Title:
Exploring Barriers and Enablers for Medical Doctors Motivation to Work during the COVID 19 Pandemic in Zimbabwe: A Study of Hospitals in Midlands Province, Zimbabwe
Authors:
Van der Windt-Elbers, Dieke
Place:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2022
PAGE:
vi, 43
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Poverty
Keywords:
motivation, doctor, Zimbabwe, COVID, migration
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic causes long-term stress and is a large contributor to health workers shortage in the already strained Zimbabwean health system. Motivation to work is a key determinant for improving health care workers’ performance. METHODS: This primary field study was conducted in Midlands province Zimbabwe to explore aspects of motivation of non-specialist medical doctors working. Sixteen non-specialist medical doctors completed an electronic survey with sixteen statements concerning the motivational spectrum of the self-determination theory. Supplemental, four interviews were conducted online and literature study was done. RESULTS: The migration rate for medical doctors tripled during the COVID pandemic, comparing 2020 with 2019. Statistical analysis of the motivational aspect showed a significant impact of COVID-19 on amotivating factors. A positive correlation was found in wanting to succeed and their job being a fundamental part of them. The work self-determination index for the overall group reflected possible low organizational commitment, low job satisfaction and low retention. Remuneration, stigma, anxiety, shortage of staff, work strain, fear of transmitting it to own relatives, insecurity and shortage of supplies were mentioned as large demotivators. Motivators were support of management, teamwork, learning abilities, supervision, availability of protective equipment and improvement of facilities. DISCUSSION: This study provides a broad picture of the motivation to work and the impact by the COVID-19 pandemic on non-specialist medical doctors in Midlands Zimbabwe. The findings acknowledge the growing problem of remuneration and motivation to work and with that severe risk for resignation. There is need for improving remuneration and workload to retain the current medical doctors and improve self-determination by participatory leadership.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute , VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Training:
Master of International Health (MIH)
Category:
Research
Right:
@ 2022 Van der Windt-Elbers
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
HIrIzTuxix_20230509155833801.pdf