Qualitative study of in-kind incentives to improve healthcare quality in Belize: Is quality work better than wealth?

Our study contributes to the understanding of how in-kind incentives can enhance performance. We found that in-kind incentives created extrinsic motivation, leading to an increased focus on quality. Standardized measurements and supportive supervision improved intrinsic motivation and formed a stronger commitment to quality of care. Rather than focusing on tangible incentives, explicitly incorporating standardized measurements and supportive supervision in the routine work of the Ministry of Health could have longer lasting effects on quality improvement.