Browsing by Author "Okello, Paul"

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    Appraisal of health workforce retention in rural areas of Amuru District, Uganda
    (2012-08) Okello, Paul
    The research findings noted that there is greater unmet health needs in rural and remote locations than in pen-urban areas of Amuru district. The study sought answers to the following research questions: - is there health workforce imbalances and deficit in rural areas of Amuru district; what factors compel health workers to come, to stay and leave in rural areas of Amuru district; and what specific health workforce retention strategies are in rural areas of Amuru district? The qualitative descriptive study design was used so as to facilitate exploration of the issues in the study objective. The study used two primary methods of data collection- the questionnaires and interview guide for key informants at the management levels. The overall health workers motivation is very poor and there is need for government to act as soon as possible. More than half of the health workers may leave if working conditions does not improve. Access to equipment, supplies, drugs, electricity and water are seriously unavailable. Other incentives should include training opportunities, study leave, housing, transport allowances and clear career structures. The majority of the health facilities do not have the required minimum number of health workers. Health facilities in pen-urban areas have more number of health, staffs. It is recommended that the retention schemes are established, mobilize stakeholders, build local government management capacities, design financial incentives, and monitor demographic trends of health workforce in rural and remote areas.