Assessment of the Operational Aspects of Health and Wellness Centers in Randomly Selected Blocks of Eastern India.

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

Introduction Launched in 2018, by the Government of India, the Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) initiative under the Ayushman Bharat program aims to transform India's primary healthcare system. This study evaluates the functioning of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) in random blocks of Patna, Bihar, focusing on service availability, infrastructure, manpower challenges, and overall effectiveness in meeting healthcare needs. Methodology The assessment aimed to understand the current state of functioning of 16 HWCs and identify areas for improvement through a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis. This evaluation was conducted via face-to-face interviews with the senior-most personnel at each facility and assessments of various components within the centers. Results The results indicate that while routine immunization services are commendably available at 81.25%and outpatient services at 68.75%, significant gaps persist, particularly in child and adolescent care, emergency services, mental health management, and non-communicable disease (NCD) screening, which is limited to only 18.75% of centers. Infrastructure issues exacerbate these challenges, with 75% of centers operating in inadequate buildings lacking essential amenities. Staffing shortages affect 68.75% of facilities, leading to compromised service continuity, especially in urban areas. Alarmingly, pediatric and adolescent services are available in only 6.25% of centers, highlighting a critical need for targeted healthcare for younger populations. Conclusion Despite these challenges, the assessment underscores the necessity for strategic interventions in public health policy to address identified gaps, enhance service delivery capabilities, and improve community engagement through wellness initiatives. Expanding teleconsultation services can also bridge access gaps for underserved populations. Overall, addressing these issues is vital for strengthening the healthcare system in Patna and ensuring comprehensive health coverage for all residents.