Enhancing Primary Health Accessibility for Elderly Citizens in Remote Indian Villages: The Mobile Medical Unit Initiative

Abstract

This study aimed to address the escalating health challenges faced by India's elderly population, which is projected to reach 300 million by 2050, emphasizing the surge in chronic health conditions. The Rural areas, housing 69% of the elderly, grapple with inadequately equipped health facilities and limited access to essential services, contributing to high out-of-pocket expenditures. Health-seeking behaviour is intricately linked to factors such as availability, affordability, and accessibility, revealing disparities influenced by income and urban-rural differences. The Hans Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) project, initiated by The Hans Foundation, is being implemented across eight states in the country. This research study is conducted in 4 states, evaluates the project's impact on elderly beneficiaries, with a focus on health-seeking behaviour, prior challenges, and satisfaction levels. The results indicate a substantial reduction in out-of-pocket expenditures (71%), with notable improvements in health conditions reported by 99% of elderly beneficiaries. Major diseases include high blood pressure and back & neck pain. The project has successfully provided free medicines, diagnostics, home visits, and referrals, catering specifically to the elderly population. Despite certain limitations, including the cross-sectional design and state-specific focus, this study contributed essential insights for policymakers and healthcare practitioners working towards inclusive and accessible healthcare for the elderly in rural India.