David D. Dawley

Toward a social capital theory of competitive advantage in medical groups.

Abstract: Social capital can have a positive impact on medical group performance. We forward our theory based on the integration of theories in social capital, resource advantage, and the resource-based view of the firm. Further, we suggest specific ways in which medical groups can increase their levels of social capital. First, medical groups should design or redesign the workplace so that there is ample interaction among employees. Second, employee participation within the community should be encouraged. Third, medical groups should recognize that social capital becomes ingrained in organizational culture. Therefore, medical groups should take steps to ensure a culture that supports its social capital. Fourth, hiring procedures should be designed (or redesigned) to ensure that new employees add social capital to the organization. Finally, trust must be fostered at the employee level.

A strategic change/organizational ecology based theory of post-bankruptcy performance in healthcare firms

This paper develops a theory regarding the determinants of post-bankruptcy performance of healthcare firms. Specifically examined are the potential effects of strategic change (i.e. refocusing), organizational size, slack and munificence on post-bankruptcy performance. It is theorized that bankrupt healthcare firms that refocus have greater post-bankruptcy performance than all other firms. It is also theorized that greater organizational size, slack, and munificence enhance post-bankruptcy performance. The theory developed in this paper highlights the benefits of refocusing the diversified healthcare firm, the liabilities associated with diversification in the healthcare industry, and organizational ecology theories and perspectives regarding organizational size, slack, and munificence. In addition, this paper aims to provide richer insight into our understanding of the post-bankruptcy performance of healthcare firms.