Influence of Human Resource Management Practices on the Performance of Health Workers in Kiambu County, Kenya

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.