Training leads to improved performance of Health Unit Management Committees in southwestern Uganda

Abstract

Background: A quality health workforce is critical for the development of health systems and effective delivery of health services. In southwestern Uganda, Health Unit Management Committees (HUMCs) are central to the delivery of health care. They also play a key role in facilitating links between health centres and the community, as they comprised of community members. While these teams took part in planning and management training between 2012-2015 no analysis had been done with regards to the outcomes of these training. This study sought therefore, to determine whether HUMC members saw increased performance outcomes as a result of their training. Methods: The study followed a cross sectional evaluation design and adopted qualitative methods, including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and In- Depth Interviews with health unit In-charges (managers), district health team members and project intervention staff. Evaluation was conducted in July 2016 in Bushenyi district in southwestern Uganda. Evaluation was completed in all levels of health care centers and in both urban and rural settings. Data was collected by members of the research team in both Runyankole and English, and translated into English. Results: Findings revealed that HUMCs reported to be more capable of handling issues at the facility as a result of knowledge and skills acquired during trainings. HUMCs identified several key learning themes, including: conflict resolution, strengthened relationships between members and increased health care outcomes, including saving s 35 chemes for emergency transportation of referrals, construction of placenta pit and canteen, and beautification projects. Overall there were positive feelings towards the training and its relevance for HUMCs’ job performance. Discussion: In examining the results of the study, conclusions can be drawn that training for HUMCs, which had been the first of their kind in this area, increased performance outcomes in health centers. This aligns with similar research, which identified management training for health care management teams as an important factor for improving the delivery of health services. Unity engagement. The training also resulted in several initiatives for