Perceived consequences of megadrought on wellbeing and the role of healthcare: narratives from rural communities in Elqui Province, Chile

Early Abstract:

Introduction: Drought is one of the most widespread natural disasters and a major contributor to climate-related health impacts. This study explores the perceived consequences of megadrought and examines the role of healthcare in addressing its effects, based on the narratives of residents from two rural communities in Elqui Province, Chile.
Methods: A qualitative, descriptive, and narrative design was applied. Thirteen semi-structured interviews and one focus group (n = 22) were conducted using snowball sampling. Participants were community members, adults (≥18 years old) with at least eight years of residence in the area, engaged in water-dependent economic activities such as small-scale agriculture, goat herding, or rural tourism. Investigator triangulation ensured methodological rigor. Data was analyzed using thematic narrative analysis.
Results: Two thematic lines were identified: perceived consequences of the megadrought and the role of healthcare in this context. Within the first thematic line, narratives revealed that the megadrought was perceived as a process transforming multiple dimensions of everyday life. Participants described its effects as interconnected experiences in which environmental degradation, economic uncertainty, social tensions, difficulties accessing water, and emotional distress mutually reinforced one another. Regarding participants’ perceptions of the role of healthcare, the commitment of rural health teams was acknowledged, however, participants also expressed the need for healthcare to respond not only to diseases but also to the changes that the water crisis produces in daily life, social relationships, and community wellbeing.
Conclusion: The megadrought’s effects are cumulative and interconnected, spanning environmental, social, and economic dimensions that influence rural well-being. It is suggested that there is a need to advance toward climate-sensitive rural healthcare strategies capable of addressing the social, emotional, and health impacts associated with the water crisis and strengthening the adaptive capacity of communities.
Keywords: climate change, drought, qualitative research, rural health, rural nursing, wellbeing.