The Contribution of Human Resource Management in Health Service Innovation: A Case Study of Sekou-Toure Regional Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania

Human Resource Management (HRM) plays a greater role in driving health service innovation by creating an environment where healthcare professionals are motivated and equipped to implement new ideas. This study examines how specific HRM practices compensation, job security, and labour relations contribute to raise innovation at Sekou-Toure Regional Hospital in Nyamagana District, Mwanza, Tanzania. It addresses the gap in understanding how HRM can support innovation, particularly in resource-constrained healthcare settings, by exploring the influence of these factors on healthcare professionals' readiness and ability to engage in innovative practices. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Quantitative data were gathered through structured questionnaires from 225 healthcare professionals and management staff, while qualitative insights were derived from in-depth interviews with key hospital administrators. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between fair compensation and health service innovation, with a Pearson correlation of 0.525, demonstrating that adequate compensation enhances healthcare workers' commitment to innovative efforts. Job security also contributes, with a beta coefficient of 0.250, highlighting the importance of stable employment in raising a supportive environment for new ideas. Labour relations, with a Pearson correlation of 0.498, underline the value of fair working conditions and employee involvement in decision-making, both of which empower healthcare professionals to act as agents of change. HRM practices such as fair compensation, job security, and inclusive labour relations play a greater role in promoting health service innovation. To enhance this contribution, it is recommended that the hospital review its compensation policies, ensure stable employment, and continue fostering inclusive decision-making and fair labor practices. This will create a more supportive environment for continuous innovation and improved healthcare delivery.