Aims The aim of the study is to explore, how the systematic knowledge-based management and the assessment of effectiveness have been implemented in hospitals in Finland. What are the potential bottlenecks and practical challenges on the way to the better effectiveness and patient-centredness of healthcare? The study focuses on the perceptions of two key groups: medical and information leaders.

Methods The data of this qualitative study consist of 10 Interviews of medical and information leaders, who operated in two large public hospitals in Finland. Content analysis was used as analysis method.

Results The study identified 24 categories that describe the perceptions of medical and information leaders about the factors that influence the use of information in hospital management. The main categories are digital factors like knowledge and technology, as well as human factors like leadership, multiprofessional collaboration and development.

Interviewees considered the reliability of the information to be a key challenge in knowledge management. The interviewees are considering whether the data in the systems can be trusted, as registering can be incomplete, and the availability and coverage of data can also be deficient from an analytics point of view. Multiprofessional cooperation is highlighted also in data analysis and interpretations.

Conclusions In order for knowledge management to succeed, there is a need for strategic will, upper management support, goal-oriented leadership work and innovative and enthusiastic multiprofessional collaboration.