Rural Disparities in Healthcare: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Nursing Workload, Access, and Satisfaction in Karnataka, India
Keywords:
rural nursing, primary health care, job satisfaction, geographical dispersion, working conditions, health equityAbstract
This study explores the working conditions, job satisfaction, and perceived needs of rural versus urban nursing professionals in Karnataka, India, focusing on the Gubbi PHC (rural) and Jayanagar PHC (urban). Using a mixed-methods case study design, quantitative data from 19 nurses were analyzed alongside qualitative insights from a focus group. Results showed rural nurses travel significantly farther (mean 7,061.39 km/year vs. 135 km/year urban) and spend more time on home visits (67.74 vs. 6.07 hours/year), yet report similar job satisfaction (Global Average Satisfaction 0.15 rural vs. 0.09 urban). Key challenges included infrastructure deficits, travel burdens, and staffing shortages. Conclusions emphasize the need for tailored health policies that account for rural geographical dispersion, formal recognition of travel time in schedules, and enhanced roles for nurses in chronic care management to improve primary care equity and effectiveness.
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