Partnerships

Our key partners include Wellbeing Services County of Ostrobothnia, Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela), several ministries, and the City of Vaasa. We regularly collaborate with Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences, and international universities.