Comparison of Polish and Portuguese hospital cost accounting methods

Abstract

Dissemination of New Public Management ideology has motivated numerous studies about changes to management accounting practices in public healthcare organizations. However, few studies compare these practices on an international basis. The aim of the paper is to explore the differences and similarities in cost accounting practices within hospitals in different countries within the European Union. We follow a multiple comparative case-study approach. Qualitative data about the accounting practices of five hospitals, three from Poland and two from Portugal, are compared and discussed. Results show fairly similar models of cost accounting and an increasing need for accurately determined costs at hospitals in both countries. However, the data suggest some important differences in the way overhead is allocated. This study highlights the benefits of cross-country comparison practices. Moreover, this study points to the need for more qualitative cross-country research within management accounting topics.