Abstract

The article discusses the outcomes of the first phase of a study conducted in 2009. The research aims to investigate the reasons of the regional differences in the implementation process of the «stroke networks» in Italy. By employing 50 in-depth interviews addressing key-actors operating in the health systems of six Italian Regions, the following dimensions are observed: Decision makers' agenda; limitations of the regional budgets; general organizational delays; structural complexity; competition mechanisms concerning scarce resources; differences in the organization, structures of power and relevance of informal practices.