The Role of Health Unit Management Committees on Health Service Delivery in Health Centre IIIs : A Case Of Sheema Municipality, Uganda

Abstract

Countries across the World are working hard to improve health service delivery with in communities. Ensuring health lives and promoting well-being of all at all ages is the major focus of Sustainable Development Goal 3 and target 3.8 was set to achieve this goal by 2030. This study focused on examining the role of Health Unit Management Committees on Health Service delivery. Specifically, to establish the effect of health unit management committees’ planning and budgeting on accessibility of quality health services; to determine the influence of health unit management committees’ motivation and incentives on health service delivery; to establish the effect of health unit management committees’ supervision and feedback on health service delivery in Sheema municipality, Uganda. A cross-sectional survey research design was employed, using qualitative approach. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 131 respondents. Data collection methods included questionnaire survey and interview method. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, multi linear regression with SPSS v.29. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis supported by NVIVO software. The study found and concluded that Health Unit Management Committees’ planning significantly improves health service delivery (r = 0.536, β = 0.451, p < 0.05). The study also concluded that Health Unit Management Committees’ motivation and incentives significantly enhance health service delivery (r = 0.645, β = 0.327, p < 0.05). The study further concluded that Health Unit Management Committees’ supervision and feedback significantly improve health service delivery (r = .702, β = 0.544, p < 0.05). The study recommended that local governments, the Ministry of Health, and development partners should implement structured incentive schemes for HUMC members, including financial allowances, recognition, certificates, and capacity-building opportunities, to boost morale and commitment Additionally, continuous supervision and feedback mechanisms should be institutionalized through regular visits, reporting frameworks, and timely feedback, while encouraging HUMCs to document and share their findings to improve health service delivery. Targeted training on supervision, leadership, and community engagement should further empower HUMCs to provide effective oversight and integrate their feedback into health planning, ultimately enhancing service delivery in Sheema District.