Assessing Indian Public Health Standards for 24 × 7 primary health centers: A case study with special reference to newborn care services

Abstract

Objectives: The main objective of the present study is to identify the existing gap with respect to Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) for availability of infrastructure, human resources, investigative services and essential newborn care services at 24 × 7 primary health centers (PHCs) of Bharatpur district of Rajasthan state. Materials and Methods: Data were collected from medical officer in-charge from the study 24 × 7 PHCs to provide required data on infrastructure, human resources, investigative services and newborn health care services through the well-structured questionnaire. Results: It was found that the availability of operation theater, telephone and E-mail facility were not satisfactory. Labor room was available at almost all the 24 × 7 PHCs while nearly 75% of the 24 × 7 PHCs have laboratory and cold chain facility. Shortage of human resources, especially laboratory technician and pharmacist were observed. It was also observed that none of the 24 × 7 PHCs have fully equipped newborn corner. Conclusion: The study depicted that the availability of human resources, infrastructure and facilities for newborn care services at the 24 × 7 PHCs were not satisfactory as per the prescribed IPHS. Efforts are required on priority to strengthen OT, investigative facilities and communication facilities at the 24 × 7 PHCs. Recommendations: It is recommended that availability of pharmacist/compounder shall be as per IPHS norms at the 24 × 7 PHCs. New born care corners established at 24 × 7 PHCs should be provided adequate equipment/items as recommended by the IPHS so as to become effective and functional to provide new born care services in the rural areas.