Experience and Practice of Socio-Emotional Support for Health Professionals in Ethiopia
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Date
2011-07
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Ethiopia’s health professional to population ratio or the number of clients that one health
professional is supposed to serve, is much lower than the World Health Organization (WHO)
standards which could be an indicator of work overload in the sector. Though there are many
health issues in Ethiopia socio-emotional condition of health professionals should be one of the
important issues. Health professionals’ exposure to the stressful situations is an occupational
hazard that can harm both the professional and the community. The main objective of this
research was to explore the perception and experience of health professionals related to their
emotional needs and the strategies they use to address such needs. Qualitative approach
particularly case study design was used in this study. The tools for primary data collection were
in-depth interview and focus group discussion in order to gain in-depth information. Fifteen
health professionals who are currently working in TASH are involved in the study. Data was
analysed by cross-case analysis technique, to create a meaning from qualitatively generated data.
The findings of this study confirmed that health professionals are facing serious job related
stresses that lead to various socioemotional challenges. These are job dissatisfaction, frustration
and plan to change their work place. In addition some of the professionals have developed signs
of burnout which is serious problem for their practice. The result of the study has an indication
for social work intervention in the health care institutions. The implications aim at promotion of
health professionals’ wellbeing through provision of socio-emotional support
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Keywords
Coping Mechanisms; Health Professionals; Job Related Stress; Socio-emotional Support