Perception on Access to Health Care and Socioeconomic Impact of COVID-19 at Household Level in Rural Mandya, A Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Karnataka

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 has affected the lives of millions around the globe. The social and economic impacts of COVID-19 are far more dangerous and will have far-reaching consequences on human lives. Hence, the present study was undertaken in a rural area to determine the impact of COVID-19 on socioeconomic status and their perception of access to health care. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out for 2 months in March and April 2021 in rural Mandya, Karnataka. Adults aged above 18 years who consented were part of the study. The data obtained were entered into Microsoft Office excel sheet and analyzed using Epi info software. Results: There were 948 subjects in the study with a mean age of 49.59 ± 13.35 years. The family income decreased to 11201.53 ± 11315.243 Rs/month in COVID-19 period compared to 15354.75 ± 13523.079 Rs/month before COVID-19, because of the economic impacts of COVID-19 (Nearly 30% reduction, as mentioned by the respondents). More than 95% of the subjects had heard about COVID-19. Out of the total, 18% of the respondents visited a government health center, 12.55% visited a private health center for various health-related issues. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of our subjects reported income loss during COVID-19 crisis. A majority of the subjects were aware of COVID-19 and its symptoms, and most of them were satisfied with the quality of health-care delivery during the pandemic crisis. However, much needs to be done to make their life better and a holistic approach involving all the stakeholders is a must to do that.