Understanding the factors affecting attrition and intention to leave of health extension workers: a mixed methods study in Ethiopia.

Although the magnitude of attrition is not worryingly high, we see high magnitude in HEWs' intention to leave, indicating a dissatisfied workforce. Multiple factors have contributed to attrition and intention to leave, the prevalence of many of which can be reduced to fit the needs of this workforce and to retain them for the sustained delivery of primary healthcare in the country. Ensuring HEWs' job satisfaction is important and linked with their career development and potentially higher rates of retention.