Published Paper Details:

In India, approximately 8.6% of the population falls under the category of "scheduled tribes," spread across 705 districts nationwide. Among these, tribal communities hold significant presence in states like Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, the Northeastern states, as well as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This study delves into the health-seeking behaviors of Koya tribe women, an indigenous group residing across various regions of India. Despite playing crucial roles in familial and societal well-being, the healthcare practices of Koya women have received limited exploration. Employing a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, this research investigates the determinants influencing health-seeking behaviors among Koya women. Factors such as cultural norms, traditional beliefs, socio-economic status, and accessibility to healthcare facilities are analyzed. The findings unveil a complex interaction between traditional healing methods and the utilization of modern healthcare services among Koya women. While traditional remedies and spiritual practices remain significant in health management, there's an increasing acceptance of modern healthcare services within the community. However, challenges like restricted access to healthcare facilities, financial limitations, and cultural preferences significantly influence the healthcare-seeking decisions of Koya women. The study emphasizes the necessity for culturally sensitive interventions to bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare systems. Through collaboration with community leaders and stakeholders, policymakers and healthcare providers can devise targeted strategies to enhance healthcare accessibility and promote well-being among Koya tribe women. This research contributes to a deeper comprehension of healthcare dynamics within indigenous communities, advocating for context-specific approaches to effectively address healthcare disparities