Health providers' perspectives on covid-19 healthcare delivery in the public health care in Indonesia: a qualitative study

Abstract

The corona virus disease-19 global pandemic has impacted all aspects of life, including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being over the world. Due to this fact, health professionals were challenged not only to provide physical care associated with Corona Virus Disease (COVID)-19  but also psychosocial and psychological support for patients. This study aimed to describe the subjective experience of corona virus disease COVID-19 health providers in community settings. A descriptive exploratory design was used. Focus group discussions were conducted with 15 health providers in public health centres in Indonesia. The participants were recruited using purposive sampling, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three themes are constructed: i) explaining primary care service provided; ii) perceiving barriers to care; iii) perceiving expectations of prospective care. Care provided in the community setting included tracing, tracking, testing, treatment, making a referral in a coordinated manner, providing support for home care, a home visit, and recording and reporting. However, inadequate knowledge and negative beliefs of patients and the community coupled with limited resources, shortage of health professionals, heavy workload, and different policies negatively impacted the quality of care. Primary health providers deliver COVID-19 interventions along with a coordinated approach despite dealing with burdens in the community.