Internal communication and staff performance in health Institutions in Uganda

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of internal communication on staff performance in health institutions in Uganda, with a particular focus on Masaka Referral Hospital. Utilizing the Human Relations theory as a theoretical framework, the research aimed to understand the effects of upward, downward, and horizontal communication on staff performance. Data was collected using a cross-sectional study design through questionnaires and interviews, involving a sample size of 178 respondents, including support staff, finance workers, health workers, and patients. The findings revealed that upward communication significantly influenced staff performance, accounting for 46.2% of performance changes. Downward communication also had a positive and significant effect, contributing 25.7% to staff performance improvements. Horizontal communication, while having the least impact among the three, still significantly affected staff performance, explaining 9.4% of the variations. The results underscored the importance of effective internal communication channels in enhancing staff performance in health institutions. Based on these findings, the study recommended that management focus on developing soft skills and organizing inter-departmental meetings to improve communication and bonding among employees. Additionally, implementing comprehensive training and development plans could further enhance effective communication within the organization, leading to better staff performance and overall organizational success.