A qualitative analysis of perspectives of district level frontline managers in Karnataka during first wave of COVID 19

ABSTRACT

With the emergence of pandemic, health sector has been facing innumerable challenges right from prevention to management of COVID-19. This study attempts to understand these factors from a local perspective that will help in better planning and management of situation for the future. Karnataka was one of the 8 states selected as part of a multisectoral qualitative study. Perspectives of frontline managers regarding the management of COVID 19 pandemic situation were taken by in depth interviews. Deductive thematic analysis from the audio recordings and transcripts showed public apprehensions, gaps in decentralized approach and specific guidelines, monitoring difficulties and workforce related issues as factors of concern.