Assessment of hospital management needs

During 1993/94, a study was done through a mailed self-administered questionnaire to identify specific hospital management needs. Out of 73 hospitals, 29 (39.7%) were covered in the study. Of the 29 medical directors, 16 (55.2%) were general practitioners and 25 (86.2%) did not have any formal training in hospital management. Lack of financial resource, shortage of medical supplies and equipment and low motivation of health personnel were considered top problems. The need for improving hospitals by providing appropriate training, involving communities, developing strong supervision and control are suggested.