Medical officer's perspectives and professional challenges in handling poisoning cases in rural India
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Date
2022-06
Authors
Mahadik, Kakasaheb
Raut, Asawari
Chowdhury, Monidipa
Asad, Ali Haider
More, Shubham
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wolters Kluwer-Medknow Publications
Abstract
Introduction: Poisoning is a significant public health problem in developing countries, more so in rural areas. Very little is known about the treatment available for poisoning cases in the context of rural health care provision in India. This study explores the perceptions of the primary health care medical officers regarding the management of poisoning cases. Material and Methods: A semistructured, self-designed survey form was used to interview the medical officers in Pune district. The interview focused on understanding rural hospital settings in terms of infrastructure, available facilities, and medical officers' perception of professional challenges in the management of poisoning cases. Results: Underreporting of poisoning cases in these primary health centers (PHCs) and transferring to higher hospitals without basic first aid provided was noted through interviews. Conclusion: Medical officers in rural PHCs lack the necessary training and knowledge required for the management of poisonings which is further worsened by lack of resources. There is a need to focus on poison management in continuous medical education. Training programs and education for medical officers are needs of the hour.
Description
Keywords
Medical officers, poisoning, primary health care, rural health
Citation
Mahadik Kakasaheb, Raut Asawari, Chowdhury Monidipa, Asad Ali Haider, More Shubham. Medical officer's perspectives and professional challenges in handling poisoning cases in rural India. Indian Journal of Community & Family Medicine. 2022 Jun; 8(1): 39-43