COVID-19: Gendered Experiences of Healthcare Workers in Kerala, India

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors explore the gendered experiences of women healthcare workers in Kerala during the Covid-19 pandemic period. Data were collected from 55 of them, including ASHAs, counsellors, supporting staff, technical staff, multipurpose workers, nursing staff and doctors using both direct and telephonic interviews. A combined inductive and deductive approach was used for thematic analysis. Female leadership and workforce have contributed to internationally recognised pandemic response in the state. Yet, many of them suffered from overwork and stress due to gender roles and double work. Social stigma, sexual harassment, and gender segregation of certain cadres of low-income healthcare workers were the other problems identified. These experiences are intersecting with various socio-demographic factors. This study stresses the importance of inclusion of gender responsiveness in all programmes, policies and disaster preparedness.