"As Long as I am Connected Through Virtual World, It Is Fine for Me to Stay Here": Retaining Nurses in Rural and Remote Areas of Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Indonesia's rural and remote areas struggled to retain nurses due to isolation, limited resources, and restricted professional growth. A stable nursing workforce was essential to ensure equitable health care access and improve population health in these underserved regions. This study explored Indonesian nurses' perspectives on retention in these settings.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with 20 registered nurses working in remote and rural Indonesia. Data were analyzed thematically using QSR NVIVO 15.

Results: Six key themes emerged: virtual connectivity, personal characteristics, security guarantees, social recognition, civil servant employment, and scholarships for further education. Reliable internet was crucial for professional development, reducing isolation, and facilitating communication.

Discussions: Nurse retention in Indonesia's rural and remote areas was influenced by several factors, with internet connectivity emerging as particularly critical. Further research is needed to develop multifaceted sustainable retention programs tailored to specific local contexts.

Keywords: Indonesia; health worker; nurse retention; remote areas; rural.