Strategic Human Resource Management: A Precursor for Promoting Quality Service Delivery in Tanzanian Referral Hospitals

Abstract

The role of strategic human resource management (SHRM) on organization performance has received increased attention across the global in recent years. However, much is still unknown particularly in developing countries and specifically in the health sector. Therefore, the thrust of this study is to investigate the role of SHRM practices in improving provision of quality health services in Tanzanian referral hospitals. In this study, a qualitative study design with face-to-face interviews was carried out entirely by researchers to ensure consistency in questioning and probing. Experience survey design was adopted where key informants were picked purposively basing on their knowledge and experience in dealing with human resource management issues in the hospital. Collected data were subjected to qualitative conventional content analysis. Results showed that SHRM practices such as professional development, employee compensation, supervision and performance evaluation increase not only knowledge, skills and competencies, but also changes positively employees’ attitudes and behaviours by creating satisfaction, commitment, motivation, intention to remain and enthusiasm, all of which result into increased level of individual performance. This enhances quality dimensions of responsiveness, reliability, tangibility, assurance and empathy directly and indirectly. It is therefore concluded that to provide quality health services and achieve long-term goals and vitality, referral hospitals should proactively cherish a strategic approach to the management of human resources and invest in such practices as professional development, employee compensation, supervision and performance evaluation. Their struggle should be directed in influencing actions and behaviours of employees to build a workforce capable and committed to deliver exceptional health services to achieve competitive edge.