Evaluating Incentive Strategies for Technological Career Anchor Talent in Public Hospitals: An Ecosystem Theory Approach

Abstract

Objective: To develop a scientific, standardized, and practical incentive plan for technical talents in public hospitals in China. Methods: Between April to May 2024, the research team systematically searched both Chinese and English databases for literature on talent incentives in public hospitals. Using a mixed-method research approach, we conducted a systematic review. Guided by ecosystem theory and career anchor theory, a technical talent incentive plan for public hospitals in China was developed and subsequently evaluated by an expert panel. Results: The expert panel’s review showed a positive coefficient of 100%, an authority coefficient of 0.86, and Kendall's W coefficients for the first, second, and third-level indicators of 0.217, 0.200, and 0.192, respectively. The finalized incentive plan consists of three primary indicators (social, organizational, and individual), 14 secondary indicators, and 50 tertiary indicators. The plan was noted for its high level of professionalism, authority, representativeness, and proactivity, with all levels of indicators being well-received by the experts for their importance and feasibility. Conclusion: The incentive plan for technical career anchors in public hospitals constructed from the perspective of ecosystem theory, exhibits scientific rigor, systematic design, reliability, transferability, specificity, and comprehensiveness. It offers a valuable framework for motivating technical talents in public hospitals across China.