Factors Influencing the Level of Performance of Village Health Teams (VHTs) in Uganda:

Abstract

This study established the factors that influence the level of performance of Village Health Teams in Bugiri district The main objective of the study was to establish the level of performance of village health teams in Bugiri district and to suggest ways which can be used to address the causative factors. Specific objectives: The specific objectives of this study were: to establish the influence of incentives on the level of VHT performance in health promotion, establish the influence of supplies on the level of VHT performance in health promotion to assess the influence of support supervision and mentoring on the level of VHT performance in health promotion and to assess the influence of demographic factors on the level of performance of Village health Team. Methodology: The study was cross sectional, conducted in Bugiri district, covering one sub county and the sample size was 164 respondents. Results: The study findings revealed that lack of incentives and transport, inadequate support supervision were identified as the main factors influencing the level of performance of VHTs in Bugiri district. Conclusion: The study findings summarized lack of incentives, inadequate transport, inadequate supplies, inadequate support supervision and mentoring being the factors influencing the level of VHT performance in Bugiri district. Recommendation: The study recommended implementation of a sustainable motivative mechanism, adequate supplies, provision of regular supervision and mentoring and provision of means of transport for the village health teams as some of the important factors that should be put in place to improve the level of performance of the village health teams in health promotion. This will improve the delivery of health services by the village health teams in Bugiri district. Community perception and attitude towards service delivery by village health teams is still un known. Further studies should be done assess the role of family support in VHT performance.