Exploring the impact of the shortage of resources in the midwifery units of the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Background: Healthcare facilities in many countries worldwide face a shortage of resources in midwifery units those in South African district healthcare facilities. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the impact of the shortage of resources in the midwifery units of the Blouberg local municipality in the Capricorn district, Limpopo province. Methodology: The study was conducted in the Blouberg local municipality of the Capricorn district, Limpopo province, and follows a qualitative research approach A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit a total of 16 midwives, each with a minimum of 2 years’ experience working in the midwifery units. Additionally, two community health centers and two clinics with high delivery rates were purposefully selected as study sites. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews using an interview guide and recorded using an audio recorder. Data analysis was done thematically to identify key terms and patterns. Findings: The study resulted in five themes. These were (1) the impact of the shortage of staff on midwives’ performance, (2) midwives’ emotional well-being negatively affected, (3) patients’ dissatisfaction caused by lack of human and material resources, (4) the value of adequate staff members in the midwifery units and (5) availability of material resources is vital in the midwifery units. Conclusion: The shortage of resources has a negative impact on the provision of adequate healthcare in the midwifery units of the Capricorn District. Better workforce planning, improved working conditions, and strategies to retain experienced midwives while supporting skill development for newer staff in the midwifery units should be considered. Recommendations: It was recommended that the Department of Health in the Limpopo province should be accountable and provide all PHC facilities in the Capricorn District with adequate human and material resources.