Perceptions and attitudes of medical interns regarding working in rural areas: A cross–sectional study

Sarita K. Sharma; Sonali S. Patil; Shruti Shukla

Volume : IX, Issue : II, February - 2020

Perceptions and attitudes of medical interns regarding working in rural areas: A cross–sectional study

Sarita K. Sharma, Sonali S. Patil, Shruti Shukla

Abstract :

Background: The rural health system in India has long been disadvantaged by a shortage of health staff, including doctors. Hence this study was undertaken to assess perceptions and attitudes of medical interns regarding working in rural areas. Methodology: Present cross–sectional study was conducted among 198 medical interns in a tertiary care center in Nagpur. Data was collected by predesigned and pretested questionnaire. Results: Majority of respondents perceived that current status of rural service was unsatisfactory and only 22 (11.11%) were willing to work in rural areas. The factors having strongly negative influence were lack of facilities and infrastructure, no job satisfaction etc. Most common suggestions given were financial incentives and better facilities. Conclusions: Medical students� overall attitude towards working in rural areas was not favorable. For improving and advancing rural health care services, favorable policies and strategies need to be implemented.