Career development and the retention of health workers in rural dispensaries in Chamwino District, Tanzania

Career development is crucial for employee retention, as it enhances skills, knowledge, and expertise, ultimately leading to increased job satisfaction and enhanced organizational commitment among employees. However, the retention of health workers in rural areas remains a recurring problem that significantly impairs the quality and availability of healthcare services. This study examines the influence of career development on the retention of healthcare workers in rural dispensaries in Tanzania. Specifically, it assesses the awareness of career development opportunities for retention of health workers in rural dispensaries in Chamwino District, Tanzania. A mixed-method approach, involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches, was employed. It also utilizes a cross-sectional design to collect data from healthcare workers in rural dispensaries. The study employed interviews and survey methods for data collection, and subsequently used content analysis, descriptive statistics, and multiple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed significant awareness of career development opportunities among health workers in the study area. The study concludes that health workers in the study area are aware of career development opportunities available; however, it highlights the importance of strategizing ongoing communication and information-sharing related to career development opportunities. It contributes to the knowledge that awareness of career development opportunities significantly helps to retaining rural health workers. The study recommends the establishment of online platforms for easy sharing and access to staff career development opportunities.