Healthcare Accessibility Among Tribal Women in Jhabua District, Madhya Pradesh: Challenges and Interventions

Abstract

Healthcare accessibility remains a critical concern for tribal populations in India, particularly for women residing in remote and socio-economically disadvantaged areas. This study investigates the barriers to healthcare access among tribal women in the Jhabua District of Madhya Pradesh, evaluates the effectiveness of existing interventions, and proposes context-specific strategies to improve service delivery. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative data from 300 tribal women collected through structured questionnaires and qualitative insights from focus group discussions with community leaders, ASHA workers, and healthcare providers. Secondary data were drawn from NFHS-5, Census 2011, and government health reports. The findings reveal that 68% of women were illiterate, and 72% lived below the poverty line, while 60% of households were located over 5 km from the nearest health facility, underscoring the impact of socio-economic and geographic constraints. Cultural preferences for traditional healers, financial barriers, and systemic inefficiencies—including shortage of medical personnel, irregular medicine supply, and absenteeism—further limit healthcare utilization. Consequently, 65% of women reported home deliveries, only 35% received all recommended antenatal check-ups, and immunization coverage stood at 52%, below the state average. Existing interventions, such as ASHA outreach, Janani Suraksha Yojana, and free immunization programs, demonstrated partial success but were hindered by implementation gaps and limited cultural adaptation. The study highlights the need for holistic, culturally sensitive, and community-driven approaches. Recommended strategies include establishing mobile health clinics, integrating traditional healers into health promotion campaigns, strengthening financial incentives and ASHA programs, and implementing targeted health education initiatives. Addressing these multi-dimensional barriers is essential for improving maternal and child health outcomes and promoting equitable healthcare access among tribal women.