Knowledge management initiative at the Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Bahrain: a case study

Abstract

Purpose

This case study aims to present the implementation of knowledge management (KM) in the Ministry of Health (MoH) of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Ministry is a very complex environment and it is suffering from information overload. The health care industry is a very intensive knowledge field where experience and tacit knowledge play an important part in delivering efficient health care to the nation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a case study conducted by people involved in the implementation of the KM initiative at the MoH and by the observation and interviews conducted by external researchers.

Findings

The paper finds that the implementing of KM had many positive impacts on the MoH in terms of planning and decision making. Even though it is difficult to create a knowledge sharing culture in an environment under pressure involving medical and administrative staff, the initial KM initiatives implemented at the MoH of Bahrain are believed to be the start for a serious and comprehensive KM drive within the Ministry in the coming few years.

Originality/value

The lessons learned from this case can help other health organizations to better understand the barriers and enablers associated with implementing a KM initiative in a complex environment.

Citation

Al Nawakda, E., Hameed Fathi, A., Ribière, V. and Mohammed, M. (2008), "Knowledge management initiative at the Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Bahrain: a case study", VINE, Vol. 38 No. 4, pp. 535-553. https://doi.org/10.1108/03055720810917769