Organizational Democracy and Related Factors among Healthcare Workers in Türkiye: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between healthcare workers’ perceptions of organizational democracy and their sociodemographic and other characteristics in the healthcare sector in Türkiye using a systematic review methodology. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted between May 2026 and June 2026 using the systematic review method, a descriptive research approach within quantitative research methods. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement for systematic review protocols and article reporting. Graduate theses published between January 01, 2000, and June 15, 2026, were included if they involved healthcare personnel as participants and examined the relationship between organizational democracy scores and sociodemographic characteristics and/or other scales. The literature search was performed in the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) National Thesis Center database between May 15, 2026, and June 15, 2026, using the keywords “organizational democracy” and “organizational democracy practice.” A total of 56 studies were identified through the search, and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 studies were included in the systematic review. Results: The findings indicated that healthcare workers perceived organizational democracy at a moderate level, with the lowest perceptions observed in the dimensions of participation and justice. In contrast, perceptions of transparency and equality were more positive. The findings also suggested that organizational democracy perception was lower among women than men and decreased with increasing length of service. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare organizations strengthen employees’ perceptions of organizational democracy, particularly regarding justice and participatory leadership, and encourage the participation of experienced personnel in democratic processes.