Perceived factors promoting knowledge transfer processes within public hospital services in South Africa.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Knowledge transfer processes are increasingly important in South Africa‟s public healthcare industry for retaining scarce skills and facilitating a collaborative learning approach amongst doctors which enhances patient care. South Africa‟s public health sector faces many challenges, such as the shortage of doctors. With these constraints, this study identifies the perceived factors that promote knowledge transfer processes. A qualitative case study method assisted with understanding knowledge transfer processes doctors utilise and identified factors that promote and hinder these processes. The main findings reveal that although doctors make the most use of the resources they have to promote knowledge transfer, key components required to promote knowledge transfer need to be implemented. The results of this study suggest a model which illustrates requirements to foster an environment of knowledge transfer. Leadership and management play an important role for implementing and sustaining knowledge transfer.