Evaluating the Utilization of Human Resources for Health Information Systems at the Local Government Level: Findings from the Kilimanjaro Region

Introduction: Human resources for health (HRH) are critical to healthcare delivery. Global HRH shortages hinder health service provision. This study explored how data from HRHIS is utilized to optimize HRH planning, management, and development. Methods: The study used a utility-focused evaluation approach, employing multiple case study designs. Data were collected from seven (7) of the Ministry of Health and President's Office—Regional Administrative and Local Government through in-depth interviews and an observation checklist, whereas ten (10) participants were interviewed. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to describe individual experiences, practices of HRH management, and data use from HRHIS. Results: The study found that staffing levels, DHIS2, Work Indicators, Staff Needs and Prioritization, and Optimization Analysis are key data sources for HRH planning, allocation, and deployment decisions. However, relying on multiple systems for employee data management proved challenging due to inconsistencies and errors. While essential, HRHIS lacks integration with other systems, hindering data utilization. Manual data entry further exacerbates data quality issues, emphasizing the need for a more robust and integrated HRH information system. Conclusion: HRHIS is a valuable tool for HRH data management, but its potential is underutilized in Kilimanjaro. Despite implementation, challenges persist in using HRHIS data for planning, management, and development. Significant efforts are needed to promote data utilization and improve HRHIS's contribution to Tanzania's healthcare workforce. The study recommends accelerating the integration of HRHIS with other systems, such as the District Health Information System, the Human Capital Management Information System, Professional Councils databases, Regulatory bodies – Tanzania Commission for University, NACVET, Health Facility Registry, and TrainSmart. This integration will enhance data accessibility and improve HRH planning and management.