Mitigating Nurse Emigration: Strategies for Retaining South Africa's Healthcare Workforce

Johanna Zie; Schneider Liang

doi:10.5281/zenodo.12658998

Authors

Johanna Zie Faculty of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Schneider Liang Faculty of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12658998

Keywords:

Nurse Emigration, South Africas, Retention Strategies, Healthcare Workforce, Migration Motivation

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the emigration of registered nurses from South Africa, focusing on their perceptions, motivations, and potential strategies for retention by employers and the government.
Method: A quantitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to nursing students enrolled in distance education programs. The survey collected demographic data and insights into the reasons for emigration and retention strategies, with data analyzed using SPSS software.
Findings: The primary motivations for nurse emigration were higher salaries, better working conditions, and career advancement opportunities abroad. The study revealed significant demographic influences, such as age, marital status, and family responsibilities, on nurses' decisions to emigrate. A high level of awareness regarding the emigration of peers and detailed understanding of emigration drivers were also noted.
Novelty: This research provides a comprehensive analysis of nurse emigration from South Africa, highlighting the interplay between financial incentives, working conditions, and personal factors. It offers valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare administrators seeking to develop effective retention strategies.
Conclusion: The study underscores the critical need for policies addressing income disparities, improving working conditions, and offering career development opportunities within South Africa to mitigate nurse emigration. These strategies are essential to maintaining a stable and effective healthcare workforce in the country

Author Biographies

Johanna Zie, Faculty of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa

Johanna Zie
Faculty of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Schneider Liang , Faculty of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada

Schneider Liang
Faculty of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada

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