I.

Title:

"Comparative Analysis of Surgical Treatment Preferences for Common Ailments Among Auroville's
Foreign and Local Populations."

II. Objectives:

To compare surgical treatment preferences for common ailments between Auroville's foreign and
local populations.

To identify factors influencing treatment preferences in both groups.

To assess the impact of cultural, socioeconomic, and individual factors on surgical decision-making.

III. Study Design:

Cross-sectional study with both quantitative and qualitative components.

IV. Sampling:

Stratified random sampling:

Strata: Auroville's foreign residents and local residents.

Sample size calculation based on desired power, effect size, and variability.

V. Data Collection:

Surveys:

Develop a survey to collect quantitative data on surgical treatment preferences, including factors
influencing decisions.

Translate surveys into relevant languages.

Administer surveys online or through paper forms, ensuring anonymity.

Interviews:

Conduct semi-structured interviews to explore in-depth perspectives on surgical decision-making.

Include participants from both groups to capture individual experiences.

Record and transcribe interviews for qualitative analysis.

Medical Record Review:

Obtain consent to access medical records.

Review records for common surgical procedures performed on both foreign and local residents.

VI. Variables:

Independent Variables:

Cultural background.

Socioeconomic status.

Individual factors (e.g., education, occupation).

Dependent Variables:

Surgical treatment preferences.

Factors influencing decisions.

VII. Data Analysis:

Quantitative Analysis:

Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) for survey responses.

Inferential statistics (e.g., chi-square tests) to identify significant differences between groups.

Qualitative Analysis:

Thematic analysis for interview data.

Coding and categorization of qualitative responses.

VIII. Ethical Considerations:

Informed consent from participants.

Assurance of confidentiality and privacy.

Approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB).

IX. Significance and Expected Outcomes:

Identification of differences in surgical treatment preferences.

Insights into cultural and socioeconomic factors influencing decisions.

Contribution to patient-centered care strategies.

X. Timeline:

A projected timeline for each phase of the study, including data collection, analysis, and report
writing.

XI. Budget:

Detailed budget outlining resources, personnel, and any required technology or translation services.

XII. Reporting:

A plan for disseminating the findings through academic publications and presentations.