Rural Health Sub-Centres Lacking Infrastructure, Shows Government Report

A government report reveals that many sub-centres in rural India, crucial for primary healthcare, lack their own buildings and operate from rented or local panchayat-provided spaces. The report underlines the need for integrating health data systems to enhance data timely and analyzed. The data aids in policy-making and health infrastructure management.

A new government report reveals a pressing issue: many sub-centres in rural India's primary healthcare system lack proper infrastructure, operating out of rented or locally provided spaces. These sub-centres serve as the first point of contact between the community and healthcare services.

According to the 'Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23' report, India has 1.69 lakh sub-centres, 31,882 primary health centres (PHCs), and numerous other health facilities. Released by Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, the annual publication emphasizes the importance of integrating various health data systems to ensure timely data uploads and thorough analysis.

Chandra highlighted the report's role in offering reliable data crucial for policy-making, improving processes, and pinpointing deficiencies across states. Since its inception in 1992, this detailed annual publication has been essential for effective planning, monitoring, and managing the nation's health infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)