A relational model of medical knowledge sharing and medical decision-making quality

Knowledge sharing has been recognised as a key approach in sustaining a competitive advantage. In knowledge-intensive firms like healthcare organisations, expertise is based upon well-developed and reshapeable knowledge networks. Hence, it is believed that in healthcare organisations, knowledge sharing among physicians improves medical decision-making quality. We propose a relational model between the factors influencing knowledge sharing, knowledge sharing outcome, and medical decision-making quality. Three-phased studies were conducted: in-depth interviews with 25 physicians, a case study using a survey approach, and a Delphi investigation. The relationships regarding how individual factors affect the knowledge sharing outcome and decision-making quality are confirmed through the three phases of the study.