Knowledge Sharing Practices among Medical Doctors at Muhimbili National Hospital

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to assess knowledge sharing practices among medical doctors in Dar es Salaam region with reference to Muhimbili National Hospital. The study employed descriptive research design and used mixed-method research approach that included qualitative and quantitative methods. The study used questionnaire and interview to collect data from a sample of 100 respondents. Respondents were selected using simple random sampling and convenient sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The study findings revealed the willingness among medical doctors to share different types of knowledge while clinical and patient knowledge are universally shared, technical, evidence-based, ethical and legal knowledge may require tailored approaches to address specific concerns and encourage broader participation. Also, the study findings reveal diverse knowledge sharing practices among medical professionals such as department meetings, medical seminars, surgical briefing, online forums, and research collaboration. The study findings reveal that enhancing these practices contribute to improved teamwork, professional development, and ultimately, better healthcare outcomes through effective knowledge sharing and application. The study indicated that, there are critical challenges like workload exhaustion, and time constraints are acknowledged as significant challenges that can hinder effective knowledge sharing. The study recommends that there should be provision of financial support to the medical personnel to conduct research activities which is very essential in the health profession. Furthermore, there should be hiring large number of medical doctors so as to reduce workload exhaustion and time constraints among medical doctors.