Motivating Health Workers in low resource settings: What keeps them going?

 

We examine the plight of health workers in facilities and areas where amenities are inadequate in part, and almost non-existent in others. With healthcare service being a fundamental right, and health workers at the centre of delivery, one would wonder, in the midst of lack, how are we progressing towards achieving Universal Health Coverage?

Issues stretch from poor wages to lack of basic amenities resulting in poor living standards, and the famous lack of motivation of health workers. But we note that in quite a number of cases, we still have health care professionals providing the services. And why?

Speaking with some, this has only become a part of life. Whilst many know no better and can only hope and pray, a good number have accepted this and would think of alternative means to keep up the best way they can.

Interestingly, community ownership is increasingly lending support to healthcare service provision in low resource settings. Communities recognise the importance of healthcare and as such are willing to prioritise some level of support to ensure minimal functioning of health facilities within their localities. Simple forms of appreciation including gifting of crops and food stuff to health workers to show appreciation has been noted as some form of motivation by health workers who have little or nothing in wages, but still find passion for the service they render.

Yes, community ownership for health care service provision and development exists. This is an example of where bottom-up approach works in meeting the needs of the people.