The influence of inadequate staffing and health problem on absenteeism among Assistant Medical Officers in Kuala Lumpur

Absenteeism among healthcare professionals, particularly Assistant Medical Officers (AMOs), poses serious challenges to hospital operations, staff morale, and the quality of patient care. Absenteeism can negatively affect the quality of patient care, disrupt workflow and increase the workload for the remaining staff. This study aims to identify factors contributing to absenteeism among AMOs at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, with particular emphasis on inadequate staffing, and personal health difficulties. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted and data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 249 questionnaires were distributed to AMOs from 25 clinical departments in Hospital Kuala Lumpur, representing 100% response rate. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple linear regression. Both variables, including inadequate staffing and personal health issues, reported strong positive and statistically significant relationships with absenteeism, with inadequate staffing emerging as the most influential predictor (β = 0.961), followed by personal health issues (β = 0.958). The findings highlighted the urgency for targeted interventions, such as mental health support, improved staffing policies, and wellness initiatives to address the root causes of absenteeism. This research contributes to the limited literature on AMO absenteeism in Malaysia and provides hospital administrators and policymakers with evidence-based insights to improve workforce management and enhance the continuity and quality of healthcare services.