Abstract
Sound human resources management (HRM) practices are essential in strengthening the health systems (HS). HRM practices including use of job description (JD) can transform health workers (HWs) into a productive and motivated workforce that improves healthcare services. Kenyan HS miss this nonmonetary motivator of health workers which is correlated with health worker poor job satisfaction and poor performance in service delivery. This study sought to determine how JD influences the performance of health workers (HWs) using descriptive and exploratory research study design. Questionnaires and key informant guides were completed by sampled technical staff and managers working at Mbagathi hospital. Quantitative and qualitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis respectively. Results indicated that the health service managers were not aware of policies on HRM practices. Clear JD, work plans and task description were available to a little extent (54.0%, 53.2% and 52.6% respectively). Established lines of authority were available to a moderate extent (59.3%). The health workers performance was rated at a mean score of 57.6% with a standard deviation of 4.2%. The study concludes that HRM practices were poorly implemented in the hospital. Health service managers needed basic training on JD among other HRM practices including and to establish a department that will implement the practices.
Highlights
World Health Organization (WHO) defines a health health systems (HS) as consisting of all organizations, people and actions whose primary intent is to promote, restore or maintain health [1]
Job description (JD) that clearly set out objectives, responsibilities, authority and lines of accountability are consistently associated with improved achievement of work goal [6]
Majority 131(75.7%) respondents were female and 90(52.0%) respondents were aged 30-39 years. 43(24.9%) respondents had worked in the health sector for ≥6 years with most 103(59.5%) respondents being nurses who had attained diploma level of education
Summary
World Health Organization (WHO) defines a health HS as consisting of all organizations, people and actions whose primary intent is to promote, restore or maintain health [1]. Job description (JD) is a broad, general and written statement of a specific job that includes duties, purpose, responsibilities, scope and working conditions of a job along with the job title, and the name and designation of the person to whom the employee reports [5]. JDs that clearly set out objectives, responsibilities, authority and lines of accountability are consistently associated with improved achievement of work goal [6]. Lack of employee understanding of work priories, or change of priorities on regular basis makes it difficult for staff to maintain consistent level of productivity. The role of Clinical Officers is not clearly understood which has resulted in role conflict [8]
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