Enablers to implement sustainable practices in the service only supply chain : a case of an Indian hospital

Purpose: The inclusion of sustainable practices in the service only supply chain (SOSC) is less evident in the literature. The aim of this research is to analyse the enablers of sustainability to be implemented in (SOSC). Design/methodology/approach: A rigorous literature review and experts’ outlook are used to identify fifteen key enablers of sustainability to be implemented in the SOSC. These key enablers are analysed by the interpretive structural modelling (ISM) and fuzzy decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technique. A case study of an Indian hospital is taken for testing the relevancy of the research. Findings: ISM identified the six hierarchical levels of the enablers and MICMAC classified the enablers into four categories based on the driving and dependence power of the enablers. The fuzzy DEMATEL technique categorized the enablers into cause and effect groups. Four enablers were found in the effect group and eleven enablers were identified in the cause group. Practical implications: This research will help the managers in identifying the enablers of sustainability to implement in the SOSC and to handle the critical enablers with care. Originality/value: This is the first of its kind of study which not only identifies the key enablers to achieve sustainability in the SOSC but also derives the hierarchy levels of enablers and categorizes these enablers into cause and effect groups.