A Comparison between Generation X and Generation Y in Terms of Individual Innovativeness Behavior: The Case of Turkish Health Professionals

Abstract

Today the criterion of innovation has become a paradigm for all institutions to maintain their success. Innovation is essential for service industry as well as production industry. It is the individual that is in the center of innovation, which can be defined as the difference between a good idea and a good product. The innovative work behavior of individuals is an area that needs to be scrutinized in terms of innovativeness. Because innovation directly effects the quality of life, it has a significant role in the health sector.In this perspective, this study aims to identify the innovativeness level of individuals working in health industry where innovation is of significance; to identify the differences of innovativeness levels between generations; and to identify the relationship between individuals’ perception of whether the institution they work have learning orientation and their level of innovativeness.The data in this study, which specifically addresses health institutions with their increasing role in the information society, were gathered from the three private hospitals in Black Sea Region in Turkey. 274 health professionals working in those three private hospitals and accepting to take part in the study formed the sample group of the study.The results of the study show that there is a difference of innovative behavior scores between the participants coming from Generation X and Y. This difference indicates that Generation X is more innovative. Moreover, majority of the participants from Generation X are physicians. In this respect, it can be noted that in terms of innovative behavior the difference between physicians and other health professionals (professional difference) is more significant than the difference between generations.