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Factors Perceived to be Associated with Health Workers Retention in Public Hospitals: A Case of Ndola Teaching Hospital in Ndola District

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  • Sylvia Tembo

    (Graduate School of Business: University of Zambia)

  • Beatrice Matafwali

    (Graduate School of Business: University of Zambia)

Abstract

This study explored factors influencing health worker retention at Ndola General Hospital amid a global health workforce shortage. The study involved 154 health workers selected from a target population of 200 through stratified random sampling. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected via open- and closed-ended questionnaires and supplemented with secondary sources. Analysis was conducted using SPSS to report descriptive statistics using the Likert scale. Findings revealed a mix of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators influencing retention. While recognition (66.23%, mean score: 3.400), career growth (68%, mean: 3.234), and supervisory support (mean: 3.519) were rated positively, dissatisfaction with compensation was widespread 59.74% of respondents were unhappy with salaries (mean: 1.909) and pay parity with qualifications (mean: 1.727). Fringe benefits and allowances also scored poorly (mean: 2.610). Furthermore, 38.96% strongly disagreed that adequate equipment and facilities were available (mean: 2.312), and 89.61% viewed the hospital infrastructure as outdated. Despite this, 83.12% acknowledged the availability of skilled colleagues for complex tasks. Social influences were a key factor in attrition, with 52.3% citing peer pressure to join better-paying private and NGO sectors, and 12% noting intergenerational workplace conflicts. Although intrinsic motivators like recognition and professional growth are present, they are overshadowed by systemic issues related to compensation, infrastructure, and external job markets. The study recommends targeted interventions to address these challenges and calls for broader, more inclusive future research to validate these findings

Suggested Citation

  • Sylvia Tembo & Beatrice Matafwali, 2025. "Factors Perceived to be Associated with Health Workers Retention in Public Hospitals: A Case of Ndola Teaching Hospital in Ndola District," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(5), pages 512-527, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-5:p:512-527
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mueller, Charles W. & Price, James L., 1990. "Economic, psychological, and sociological determinants of voluntary turnover," Journal of Behavioral Economics, Elsevier, vol. 19(3), pages 321-335.
    2. Patricia M. Hillebrandt, 2000. "Economic Theory and the Construction Industry," Palgrave Macmillan Books, Palgrave Macmillan, edition 0, number 978-0-230-37248-1, December.
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