The Changing Role of Supervisors: From Authoritative to Supportive
Supervision is an integral part of effective human resource management in health. Since its implementation into health system monitoring processes, the word ‘Supervision’ symbolizes an erratic-timed, interrogative, fault-finding exercise often de-motivating and demoralizing healthcare workers. Supportive supervision of health staffs is an answer to labour-intensive, stressful and challenging work environments in health. This article outlines the definition and principles of supportive supervision, skills of a supervisor and steps in conducting a supportive supervisory visit. It also identifies current constraints and challenges in the integration of supportive supervision into human resource management.