Research Summary: Satisfaction and Challenges of Women Religious as Medical Doctors in India
Conducted by: Sr.Mini Joseph JMJ, MScN and Sr. Thu T. Do, LHC, PhD in collaboration with the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA), Georgetown University
In association with: Sister Doctors Forum of India (SDFI)
Publication Date: February 2024
Respondents: 214 Sister Doctors in India
Purpose and Scope of Study
This national study explores the lived experiences of Catholic women religious who serve as medical doctors in India. It investigates their satisfaction in ministry, the challenges they face, sources of support, and how both religious life and healthcare roles intersect.
Key Findings
1. Demographics and Ministry Context
- Most sister doctors serve in rural areas (70%).
- Majority work in health institutions owned by their congregations (88%).
- Most are based in Tamil Nadu (23%), Kerala (22%), and Karnataka (10%).
- Average age is 54 years; most entered religious life at 19 and became doctors at 30.
- 60% hold MBBS with postgraduate degrees, with OBG (34%) and Pediatrics (18%) as common specializations.
2. Satisfaction with Ministry
- 98% report overall satisfaction, and 65% are “very much satisfied.”
- Higher satisfaction was noted among those in rural areas and those in non-congregational institutions.
- High satisfaction with institutions’ commitment to serving the poor (94%) and integrating religious values (93%).
3. Ministry Challenges
- Balancing religious life and work is a major concern (78%), especially among urban ministers.
- Heavy workload, inadequate staffing, and mental health were notable issues.
Challenges in religious life include:
- Community misunderstandings, ego conflicts
- Lack of prayer/rest time
- Obedience to authority and being misunderstood by superiors
- Tensions with government health systems
4. Sources of Support
- Strongest support from friends/well-wishers (65%), family (61%), and provincial/community superiors (51%).
- Sister Doctors in rural areas receive higher levels of support.
Most helpful community supports identified:
- Quiet sleeping spaces
- Emotional and institutional support
- Flexibility in schedules
- Guidance to avoid burnout
5. Role of the Sister Doctor Forum of India (SDFI)
SDFI can enhance support through:
- Awareness building among congregational leadership
- Providing medical staffing replacements
- Organizing educational and spiritual renewals
- Facilitating networking and peer support
- Advocating for administrative recognition, better facilities, and financial aid
6. Improvements Suggested
- Staffing: more medical and support personnel in rural areas
- Fellowship: stronger networks among sister doctors
- Training and Education: frequent refresher courses, PG opportunities
- Respect and Understanding: from congregational leadership
- Spiritual Renewal: to prevent burnout and restore balance
Conclusion
Sister doctors in India express profound commitment to their dual vocation as religious and healthcare professionals. While deeply satisfied with their ministry, they face structural, psychological, and spiritual challenges that require greater institutional support. The study highlights actionable pathways for communities and SDFI to create a more enabling environment for sister doctors to flourish in both their vocations.