Risk Communication In The Healthcare Sector A Case Study Of Risk Communication Among The Doctors Nurses And Patients In Kenema Government Hospital In Sierra Leone

This study investigated the various forms of risk communication among doctors nurses and patients in the healthcare delivery at the Kenema Government Hospital KGH. The main objectives of this research were to identify the forms of risk communication among doctors nurses and patients assess the level of awareness of and involvement in the various forms of risk communication identify the channels of risk communication and the impact of risk communication on the healthcare delivery in the study area. In order to collect relevant data and information from the various sources a number of data collection and analysis tools and techniques were employed. These included the use of survey tools such as questionnaires and focus group discussions that targeted target groups of respondents that included medical doctors nurses healthcare givers and patients. Data were analysed and presented using tables and graphs. Research findings indicated that the healthcare services at the Kenema Government Hospital were characterised by deceptive diagnosis of test results inattentive application of intravenous injections misreading of prescriptions rampant self-treatments by patients without prior knowledge of healthcare providers. Shortage of human resource poverty and the fact that Sierra Leoneans were considered non-nationalistic were found to be major causes of risk communication in healthcare delivery. Also errors were seen as the main reasons for deformation and untimely deaths at the Kenema Government Hospital. To improve on the current forms of risk communication at the Kenema Government Hospital Government of Sierra Leone should endeavour to minimize absolute poverty and close the gap of income inequalities among Sierra Leoneans. Additionally the Government of Sierra Leone GoSL should expand educational opportunities in terms of human resource development recruit staff with the right knowledge skills and aptitudes. On their part Sierra Leoneans should inculcate the spirit of nationalism and love towards their fellow Sierra Leonean especially when they are sick and in need of help.