Enhancing Operational Efficiency in Hospital Maintenance Units: Lessons learned from the National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Effective management of hospital maintenance units is crucial for the upkeep and repair of medical and general equipment, ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality healthcare services. The National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL), established in the 1970s, relies on a vast array of equipment, making the efficiency of its maintenance unit vital. This study examines strategies to enhance operational efficiency in hospital maintenance units, drawing lessons from NHSL. Objectives included evaluating the efficiency of NHSL’s current maintenance processes, identifying areas for improvement, and developing recommendations for enhancing the unit. A qualitative approach was employed, involving observation visits and semi-structured key informant interviews with administrative and technical officers, ward in-charges, storekeeper, maintenance workers, and public works department workers. Data were coded and analyzed using NVivo software to identify common themes and challenges. Findings revealed several critical issues: persistent delays in repairs and frequent equipment breakdowns, a lack of skilled staff, gaps in technical and supervisory skills, delays in recruitment, poor communication, and lack of recognition for maintenance staff contributions, inadequate technical training opportunities, limited repair and storage space, insufficient sanitary facilities, and delays in spare parts supply. The study underscores the need for strategic improvements in NHSL’s maintenance unit. Key recommendations include conducting training programs, establishing a central maintenance unit, providing new machinery and tools, regular vocational training, improving communication channels, and enhancing sanitary facilities. Addressing these challenges can significantly improve the maintenance unit’s operational efficiency and the overall quality of healthcare services at NHSL.