The effectiveness and efficiency of labour relations processes and practices in the public hospital system with specific reference to Pelonomi Hospital (Bloemfontein, Free State)

[摘要] The general aim of this study is to analyse and assess the factors/issues thathave an impact on the effectiveness and efficiency of labour relations processesand practices in the public hospital system. Thus, the study is directed towardsthe analysis and assessment of structural factors (joint worker-employercommittees) and procedural factors (discipline, dismissal, performanceappraisal and grievance procedures) that direct and influence the labour relationsprocess at public hospitals. The overall study design was first of all exploratoryand descriptive, but of necessity also directed towards the development ofsuggestions for practical interventions in problem solving, decision-making andpolicy-making.The study was conducted at Pelonomi Hospital in Mangaung, GreaterBloemfontein. Eighty nurses and forty-two blue-collar workers, were the primaryrespondents. Other respondents included management at provincial and nationallevel, trade union representatives and supervisors of blue-collar workers. Datawas collected by means of structured questionnaires and a focus group sessionwith supervisors of blue-collar workers. The systems and open systems theoriesdirected the study. In this regard five themes were identified: working conditionsand remuneration, trade unionism, strikes, grievance and disciplinaryprocedures, and labour relations practices. The majority of the respondents were female. Most respondents (nurses andblue-collar workers) reported dissatisfaction with their salaries and the late and/ornonpayment of allowances. Despite the important role that unions play atinstitutional level, there is a perception that they are fuelling discontent amongworkers. Potential causes of strikes appeared to be more closely linked todiscrimination than to ineffective grievance and disciplinary procedures.Respondents' knowledge about the existence of grievance and disciplinaryprocedures was extensive. Largely because of a perception that workers are treated differently, the vast majority of respondents indicated that theseprocedures are handled inconsistently. In conclusion, it is essential that the poorchain of labour relations is broken. Firm foundations have been laid fortransformation of labour relations in the public health sector, in general. A healthypublic hospital system can only be created and preserved if all parties embracethe current changes.

[发布机构] University of the Free State