Influence of Information Sharing on Public Service Delivery in National Referral Hospitals in Kenya

Isaac Kiplelgo Rutto, Aloys Ojore and Zipporah Muiruri
Tangaza University, Kenya
Email: ikiplelgo3@gmail.com

Abstract: This study examined the influence of information sharing on public service delivery in Kenya’s national referral hospitals, focusing on Kenyatta National Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital. The study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. The target population comprised 480 participants, from whom 260 questionnaires were distributed. A total of 249 valid questionnaires were analysed, representing a 95.8% effective response rate, while 18 key informants participated in interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and simple linear regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that information-sharing practices were generally positive, with a composite mean of 3.98 (SD = 0.27). Pearson correlation revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between information sharing and public service delivery (r = .356, p < .01). Simple linear regression further showed that information sharing significantly predicted public service delivery (B = .328, p < .001) and explained 12.7% of its variance (R² = .127). Qualitative findings indicated that although information-sharing systems and procedures were available, delays in accessing and disseminating information affected decision-making, coordination, and timely service provision. The study concludes that effective and timely information sharing contributes to improved public service delivery. It recommends strengthening information-sharing systems, improving digital information-sharing mechanisms, establishing clear information-sharing protocols, and enhancing staff capacity in information management.