406 Qualitative comparative analysis of experiences of female public health care workers in the UK and Bangladesh

Abstract PTH 7: Health Policy and Health Services 2, B308 (FCSH), September 5, 2025, 11:30 - 12:24 Introduction Effective health systems and emergency responses rely heavily on the presence and commitment of healthcare staff (Agyeman-Manu et al., 2023). Although the projected shortfall of health workers has decreased from 18 million to 10 million by 2030 (WHO, 2020), a significant gap remains, hindering nations’ ability to provide universal access to healthcare with adequately trained professionals. The unmet MDG target of 4.2 million health workers and 2.3 workers per 1,000 population necessitated the establishment of the SDGs in 2015 to address global health inequities (Blanchet et al., 2006). Despite their crucial role in patient care, female public health care workers (FHCWs) face numerous challenges, including inadequate pay, excessive workload, workplace violence, and a lack of organizational support (Ghebreyesus, 2019 & Lancet, 2023). Aims This comparative study investigates the challenges faced by female public health care workers (FHCWs) in the UK and Bangladesh, with the goal of proposing policy recommendations to enhance public health outcomes. Methods Methods employed to interview 12 participants through purposive, convenient, and snowball sampling. Participatory Learning and Action tool (River Career Pathway) also used to gather insights into their experiences. Results Findings revealed significant discrimination and challenges in balancing familial, social, and workplace responsibilities. FHCWs face a substantial gender-based pay gap and inadequate workplace safety. Contributing factors include insufficient public health investment, inadequate training, and difficulties in staff retention, especially among experienced female professionals. Organizational support, extended work hours, stress, work overload, limited development opportunities, and gender-based discrimination all hinder career progression. Conclusions Policy recommendations focus on implementing flexible work arrangements and creating a supportive environment to overcome these barriers and fully utilize the potential of FHCWs in improving public health outcomes.