IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZATION ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN HEALTH SECTOR

Abstract

This research study is to ascertain the role of decentralization on the effectiveness of human resource management (HRM) in health care setup. The study was initiated in May 2009 and spanned over a period of six months in public/ private health care setup. Survey based on health facility was used to
find out different aspects of workforce viz number of employees and their work structure, turnover of staff, financial management, workload, incentive programs etc. 38 officials of various cadres were approached who filled in questionnaires through which they provided information about their characteristics, and their aspect of work lives besides their views on performance management and general hospital management. Different hierarchical level manager’s opinions were also sought about policy and context of decentralization and their impact. Data obtained from group discussion and
interviews from managers at different hierarchical levels and their positions was used to cross check findings from surveys and their possible interpretation. Combination of centralized and decentralized recruitment represents a promising hybrid form of health sector organizing in managing human resources by bringing the benefits of two worlds
together.