Analysis of the incentive systems used at the University of the West Indies

ABSTRACT

Reviews the history of the University Hospital, its organization, administration and financing. Discusses the open system of the University Hospital, its emphasis on service, the goals and objectives of the organization and of individuals, the economic and external constraints and the need for adequate incentive systems for workers. Discusses the present hospital-wide incentive systems medical care, long service awards, contributory pension and life assurance schemes, staff training programmes and other schemes, vacation, sick and departmental leave, and employer's liability. Analyses the utilization, costs and problems involved with these. Presents the individual incentive schemes as applied to nurses and drivers in respect of absenteeism, staff-shortage, and accidents respectively. Contends that while incentives are not directly related to the productive affort of the workers, mangement expects to improve the stability and strength of the hospital. Suggests specific measures to improve the incentive system and the introduction of new schemes to encourage and reward group effort. Recommends also greater involvement of employees in the decision making process and proper vertical and horizontal lines of communication. Concludes that poor finances, poor remuneration of staff and changing societal human behaviour problems have contributed to present low staff morale and staff relations and that the hospital-wide incentive schemes must be complemented by group and incentive schemes. (AU)