The Work and Wellness in Rural and Underserved Families (WELLFUL) Study aims to understand unmet healthcare needs in precariously-employed adults and how precarious work affects care-seeking for health and wellness. We focus on workers living in eastern North Carolina who have non-standard employment (e.g., gig, casual, part-time) involving temporary, low-wage jobs that lack protections and benefits typically associated with standard employee status, such as health insurance, paid leave, or retirement offerings. Compared to permanent employees, precarious workers have comparatively higher rates of negative health consequences.
Study Highlights
The WELLFUL Study is designed to improve access to necessary healthcare relating to mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and substance use health in precariously-employed individuals who have recently delayed or omitted needed healthcare. Our approach includes online survey research, qualitative interviews, and intervention development involving employment services, economic resources, health information, and care referrals.