A mixed‐method approach to examining the experiences of allied health clinicians and managers of the performance, appraisal and development framework in a regional health care service

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionEvaluating employee performance is important for organisational success however, limited research exists across the allied health workforce.ObjectiveThis study investigated allied health clinician and manager experiences and perceptions of the appropriateness of the performance and development (PAD) framework.DesignA mixed methods design with purposive sampling was conducted in a medium size hospital and health service in regional Queensland to investigate the appropriateness of the PAD framework. A 29 item online survey collected likert scale and open ended responses. Identified respondents also completed a semi‐structured interview. Aggregated satisfaction scores identifying PAD alignment, processes, education, resources and perceptions were analysed to identify organisational PAD appropriateness. Themes from interviews provided concurrent experiential data.FindingsEighty‐five respondents completed the online survey and 20 interviews were conducted. A Chi‐Square Goodness of Fit test revealed a significant (p < 0.05) clinician (n = 75) response of moderate dissatisfaction (36%) for the PAD framework, while managers (n = 10) were neither dissatisfied nor satisfied (50%) or moderately satisfied (40%). Clinician aggregated agreement responses were significantly (p < 0.05) higher for PAD alignment (45%), processes (63%), education (49%) and lower for feedback (33%) and resources (28%). Manager aggregated agreement responses were high for PAD alignment (85%), processes (55%), education (57%), feedback (65%) and perceptions (50%). Interviews (n = 20) revealed three themes: uncertainty around PAD framework; expectations for experienced leadership and importance of discipline specific knowledge.DiscussionThis study draws on both clinician and manager input to assess the overall PAD framework with responses favouring clinician dissatisfaction to the current process.ConclusionThe PAD framework is valuable for staff development when there is positive rapport and discipline alignment between both clinician and manager. Successful staff appraisals require efficient and appropriate documentation that promotes individual development, clinical performance and organisational priorities.