Healthcare managerial challenges in rural and underserved areas: A Review
Oloruntoba Babawarun, Chioma Anthonia Okolo, Jeremiah Olawumi Arowoogun, Adekunle Oyeyemi Adeniyi, Rawlings Chidi
Abstract
This paper reviews the managerial challenges and strategies for improving healthcare in rural and underserved areas. It explores healthcare managers' unique obstacles, including resource allocation, staffing, infrastructure development, technology integration, policy compliance, and community engagement. Through a comprehensive literature review, the paper identifies effective strategies such as innovative human resource management, financial sustainability models, operational efficiencies, technological advancements, policy reforms, and community-based approaches. The analysis emphasizes the importance of adaptability, local context consideration, and stakeholder involvement in implementing these strategies. The paper concludes with a call to action for continued research, policy reform, and collaborative efforts to address the systemic challenges in rural healthcare management, aiming to enhance access, quality, and equity in healthcare services for rural and underserved populations.