EMERGING TRENDS IN SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT THROUGH ESG PRINCIPLES: A BIBLIOMETRIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

 The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally transformed healthcare systems around the world, exposing key vulnerabilities in supply chain sustainability, environmental waste management, and social equity, while accelerating the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles as a strategic framework for sustainable healthcare management (SHM). This study uses a mixed-methods approach that combines bibliometric analysis (2019–2024) and a SWOT theoretical framework (resource-based approach and institutional theory) to map the evolution of SHM post-pandemic. Analyzing 329 publications from 78 countries, we found that SHM research output increased by 151.7% from 2019 (29 publications) to 2023 (73 publications), reflecting a significant global effort to align healthcare practices with ESG objectives. Key findings show that Italy and China have emerged as pioneers in localized ESG innovations, such as medical waste optimization and supply chain transparency through blockchain, using technology to turn pre-pandemic weaknesses into competitive advantages. ESG-compliant hospitals have a 12% higher return on equity (ROE), but smaller institutions face a disproportionate financial burden, with compliance costs exceeding 8% of annual budgets. The study further shows that a fragmented regulatory environment is a barrier to equitable ESG adoption, highlighting the need for isomorphic adaptation based on policy. By providing a dual strategic framework – a scalable digital tool for SMEs and a global ESG benchmark led by the WHO – this study advances a course of action to build resilient, equitable and governance-based healthcare systems.