Factors associated with retention of Health workers in remote Public Health Centers in Northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Health worker retention in remote and hard-to-reach areas remains a threat in most low- and middle-income countries, and this negatively impacts health service delivery. Objective: This paper explores factors associated with retention of health workers in remote public health centers in Lira district in Northern Uganda. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with quantitative methods of data collection was used among health workers. The study utilized a structured questionnaire with closed ended questions to obtain quantitative information. Results: Most of the health workers were attached to HC IIIs (61.28), females (62.90%), married (84.62%), with certificate level (55.74%), and nurses (36.60%). Likewise, most of the health workers were from within 5kms from the place they grew up from (37.45%), not staying with their families at the health facility (65.11%), of age group 31-40 years (42.98%), had worked at facility and with employer for 2-5 years or above 5 years (56.6%) and 45.96% respectively. The average retention rate of health workers was 87.04%. Several individual, health system and career related factors were significantly associated. Conclusion: The retention rate of health workers in the remote rural public health centers of Lira District is within the same ranges as other places in the world. The study established that indeed several individual and social demographics, health system and career related factors are significantly associated with retention of Health workers in the rural public health facilities.