PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG HEALTH WORKFORCES AT PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN NORTH GONDAR ZONE, NORTHWEST ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Abstract Background: Performance management systems are a top priority for any organization or institution to manage human resources. It builds a link between organizational strategic goals and individual and/or team objectives. However, there is little evidence of practices in performance management among health workforces in Ethiopia, particularly in the study areas. Objective: The study aims to assess performance management practices and associated factors among health workforces at public hospitals in the North Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional supplemented with a qualitative study design was conducted in the North Gondar zone public hospitals from March10 to June 10 2022. A total of 423 health workforces participated in the study using a simple random sampling technique. Structured self-administered questionnaires were used to collect the quantitative data. Purposive sampling techniques and a semi-structured interview guide were used for the qualitative part. A binary logistic regression model is used to identify the factors associated with the outcome. An Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value of 0.05 were used to determine factors associated with the outcome variable. For the qualitative part, the taperecorded

qualitative data was transcribed and translated. Finally, a thematic analysis was conducted. Result: Among respondents, (36.00%) have good performance management practice with a 95% CI (31%-41%). Good organizational culture2.06 [AOR = 95% CI, 1.17, 3.43], good attitude 2.05 [AOR= 95%CI.1.21, 3.46], good training was 2.45 [AOR =95%CI, 1.38, 4.32], and good motivation were 2.94[AOR (95%CI.1.72, 5.044)] were significantly associated with performance management practice. From qualitative findings, shortage of budget and staff, poor working environment, and lack of training and motivation are the main barriers and challenges for performance management practice. Conclusion and recommendation: The study showed poor performance management practices among health workforces in North Gondar public hospital. This finding is consistent with qualitative findings. Qualitative findings show that performance management is implemented inadequately due to different barriers, such as shortage of budget and staff, poor working conditions, and lack of training and motivation being the main barriers. To improve performance management practice, health managers must provide training, motivation, a pleasant working environment, and medical supplies. Key word: performance management practice, public hospitals, Health workforces