Over 12,000 PHCs Transition to 24x7 Emergency Services in Rural India: Center
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Synopsis
The Union Government has converted over 12,000 primary health centres (PHCs) to 24x7 emergency services, enhancing healthcare access in rural areas. This initiative, part of the National Health Mission, aims to provide timely medical assistance, especially for critical cases.
Key Takeaways
- 12,348 PHCs now operational 24x7.
- 3,133 FRUs have become active.
- 1,424 mobile medical units deployed.
- Over 31,000 PHCs functioning across India.
- 2.69 lakh healthcare workers engaged.
New Delhi, Jan 23 (NationPress) As part of efforts to enhance emergency healthcare, the Union Government has initiated around-the-clock operations at primary health centres (PHCs) and first referral units (FRUs) nationwide.
Under the National Health Mission (NHM), a total of 12,348 PHCs have been upgraded to 24x7 functionality, along with 3,133 FRUs becoming operational by March last year. Furthermore, the number of mobile medical units (MMUs) has increased, with 1,424 MMUs now active to ensure healthcare delivery in remote and underserved regions.
The launch of the MMU Portal in 2023 has further enhanced monitoring and data gathering regarding health indicators for at-risk tribal populations. The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, received updates on the advancements made under the NHM over the fiscal years 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24. According to health ministry statistics, there are over 31,000 PHCs functioning in the country, employing more than 40,000 doctors/medical officers to deliver primary care to individuals in rural, hilly, tribal, and desert locations.
“Transitioning the PHCs to 24x7 operations is a significant step that will enable individuals, particularly those in rural areas, to access emergency healthcare services swiftly,” commented Dr. Vinay Agarwal, former President of the Indian Medical Association, during a press briefing regarding the meeting.
“For instance, in cases of snakebites, fatalities often occur because patients cannot reach medical facilities in time. Localized medical intervention at PHCs could save numerous lives. Likewise, this service will be a substantial advantage for maternal and child health,” Agarwal noted.
He also highlighted the necessity of adequately maintaining these facilities with sufficient staffing, medications, and essential equipment. Another notable accomplishment of the NHM is the enhancement of healthcare infrastructure. “During the financial year 2021-22, NHM enabled the recruitment of 2.69 lakh additional healthcare personnel, including general duty medical officers, specialists, staff nurses, ANMs, AYUSH doctors, allied healthcare workers, and public health managers.”
“Furthermore, the number of operational Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) centers has risen to 1,72,148 by the conclusion of FY 2023-24, with 1,34,650 of these centers providing 12 essential healthcare services,” the data revealed.
