Meaning of corporate social responsibility in a local French hospital: a case study

Abstract

Purpose

The research aims to examine how corporate social responsibility (CSR) is contextually understood, in comparison with the definitions proposed in the academic literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was based on a case study analysis of a local public hospital in France, using semi‐structured interviews with multiple stakeholders exploring the perceived responsibilities of the organisation.

Findings

The study findings provide the basis for the development of a model of CSR for the hospital. The findings highlight the importance of senior managers' involvement in stakeholder dialogue, as well as the effect of external influences, on the overall social performance of the hospital.

Research limitations/implications

Case‐study replication of health care organisations would refine and allow for generalisations of results. Also the sample of participating stakeholders should be extended to include policy‐makers. The critical area for examination is whether management need to be at the core of open and constructive dialogue with stakeholders, in order for CSR application to be extended.

Practical implications

The proposed model serves as a basis for health care managers to understand the key elements of CSR and assess the social performance of their organisation.

Originality/value

Adopting multi‐stakeholder approach to explore contextually determined views of CSR, the study contributes to CSR research and is of value to academics as well as managers in the health care sector.

Citation

Kakabadse, N.K. and Rozuel, C. (2006), "Meaning of corporate social responsibility in a local French hospital: a case study", Society and Business Review, Vol. 1 No. 1, pp. 77-96. https://doi.org/10.1108/17465680610643364