Perceived inadequate welfare of healthcare professionals in Nigeria and its influence on service delivery and patients’ safety

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the perceived inadequate welfare of healthcare professionals in Nigeria and its influence on service delivery and patient wellbeing, focusing on Enugu State. Three research questions were formulated to guide the study. Data were collected from 12 respondents through oral interviews. The health professionals and patients of three government-owned hospitals in Nsukka LGA formed the study population, where 12 respondents were sampled using purposive and availability sampling techniques. The collected data were analysed thematically. According to the analysis, the welfare of healthcare workers in Nigeria is inadequate. This has a far-reaching impact on the quality of healthcare service delivery and patient’s well-being. The study strongly advocates the need for governmental intervention and collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve working conditions. This study also accentuates the role of social workers in advocating for better healthcare systems and patient safety.