Entrepreneurial Dynamics and Patient Involvement in Service Innovation: Developing a Model to Promote Growth and Sustainability in Mental Health Care

Abstract

Innovation and entrepreneurship are dynamic and holistic processes that are not restricted to the initial activity of a new undertaking. Many studies link and draw parallels between, not only corporate entrepreneurship and innovation but also innovation and the ability to enhance an organisation's competitive positioning and to provide outstanding value for its customers. However, a lack of research has been identified regarding the synergy between innovation and entrepreneurship, noting that the synergy between the two concepts helps organisations to prosper. Likewise, continuous service innovation has been described by many authors as the most valuable means for companies to achieve long-term success and organic growth. It is also suggested that for service firms to achieve even greater success, a customer orientation perspective should be adopted. Although a number of studies concerning the service sectors and, in particular, service innovation have been carried out, they have rarely been conducted in the context of health care, and in particular, that of mental health care. In addition, few studies have focused on the interaction and involvement of patients in the development of new health services. This study investigates the influence of user involvement on new health service development and presents the means by which the outcome can enhance a firm's entrepreneurial activity. On one hand, this study advances previous service innovation theory by associating with the entrepreneurship theory, while on the other, extends previous knowledge regarding the benefits of customer participation in new health service development.