FEEDBACK ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS IN KARNATAKA, INDIA: A MIXED-METHODS PROCESS EVALUATION

Abstract

Background: Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are often the first point of contact for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), which remains a significant public health issue and a violation of human rights in India. However, inadequate training frequently diminishes HCPs' confidence in managing GBV cases. Objectives: This study assesses participants’ feedback and perceptions on an organised training programme on GBV aimed at enhancing the skills, attitudes, and knowledge of healthcare providers affiliated with a medical college in Karnataka, India. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative insights from open-ended responses with quantitative data from a 7-item Likert-scale training evaluation form. Six batches of training sessions were conducted for urban and rural healthcare facilities, focusing on two groups: clinical PHC staff (ANMs, staff nurses, and medical officers) and other centre staff, as well as community-level workers (ASHAs, AWWs). The quantitative feedback was aggregated using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis. Results: Feedback from 164 participants showed high satisfaction levels, with Median scores across all items were 4.0 (IQR = 1.0), indicating high agreement. Thematic findings highlighted increased GBV awareness, empowerment, community action readiness, and interest in participatory and culturally relevant training methods. Participants also stressed the importance of ongoing training and inclusive support to address bureaucratic and societal barriers. Conclusion: Participants liked the training, finding it relevant for practical use and understanding GBV. The assessment emphasises the need for culturally appropriate, context-specific training and ongoing capacity-building to help HCPs manage GBV.