Influence of motivation on Patient-Centered Care (PCC) among healthcare providers at KCRH, Kirinyaga County in Kenya

This study explored the influence of motivation on Patient-Centered Care (PCC) among healthcare providers at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital (KCRH) in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Patient-Centered Care is increasingly acknowledged as a cornerstone of high-quality healthcare, prioritizing patient involvement in healthcare decisions and fostering improved health outcomes. Despite its critical role, the implementation of PCC faces numerous challenges, particularly those related to healthcare providers' motivation. This cross-sectional descriptive study engaged 258 healthcare providers at KCRH, employing a mixed-methods approach to data collection. Structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and the Person-Centered Care Assessment Tool (P-CAT) were utilized to gather comprehensive data. The quantitative analysis demonstrated a significant positive correlation between motivation and PCC practices, with Pearson's correlation coefficient r = 0.208 and a p-value of 0.009. These results indicate that higher levels of motivation among healthcare providers are associated with increased adherence to PCC principles. Further, the Multinomial Logistic Regression Analysis underscored motivation as a significant predictor of PCC implementation, evidenced by a Chi-Square value of 52.555 (df = 33, p = 0.003). The qualitative data provided additional insights, revealing that motivators such as effective workload management, recognition, and opportunities for professional growth play pivotal roles in enhancing healthcare providers' commitment to PCC. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of addressing motivational factors to enhance the implementation of Patient-Centered Care. The findings highlight the need for healthcare administrators and policymakers to develop strategies that foster intrinsic motivation among healthcare providers, thereby promoting the consistent application of PCC and ultimately improving patient outcomes at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital.