A Multi Cultural Approach To Tribal Women Health: -A case study in Gajapati district of Odisha, India.

Abstract

Health is an important factor, determining the well- being of any community and society at large. Tribal health is an essential
and important components derived usually from the indigenous way of living style .It focuses particularly on group and
individual well being in the definite geographical location despite of limited availability of medical service .The Women health
among the tribal community remains more challenges and critical even today which deserves special attention from all
concerned . This study, therefore, aimed at assessing the health seeking hebaviour among the tribal women in adopting a
multi-cultural approach in Gajapati district of Odisha, using interview schedules for three stages of respondents such as, for
school children, for teachers and for school management committee members. The data was generated through both
quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings showed that a considerable number of respondents have adopted a multicultural approach to deal with the health issue of tribal women in the district. Avoiding the traditional health care service,
majority of educated tribal women favored the modern treatment and health care service from the modern health care
institutions. Their interest considerably correlates with age and awareness and impact of modern education. Considering
various issues such as cost, attitude towards health, socio-religious manner influence the use of available medical care service.
In general, the mood of modern educated women has a positive health seeking behavior to adopt a multi-cultural approach for
the health care service among tribal women of Gajapati district, Odisha, can be further augmented and strengthen for the good
health care practice in the future to come.