Main Article Content

Experiences of operational managers regarding their supervision at primary health care facilities in the North West province, South Africa


Maserapelo Gladys Serapelwane
Mofatiki Eva Manyedi

Abstract

Ineffective supervision by operational managers in primary health care (PHC) facilities remain a challenge in developing countries. Understanding the experiences of operational managers regarding their supervision could exert a positive impact on the management of PHC facilities. This study described and explored experiences of operational managers regarding their supervision in PHC facilities. The study also explored how supervision by operational managers could be facilitated effectively. A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory and contextual research was conducted in the PHC facilities in the four sub-districts of the North West Province, South Africa. The population included operational managers who have supervised the PHC facilities for at least a year. Purposive sampling technique was applied to select 23 operational managers who participated in semi-structured in-depth focus group interviews. Data analysis using Tesch’s method yielded two themes, categories and sub-categories. Amongst others, operational managers experienced shortage of nursing staff manifested by limited time for supervision and administrative duties. Experiences of lack of essential equipment and poor infrastructure were also reported as a contributory factor to poor delegation of duties and supervision. It was evident from the findings that operational managers should be supported to enhance the quality of supervision at PHC facilities.


Journal Identifiers


eISSN:
print ISSN: 2411-6939