The impact of electronic and self‐rostering systems on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers: A mixed‐method systematic review

Abstract

AimTo synthesise evidence from studies that explored the impact of electronic and self‐rostering systems to schedule staff on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers.DesignMixed‐method systematic review.MethodsStudies were screened by two independent reviewers and data were extracted using standardised data extraction tables. The quality of studies was assessed, and parallel‐results convergent synthesis was conducted.Data SourcesAcademic Search Complete, CINAHL, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PsycARTICLES were searched on January 3, 2023.ResultsEighteen studies were included (10 quantitative descriptive studies, seven non‐randomised studies and one qualitative study). Studies examined two rostering interventions including self‐rostering (n = 12) and electronic rostering (n = 6). It was found that the implementation of electronic and self‐rostering systems for staff scheduling impacted positively on both, healthcare workers and healthcare organisations. Benefits included enhanced roster efficiency, staff satisfaction, greater control and empowerment, improved work‐life balance, higher staff retention and reduced turnover, decreased absence rates and enhanced healthcare efficiency. However, self‐rostering was found to be less equitable than fixed rostering, was associated with increased overtime, and correlated with a higher frequency of staff requests for shift changes.ConclusionThe impact of electronic and self‐rostering systems to schedule staff on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers’ outcomes was predominantly positive. Further randomised controlled trials and longitudinal studies are warranted to evaluate the long‐term impact of various rostering systems, including electronic and self‐rostering systems.Implications for HealthcareRostering is a multifaceted responsibility for healthcare administrators, impacting patient care quality, workforce planning and healthcare expenditure.ImpactGiven that healthcare staffing costs constitute a substantial portion of global healthcare expenditure, efficient and strategic resource management, inclusive of healthcare staff rostering, is imperative.Reporting MethodThe 27‐item Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) checklist.Patient or Public ContributionNo Patient or Public Contribution.