Time management and managerial practices in healthcare institutions in South Kikwit

Abstract

Introduction: Time management is a key factor in performance within healthcare institutions. However, in resource-constrained countries, healthcare managers are often faced with organisational constraints that may affect the efficiency of services. This study aimed to analyse time management and managerial practices in healthcare institutions in South Kikwit in order to identify their influence on the functioning of healthcare facilities.

Methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 112 healthcare professionals and administrative managers selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: The results show that 56.3 per cent of respondents stated that managers plan their daily activities, and 67.0 per cent reported the existence of a formal diary or schedule. Task delegation is practised regularly by 83.0 per cent of participants. However, 60.7 per cent indicated that scheduled meetings are rarely used. Furthermore, 56.3 per cent of respondents consider their workload to be high, and 60.7 per cent report frequent interruptions whilst carrying out their tasks.

Conclusion: Time management practices exist in healthcare institutions in South Kikwit but remain insufficiently structured. Work overload and frequent interruptions are the main obstacles to effective time management. Strengthening managerial capacity, improving planning and optimising human resources appear to be priority strategies for improving organisational performance.

Keywords: Time management; Managerial practices; Healthcare institutions; Healthcare management; South Kikwit.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/906