ABSTRACT

This study, evaluated the Skill Mix of Health Professionals in Government Regional
Referral Hospitals in Uganda. Specifically, the study examined the skill mix in
Government Regional Referral Hospitals. A field survey of four Government Regional
Referral Hospitals was conducted using structured questionnaires, review of reports, indepth interviews and observation. Descriptive analyses, Pearson’s correlation
coefficient, single and multiple regression analyses were applied to achieve study
objectives. The study was underpinned on Bourdie’s Social Capital Theory and Human
Capital Theory. Results indicated a shortage of qualified health professionals in all the
four regional referral hospitals. Health workers were over-worked since most of the
required positions were partially filled. At several regional referral hospitals, nurses,
clinical officers, nursing assistants and medical officers worked under minimal
supervision due to shortage of senior health workers. Consequently, there was a
possibility of health professionals at lower levels of training offering un-regulated
task shifting services; made worse by lack of a policy and legal framework framework
to monitor their competencies and/or training needs. The study also appreciated the
need for soft skills so as to apply technical skills and knowledge effectively at work. In
conclusion, an appropriate skill mix will largely reduce the effects of health workforce
shortages. The skill mix between different cadres of health professionals represents
significant advancements in performance of health professionals amidst staff shortages.
Keywords: Skill Mix, Health Professionals, Government and Referral Hospitals.