On the Frontline During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Gender Inequality and Experiences of Healthcare Workers in Pakistan

Abstract

This mixed methods study investigates the experiences of healthcare workers (HCWs) along gender lines during the COVID-19 pandemic in Lahore, the second most populous city in Pakistan. In-person semi-structured interviews ( n = 62) and researcher-administered surveys ( n = 631) were conducted with doctors and nurses in five private and public hospitals. The findings reveal that male and female HCWs shared experiences related to increased working hours, psychological burdens, and adverse financial impacts. However, female HCWs struggled more than male HCWs, as their responsibilities at home and in the workplace increased. Additionally, more female HCWs than their male peers reported experiencing occupational stress due to transportation issues, working during pregnancy, and discriminatory attitudes of the patients toward them. Building on the results from our study, we propose several technological and policy initiatives that can be adopted by governments and organizations, especially in countries like Pakistan, where women account for most of the healthcare workforce but continue to bear a heavier burden when balancing work and family.