Assessment of Maintenance Practices in Health Care Institutions in Ghana; A Study of Bekwai Municipal Hospital

Abstract

Purpose – The study aims to assess the maintenance practices in the Bekwai Municipal Hospital. The study specifically assessed the availability of a maintenance policy, the maintenance strategy used, and the current state of buildings in the hospital. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a descriptive research design. A sample size of 108 respondents was selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires and observation checklists were used to collect data for the study. Findings – The Bekwai Government Hospital has a maintenance policy and uses a corrective maintenance strategy. Maintenance works are performed only upon request, which are acted upon approximately within one month. Users (staff) of hospital facilities generally made maintenance requests verbally. Generally, the buildings in the hospital were in a good state of repair. Practical Implications – The paper underscores the importance of efficient maintenance practices in Ghanaian healthcare institutions, as they significantly influence building conditions and effective healthcare delivery. Originality/ Value – The study specifically focused on maintenance practices that could enhance the effective management and use of hospital facilities (buildings and other services).