Symbols of the NHS

Abstract

This paper explores the organizational culture of a general hospital from. a symbolic perspective. It is suggested that traditional symbols or stereotypes associated with certain professions within the Health Service may affect the way in which people both within and outside the NHS understand these professional roles. In particular, the hierarchy and power differentiations which exist (or are assumed to exist) between professions may have an effect on any culture change programmes. The paper is based on a study of communications within a large general hospital in the East Midlands. The idea is explored that these symbolic images of different health care groups may constitutean implicit element in the organization culture of any British hospital and thereby influence the communications within it.

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