A Cross-sectional Study of Maternity Benefits Disputes Among Contract Nurses in the Government Hospital in Northern Karnataka, India
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study examines the awareness of contract nurses regarding maternity benefits, their utilization of these benefits, and the socio-economic impact they have, specifically in government hospitals in Northern Karnataka, India.There are some real gaps in how it is implemented, especially for contract workers who often lack job security and proper HR support.So, the main goal was to determine how age, years of experience, and income affect nurses' understanding and access to maternity-related benefits.The study surveyed 218 contract nurses using a structured questionnaire to gather the data.We analyzed the responses using SPSS, diving into descriptive and inferential statistics.Nurses under 30 were the least aware of their benefits (with a mean score of -0.41) and used them the least (-0.69).In contrast, those over 40 had much higher awareness (4.91) and utility (4.87).Chi-square tests revealed some significant links-Vaishnavi S Hosur, Puttanna K https://iaeme.com/Home/journal/IJMHRM80 [email protected] between age and awareness (χ² (12, N = 218) = 139.04,p < .001),years of experience and utility (χ² (30, N = 218) = 197.79,p < .001),and income levels impacting socio-economic outcomes (χ² (18, N = 218) = 66.90, p < .001).73.4% of the respondents said they used maternity benefits, but there were some inconsistencies.Issues popped up about job continuity, payments during leave, and the support they got after maternity.Plus, 83.9% felt that the socio-economic impact of the current maternity provisions was not cutting it.So, there is a significant need for better awareness programs, more transparent employer communication, and solid HR policies tailored for contract workers.In conclusion, while legal maternity benefits exist, not everyone is reaping the rewards equally.Demographic differences and systemic issues are getting in the way.What we need are targeted policy changes and accountability within institutions to ensure that all working women have fair access to these benefits.
Authors: Vaishnavi S Hosur, Puttanna K
Institution: Mangalore University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413161695