Time Management in Public Health Institutions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Mixed-Methods Study at the EPI Branch in Mbandaka, Équateur Province (April–June 2025)
Abstract
Introduction
Time management is a critical determinant of organizational performance, particularly in public health institutions where delays can directly impact service delivery and population health outcomes. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) faces persistent organizational challenges that affect vaccination coverage. This study analyzed time management practices and their influence on the performance of the EPI branch in Mbandaka, Équateur Province, from April to June 2025.
Methods
A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 EPI personnel (49 men, 41 women) selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and documentary analysis. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were performed using SPSS version 25. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
Results
Only 58% of personnel had a clear work schedule. Regular activity planning was associated with significantly higher odds of meeting deadlines (OR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.6–6.4, p < 0.001). Meetings rarely or never started on time for 66% of respondents, and 74% rarely or never met deadlines. Major time management barriers included lack of materials (34%), poor planning (21%), and colleague delays (24%). Insufficient logistics were reported by 68% of personnel, increasing the risk of delays (OR = 0.1, 95% CI: 0.0–0.3, p < 0.001). Poor time management was associated with reduced service quality (OR = 12.3, 95% CI: 5.6–27.0, p < 0.001) and lower global performance (OR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.8–5.7, p < 0.001). Most participants (57%) believed that improved supervision would enhance punctuality and efficiency.
Conclusion
Time management at the Mbandaka EPI branch is suboptimal and significantly affects service quality and overall performance. Key barriers include inadequate logistics, poor planning, and insufficient supervision. Strengthening planning, logistics, supervision, and internal communication is urgently needed to improve EPI performance in Mbandaka.
Keywords
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How to cite
Aokamisake Bangamodjo, S. (2026). Time Management in Public Health Institutions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Mixed-Methods Study at the EPI Branch in Mbandaka, Équateur Province (April–June 2025). SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0035-time-management-in-public-health-institutions-in-the-democratic-republ