Abstract:
Purpose: The general objective of the study was to establish the role of human resource
management practices on the performance of health workers in Kiambu County, Kenya.
Methodology: The study adopted cross sectional research design, using both descriptive
quantitative and qualitative techniques. The study targeted managers and workers of four hospitals
which were purposefully chosen. The data was collected by administering questionnaires to the
respondents and conducting KII to the managers. The data was analyzed using SPSS V27. The
data was presented using tables and charts to summarize responses. For further analysis and
comparison, the generated quantitative reports were subjected through tabulations, percentages,
measure of central tendencies, correlation coefficient, chi square test, and inferential statistics.
Findings: The study reviewed that training opportunities and performance management practices
improves staff motivation and performance (mean of 4.23, and 4.13). Planning (2.66) was biggest
hindrances to utilizing training to improve performance. The managers were not well trained on
using appraisals, ratings and feedback (2.06) for performance management. The institutions were
not embracing performance culture (2.60), and using it for continuous improvement (1.82).
Additionally, the study showed that hospitals did not carry out performance measurement regularly
(2.81) and the systems for data collection were inadequate (2.43).
Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study showed that human resource
management practices improve health workers performance. Institutions should formulate and
review policies to support human resource management practices that improve performance of the
health workers.
